BOUND TO SECRECY - Softcover

Vamba Sherif, whets the appetite for his other work with this impressive novel.' [Barry Forshaw, Crime Time]; 'Sherif's novel is written in a concise, accurate and relentless language' [Manfred Loimeir, Mannheimer Morgen]; 'Sherif succeeds in letting an African detective fail in an African way. And both the story and the failure are grandiose' [Dirk Bade, Deutsche Welle]; 'The irritation and frustrations of the main character create vortices of Shakespearean intensity' [Sabine Vogel, Berliner Zeitung;] 'I choose to call Bound to Secrecy a 'great literature', because Vamba Sherif writes in a concise, impressive style; and like all good novelists, he lets his story, his "heroes" live through their actions' [Readme] "Bound to Secrecy is a compact read. The novel has echoes of Kafka, and the narrative also has some interesting things to say about gender roles and the power of women. Beautifully written, this compelling literary crime novel will draw me back for a second read." [Mrs Peabody investigates] "A mysterious read and a rewarding one - providing once again what a broad church the crime fiction genre is." [Keithwalters.com] "Sherif's Bound to Secrecy is a gem in the tradition of the great African novels of times past. Sherif constructs a narrative that is as enthralling for its unrelenting hold on the reader. Exuding the easy eloquence of a well-practiced lyricist" (MDSEKOUBLOG)

William Mawolo arrives in a remote Liberian border town with a secret mission: to investigate the mysterious disappearance of the paramount chief Tetese. The locals, however - police force and citizens alike - are far from happy about his presence, and their hostility is increasing daily, threatening to boil over. At the same time, Mawolo is drawn to the departed chief's daughter, Makemeh, who for some reason doesn't seem to be too concerned about her missing father. Mawolo wonders why? Intrigued, he decides to stay longer than required - and even attempts to take charge of the town. Little by little, driven by circumstances of his own making, he starts to behave like the despotic man whose disappearance he came to investigate. His desire to uncover the town's dark secrets leads to contradictory revelations and puts him in danger. Who can he trust . . . and will he allow his heart rule his head? Bound To Secrecy is an exploration of power and the fear it generates; and of love in all its magical, addictive forms. A rich mix of African tradition, classic crime fiction and the supernatural, Bound to Secrecy is a captivating account of the complexities of Liberian society and the inevitable clash between modern life and ancient cultures. Acclaimed author Vamba Sherif brilliantly guides us through these complexities - but some mysteries remain...