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The Napoleon of Africa
Shipwrecked children. A warrior king.
A rising power that would reshape a nation.
The year is 1815. With Europe reeling from Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, Royal Navy Commander Stephen Cowen resigns his commission, bound for a new life in India with his family. But fate has other plans in store.
When a violent storm strikes off the coast of East Africa, Cowen’s three children – Nathaniel, Andrew, and Beatrice – are swept overboard in a longboat and cast ashore in an uncharted world. Lost and presumed dead, they are discovered by a local tribe and brought before the newly appointed Chief of the Zulus – the formidable Shaka – to decide their fate.
Fascinated by these young strangers, Shaka spares their lives. Amid tribal warfare and political unrest, the Cowen siblings are drawn into Shaka’s inner circle, forced to confront the brutal realities of their new world while holding onto the hope of being reunited with their parents. Several years later, British explorer, Lieutenant Francis Farewell RNR, ventures into the African interior in search of a rumoured warrior king, he unexpectedly stumbles upon a prize of infinitesimal value.
Spanning continents and cultures, The Napoleon of Africa by Phil Smart is a gripping historical adventure story of survival, identity and entwining the lives of the Cowen family with one of Africa’s most legendary leaders.
For More Information philsmartauthor.com.au
A rising power that would reshape a nation.
The year is 1815. With Europe reeling from Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, Royal Navy Commander Stephen Cowen resigns his commission, bound for a new life in India with his family. But fate has other plans in store.
When a violent storm strikes off the coast of East Africa, Cowen’s three children – Nathaniel, Andrew, and Beatrice – are swept overboard in a longboat and cast ashore in an uncharted world. Lost and presumed dead, they are discovered by a local tribe and brought before the newly appointed Chief of the Zulus – the formidable Shaka – to decide their fate.
Fascinated by these young strangers, Shaka spares their lives. Amid tribal warfare and political unrest, the Cowen siblings are drawn into Shaka’s inner circle, forced to confront the brutal realities of their new world while holding onto the hope of being reunited with their parents. Several years later, British explorer, Lieutenant Francis Farewell RNR, ventures into the African interior in search of a rumoured warrior king, he unexpectedly stumbles upon a prize of infinitesimal value.
Spanning continents and cultures, The Napoleon of Africa by Phil Smart is a gripping historical adventure story of survival, identity and entwining the lives of the Cowen family with one of Africa’s most legendary leaders.
For More Information philsmartauthor.com.au
368 pages, Paperback
Published July 20, 2025
4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 20, 2025
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November 18, 2025
African adventures: ‘The Napoleon of Africa’ by Phil Smart
As an historical fiction lover, I was asked to review this recently published novel set in early 19th century southeastern Africa. Knowing very little about this part of the world or its history, I was intrigued. Also, I am always happy to hear from new authors. Putting a book out into the world takes hard work and commitment!
The story is about three youngsters, siblings from a British naval family, who in 1815 become stranded on the coast of Africa after a violent storm at sea. They assume that all others on board the ship, including their parents, had drowned and that they must try to survive in a very alien landscape on their own.
A dramatic start; a good hook by any measure.
Their presence is discovered by another youngster, local Zulu lad Mandlakhe, who befriends the three: brothers Nathaniel and Andrew and their younger sister, Beatrice. However it’s not long before they come to the attention of the Zulu warrior and chief Shaka, who cannily sees the political and military advantages of taking these stranded children into his care.
Another huge advantage for Shaka is that the eldest sibling, Nate, is already a shining star at the Royal Naval Academy and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of military history and the ins and outs of battle strategies across various eras. Shaka absorbs this information like a sponge: it fits into his ambitions to conquer more territory and become a great ruler of the Zulu nations, not merely a local chief.
From here the narrative is told from multiple perspectives, encompassing the multiple storylines that unfold.
There is Shaka and the others in his compound, including his favourite witchdoctor, various family members and members of his military forces.
There are the Cowen siblings, a fascinating part of the story with their own skills, passions and goals, as they become a part of the Zulu community.
There are machiavellien characters and subplots involving the acting Governor of the Portuguese colony of Mozambique; an English sea captain with plans to make it rich through trading with newly discovered or colonised territories; and assorted rival African chiefs with their own plans of conquest and rule.
There are aspects of this novel that I enjoyed and others that bothered me a bit.
There are elements of writing craft that I thought need some attention – fair enough, in a debut novel – though the author certainly knows how to tell an engaging story.
I was uncomfortable with the presentation of British (and other European) colonialism as an opportunity for personal advantage. Of course, this was certainly the attitude of the time and what attracted many to the colonial and trade game – the opportunity for adventure and making a lot of money. This book presents these attitudes perfectly, but there is no invitation for readers to reflect on what that meant for the local people in those colonised and exploited territories.
There is also an unabashed admiration for military ‘greatness’ – the title alone hints at this. Once again, an accurate representation of attitudes at the time: maybe it still is for some. I continually question this. Why do we persist in admiring mass murderers (Napoleon, Alexander the ‘Great’, Shaka himself…) and counting them among the ‘great’ figures of history? Sure, they may have been brilliant strategists or military leaders. However, they were also ruthless killers with an indifference to the consequences of their ambition.
That’s my personal view of course, and I brought that with me to the reading of this novel.
There were things I liked very much about the book, too.
The setting, for one. The author has been to this part of Africa and I understand he fell in love with the place. It was this that inspired his writing. I’ve not been there, so I can’t judge the accuracy of his setting, but his descriptive writing brought it very much to life for me.
The characters also feel believable and I enjoyed Beatrice, in particular. Her development from a frightened child to a capable and assertive young woman is beautifully portayed. And her friendship with the Zulu boy Mandlakhe is a lovely aspect of the story overall.
I liked how the author skillfully wove into his story real characters and events from the time – always welcome in a work of historical fiction.
If you enjoy adventure stories set in past times and perhaps unfamiliar settings, you will enjoy The Napoleon of Africa. There is a lot in this book to keep readers absorbed and turning the pages.
As an historical fiction lover, I was asked to review this recently published novel set in early 19th century southeastern Africa. Knowing very little about this part of the world or its history, I was intrigued. Also, I am always happy to hear from new authors. Putting a book out into the world takes hard work and commitment!
The story is about three youngsters, siblings from a British naval family, who in 1815 become stranded on the coast of Africa after a violent storm at sea. They assume that all others on board the ship, including their parents, had drowned and that they must try to survive in a very alien landscape on their own.
A dramatic start; a good hook by any measure.
Their presence is discovered by another youngster, local Zulu lad Mandlakhe, who befriends the three: brothers Nathaniel and Andrew and their younger sister, Beatrice. However it’s not long before they come to the attention of the Zulu warrior and chief Shaka, who cannily sees the political and military advantages of taking these stranded children into his care.
Another huge advantage for Shaka is that the eldest sibling, Nate, is already a shining star at the Royal Naval Academy and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of military history and the ins and outs of battle strategies across various eras. Shaka absorbs this information like a sponge: it fits into his ambitions to conquer more territory and become a great ruler of the Zulu nations, not merely a local chief.
From here the narrative is told from multiple perspectives, encompassing the multiple storylines that unfold.
There is Shaka and the others in his compound, including his favourite witchdoctor, various family members and members of his military forces.
There are the Cowen siblings, a fascinating part of the story with their own skills, passions and goals, as they become a part of the Zulu community.
There are machiavellien characters and subplots involving the acting Governor of the Portuguese colony of Mozambique; an English sea captain with plans to make it rich through trading with newly discovered or colonised territories; and assorted rival African chiefs with their own plans of conquest and rule.
There are aspects of this novel that I enjoyed and others that bothered me a bit.
There are elements of writing craft that I thought need some attention – fair enough, in a debut novel – though the author certainly knows how to tell an engaging story.
I was uncomfortable with the presentation of British (and other European) colonialism as an opportunity for personal advantage. Of course, this was certainly the attitude of the time and what attracted many to the colonial and trade game – the opportunity for adventure and making a lot of money. This book presents these attitudes perfectly, but there is no invitation for readers to reflect on what that meant for the local people in those colonised and exploited territories.
There is also an unabashed admiration for military ‘greatness’ – the title alone hints at this. Once again, an accurate representation of attitudes at the time: maybe it still is for some. I continually question this. Why do we persist in admiring mass murderers (Napoleon, Alexander the ‘Great’, Shaka himself…) and counting them among the ‘great’ figures of history? Sure, they may have been brilliant strategists or military leaders. However, they were also ruthless killers with an indifference to the consequences of their ambition.
That’s my personal view of course, and I brought that with me to the reading of this novel.
There were things I liked very much about the book, too.
The setting, for one. The author has been to this part of Africa and I understand he fell in love with the place. It was this that inspired his writing. I’ve not been there, so I can’t judge the accuracy of his setting, but his descriptive writing brought it very much to life for me.
The characters also feel believable and I enjoyed Beatrice, in particular. Her development from a frightened child to a capable and assertive young woman is beautifully portayed. And her friendship with the Zulu boy Mandlakhe is a lovely aspect of the story overall.
I liked how the author skillfully wove into his story real characters and events from the time – always welcome in a work of historical fiction.
If you enjoy adventure stories set in past times and perhaps unfamiliar settings, you will enjoy The Napoleon of Africa. There is a lot in this book to keep readers absorbed and turning the pages.
October 27, 2025
I could not put this book down!
So well written, easy to read. A true joy. I was transported to 1815 and imagined myself in such a wild and beautifully untamed place and yet I felt so safe in its pages. I have given the book as a gift to a number of people since as I really believe it is just enjoyable for all ages(mid-teens and up)
While the first few chapters are a little slow (as I find most historical fictions that I read) once the adventure starts, it really is unputdownable. What a success for the author.
I’d recommend this book to those who want a good holiday read because it is not complex and follows several interesting story lines. What a delight.
Criticisms? - only that the story at times is a little bit fanciful, elements that I think the characters would need incredible luck to endure, but hey! Isn’t that the mark of a story well told? We read to escape to other worlds not to endure more of what we live in, day-to-day. I can’t wait to pick up this authors next book.
So well written, easy to read. A true joy. I was transported to 1815 and imagined myself in such a wild and beautifully untamed place and yet I felt so safe in its pages. I have given the book as a gift to a number of people since as I really believe it is just enjoyable for all ages(mid-teens and up)
While the first few chapters are a little slow (as I find most historical fictions that I read) once the adventure starts, it really is unputdownable. What a success for the author.
I’d recommend this book to those who want a good holiday read because it is not complex and follows several interesting story lines. What a delight.
Criticisms? - only that the story at times is a little bit fanciful, elements that I think the characters would need incredible luck to endure, but hey! Isn’t that the mark of a story well told? We read to escape to other worlds not to endure more of what we live in, day-to-day. I can’t wait to pick up this authors next book.
October 28, 2025
Being a lover of historical fiction, I was eager to give ‘The Napoleon of Africa’ a go, and it did not disappoint!
I honestly haven’t enjoyed a book this much in years; there were plenty of nights I stayed up late, being so invested in the story that I couldn’t put it down. Unfortunately this meant it didn’t take me long to finish the book!
It has a thrilling storyline with characters that draw you in; invoking love, fear, compassion or hatred. This is intertwined beautifully with a fascinating glimpse into Zulu culture and history, truly immersing you in the experience of being in another time and another place.
The Napoleon of Africa is everything I hoped for and a brilliant read!
I honestly haven’t enjoyed a book this much in years; there were plenty of nights I stayed up late, being so invested in the story that I couldn’t put it down. Unfortunately this meant it didn’t take me long to finish the book!
It has a thrilling storyline with characters that draw you in; invoking love, fear, compassion or hatred. This is intertwined beautifully with a fascinating glimpse into Zulu culture and history, truly immersing you in the experience of being in another time and another place.
The Napoleon of Africa is everything I hoped for and a brilliant read!
October 16, 2025
Phil Smart is a master storyteller. The way he intertwines the Cowen siblings’ survival with the rise of a legendary African king is brilliant. The cultural details are vivid without feeling like a history lecture, and the suspense keeps you turning pages. I laughed, I held my breath, and at times, I even felt heartbreak.
October 16, 2025
Honestly, the start hit me hard. The storm scene? I could literally feel my stomach drop. The kids are written so well you can tell they’re scared but trying to be brave. I just wanted to hug them through the whole book. Only thing is I wish the ending wrapped a bit more of the backstory for the adults, but still… totally recommend.
October 16, 2025
Okay, I’ll admit it I got a little lost at first with all the names and tribes, but once I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. The tension, the danger, the hope… it’s like watching a movie in your head. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
October 16, 2025
Wow… okay, I wasn’t expecting to get so hooked. I mean, three kids lost at sea and ending up in Shaka’s world? That had me biting my nails half the time. I laughed, I got mad, I cried a little… okay, maybe a lot. Definitely not a book you just skim this one grabs you
December 2, 2025
very very good story. really good adventure novel with a lot of action and drama. definitely be reading this more than once 😊😊
October 16, 2025
I loved how different this story felt from other historical adventure books. It’s not just about battles and politics; it’s about kids trying to survive in a world that doesn’t make sense to them. And Shaka? Wow. Smart made him feel real, not just some legend. I stayed up way too late reading this
October 16, 2025
This book is such a rollercoaster. One minute you’re terrified for the kids, the next you’re learning about Shaka and thinking, ‘Whoa, this guy was something else.’ I felt like I was there in the moment with them. Definitely going to recommend this to my book club.
October 14, 2025
Phil Smart’s The Napoleon of Africa is a masterful blend of history, adventure, and human resilience that sweeps readers from the shores of post-Napoleonic Europe to the untamed landscapes of early 19th-century Africa. With elegant prose and cinematic scope, Smart reimagines a moment in history through the eyes of three shipwrecked British children who find themselves at the mercy and eventually under the protection of one of Africa’s most formidable figures, Shaka Zulu.
This isn’t just a tale of survival; it’s a story of transformation. The Cowen siblings’ journey from vulnerability to belonging is written with such emotional clarity that readers feel both the terror and awe of their new world. Shaka himself emerges not as a caricature of power, but as a richly human, complex leader a visionary whose destiny intertwines fate and ferocity.
Smart’s storytelling evokes the spirit of Wilbur Smith and the emotional resonance of historical epics like The Last Kingdom or Out of Africa. The novel’s pace, detail, and cultural insight make it more than an adventure it’s an exploration of identity, loyalty, and the blurred boundaries between civilization and savagery.
The Napoleon of Africa is a rare feat: historical fiction that’s both deeply researched and thrillingly alive.
This isn’t just a tale of survival; it’s a story of transformation. The Cowen siblings’ journey from vulnerability to belonging is written with such emotional clarity that readers feel both the terror and awe of their new world. Shaka himself emerges not as a caricature of power, but as a richly human, complex leader a visionary whose destiny intertwines fate and ferocity.
Smart’s storytelling evokes the spirit of Wilbur Smith and the emotional resonance of historical epics like The Last Kingdom or Out of Africa. The novel’s pace, detail, and cultural insight make it more than an adventure it’s an exploration of identity, loyalty, and the blurred boundaries between civilization and savagery.
The Napoleon of Africa is a rare feat: historical fiction that’s both deeply researched and thrillingly alive.
October 13, 2025
As a story, it is engaging. As a history lesson, it is enlightening. Where the two intersect is the magic of The Napoleon of Africa.
Phil Smart has created captivating characters - some affable and enticing, others intimidating and enigmatic. Theses people never should have found their ways into each others lives and yet, by a twist of fate, they did. Each found their own way to embrace their unique strengths, respect each others' differences, to connect and evolve individually and together.
The Cowen children's journey was not just one of exploring a foreign landscape but one of life changing interactions with people so different from any they had experienced before. Neither language, geography, skin colour, nor culture kept them from learning, growing, teaching, and ultimately living a life their parents could never have imagined.
Regardless of where each character began their journey, their experiences and interactions lead them to a better more enlightened place.
If you're looking for an adventure that will take you to one too, read this book!
Phil Smart has created captivating characters - some affable and enticing, others intimidating and enigmatic. Theses people never should have found their ways into each others lives and yet, by a twist of fate, they did. Each found their own way to embrace their unique strengths, respect each others' differences, to connect and evolve individually and together.
The Cowen children's journey was not just one of exploring a foreign landscape but one of life changing interactions with people so different from any they had experienced before. Neither language, geography, skin colour, nor culture kept them from learning, growing, teaching, and ultimately living a life their parents could never have imagined.
Regardless of where each character began their journey, their experiences and interactions lead them to a better more enlightened place.
If you're looking for an adventure that will take you to one too, read this book!
December 6, 2025
The Napoleon of Africa is an absolute triumph. I was genuinely impressed by the depth of history woven throughout the book. It’s clear Phil Smart poured immense research, passion, and respect into bringing this period to life. The descriptions are so vivid and immersive that you truly feel as though you’ve stepped back in time and are witnessing the events firsthand.
The military elements are exhilarating, filled with adventure, tension, and energy that make the story completely gripping. I honestly couldn’t put it down. Phil’s ability to juggle multiple storylines and perspectives is remarkable - each character feels rich, distinct, and fully realised, and the way their paths converge is both seamless and satisfying.
The ending is beautifully heartwarming and unexpectedly emotional. It brought me to tears and perfectly tied every thread together in a meaningful way. Phil Smart is one hell of a storyteller. His love for history, and for Africa, shines through every page.
A powerful, adventurous, deeply human book. Highly recommended.
The military elements are exhilarating, filled with adventure, tension, and energy that make the story completely gripping. I honestly couldn’t put it down. Phil’s ability to juggle multiple storylines and perspectives is remarkable - each character feels rich, distinct, and fully realised, and the way their paths converge is both seamless and satisfying.
The ending is beautifully heartwarming and unexpectedly emotional. It brought me to tears and perfectly tied every thread together in a meaningful way. Phil Smart is one hell of a storyteller. His love for history, and for Africa, shines through every page.
A powerful, adventurous, deeply human book. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews