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The Answers Lie in Africa: Can you bury the past?
Is the past ever truly forgotten?
Fiona Truscott has spent twenty years avoiding the truth about her family’s past. But when new evidence surfaces suggesting that her Great-Grandfather Finn Beckett, was wrongfully accused of serious crimes in South Africa, she can no longer turn away. With her husband Karl by her side, she embarks on a perilous journey to the heart of Africa, determined to uncover the truth about her ancestors—and her parents’ mysterious deaths.
Hunted and harassed from their first day in Africa things quickly take a deadly turn as they uncover long-hidden secrets. Fiona must summon the courage to face them head-on. Will she find the answers, or will the past remain forever buried?
Join Fiona and Karl on their harrowing journey as they experience captivating safaris, luxury rail travel, and culinary delights in this gripping tale of family, history, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our past. The Answers Lie in Africa is a journey of discovery you won’t forget.
Follow the author on Facebook @brucesmithwrites
Fiona Truscott has spent twenty years avoiding the truth about her family’s past. But when new evidence surfaces suggesting that her Great-Grandfather Finn Beckett, was wrongfully accused of serious crimes in South Africa, she can no longer turn away. With her husband Karl by her side, she embarks on a perilous journey to the heart of Africa, determined to uncover the truth about her ancestors—and her parents’ mysterious deaths.
Hunted and harassed from their first day in Africa things quickly take a deadly turn as they uncover long-hidden secrets. Fiona must summon the courage to face them head-on. Will she find the answers, or will the past remain forever buried?
Join Fiona and Karl on their harrowing journey as they experience captivating safaris, luxury rail travel, and culinary delights in this gripping tale of family, history, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our past. The Answers Lie in Africa is a journey of discovery you won’t forget.
Follow the author on Facebook @brucesmithwrites
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2025
8 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Bruce R. Smith
1 book16 followersBruce Smith enjoys grandparenting three energetic grandchildren (who may or may not believe he’s a “famous author”). When not writing, he can be found in his workshop covered in sawdust, planning his next travel adventure, or pretending to be retired.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 4, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa reads almost like an exciting documentary. Author Bruce R Smith writes about South Africa as one who has walked the land, smelled the veldt, and felt the mists of Victoria Falls against his face.
Most people are unfamiliar with South Africa, even after Apartheid. I appreciated the precise use of Afrikaner words in South Africa and the Zulu language in Botswana. The gorgeous sweeping prose about vast deserts and sparkling Ocean views will leave you dreamy-eyed for an adventure.
But The Answers Lie in Africa is not a documentary. It is a slow-burn thriller that will keep you turning the pages compulsively. Its convoluted plot will keep you guessing until the very end.
For two and a half centuries, the people of South Africa have maligned the name of Finn Beckett as the man responsible for the worst mine disaster in their history. And as a diamond thief as well. But to Fiona Truscott, Phineas Beckett is her great-great-grandfather and she is out to correct his reputation.
Fiona, and her husband, Karl, head off to set the story straight.
Be prepared for periods of unending frustration. And electrifying escapades of skullduggery. You, too, will become completely paranoid from being stalked by 3 sets of nefarious diamond hunters.
What I loved the most about this book is the feeling of flying absolutely blind. I didn't see the end until I was on the last page. I love books that can do that. Writing that is touching and tender while telling an outrageously unbelievable story, what more could you ask for? A five-star review.
Most people are unfamiliar with South Africa, even after Apartheid. I appreciated the precise use of Afrikaner words in South Africa and the Zulu language in Botswana. The gorgeous sweeping prose about vast deserts and sparkling Ocean views will leave you dreamy-eyed for an adventure.
But The Answers Lie in Africa is not a documentary. It is a slow-burn thriller that will keep you turning the pages compulsively. Its convoluted plot will keep you guessing until the very end.
For two and a half centuries, the people of South Africa have maligned the name of Finn Beckett as the man responsible for the worst mine disaster in their history. And as a diamond thief as well. But to Fiona Truscott, Phineas Beckett is her great-great-grandfather and she is out to correct his reputation.
Fiona, and her husband, Karl, head off to set the story straight.
Be prepared for periods of unending frustration. And electrifying escapades of skullduggery. You, too, will become completely paranoid from being stalked by 3 sets of nefarious diamond hunters.
What I loved the most about this book is the feeling of flying absolutely blind. I didn't see the end until I was on the last page. I love books that can do that. Writing that is touching and tender while telling an outrageously unbelievable story, what more could you ask for? A five-star review.
July 22, 2025
I didn’t expect to be pulled in so quickly, but The Answers Lie in Africa had me hooked from the start. Fiona’s search for the truth about her family is full of suspense, emotion, and just enough danger to keep things intense. The blend of personal history, travel, and mystery is beautifully done and the vivid descriptions of Africa made me feel like I was right there with them.
I loved how the story unfolded slowly but purposefully, revealing secrets in layers. Fiona and Karl’s journey felt real, and the way the author explored themes of legacy and redemption added real emotional weight. A great read if you enjoy historical family mysteries with heart.
I loved how the story unfolded slowly but purposefully, revealing secrets in layers. Fiona and Karl’s journey felt real, and the way the author explored themes of legacy and redemption added real emotional weight. A great read if you enjoy historical family mysteries with heart.
May 17, 2025
Family ties, mystery, history, travel, adventure… and diamonds! The Answers Lie in Africa was a really fun read. A fast-paced story with twists and turns that were not predictable but also not far-fetched. Maybe a bit corny in parts, it was a page-turner nonetheless.
The story largely takes place in South Africa and us readers get many lovely descriptions of the various sights and destinations to see. We also get some history lessons, which I appreciated and found very interesting.
It’s safe to say I’ve added South Africa to my list of must-see travel destinations!
It was also awesome to read a book that had a couple as the main characters, and a heroine who did not come across as weak or as “lesser” than her partner. I appreciated that the drama in the book was entirely separate from Fiona & Karl’s relationship and that they tackled everything as an equal partnership.
I will say that this book is probably best suited to an audience of folks who are millennials and older, simply because of some of the language used and the relatability of the characters.
I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick read that takes you on an adventure! It would be a great choice for your summer vacation.
The story largely takes place in South Africa and us readers get many lovely descriptions of the various sights and destinations to see. We also get some history lessons, which I appreciated and found very interesting.
It’s safe to say I’ve added South Africa to my list of must-see travel destinations!
It was also awesome to read a book that had a couple as the main characters, and a heroine who did not come across as weak or as “lesser” than her partner. I appreciated that the drama in the book was entirely separate from Fiona & Karl’s relationship and that they tackled everything as an equal partnership.
I will say that this book is probably best suited to an audience of folks who are millennials and older, simply because of some of the language used and the relatability of the characters.
I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick read that takes you on an adventure! It would be a great choice for your summer vacation.
September 25, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa drew me in from the very first page. What I loved most is how Bruce R. Smith masterfully weaves together mystery, family drama, and the rich backdrop of Africa. Fiona’s journey to uncover her great grandfather’s past is not just about solving a decades-old crime it’s also about courage, love, and facing truths that many of us would rather leave buried.
The pacing kept me hooked, there’s just the right balance of suspense and vivid descriptions that transport you straight to Africa. I could almost hear the sounds of the bush, see the breathtaking landscapes, and taste the local cuisine. The safari and train travel sequences added such a sense of wonder, while the danger lurking in the shadows kept me turning the pages late into the night.
The pacing kept me hooked, there’s just the right balance of suspense and vivid descriptions that transport you straight to Africa. I could almost hear the sounds of the bush, see the breathtaking landscapes, and taste the local cuisine. The safari and train travel sequences added such a sense of wonder, while the danger lurking in the shadows kept me turning the pages late into the night.
March 26, 2025
Fast-paced and engaging read with vividly described settings and a diverse cast of characters.
Fiona and Karl investigate a centuries-old family crime that puts them in more than a few dangerous situations. With humor and passion, the couple tediously unlocks the secrets to the past while traipsing through stunning South Africa and Zimbabwe. The book had me hooked from start to finish with its mystery and captivating prose.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Fiona and Karl investigate a centuries-old family crime that puts them in more than a few dangerous situations. With humor and passion, the couple tediously unlocks the secrets to the past while traipsing through stunning South Africa and Zimbabwe. The book had me hooked from start to finish with its mystery and captivating prose.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
May 14, 2025
True page turner with the writer being so detailed it's as if you can visualize the different areas in the book. I really enjoyed the story and the lady wanted to clear her family's name about the diamonds.
January 5, 2026
The Answers Lie in Africa is a gripping and immersive novel that beautifully blends mystery, history, and adventure. Bruce R. Smith draws readers into a richly atmospheric journey filled with suspense, emotional depth, and vivid settings. The unraveling of family secrets against the breathtaking backdrop of Africa keeps the tension high, while Fiona’s courage and determination make her a compelling heroine. A thoughtful, fast-paced read that lingers long after the final page.
July 31, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa is a gripping and evocative journey through history, mystery, and personal courage, blending breathtaking adventure with heartfelt family revelations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa is an engaging and suspenseful family mystery. When Fiona learns her great grandfather may have been wrongfully accused decades ago, she travels to South Africa to uncover the truth. The story blends danger, hidden secrets, and emotional discovery as Fiona and her husband Karl face threats from the moment they arrive.
The African setting including safaris rail journeys and vivid landscapes adds a captivating backdrop to the unfolding mystery. The plot moves quickly the stakes feel real and the revelations are satisfying.
A concise well paced read for anyone who enjoys family secrets historical intrigue and adventure.
The African setting including safaris rail journeys and vivid landscapes adds a captivating backdrop to the unfolding mystery. The plot moves quickly the stakes feel real and the revelations are satisfying.
A concise well paced read for anyone who enjoys family secrets historical intrigue and adventure.
December 15, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa is a gripping blend of mystery, history, and adventure that pulls you in from the first page. Bruce R. Smith weaves a compelling story of family secrets, wrongful accusations, and the courage it takes to confront the past. Fiona’s journey through Africa is both emotionally powerful and richly atmospheric, balancing danger and discovery with moments of beauty and reflection. The suspense keeps building as hidden truths emerge, making this a thoughtful and engaging read that lingers long after the final chapter.
December 18, 2025
The Answers Lie in Africa is a gripping and unforgettable journey that blends suspense, family secrets, and breathtaking adventure. Fiona and Karl’s quest to uncover the truth about their past is thrilling from start to finish, filled with danger, intrigue, and heartfelt moments. The vivid descriptions of Africa, from captivating safaris to luxurious rail travel and exquisite cuisine, transport the reader right into the heart of the story. A beautifully written tale of courage, discovery, and the enduring bonds of family that will stay with you long after the final page.
January 6, 2026
The Answers Lie in Africa is a captivating novel that expertly weaves family history, suspense, and emotional depth. Fiona’s quest to uncover the truth about her great grandfather and her parents’ deaths is gripping from start to finish. The African setting is vividly described, adding beauty and danger to every chapter. Bruce R. Smith delivers a powerful story about truth, courage, and confronting the past. A thoroughly engaging and unforgettable read.
June 9, 2025
It's a great read for lovers of mystery and travel brought to life using the author's vast knowledge of the history, landscapes and tastes of South Africa. The time shifts, parallel experiences of the characters and plot twists made this my best read of the year.
July 14, 2025
A great page turner, it combines a modern day mystery adventure with a real historical background in a unique and exotic setting. An exciting and compelling tale very well told! Enjoy!
Cheers, Michael Forrester
Cheers, Michael Forrester
June 28, 2025
Had a lot of fun with this, and for lovers of Africa, especially cape town you will recognise a lot of the sights and sounds.
May 10, 2025
Well written and engaging. Definitely recommend. Characters are realistic and story kept me interested.
October 11, 2025
Bruce R Smith's debut novel is true travel fiction - a richly described and immersive experience of South Africa and Zimbabwe's exotic landscapes. I felt I was there with the characters.
The story follows a Canadian woman who unearths a long-buried family secret that leads her on a journey across South Africa. From luxury rail travel to safaris and incredible local cuisine, the novel paints a realistic portrait of these exotic countries.
With a compelling mystery and historical events thrown in, it makes for a captivating read.
The story follows a Canadian woman who unearths a long-buried family secret that leads her on a journey across South Africa. From luxury rail travel to safaris and incredible local cuisine, the novel paints a realistic portrait of these exotic countries.
With a compelling mystery and historical events thrown in, it makes for a captivating read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews