A gripping story of power, ambition, and the price of desire.
From the bustling township of Mamelodi to the heart of European diplomacy in Brussels, Mbali Langa has fought for every opportunity – and sacrificed more than she cares to admit. As a rising diplomat with a sharp mind and an unwavering ambition, she is no stranger to the delicate balance of power and persuasion.
But when an illicit affair threatens to shatter her career, and hidden enemies begin to close in, she finds herself trapped in a game where trust is a luxury she can’t afford. In Brussels, behind the polished façades of diplomacy, lies a dangerous world of secrets, betrayals and high-stakes deception – where one wrong move could cost her everything.
Caught between duty, love and the weight of her past, Mbali must decide just how far she’s willing to go to secure the future she’s always dreamed of.
Mpho Boshego’s Diplomatic Ties was a brilliant read.
Through telling the protagonist, Mbali’s story, Mpho captured the realness of a South African township life - Mamelodi. I felt every bit of the financial and emotional pressure Mbali, carried for her family - a girl who against all odds gets the university degree and for the first time has a chance to financial liberation but alas - Black Tax! When the responsibility of liberating not just yourself but your family falls solely on your shoulders.
With a degree in International Politics & Sociology and a job at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mbali sets her eyes to being a Diplomat. During this time she gets herself entangled in two relationships - none of which were right for her and one of which had danger lurking closely. Soon she’s in a predicament that threatens to derail her life completely.
I was so frustrated with her naivety and stupid decisions but then again which 24 year old has never made life altering mistakes?
She gets posted to Belgium and the contrast between the opulence of Brussels and her humble beginnings in Mamelodi are apparent.
Remember the danger lurking closely, it follows her to Brussels causing a diplomatic scandal that nearly ruins her.