Of Land and Spirits

Of Land and Spirits by Alan Thrush is a novel that draws on the author’s firsthand experience as a decorated officer during the Zimbabwe-Rhodesian conflict. The book takes place in March 1980, as the Rhodesian Army faces its final confrontations with guerrilla forces amidst the ongoing civil war. It explores the personal and professional lives of several characters, offering both Rhodesian and guerrilla perspectives on the war.

Thrush’s narrative is rich in themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the psychological toll of war. The story highlights the complexities of loyalty and survival in the midst of violent conflict, as soldiers and fighters from both sides wrestle with moral and personal dilemmas. Through vivid depictions of battle and the human side of the war, the novel provides an in-depth and often harrowing look at the realities of the Rhodesian Bush War.

Critically acclaimed for its authenticity and emotional depth, Of Land and Spirits captures the profound impacts of war on individuals and societies. Thrush’s background in the conflict adds a layer of credibility and insight, making this novel an important contribution to understanding the Rhodesian conflict and its aftermath.