The Ghost of Africa

by Don Brobst

Don Brobst has created a fast paced adventure set in Africa.  Although The Ghost of Africa is fiction, Don Brobst’s background lends a definite authenticity to the story.  Like his protagonist, Dr. Paul Branson, the author is a medical doctor who travels to Africa frequently to provide medical assistance.  The reader can assume the comparison ends there as the fictional doctor becomes entangled in a deadly struggle over oil between local forces in North Sudan and South Sudan.

Although Waterfall Press publishes Christian fiction, this novel does not fall anywhere near the category of historical romantic fiction that can be so typical of fictional works from a Christian publishing house.  The author has obviously thoroughly researched special forces and military equipment.  The result is a very detailed and physical fight for survival with a ruthless antagonist. There is a Christian theme as Dr. Branson is viewed by the natives as The Chosen One, a label he struggles with and tries to put into perspective for the native population.

I strongly recommend The Ghost of Africa. It does have a strong element of violence, but it is not gratuitous.  This book stands up well with other action adventures.  It also provides a realistic look at life in Africa for the innocents who are caught up in others’ struggles for wealth and power.

I want to extend thanks to netgalley.com and Waterfall Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an unbiased review.