River Spirit

River Spirit is a historical novel set in 1880s Sudan, following the journey of Akuany and her brother, orphaned after a village raid. They are taken in by Yaseen, a young merchant who faces a difficult decision when Sudan begins to prise itself from its Ottoman rulers. Their struggle mirrors the bloody struggle for Sudan's freedom, safety, and possibility of love.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2023
Publisher: Saqi Books

In the heart of 1880s Sudan, a young girl named Akuany and her brother find themselves orphaned after a devastating village raid. Their fate takes an unexpected turn when they are taken in by Yaseen, a young merchant with a compassionate heart. Yaseen vows to care for them and becomes a constant presence in their lives, binding their destinies together. As the winds of revolution sweep across Sudan, the country begins to break free from the oppressive grip of its Ottoman rulers. The people are faced with a critical choice: to align themselves with the emerging forces of change or to remain loyal to the old order. Yaseen, deeply committed to his beliefs, finds himself at a crossroads. He must stand against the self-proclaimed Mahdi, a charismatic leader who promises a new era of freedom and justice. However, this decision threatens to tear apart Yaseen's family, as his wife and children hold different views. Meanwhile, Akuany, growing into a woman with a fierce determination, embarks on a solitary journey across the fractured country. Sold and traded from house to house, she experiences the harsh realities of a society torn apart by conflict. Yaseen remains her intermittent lifeline, a beacon of hope and support in a world that often seems bleak. Their struggle mirrors the increasingly bloody struggle for Sudan itself: a fight for freedom, safety, and the possibility of love.

River Spirit is a poignant tale that delves into the depths of corruption and unwavering devotion. It explores the complex web of relationships and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a greater cause. Through the characters of Akuany, Yaseen, and others, the story sheds light on the complexities of loyalty, faith, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for redemption and the power of compassion to guide us toward a brighter future.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780863569173