Vorab-RezensentenMichael Stanley

The southern Kalahari area of Botswana is an arid landscape of legends—of lost cities buried beneath the moving sands, of incredible hidden wealth, and of ancient gods. For thousands of years it has been home to the nomadic Bushmen people. This is also a region of colonial history. When the Germans lost the First World War, they also lost the true riches of the land: the Sperrgebiet—or Forbidden Coast—of present-day southern Namibia is fabulously rich in alluvial diamonds. A fractious ranger named Monzo is found dying from a severe head wound in a donga—a dry ravine—surrounded by three Bushmen. Were they trying to help or were they the murderers? The local police arrest the nomads and put Detective David “Kubu” Bengu on the case. His old school friend, Khumanego, reappears in Kubu’s life—not only is he a Bushman, but he is also an advocate for his marginalized people. Khumanego claims the arrest is motivated by racist antagonism by the police and finds himself butting heads with Kubu. The Bushmen are released, but soon after, another man is murdered in similar circumstances. Are the Bushmen to blame, or is it a copycat murder? Then there is a third murder. Again it points to the Bushmen. Kubu journeys into the depths of the Kalahari to find the truth. What he discovers will test all his powers of detection—and his ability to stay alive… Once again, Michael Stanley offers an authentic and original look at modern-day Africa, a juxtaposition of tribal culture, lingering racism, and colonialism. It’s a brilliant addition to the popular Detective Kubu series.