First published 1991
In 1989, young English photographer Julie Ward ventures into Kenya's wildlife preserves, camera in hand, drawn by Africa's raw beauty. When her burned remains are discovered in the Masai Mara, Kenyan authorities quickly declare her death an accident caused by wild animals. But the evidence tells a different story. Ward's father refuses to accept the official explanation and begins his own investigation. What he uncovers reveals a web of corruption reaching into Kenya's highest offices. Government officials destroy evidence, intimidate witnesses, and fabricate reports to hide the truth. The case exposes how Kenya's tourism industry and political establishment will sacrifice justice to protect their interests. As the investigation deepens, it becomes clear that Julie Ward was murdered, and powerful forces will do anything to keep that fact buried. This account reveals how one family's search for truth collides with institutional corruption in a country where wildlife tourism masks darker realities.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, mystery, crime, thriller, africa
Vibes: dark, emotional, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, investigative-journalist, powerful-institutions
Setting: Kenya, Masai Mara
Period: 1989
362 pages · Hardcover · Delacorte Press
Content warnings: death, murder, violence