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Cry of the Fish Eagle
The heart-breaking and mostly forgotten African period in history of Rhodesia to present day Zimbabwe, is told in this wonderfully written book, CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE.
It’s the story of Rupert Pengelly who first heard the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE when he was stationed in Rhodesia for six months during the Second World War. As he was to find and as the saying goes, once you have heard the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE, you will always come back to Africa!
It is during that first six months, Rupert searches for Sasa, the orphaned daughter of his friend, Rigby Savage. Rupert was honouring a promise made to Rigby to care for Sasa if anything did happen to him. To complicate the search, Sasa's eccentric grandfather, Kobus Loubser, had taken the young orphan into the bush prospecting for emeralds.
The search is unsuccessful and Rupert returns to the war, with intentions afterwards of farming the family estate in Cornwall. However a distant cousin, George Geake, conspires to cheat him out of his inheritance and Rupert loses his beloved home. His only option is to return to Rhodesia to begin a new life as a tobacco farmer and to continue his search for Sasa.
Although their destinies are bound together, it is many years before Rupert and Sasa meet but meanwhile, Kobus acquires a business partner in Lewdly Jones, a remittance man, who develops a passion for Sasa.
The years pass and Rupert triumphs over adversity. But another war is looming. The irrepressible tide of Black Nationalism is sweeping through Africa and a new generation of men like Tererai Ndoro and Lovemore Ngwenya have joined the struggle for Zimbabwe. All their lives are about to change forever. But still, they are all enslaved by the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE.
READ this captivating story because in reading it you too will become enslaved by the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE, the country of Zimbabwe and its people.
It’s the story of Rupert Pengelly who first heard the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE when he was stationed in Rhodesia for six months during the Second World War. As he was to find and as the saying goes, once you have heard the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE, you will always come back to Africa!
It is during that first six months, Rupert searches for Sasa, the orphaned daughter of his friend, Rigby Savage. Rupert was honouring a promise made to Rigby to care for Sasa if anything did happen to him. To complicate the search, Sasa's eccentric grandfather, Kobus Loubser, had taken the young orphan into the bush prospecting for emeralds.
The search is unsuccessful and Rupert returns to the war, with intentions afterwards of farming the family estate in Cornwall. However a distant cousin, George Geake, conspires to cheat him out of his inheritance and Rupert loses his beloved home. His only option is to return to Rhodesia to begin a new life as a tobacco farmer and to continue his search for Sasa.
Although their destinies are bound together, it is many years before Rupert and Sasa meet but meanwhile, Kobus acquires a business partner in Lewdly Jones, a remittance man, who develops a passion for Sasa.
The years pass and Rupert triumphs over adversity. But another war is looming. The irrepressible tide of Black Nationalism is sweeping through Africa and a new generation of men like Tererai Ndoro and Lovemore Ngwenya have joined the struggle for Zimbabwe. All their lives are about to change forever. But still, they are all enslaved by the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE.
READ this captivating story because in reading it you too will become enslaved by the CRY OF THE FISH EAGLE, the country of Zimbabwe and its people.
Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1993
445 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Peter Rimmer
77 books86 followersPeter Rimmer was born in London, England, and grew up in the south of the city where he went to Cranleigh School. After the Second World War and at aged 18, Peter joined the Royal Air Force, reaching the rank of Pilot Officer before he was 19. Then at the end of his National Service and with the optimism of youth, he sailed for Africa with his older brother to grow tobacco in what was then Rhodesia, and the odyssey of his life began.
The years went by and Peter found himself in Johannesburg founding an insurance brokering company. Over 2% of the companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange were clients of Rimmer Associates. He opened companies in the United States of America, Australia and Hong Kong and travelled extensively between the branches.
His passion had always been writing books, which he started at a very early age, though running a business was a driving force too and a common thread throughout his books. By the 1990’s, he had written several novels about Africa and England, and his breakthrough came with Cry of the Fish Eagle published by HarperCollins, Zimbabwe. It was a bestseller, which was followed up with the release of Vultures in the Wind. However, during this time, Zimbabwe was going through its struggles and the books did not get their just international recognition.
Having lived a reclusive life on his beloved smallholding in Knysna, South Africa, for over 25 years, Peter passed away in July 2018. He has left an enormous legacy of unpublished work for his family to release over the coming years, and not only them but also his readers from around the world will sorely miss him. Peter Rimmer was 81 years old.
To learn more about Peter, and to get a free starter library of novels, visit his website at www.peterrimmer.com, or find him on Facebook.com/PeterRimmerAuthor, follow him on Twitter @htcrimmer.com, and on BookBub: www.bookbub.com/authors/peter-rimmer
The years went by and Peter found himself in Johannesburg founding an insurance brokering company. Over 2% of the companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange were clients of Rimmer Associates. He opened companies in the United States of America, Australia and Hong Kong and travelled extensively between the branches.
His passion had always been writing books, which he started at a very early age, though running a business was a driving force too and a common thread throughout his books. By the 1990’s, he had written several novels about Africa and England, and his breakthrough came with Cry of the Fish Eagle published by HarperCollins, Zimbabwe. It was a bestseller, which was followed up with the release of Vultures in the Wind. However, during this time, Zimbabwe was going through its struggles and the books did not get their just international recognition.
Having lived a reclusive life on his beloved smallholding in Knysna, South Africa, for over 25 years, Peter passed away in July 2018. He has left an enormous legacy of unpublished work for his family to release over the coming years, and not only them but also his readers from around the world will sorely miss him. Peter Rimmer was 81 years old.
To learn more about Peter, and to get a free starter library of novels, visit his website at www.peterrimmer.com, or find him on Facebook.com/PeterRimmerAuthor, follow him on Twitter @htcrimmer.com, and on BookBub: www.bookbub.com/authors/peter-rimmer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 24, 2016
Have you ever heard the cry of the Fish Eagle? I hadn't, so I looked it up on YouTube. It's so hauntingly beautiful, soulful even, which also happens to describe this novel perfectly. I'll let the synopsis speak for itself, the author does it so eloquently.
Although fictional, the story does appear to be fact based. The descriptions of the African Bush, the animal kingdom, the trauma and tragedy of the struggle for Zimbabwe etc are entrancing and heartbreaking. I had a lump in my throat on more than one occasion. A wonderful story told remarkably well. It's clear that the author loves his adopted Africa, it shows right the way through, and he's made me love it too. Thank you to Goodreads for this first reads giveaway, and to Peter Rimmer for such a delightful read.
Although fictional, the story does appear to be fact based. The descriptions of the African Bush, the animal kingdom, the trauma and tragedy of the struggle for Zimbabwe etc are entrancing and heartbreaking. I had a lump in my throat on more than one occasion. A wonderful story told remarkably well. It's clear that the author loves his adopted Africa, it shows right the way through, and he's made me love it too. Thank you to Goodreads for this first reads giveaway, and to Peter Rimmer for such a delightful read.
June 19, 2020
I loved the descriptive tales of the Bush. I could almost hear the animals calling to each other. But the characters were so confusing and so many of them. I nearly gave up several times, but always finish a book once started. So I made it to the end and was glad I did. Not sure if I would read any of his other books. Does not make me want to visit Africa, though I have relatives in South Africa.
August 12, 2018
Loved this book! It brought me many memories of Rhodesia, although I left when I was 13. Very well written and a real page turner! When I lived in Rhodesia I was young and didn't quite understand all the politics, with this book, I understood why things happened at the time. It's sad that we lost this great author! It's a must read, if you lived in Rhodesia you'll really love it,
August 24, 2016
I love the cover and the title, and enjoyed the evocative African scenes which fed my nostalgia for Africa. I've been to Zimbabwe many times, and it was interesting to recap on its history. However, I was sometimes confused among the many colourful characters and am sure a re-read will put everybody in their place.
Now, which one will I read next...
Now, which one will I read next...
July 10, 2022
This was my June "Travel" read that took me forever to finish.
"Cry of the Fish Eagle" is a story about the history of Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, from 1943 through 1990. The book begins in England with Rupert Pengelly at King's Water in Cornwall, and ends with his son Arthur back at King's Water after spending four decades during a very turbulent time in Rhodesia.
I really struggled to finish this book. I can't remember the last time it took me three weeks to read a novel. I found it hard to keep track of all the characters. Many parts of the novel held my interest but there were sections that just ran on an on with way too much detail. With that said, I really learned a lot about this period of time in Rhodesia of which I had little knowledge. Also, the rich description of the various scenes really helped me visualize what the landscape was like and the difficulties many of the characters had to deal with.
If you like lots of detailed descriptions you will enjoy this book; just a bit much for me. I give this 3.5 Stars and will not be reading any other books in this series.
"Cry of the Fish Eagle" is a story about the history of Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, from 1943 through 1990. The book begins in England with Rupert Pengelly at King's Water in Cornwall, and ends with his son Arthur back at King's Water after spending four decades during a very turbulent time in Rhodesia.
I really struggled to finish this book. I can't remember the last time it took me three weeks to read a novel. I found it hard to keep track of all the characters. Many parts of the novel held my interest but there were sections that just ran on an on with way too much detail. With that said, I really learned a lot about this period of time in Rhodesia of which I had little knowledge. Also, the rich description of the various scenes really helped me visualize what the landscape was like and the difficulties many of the characters had to deal with.
If you like lots of detailed descriptions you will enjoy this book; just a bit much for me. I give this 3.5 Stars and will not be reading any other books in this series.
May 6, 2014
A very good story written about the Rhodesian Bush War. Its authentic, sometimes sad and provides a good insight into this period of Zimbabwean history.
April 5, 2021
The story is credible and the scene settings are very well depicted.
The geographically accurate depictions are a welcome revelation to ex-Rhodesian readers and the descriptions of the bush, sounds sights etc are nostalgia personified.
Knowing the country, having part of the history in the book, I enjoyed the read and the sharing of the action (mentally),
Well done to the author, whom I think must have personally seen some of the Centenary Block develop from raw bush into productive farm land in order to be able to bring it to life the way he did.
A good read and a fairly accurate history of the rise and fall of a piece of paradise.
The geographically accurate depictions are a welcome revelation to ex-Rhodesian readers and the descriptions of the bush, sounds sights etc are nostalgia personified.
Knowing the country, having part of the history in the book, I enjoyed the read and the sharing of the action (mentally),
Well done to the author, whom I think must have personally seen some of the Centenary Block develop from raw bush into productive farm land in order to be able to bring it to life the way he did.
A good read and a fairly accurate history of the rise and fall of a piece of paradise.
Read
July 9, 2022Cry of the Fish Eagle is what led me in January 2022 to the most enlightening and enjoyable reading experience of my long life. This extraordinary historical journey through Africa by the late British author Peter Rimmer, encompasses 12 books and carried me through most of a delightful summer overlooking the Indian Ocean in my home at Ocean Reef, Western Australia. I do believe I now have read all of this amazing writer's works - there must be close to 30! It took me many months. And I really enjoyed every single moment. Peter Rimmer's brilliant story telling deserves the widest reading audience and I highly recommend his writing.
June 4, 2018
I received this as part of Peter Rimmer's free starter library.
Part love story, part adventure. It tells of the life of a Cornishman from the time he enters WW2, the people he meets and the influence they have on his life, how he travels to Rhodesia to look for a friend's orphaned daughter and how that impacts on his life after the war. Then going onto the war in Rhodesia and black nationalism.
A wonderfully written story and completely enjoyed
Part love story, part adventure. It tells of the life of a Cornishman from the time he enters WW2, the people he meets and the influence they have on his life, how he travels to Rhodesia to look for a friend's orphaned daughter and how that impacts on his life after the war. Then going onto the war in Rhodesia and black nationalism.
A wonderfully written story and completely enjoyed
March 14, 2019
This is a fascinating story of Africa ihrough the last 60 years of the 20th century ~ from Rhodesia to Zimbabwe.
Great interwoven characters inhabit this historical novel of recent times, giving an insight into events there not so long ago.
The novel starts out in the skies over Europe during the Second World War and brings the characters and their families through those decades of Rhodesian Independence and beyond.
I thoroughly enjoyed this narrative.
Great interwoven characters inhabit this historical novel of recent times, giving an insight into events there not so long ago.
The novel starts out in the skies over Europe during the Second World War and brings the characters and their families through those decades of Rhodesian Independence and beyond.
I thoroughly enjoyed this narrative.
May 2, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyable read
This tale has romance, intrigue, violence and so much more. It is a very enjoyable read and the author almost makes you feel as though you overlooking the shoulders of the many and varied characters. You never know if many of the characters are good or bad, but the authors tale makes you realise that most people are a varied mix of both and most people are neither wholly one of the the other. Highly recommended
This tale has romance, intrigue, violence and so much more. It is a very enjoyable read and the author almost makes you feel as though you overlooking the shoulders of the many and varied characters. You never know if many of the characters are good or bad, but the authors tale makes you realise that most people are a varied mix of both and most people are neither wholly one of the the other. Highly recommended
December 24, 2025
Peter Rimmer’s books about Africa and particularly Rodesia /Zimbabve are one of the best I have read. He knew Africa inside out and when you read about it’s violent history you can believe that he wrote from his hart and experience. The story line is excellent and main characters very well developed. I can’t wait for more and I hope that his daughter is working very hard to keep his legal alive . Thank you 🙏🙏
August 13, 2019
I have been to Africa many times, and have, indeed, heard the cry of the fish eagle. There is no doubt Africa gets to your soul. This series of fictional nonfiction ranks right up there with Wilbur Smith’s books about Africa. While these stories about Rhodesia/Zimbabwe are told from a white person’s perspective, it is hard to argue with the case made when you see what a mess Zimbabwe is today.
November 27, 2024
the adventure continues!
A great, fast paced read! Following the gripping Briganshaw epic, this series is off to a fascinating start with well developed characters, multiple, interwoven plots, love-hate relationships of whites and backs in Africa that led to its bloody downfall, and the manipulating greed of nations coveting its bounty.
A great, fast paced read! Following the gripping Briganshaw epic, this series is off to a fascinating start with well developed characters, multiple, interwoven plots, love-hate relationships of whites and backs in Africa that led to its bloody downfall, and the manipulating greed of nations coveting its bounty.
September 7, 2018
I've never read any of Peter Rimmer before but thought this sounded interesting. Wow will definitely read more of his books. I loved the way he bought the African bush to life, and helped me to understand how these countries are just used as political pawns. Would love to visit Rhodesia now!!
July 19, 2019
A family saga/adventure story historical novel that covers a period of history from the second world war to the 1990’s. Peppered with rich characters, tragedy, historical narrative in Zimbabwe/Rhodesia and England.
August 27, 2020
A very well written book. Both romantic and interesting from a historical point of view. A page turner. Incredible to get in so much happening and so much history in one book.
I can highly recommend this book!
I can highly recommend this book!
August 31, 2020
Surprising. I didn't think I was going to enjoy this book although it was recommended. It was a fascinating novel embedded in the history of a nation and political process u knew very little about ...
January 16, 2021
Cry of the Fish Eagle
I chose that rating because there was too much politics for me. The book was a good read but moved a little too slow for me. Loved the fascination of Africa while still in its prime of widerness
I chose that rating because there was too much politics for me. The book was a good read but moved a little too slow for me. Loved the fascination of Africa while still in its prime of widerness
September 17, 2021
Long but worth it
Quite a story. Took a few chapters to get interesting then the story flowed. The story of Central Africa alongside a family from the British Empire into Africa. Many interesting characters along the way and a satisfying conclusion.
Quite a story. Took a few chapters to get interesting then the story flowed. The story of Central Africa alongside a family from the British Empire into Africa. Many interesting characters along the way and a satisfying conclusion.
September 21, 2021
An excellent story of Africa
This is a book that I found hard to put down each njght. It is interesting regarding the end of British rule in Africa and the emerging problems experienced by the burgeoning I dependent nations.
This is a book that I found hard to put down each njght. It is interesting regarding the end of British rule in Africa and the emerging problems experienced by the burgeoning I dependent nations.
December 6, 2021
Could not finish. Couldn't even get into it what awful writing. Can't understand all the rave reviews must be relatives of the author? Seems to be all background of various characters during World War II not much about Africa up to page 50 anyway. So glad I only paid $0.99 for this.
March 25, 2022
Great family story through generations. Interesting historical events. Really enjoyed this book.
I would recommend this book to anyone with a love of Africa, who also has some knowledge of her history.
I would recommend this book to anyone with a love of Africa, who also has some knowledge of her history.
March 26, 2022
I enjoyed the story ,& true facts of the times in south africa
It held my total interest
Good author obviously does his research or lived it.
Very good entertainment, any age can read
It held my total interest
Good author obviously does his research or lived it.
Very good entertainment, any age can read
April 28, 2022
History story at his finest
Love reading these stories and gives you a feeling you are living with these family's and the strength and adventures and their complication in life , and the strength of human lives
Love reading these stories and gives you a feeling you are living with these family's and the strength and adventures and their complication in life , and the strength of human lives
May 4, 2022
Wonderful
A really enjoyable and exciting story of the ups and downs of those who lived in the colonies. An unbiased approach,not altogether woke but who cares. A more realistic interpretation of events. More please.
A really enjoyable and exciting story of the ups and downs of those who lived in the colonies. An unbiased approach,not altogether woke but who cares. A more realistic interpretation of events. More please.
July 24, 2022
Finally gave up reading ⅓ of the way through - just found the colonial mind-frame too unpleasant to continue reading I'm afraid :-( Did learn something of the landscape and history of Rhodesia though...
October 22, 2023
great book.
Another marvelous story from Peter Rimmer, he brings Africa to the reader in only he can.
The book is one that you can’t put down till the end, enjoyed it so much looking for more from this author.
Recommend it to all my book club friends.
Another marvelous story from Peter Rimmer, he brings Africa to the reader in only he can.
The book is one that you can’t put down till the end, enjoyed it so much looking for more from this author.
Recommend it to all my book club friends.
May 12, 2018
Not my usual cup of tea but an enjoyable read all the same. A family epic. Be prepared to invest around 7 hours reading this book but be assured that it will be time well spent.
June 25, 2018
The best book I have read in along time! High recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews