Review: From Ireland to Zimbabwe...
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 03 24, 2014
Let me say right at the beginning, if you are looking for a book where there is NO sex before marriage do NOT buy this book! I was actually very surprised as there is NO warning from any other reviewer thus far (March 24th, 2014) OR from the author herself. This is certainly NOT a book that you would want your teenager reading or even young unmarried daughter as in some ways the actions of the characters are condoned. Everything turns out rosy in the end when we know in real life this is not always the case. Also at the beginning it is very obvious that Seth is NOT walking with the Lord at this time and that really is never resolved in the story so in essence, even at the end they are unequally yoked. There are scripture references at the beginning of each chapter.SO why did I give this book 3 stars and not 1? The rest of the story is fascinating and pretty well written! A few editing errors but nothing major.) It is March 1982 when we meet Claire, 21, at the graveside of her parents. Claire, a children's writer and artist is given a ticket by her aunt to Impunzi, Zimbabwe so in April she is on her way - her first time our of Ireland.Seth Henderson, 28, is co-owner with his sister, Naomi, of the big Game Viewing and Fishing resort. His parents were ambushed and killed in 1979. He did two years of National Sevice seeing many atrocities in the Bush War plus his older brother died when Seth was 14. Seth has been involved with a woman named Carol but knows that was a mistake.There are two romances/relationships going on in this story:Naomi and Tony in the background with Seth and Claire in the foreground.You will find quite a lot of alcohol involved - served at each evening meal and when things get difficult, Seth turns to the bottle to try and forget it all.Claire is inspired by all the beauty and wildlife around her and so her writing goes well. Seth realizes he is looking for more than physical attraction. He wants something more but doesn't want to commit seeing marriage as a burden not a blessing. He also realizes that he has never grieved all the losses in his life, putting on a brave front but dying inside having never healed.The scenery of Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park etc in this book is awe inspiring. The author really drags you in and makes you feel like you are there. HOWEVER this is not a book I will recommend to friends and/or family.