
Mature
Length4h 53m
About this audiobook
In "The War of the Axe; Or, Adventures in South Africa," J. Percy Groves presents a vivid narrative that intertwines historical events with personal adventure, drawing the reader into the tumultuous era of the Xhosa Wars in the mid-19th century. Groves employs a descriptive literary style marked by rich imagery and a compelling first-person perspective, allowing readers to experience the complexities of colonial conflict in South Africa. This work not only serves as an account of battles but also explores themes of cultural clash and the moral ambiguities of imperialism, reflecting the challenges faced by both colonizers and Indigenous peoples during a pivotal moment in colonial history. J. Percy Groves, an Englishman with strong ties to South Africa, was deeply influenced by the socio-political landscape of his adoptive country. His experiences as a colonial administrator and soldier imbued him with a unique perspective, which is evident in his critical examination of both British motives in Africa and the resilience of the Xhosa people. Groves's personal encounters with the complexities of warfare inform his narrative, creating a profound sense of authenticity. This book is an essential read for those interested in colonial studies, military history, and cultural narratives. Groves's intricate storytelling and sharp insights offer not only a thrilling adventure but also a thought-provoking analysis of the ethical dilemmas arising from colonialism. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and the lasting impact of these events on contemporary society.
Audiobook details
GenreHistorical Fiction, Action and Adventure
Length4 hrs 53 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateSep 15, 2022
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
14Missing!—The search—How Tom was besieged in a cave—The return home.
2"The War of the Axe"
15Two years after—Rumours of war—Good news for Tom—Mr Weston makes an interesting proposal.
3The Surat Castle—Our Hero—A Rough Night in the Atlantic—After the Gale—Land ho!
16Off to the wars!—Jamieson’s Horse—A bumptious sub—Tom’s first patrol.
4The Desert Island—A Happy Release.
17Tom receives an unexpected invitation—With the Cape Rifles—Mountain warfare—Formidable odds—The effects of shell.
5Tom Flinders is reminded of the old saying—“The World is very small.”
18The attack on the escort—Fifty to one!—A deed of “Derrin’ do”—Arrival at the camp—Bad news.
Show all chaptersShow less
6Mr Weston’s Story.
19Fighting their battles o’er again.
7The end of the Voyage—Table Bay—“Doth not a meeting like this, make amends!”
20The 18th April—A Fight against terrible odds—Numbered with the slain!—The March to Block Drift.
8Tom Flinders’ Home—“A friend in need Is a friend indeed!”—An Expedition proposed.
21Out of the Frying-pan into the Fire.
9The Start from Mossel Bay—On “Trek”—Outspanned—Round the Camp Fire.
22An unexpected Meeting—A friendly Caffre.
10Tom gives the Alarm—Rifle versus Assegai—Triumph of the White Man!—“Kicking Jan” outkicks himself—A Catastrophe—Arrival at Ralfontein.
23In Durance vile—The Prisoners learn their fate—A fatal Dose.
11Ralfontein—Captain Jamieson and his family—Business before pleasure!—The last evening at the Farm—A startling proposal.
24A Starlight Tramp.
12Farewell to Ralfontein.
25Crossing the Storm Bergen—A Scene of Slaughter—Tom’s last adventure—“Out of the Wood” at last!
13How Tom and his friend went a-hunting; and what befell them.
26The Last.