Death, Corruption, Family and Food in South Africa

 DEATH ON THE LIMPOPO

A Tannie Maria Mystery # 3

Sally Andrew

Umuzi, Penguin-Random House

September 1, 2019

Death on the Limpopo begins much as usual with Tannie Maria in the Klein Karoo, writing her "Agony Aunt" column for the local paper, dispensing sensible advice along with delicious recipes. Her love life is looking up as well with Henk Kannemeyer, the local chief of police. The only problem is that when he says, "I love you," Tannie Maria is not able to reply in kind. She, of all people, doesn't know why. All bets are off when a tall, dark-skinned woman on a Ducati motorcycle roars into Ladismith. Zabanguni Kani is an investigative journalist, well-known and often in trouble for her stories of political corruption. Prickly is probably a kind word to apply to Zaba, but Tannie Maria likes her and offers her shelter when threatened and told to "back off," and then a close associate is murdered. Tannie Maria and Zaba set off to the Limpopo in neighboring Botswana. Not so coincidentally, Tannie Maria's father was mysteriously murdered on the banks of the Limpopo 30 years earlier. This is a chance for a pilgrimage she has always wanted to take.

The Tannie Maria Mysteries are a wonderful introduction to the blended cultures and languages of South Africa. The journey from the Klein Karoo to the Limpopo, the scenery, the people they meet on the way, and as always, the food is quite spectacular. I am aware of the evils of Apartheid and the long years that it took to overthrow the system, but I never knew much of the history of the few white people involved. Death on the Limpopo can serve as a mini-introduction, in human terms, to that struggle. I did find the plot a bit improbable, and the journey bogged down somewhat in places. The characters, especially Tannie Maria and Zaba, make up for any occasional plodding. And did I mention the food? Campfire food never sounded so good. There is a plus of recipes at the end of the book.

I highly recommend Death on the Limpopo and its predecessors, Recipes for Love and Murder, and The Satanic Mechanic. 

RATING- 4.5 Stars