Fordham's Feud   By: Bertram Mitford (1855-1914)

Fordham’s Feud by Bertram Mitford is a thrilling adventure novel set in the wilderness of South Africa during the late 19th century. The story follows the protagonist, Ralph Fordham, a young Englishman who embarks on an exciting journey to uncover the truth behind a long-standing conflict between two rival tribes.

Mitford intricately weaves together a tale of love, betrayal, and revenge, capturing the essence of the African landscape and the tension between different cultures and beliefs. The author’s descriptive prose transports readers to the heart of the untamed wilderness, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush.

The characters in Fordham’s Feud are well-developed and relatable, each with their own motivations and flaws. Ralph Fordham emerges as a sympathetic and courageous protagonist, whose determination to find justice and resolve the feud fuels the story's momentum. The supporting cast, including the fierce warrior-goddess Naneena and the enigmatic witch doctor, Kwa-Gobi, add depth and intrigue to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere adventure tale.

Mitford skillfully builds suspense throughout the book, combining elements of action, romance, and mystery to keep readers engaged from start to finish. The story is peppered with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that the reader is kept on their toes and eager to uncover the truth alongside the characters.

Beyond its thrilling plot, Fordham's Feud also delves into deeper themes such as cultural clash, prejudice, and the consequences of colonialism. Mitford explores the complex relationships between the indigenous tribes and the European settlers, capturing the tension and conflicts that arise as a result of these interactions. Through the characters' experiences and interactions, the author confronts important questions about identity, heritage, and the impact of historical conflicts.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in its vivid descriptions of the African landscape. Mitford's keen observations create a rich tapestry of sights and sounds, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the beauty and danger of the untamed wilderness. Whether it's the sounds of wildlife at night or the vibrant colors of the sunset, the author’s prose brings the setting to life in a way that captivates the imagination.

Overall, Fordham’s Feud is an enthralling adventure novel that combines action, romance, and mystery in a vividly depicted historical setting. Mitford's characters are engaging, his writing style is engaging, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers hooked until the last page. For fans of historical fiction and thrilling tales of exploration, this book is an absolute must-read.

First Page:

The day was perfect. Not a cloud was in the arching heavens, not a ripple on the blue surface of the lake, which mirrored forth the hoary crowns of the Savoy Alps as though they were cut in steel. The great forest clad slopes were rich in their velvety verdure, rising from the water's edge on the Savoy side; and a dazzling snow shroud still covered the Dent du Midi half way down to its base... Continue reading book >>