AustLit

'A vivid and suspenseful portrayal of the brilliant contradictions of Africa and her people - and of family, love and brotherhood – from the acclaimed author of My Brother-But-One.

'Tara grew up during the War of Independence in Zimbabwe. As a twelve year old, she witnessed the murder of her father and uncle, but was saved by a black worker from the farm next door: Shilo Jamison Khumalo.

'When Tara is 15 she falls for a schoolmate, Wayne, and soon finds herself pregnant. They are too young to start a life together, and Tara is forced into single parenthood. Fourteen years later, diagnosed with a brain tumor, she sends a letter to Wayne in the hope that if things go wrong in surgery, he will come for their son Josha.

'Ex-soldier Buffel and Jamison share a history from their time serving together in the Rhodesian Army. Since he discovered that it was Jamison who rescued Tara, Buffel has been determined to silence him, to ensure their once proud motto of ‘TIRI TOSE’ — there is no escape — is enforced. To hide the truth about the ritual killings that were responsible for Tara’s father’s death.

'When Tara's letter arrives, Wayne and Jamison's friendship and loyalty is tested, as the imminent attack from Buffel threatens to stop Wayne from reuniting his lost family. ' (Publication summary)