Set in the politically charged atmosphere of the Cape in the mid-seventeenth century, The Woman from Robben Island is an exploration of identity, power and how individuals react to the clash of cultures. This biographical novel focuses on the vivid and memorable character of Krotoa-Eva; it also takes us into the hearts and minds of the women and men at the Cape at the time of the Dutch East India the politicians and farmers, the military men and adventurers, and the chiefs, healers and cattle-traders. A deeply moving and yet highly informative book. Also timely, touching as it does on the search for a truly South African identity.
It is sad that so few people know about Krotoa/Eva, someone of such importance in the history of South Africa. The book itself falls between the stools of trying to be an historical account and a story of a influential woman.