With a storyline as uncompromising as the harsh terrain in which it is set, ‘Death on the Kunene’ is by far the best book yet from the pen of Peter Cleary – and that’s saying something.
There’s not a dull page or an implausible character and once again, the historical and geographical references are impeccable.
The essence of the plot is a plan to build a hydro-electric dam on the Kunene River, with the action moving swiftly between Namibia and Angola, with the lives and land of a minority community at stake.
Humble and vulnerable tribal leaders are forced into confrontation with crooked politicians and ruthless insurgents from the world’s super power nations as people are forced to choose sides.
The worst of humanity: greed, corruption, violence and cold-blooded passion are juxtaposed by the integrity and courage of the ‘good guys’ – including the hero Adam Geard, who at times behaves as badly as the mercenaries and executioners he opposes.
Peter Cleary writes his books the way Kenny Rogers sings his songs; every word of every line is ‘believable’, and that’s what makes it a number one hit.
Dave Savides – Zululand Observer
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