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Dance of the Hornbills
"A Saga from the heart of Africa"
In this touching love story, set against war-torn Southern Africa, a couple’s daring journey through the ages will either end in long-awaited joy or unimaginable tragedy.
Female hornbills nestle on the savannahs of Namibia - a bird that puts more faith in their male partners to always come back than any other animal. It’s how gentle Isabelle loves her one and only Ruben - a farm boy turned brutal soldier. When Ruben is made to feel unworthy by Isabelle’s wealthy family, he heartbreakingly walks away to start a journey that quakes the senses.
Decades collide as the South of the mother continent turns to crimson once more. And Isabelle cannot forget, even when she marries and has a family of her own. Ruben, too, yearns to see Isabelle again, despite her dangerous, controlling husband.
Lovelorn Ruben makes a solemn vow to reunite - until a dark and unforeseen crime casts a long, destructive shadow.
For some the dance continues and for some it is a last fatal misstep.
About the Author
Benn Rhyens was born in 1963 in a small town on the edge of the Namib desert. Nearly forty years he shared in the darkest and brightest of life in Africa, till autumn of 2002 saw him leaving a preordained path and his beloved country. Leading a chosen life, he currently resides on the Gold Coast of Australia.
“Dance of the Hornbills” marks the first publication of his work.
" Dance of the Hornbills "
WHAT READERS SAY
Angie G - (Australia) - Amazon Review
A Timeless Journey of Love, Loss, and Resilience
This beautifully crafted story is an engaging and thought-provoking read from start to finish. Set against the backdrop of war-torn Africa, it delves into powerful themes of love, suffering, loyalty, and courage. I couldn't put it down and am eagerly anticipating the sequel! Highly recommend :)
Drottnigu - (Greece) - Goodreads Review
A compelling love story between Isabelle and Ruben
This novel illustrates the turmoil of the 70s in Africa, with civil wars and apartheid scarring the lives of people. Racial tension, lack of freedom and other obstacles hinder this love affair that seems destined to be, but is somehow always deterred.
Very interesting read, it does not let the reader “rest” until you get to the end.
Darek J - (Australia) - Amazon Review
Enthralling episode of human experiences ranging from savagery to delightful love spells.
I read the electronic version of Dance of the Hornbills by Benn Rhyens and was captivated from the first page.
This wide ranging novel is set in Southern Africa (a region that I am familiar with) and narrated in the vein of an erstwhile Wilbur Smith with many unexpected twists and turns.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and recommend the experience of a vivid tour through a torrid time in an unforgiving Continent as masterly narrated in a flowing style of writing.
Liane - (Australia) - Goodreads Review
Great book!
Dance of the Hornbills came highly recommended to me. Once I started reading I could not put this book down. Every chapter was better than the last. Many parts of this book I read twice simply because it was well written and extremely enjoyable to read. I highly recommend this book.
Coco - (UK) - Goodreads Review
A memorable novel
Life in the heat and dust of rural Africa, begins in the 1970s during apartheid and the civil war.
Isabelle and Ruben meet at school and become sweethearts, she's from a wealthy family and he's from a poor farm. Family pressure forces them apart, not meeting again until 30 years later.
For the first part of this book, the reader will need a strong stomach as this is during the violence of the South African Border War. Ruben, although a peaceful man, is drawn into the fighting. Years later friends from the past appear to support him when he needs it most.
Written over a thirty year time span, covering past and present day.
Containing extreme violence, treachery, betrayal, comradeship, true friendship and love.
A compelling and memorable novel.
Nutmegtails - (USA) - Amazon Review
Good Story
This novel is set in Africa, and begins in the 70's, during the civil wars and apartheid. Isabelle, a wealthy girl, and Ruben, a poor boy, meet in school and fall in love, but they are separated and don't meet until 30 years later, as adults.
The violence during the war years did disturb me and made it difficult to get into the book. I did persevere and enjoyed the more recent events more. The story is good, if you can deal with the war years.
Lynette R - (Australia) - Barnes &Noble Review
A Gripping Read
Dance of the Hornbills was an amazing book. I am not a big reader, but this book was recommended to me and once I started, I could not stop reading. It is captivating and a beautiful portrayal of Namibia and its natives, even in the midst of turmoil. The story covers all aspects, from sadness to joy and the bonds of friendship.
I highly recommend this book!
Colin H - (Australia) - Barnes &Noble Review
The beginning of a Wilbur Smith type epic series
What an awesome journey to be taken on whilst reading this book. An experience that stuck with me well after completing the final chapter. This is definitely a book I would read again.
Benn Rhyens is an unknown author with a great storytelling ability and I believe he has created a best seller in Dance of the Hornbills. Will definitely look out for his follow up novel.