Subject
South Africa -- History -- Frontier Wars, 1811-1878 -- Fiction Books
Best books
J. Percy (John Percy) Groves
The War of the Axe; Or, Adventures in South Africa
"The War of the Axe; Or, Adventures in South Africa" by J. Percy Groves is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows the exploits of a young hero named Thomas Flinders, who embarks on a sea voyage from England to the Cape of Good Hope aboard the clippership "Surat Castle". As he faces various adventures and challenges, including a violent storm at sea, the narrative delves into themes of bravery and the spirit of camaraderie in the backdrop of the expansive landscapes of South Africa. The opening of the tale sets the scene with the "Surat Castle" leaving London amidst a diverse group of passengers, including volunteers for the military. Young Tom Flinders is introduced as a spirited lad returning to his family farm after being educated in England. His characterization builds excitement as he navigates the challenges of a fierce Atlantic storm, demonstrating his youthful adventurous spirit. After enduring the harrowing storm, the ship unexpectedly spots an inhabited island, leading to peril and opportunities for rescue and adventure. The passage lays the groundwork for Tom's eventual encounters, including meeting the stranded Weston family, which introduces potential friendships and alliances that suggest further adventures await in South Africa.
Bertram Mitford
'Tween Snow and Fire: A Tale of the Last Kafir War
"'Tween Snow and Fire: A Tale of the Last Kafir War" by Bertram Mitford is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book likely revolves around the tensions between European settlers and the indigenous Kafir tribes in South Africa, focusing on the conflicts arising from hunting rights and land disputes. The story features characters such as Tom Carhayes, a settler determined to protect his land and game from poachers, and conflicts that arise with the Kafir hunter Goniwe and his companions. The opening of the novel introduces a thrilling scene where Tom Carhayes witnesses a Kafir pursuing a buck with his dogs, leading to an athletic chase across the veldt. Carhayes's frustration mounts as he recognizes the Kafirs’ poaching activities on his property, sparking a fierce desire to intervene. When he confronts the Kafirs, tensions escalate, resulting in a physical confrontation after Carhayes shoots one of the dogs. This conflict hints at larger themes of colonial aggression, cultural friction, and foreshadows the impending war, setting the stage for high-stakes drama and exploration of human nature in extreme circumstances.
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