In stede van die liefde | General Fiction

Etienne van Heerden

Etienne van Heerden’s new novel takes us on a journey as diffuse as Sea Point, Stellenbosch and Matjiesfontein – and then the circle even widens to encompass Zimbabwe and various European countries.

Sea Point and Stellenbosch are the stomping grounds of Christian, one of the main characters. An internet-based art dealer, he is looking for more out of life. A part of which he keeps secret from his family ... for instance his cocaine addiction, and the flat in one of Sea Point’s seediest areas. After several heart surgeries and being targeted by Cape gangsters, his life becomes even more complicated ... His wife Christine’s life is no less interesting, with events from her past continually haunting her.

In Matjiesfontein there exists an almost magical racing pigeon culture that runs through the community like a golden thread. Eccentric but believable characters inhabit this town. Like the mysterious hotel manager and self-taught hypnotist with the multiple personalities – among them Arendjan, Rasputin and Rudyard Kipling. And the music teacher, Miss Edelweiss, who wanders the plains with her metal detector. And Johnny, the doorman, with his pure white gloves, whose hands can do no wrong.

Two story lines are masterfully blended through the character of Saartjie, the coloured girl who one day picks up a violin and plays as if inspired. From that moment on she is renamed “Snaartjie” and her life becomes irrevocably enmeshed with those of the other Matjiesfonteiners. When she is abducted – or runs away – an intrigue unfolds that ingeniously melds all three backgrounds that comprise this book into a stunning tour de force that promises to enchant readers.