The Mysterious Mr Jacob: Diamond Merchant, Magician and Spy By: John Zubrzycki

The Mysterious Mr Jacob: Diamond Merchant, Magician and Spy

Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of Alexander Malcolm Jacob, a man shrouded in mystery and intrigue. In The Mysterious Mr Jacob, author John Zubrzycki masterfully reconstructs the life of this enigmatic figure through meticulous research, bringing to light the extraordinary story of India's most successful purveyor of precious stones.

A Life Larger Than Fiction

Jacob's life reads like a thrilling novel, inspiring none other than Rudyard Kipling to create the character of Lurgan Sahib in his classic work, Kim. A confidant of viceroys and maharajahs, this celebrity of his time was rumoured to be 'rich almost beyond the dreams of Aladdin'. Yet, he died in obscurity, leaving behind a legacy of secrets that Zubrzycki unravels with finesse.

From Simla to Calcutta: A Sensational Trial

In 1891, Jacob attempted to sell the world's largest brilliant-cut diamond to the Nizam of Hyderabad. This audacious deal, however, went awry, leading to a sensational trial in the Calcutta High Court that captured global headlines. Zubrzycki reconstructs these events through long-lost letters and court records, offering readers an exclusive front-row seat to this dramatic episode.

Magic and Intrigue: The Great Game

Beyond his prowess as a diamond merchant, Jacob was also known for his expertise in magic. His otherworldly skills added to his mystique, making him a player in the intricate game of espionage during the British Raj. Zubrzycki's comprehensive account sheds light on these lesser-known aspects of Jacob's life.

Author and Publisher

John Zubrzycki, author of The Mysterious Mr Jacob, is an award-winning journalist with a long-standing association with India. His expertise as a Hindi student, diplomat, consultant, and foreign correspondent lends authenticity to his meticulous research.

Published by Random House India, this captivating narrative is available in English (ISBN-13: 9788184001266) and boasts a substantial length of 368 pages. Bound as a paperback, it offers convenient portability for readers eager to delve into Jacob's fascinating life.

The publication date was set in November 2015 under the Vintage imprint. This ensures that readers enjoy a fresh perspective on this historical figure while benefiting from Zubrzycki's modern-day investigative prowess.

Unravel the Enigma

Are you ready to unravel the enigmatic life of Alexander Malcolm Jacob? With The Mysterious Mr Jacob, John Zubrzycki invites you on an unforgettable journey through time, revealing the secrets of a man whose influence extends far beyond his grave.

Order your copy today and step into the shoes of this remarkable figure, whose life was as extraordinary as it was mysterious.