A Moment of Madness

Experience the dramatic shift from Ian Smith's Rhodesia to Robert Mugabe's Zimbabwe in this gripping sequel to The Unravelling. Set between 1980 and 1986, A Moment of Madness delves into the profound impact of Mugabe's consolidation of power, focusing on the devastating Gukurahundi campaign and the rise of a brutal one-party dictatorship.

The novel continues the story of Nick and Rachel, familiar characters from the first book. Living in the UK, engaged in September 1982, and married in 1984, their love story unfolds amidst political chaos. As they return to Zimbabwe for their honeymoon, they face personal challenges and the broader implications of Mugabe's ruthless regime.

In the UK, Nick witnesses the cold-blooded tactics of Zimbabwe's Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) when Jonathan Khumalo, a young lawyer with alleged royal Ndebele ties, is eliminated as a perceived threat to Mugabe's ambitions. Meanwhile, in Zimbabwe, Sipho Pukelo, Nick's comrade-in-arms, faces similar violence when a 5th Brigade assault squad, led by Major Tawanda Nyati, raids his village, killing his parents. Later, Nyati himself becomes a liability and is murdered by the CIO.

Back in the UK, Nick joins Rare Quest Imports Pty Ltd (RQI), owned by his father-in-law. His expertise proves crucial in covert arms deals with South Africa, aimed at countering guerrilla movements and communist factions, providing him with deeper insights into the complex world of Cold War geopolitics.

As Nick uncovers disheartening revelations about the British government's stance on Zimbabwe, he faces a profound personal dilemma. With Rachel's pregnancy adding new dimensions to his life, Nick must balance his commitment to his family in the UK with his desire to help Zimbabwe amidst increasing repression.

A Moment of Madness vividly portrays the Gukurahundi campaign and Mugabe's quest for absolute power, offering a powerful exploration of this tumultuous period in Zimbabwe's history. Dive into a tale of love, conflict, and political intrigue with lasting impact.