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'Tween Snow and Fire A Tale of the Last Kafir War   By: (1855-1914)

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Tween Snow and Fire A Tale of the Last Kafir War by Bertram Mitford is a captivating historical novel that delves into the brutal conflict surrounding the indigenous people of South Africa during the late 19th century. Mitford's storytelling prowess shines through as he vividly brings to life the harrowing experiences of both the British soldiers and the Kafir warriors, making this a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

Set against the backdrop of the Kafir War, Mitford explores the complex dynamics between the British colonial forces and the Kafir tribes, highlighting the futility of warfare and the devastating consequences it has on both sides. The author meticulously details the strategies, skirmishes, and battles, immersing the reader in the visceral realities of war and its impact on individuals.

One notable aspect of the book is Mitford's intricate character development. He cleverly crafts a wide array of characters, each with their unique motivations, fears, and loyalties. From the stoic and battle-hardened British officers to the resilient and fierce Kafir warriors, the characters feel authentic and multidimensional, making their stories all the more compelling. The complex relationship between the British protagonist and a Kafir woman adds a layer of depth and raises thought-provoking questions about colonialism and cultural assimilation.

Mitford's attention to detail is evident throughout the novel, creating a sense of time and place that transports readers to the harsh landscapes of South Africa. From the chilling snow-capped mountains to the scorching battlefields, his descriptions evoke a visceral and immersive experience, allowing readers to visualize the scenes as if they were right there alongside the characters.

While the novel primarily focuses on the military conflict, Mitford skillfully interweaves themes of friendship, honor, and redemption, giving the story a deeper emotional resonance. The exploration of cultural identity, prejudice, and the clash of civilizations adds further layers of complexity to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward tale of war.

If there is one criticism to be made, it would be the occasional instances of slower pacing and exposition-heavy passages. While these moments might momentarily interrupt the narrative momentum, they also provide necessary historical context for readers less familiar with the time period and setting.

Overall, Tween Snow and Fire A Tale of the Last Kafir War is a well-researched and engrossing historical novel that captivates readers from start to finish. Bertram Mitford's meticulous attention to detail, skillful character development, and thought-provoking themes make this a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in gaining deeper insights into the complexities of colonialism and warfare.

First Page:

'Tween Snow and Fire, by Bertram Mitford.

'TWEEN SNOW AND FIRE, BY BERTRAM MITFORD.

CHAPTER ONE.

THE EPISODE OF THE WHITE DOG.

The buck is running for dear life.

The dog is some fifty yards behind the buck. The Kafir is about the same distance behind the dog, which distance he is striving right manfully to maintain; not so unsuccessfully, either, considering that he is pitting the speed of two legs against that of eight.

Down the long grass slope they course buck, dog, and savage. The former, a game little antelope of the steinbok species, takes the ground in a series of long, flying leaps, his white tail whisking like a flag of defiance. The second, a tawny, black muzzled grey hound, stretching his snaky length in the wake of his quarry, utters no sound, as with arrow like velocity he holds on his course, his cruel eyes gleaming, his jaws dripping saliva in pleasurable anticipation of the coming feast. The third, a fine, well knit young Kafir, his naked body glistening from head to foot with red ochre, urges on his hound with an occasional shrill whoop of encouragement, as he covers the ground at a surprising pace in his free, bounding stride... Continue reading book >>




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