Serving Shaka

Serving Shaka is a dramatic evocation of Zulu nation-building, following history teacher Richard Davey as he encounters Shaka Zulu, a leader more ruthless and ambitious than Napoleon Bonaparte. Richard tries to exert his influence and retain his sense of self while being buffeted by the birth pangs of nation-building.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2022
Publisher: The Conrad Press

Serving Shaka is a powerful and evocative portrayal of the Zulu nation-building process, immersing readers in vivid battle scenes, poignant relationships, and tense political machinations. Having masterminded Napoleon Bonaparte's escape from St Helena with his friend Emile Béraud in Needing Napoleon, history teacher Richard Davey now finds himself stranded on the African coast. Richard and Emile encounter Shaka Zulu, a leader even more ruthless and ambitious than the former French emperor. Richard's secret, that he is from the future, is revealed; Bonaparte seeks to outmaneuver Shaka; and Emile joins the nascent Zulu army. Buffeted by the birth pangs of nation-building, Richard tries to exert his influence and retain his sense of self, relying on half-remembered lectures from two hundred years in the future.

As Richard and Emile navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries, they witness the rise of the Zulu Empire under Shaka's leadership. Shaka's military tactics, his ability to unite the Zulu tribes, and his vision for a unified Africa capture Richard's attention and inspire him. However, as Richard becomes more involved in Shaka's affairs, he begins to question the morality of his actions and the consequences of his choices. He struggles to balance his loyalty to his friend Emile and his newfound respect for Shaka, while also trying to prevent the inevitable clash between the two leaders.

Serving Shaka is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the African continent's history and the forces that shaped it. Richard Davey's journey through time and his interactions with Shaka Zulu provide a rich and nuanced understanding of the complexities of nation-building and the human cost of ambition. Through its vivid storytelling and compelling characters, this book reminds us of the importance of history, the power of leadership, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914913532