Peter Davies’ portrayal of the multi-layered effects of instability in the war-torn Rhodesia provides a powerful and absorbing read. ‘Scatterlings of Africa’ is an action adventure novel that combines political and humanitarian issues with a story of one family’s emotional response to their changing circumstances. Set in 1972, Davies produces a compelling insightful fictional look at the conflict in Rhodesia and its effects on the countries inhabitants.

When Ron Cartwright joins the civilian army to help and defend his country against terrorist attacks, he leaves behind a provincial farm life and a family who struggle to cope. As Ron becomes more determined in his mission to catch the enemy leader Gumbarishumba Gadziwa or ‘Big Foot’, he embarks on a personal crusade that navigates towards destruction. Back at home and leading an isolated life in her husband’s absence, Angela Cartwright becomes increasingly lonely and frustrated. The arrival of her cousin, Mark le Roux, who she has not seen since she was a child, complicates her emotions further. But as worlds collide and war becomes a reality, decisions that will change their lives forever have to be made in an instant.

Switching feverishly between several strands of narrative, the reader comes to view a full picture of the situation. As paths cross and different strands of the story become woven together, we come to realise that circumstances are far more complex than they are portrayed on the surface.

Creating a layered novel that is absorbing right up until the very last page, Davies manages to capture the essence of Rhodesia’s war against terror as lines are continuously blurred between the hunter and the hunted. The plot trudges relentlessly towards inevitable destruction, with hope and frustration going hand in hand and small victories gained along the way.

‘Scatterlings of Africa’ is a scintillating read, a fresh and well orchestrated novel that twists and turns its way along towards the denouement. Capturing the real essence of the terror of war, Davies clearly draws on his own experiences to paint a vividly powerful picture of what the war for freedom in Rhodesia meant to each side. His thoughtful and sensitive depiction of personal life, running alongside the intensely aggressive description of the realities of political war, produces an accomplished and gripping tale.