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A Big Hand for the Spirits is an absorbing rollercoaster ride from the shady drug scene in Cape Town to the multicultural people and attractions of southern Africa.
It’s a compelling thriller with a subtle romantic subplot, but it’s also a road story through some of the subcontinent’s most tourist-worthy destinations. If you’ve visited the places described in the book (and I have), you’ll appreciate the authoritative accounts of the landscapes, people, and activities. And, if you haven’t, you’ll probably be looking up flight schedules. I suggest you do.
The relatable characters and well-crafted hooks kept me turning the pages, and I almost ended up biting my nails when I thought the evil hitman was about to catch up with the irascible and illogical but decidedly likeable heroine, Casey.
The dialogue is cleverly written and flows well. Conversations and witty repartee bounce from the dynamics of relationships, quantum physics, and the meaning of life to philosophy, crazy theories inspired by hallucinatory drugs, and the innermost secrets and fears that exist in the minds of humans.
What a riveting book. It is well crafted, with relatable characters and several fascinating threads that duck and weave through the narrative. I absolutely loved it. I thoroughly enjoyed the history and fun facts and liked the subtle environmental education that popped up whenever an opportunity arose. The philosophical discussions provided food for thought, and I was fascinated by the stories from African mythology.
The recipes at the back of the book were a pleasant and unexpected bonus. I think I’m going to try those mbatata balls.
A Big Hand for the Spirits ticks all the boxes for me.
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A Big Hand for the Spirits by Jennifer Stern
Published by Naledi, www.naledi.co.za – 330 pages
Get the Book: Buy the Book
Price:Â R275
