Peter Rimmer

Echoes from the Past is a historical family saga and the first in a series called The Brigandshaw Chronicles. Set in the early days of Rhodesia in the late 1800s, 17 year old Seb Brigandshaw comes to Capetown after his father and older brother banished him from England so that the elder brother could marry Seb’s sweetheart Emily. The Brigandshaws are rich as the father founded and build up his shipping company but the one thing he craves is prestige and the acceptance of the upper class. show more Emily is the daughter of Sir Henry Manderville, and is, unknown to all, pregnant with Seb’s child.

When Seb disembarks in Capetown he meets Tinus Oosthuizen, a hunter of elephants. Seb joins him and the two build a lasting friendship and become like brother. After a number of years, Seb and Tinus have tired of the hunting life claim a land that they intend to farm. Firstly, Seb returns to England and Emily runs away with him, bringing their son. Years go by and Seb and Tintus build their farm, Tinus marries Emily’s nursemaid and both couples settle down. Wanting to move south, Tinus buys a farm near Capetown. All goes well until the British occupation of Southern Africa and the resulting decimation of native populations, culminates in the Boer War. The War changes all their lives and the stage is set for the saga to continue.

I enjoyed this book that brings a reminder of the adventure novels of Wilbur Smith. This author obviously knows Africa and his descriptions are captivating. He appears to have done his research and his account is fair-minded and relays accurate details about the war and politics of the day. This is the first in this saga and I intend to continue on with the series. show less