The Shetani are Hungry

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Strange, eldritch and decidedly nerve-wracking, this novel involves bizarre foreign creatures and those who are their food and owners. The mood is tense as a mysterious beast attacks and kills without warning. The opening chapter, with a strange magic called “splendor” adds its oddness to the tale as it unleashes its fury upon an unsuspecting woman.

The setting is in Africa and that lends its distinct aura to the tale. The mythical creatures that roam are often malevolent and people learn to be wary of them. Family bonds are crucial to the characters since to be alone and abandoned means being vulnerable to the evil, unseen forces at work. Those that run away or have no refuge are particularly vulnerable. This makes life precarious and at the same time precious since it can be snatched away at any time.

Demonic creatures are not the only ones who prey on people. Unscrupulous business owners, et al, hold human lives in thrall and poverty can be as crushing to the human spirit as any monster.

The novel draws us into its spell, reminding us that magic is more than cast spells or waved wands. It is wild, untamed and ultimately a force that humans would be better off leaving alone.