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Gabon: A Magical Novel of Nineteenth Century Africa
From the international bestselling author of Wish Me Luck as you Wave me Goodbye comes an enchanting novel of late 19th Century Africa. Intelligent, charming and handsome, Jean-Patrice has Paris at his feet. But when he embarks on a passionate affair with the beautiful wife of a superior, his brilliant career in the Civil Service goes south. Packed off to the equatorial colony of Gabon to avoid a scandal, Jean-Patrice is plunged from the City of Light into the Heart of Darkness. In the company of cannibals, ghosts, witchdoctors and a gorilla named Chloe, he is forced to revise everything he has learned and find the true meaning of courage and love. Told with humor and compassion, this is the story of a young man's coming of age in the last months of the 19th Century. Also by Marius THE MASK OF TIME ‘Keeps you reading while your dinner burns… Great fun.’ Cosmopolitan THE SEVENTH MOON ‘Few thrillers have as strong a sense of atmosphere and adventure as this fascinating tale.’ Chicago Tribune
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2011
271 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Marius Gabriel
43 books563 followersMarius Gabriel is an international thriller and mystery writer.
Under the pseudonym Madeleine Ker, he wrote over 30 romance novels in the 1980s.
As Marius Gabriel he has written several mystery best-sellers, some of them historical novels.
He has three grown-up children and currently lives in Cairo and London. He is 59.
Under the pseudonym Madeleine Ker, he wrote over 30 romance novels in the 1980s.
As Marius Gabriel he has written several mystery best-sellers, some of them historical novels.
He has three grown-up children and currently lives in Cairo and London. He is 59.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 31, 2018
1899, Jean-Patrice has been naughty in Paris and like many others is sent off to darkest Africa to escape the shame. He is 27, handsome, intelligent and with a dry wit. He is fascinated by Darwinism.
JP arrives at his posting in remote Gabon where his predecessor dies within moments of his arrival. It does not take long to see that JP is a nice guy and he soon finds the most beautiful woman in the village and falls hopelessly in love.
There are some good bits in the book covering the views of the locals on the whites, the greed and cruelty of the invaders, and the debates on evolution. I found the book moved into heavy melodrama in the second half as an "impossible" love story unfolded and this became a bit predictable (even though there was a surprise in the Afterword where I wondered why I had wasted my time to read 100 pages on what JP did, said and how he survived).
JP arrives at his posting in remote Gabon where his predecessor dies within moments of his arrival. It does not take long to see that JP is a nice guy and he soon finds the most beautiful woman in the village and falls hopelessly in love.
There are some good bits in the book covering the views of the locals on the whites, the greed and cruelty of the invaders, and the debates on evolution. I found the book moved into heavy melodrama in the second half as an "impossible" love story unfolded and this became a bit predictable (even though there was a surprise in the Afterword where I wondered why I had wasted my time to read 100 pages on what JP did, said and how he survived).
November 26, 2014
What a wonderful novel. Right from page one, we know we're in masterful hands: atmospheric evocation of place, tight structure, perfect pace. Sensuality, adventure, romance, philosophy, eloquence, education. Ballistics! So, so fascinating to be among the vaccinations and the flora, the fauna, the Fang of Gabon. I loved particularly Jean Patrice's tussle with evolution and Catherine's lesson in 'just enough'. (A total tart for metaphors, I squirmed with delight at the cargo ships suckling in the wharf.)
What a scholarly author Marius Gabriel is, scattering knowledge lightly upon our reading path and we race along the red dirt or the river or the jungle, so involved I wanted to be there to help! Gabriel is interested wholeheartedly in his reader's engagement, because, I think, his writing is overwhelmingly driven by justice and bursting with humanity, and love of the natural world and its peoples.
What a scholarly author Marius Gabriel is, scattering knowledge lightly upon our reading path and we race along the red dirt or the river or the jungle, so involved I wanted to be there to help! Gabriel is interested wholeheartedly in his reader's engagement, because, I think, his writing is overwhelmingly driven by justice and bursting with humanity, and love of the natural world and its peoples.
February 21, 2014
A complete departure to the other novels I have read by Marius Gabriel. This is a clever, historic tale, that takes the reader on an unusual journey. A great read and I would recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
March 24, 2023
Interesting look at colonial Gabon, but a little heavy on the predictable romance. However, it does take a turn at the end!
May 1, 2014
I have just finished this book and absolutely loved it. It was a bit of a departure for me as I would not necessarily chose to read a book described as "historical fiction" but I wanted to challenge myself and having read reviews was so glad I did. However, as well as historical fiction, you really cannot ignore the BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY that runs throughout the book as well as the development of the relationship with Chloe which is more than charming! This is another wonderful story by Marius Gabriel and its imagery will remain with me - both the beautiful and the horrific. Completely ABSORBING!
June 20, 2024
This is my first book by Marius Gabriel and I enjoy his simple yet deeply intricate style of writing. The characters are far from one-dimensional and the growth of the protagonist, Jean Patrice was a delight to read. The descriptions of colonial West Africa, the unrelenting weather and relationships between the natives and locals are captured beautifully.
My only two gripes are the alternative ending (I truly wanted a happy ending for the characters but lost that gratification after reading the depressing but most likely more realistic alternative one).
Another issue is the slight portrayal of Jean Patrice as the 'white saviour' of the story. He and his love interest are clearly characters the modern audience can relate to and feel empathy for Surely, there were Europeans in colonial Africa who disapproved of the treatment of the natives but the protagonist's 21st century outlook feels a little out of place at times and anachronistic.
The relationship between Chloe and Jean Patrice was heartwarming. I feel that the predictable love story moved from nothing to something very quickly but as a reader, you just want things to work out for good for them.
I love historical fiction though and if you enjoy this era of history, you will surely like this book.
My only two gripes are the alternative ending (I truly wanted a happy ending for the characters but lost that gratification after reading the depressing but most likely more realistic alternative one).
Another issue is the slight portrayal of Jean Patrice as the 'white saviour' of the story. He and his love interest are clearly characters the modern audience can relate to and feel empathy for Surely, there were Europeans in colonial Africa who disapproved of the treatment of the natives but the protagonist's 21st century outlook feels a little out of place at times and anachronistic.
The relationship between Chloe and Jean Patrice was heartwarming. I feel that the predictable love story moved from nothing to something very quickly but as a reader, you just want things to work out for good for them.
I love historical fiction though and if you enjoy this era of history, you will surely like this book.
March 6, 2018
I was fascinated by this book. The author’s skill with descriptions and visuals is astounding. I felt the ship, felt the heat of the African sun, and the hangover of Jean-Patrice as he struggled with his feelings. It was a riveting book and I was totally absorbed by the storyline. It was telling the story of one white man’s awareness of just how wrong it was to assume that one’s skin color denotes status. It was a novel of learning about one’s self in dire circumstances. I was blown away with the return of Jean-Patrice to ‘civilization’ and his personal growth. The ending confused me and still confuses me. Did he return and regain his health? Did he die? it is not a typical ending and it will stay with me a long time. I would like to know but guess the reader must trust the author. This was my 5th book but it won’t be my last. I’ve read the romantic stories and the dark stories. Gabriel is superb.
August 27, 2023
Moving
Human nature is shown here in all its glory - both the good and the bad. So many wonderful characters inhabit this book and I feel as though I have met them all. The story is like the river in the story. Once on the journey, I was carried along through beautiful and exotic vistas, never quite knowing what was around the next bend. Mr. Gabriel has given us a masterpiece once again.
Human nature is shown here in all its glory - both the good and the bad. So many wonderful characters inhabit this book and I feel as though I have met them all. The story is like the river in the story. Once on the journey, I was carried along through beautiful and exotic vistas, never quite knowing what was around the next bend. Mr. Gabriel has given us a masterpiece once again.
October 18, 2017
Not sure about this one
Interesting but not riveting. I was motivated to read more of this author’s works after reading Design. It was fabulous, Gabon is not. Perhaps it does give insight into Africa at that time - it certainly condemns the white man. But... where is the documentation?
Interesting but not riveting. I was motivated to read more of this author’s works after reading Design. It was fabulous, Gabon is not. Perhaps it does give insight into Africa at that time - it certainly condemns the white man. But... where is the documentation?
March 31, 2019
Wonderful, evocative, compelling
Beautiful novel evoking Africa through every page. Set at the turn of the century, it follows the life of Jean-Patrice and his adventures into a world that a Western Man does not understand and yet continues to try and mould it to his likeness. Couldn’t put it down!
Beautiful novel evoking Africa through every page. Set at the turn of the century, it follows the life of Jean-Patrice and his adventures into a world that a Western Man does not understand and yet continues to try and mould it to his likeness. Couldn’t put it down!
June 16, 2019
Such a beautiful book!
Marius Gabriel is at his best in this book, I think. His poetic prose is riveting while also revealing some of the mysteries and tragedies of Africa and the European intrusion. I wonder if the character of Jean-Patrice perhaps suggests the author’s personality? This book provides much food for thought ......
Marius Gabriel is at his best in this book, I think. His poetic prose is riveting while also revealing some of the mysteries and tragedies of Africa and the European intrusion. I wonder if the character of Jean-Patrice perhaps suggests the author’s personality? This book provides much food for thought ......
February 27, 2022
My Marius Gabriel binge has come to an end, sadly.
I've plowed through every book, enjoying them all. My favorites were the world war stories. The characters are so believable and have stuck with me. "Gabon " is hardly a "magical" novel. I thought it quite dark and scary. Again, it was believable and enlightening.
I am sad to be finished with this author's great works.
I've plowed through every book, enjoying them all. My favorites were the world war stories. The characters are so believable and have stuck with me. "Gabon " is hardly a "magical" novel. I thought it quite dark and scary. Again, it was believable and enlightening.
I am sad to be finished with this author's great works.
June 19, 2022
I was really enjoying the whole story until the very abrupt ending. The "Afterward" I looked forward to was not an Epilogue. It also made no sense. Unless I missed something, the afterward takes place in Africa with the discovery of Jean-Patrice bones, dead in the jungle of Elephantitis in 1901. He last saw Justine and was living in France in 1902.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2023
Marvelous Achievement in Award Winning Author
An incredible story about life in the wilderness of Africa. Reveals the truth of no difference between the races.
Trials of jungle life and the events of living in the remote place no resources for human survival.
Tremendous insight of the world we live in.
An incredible story about life in the wilderness of Africa. Reveals the truth of no difference between the races.
Trials of jungle life and the events of living in the remote place no resources for human survival.
Tremendous insight of the world we live in.
October 7, 2025
Rich Vocabulary
An interesting glimpse into African history and culture. The attitudes of the white population and their lust for prosperity at any cost is well expressed and still, to this reader, disgusting.
All in all, a great read with rich vocabulary and poignant love story.
An interesting glimpse into African history and culture. The attitudes of the white population and their lust for prosperity at any cost is well expressed and still, to this reader, disgusting.
All in all, a great read with rich vocabulary and poignant love story.
September 12, 2017
An Excellent Story
A fascinating story of Africa in the late 1800s, Gabriel is an excellent writer and storyteller. The hero is likeable but imperfect, and he grows as a result of his experiences.
A fascinating story of Africa in the late 1800s, Gabriel is an excellent writer and storyteller. The hero is likeable but imperfect, and he grows as a result of his experiences.
October 17, 2017
Trite
So annoyed with the entire storyline, didn’t even finish the last 30 pages. Did not care what happened to main characters, worse than The Heart of Darkness.
So annoyed with the entire storyline, didn’t even finish the last 30 pages. Did not care what happened to main characters, worse than The Heart of Darkness.
December 3, 2017
Loved the story and I was not expecting that twist at the end!
December 30, 2017
It's a good period novel nestled in Africa in early 19th century
A good read about the period discussed in Africa during 1900 by a french civil servent who falls for a local wonam
A good read about the period discussed in Africa during 1900 by a french civil servent who falls for a local wonam
August 26, 2018
A stunning book
The detail and research that has gone into this book is huge. A book that you look forward to waking up in the middle of the night unable to sleep so you can read!
The detail and research that has gone into this book is huge. A book that you look forward to waking up in the middle of the night unable to sleep so you can read!
February 14, 2019
Interesting
I've been on a reading spree of this authors books. They are always interesting and informative with a big splash of adventure.
I've been on a reading spree of this authors books. They are always interesting and informative with a big splash of adventure.
March 27, 2019
agree with ronnale...didnt need the afterword...particularly about chloe...otherwise i enjoyed the read..intriguing. thanks!
April 24, 2019
Gabon Was Glorious To Read!!!
I have read many books by Marius Gabriel. This one is my favorite by far!! It is a story of disappointment, love and finally acceptance of self.
I have read many books by Marius Gabriel. This one is my favorite by far!! It is a story of disappointment, love and finally acceptance of self.
September 21, 2019
My favourite author. Wasn’t sure about this book, but once I started I couldn’t put it down. It was a bit different from his other books, but I just loved it. J. Watkinson
July 5, 2020
A riveting read which I devoured in two days. I will say nothing in detail about the plot or characters lest I spoil your enjoyment but overall the plot is intriguing and the characters created by Marius Gabriel are solid and believable.
August 11, 2021
Gabon:
Absolutely wonderful book it has everything you want in suspense and the storyline is fabulous it's like your along for the wild adventures.😊
Absolutely wonderful book it has everything you want in suspense and the storyline is fabulous it's like your along for the wild adventures.😊
November 1, 2021
My thoughts
Because I enjoyed the book and thought that white people treated black people dreadfully. They still do to some degree today all these years later.
Because I enjoyed the book and thought that white people treated black people dreadfully. They still do to some degree today all these years later.
November 8, 2021
This book has one of the best ending I have ever come across
July 2, 2022
Another great reaf
Love these books, everything comes alive on the page. The story captures and plots, twists and turns keep you captive. I'm always a little sad to say goodbye
Love these books, everything comes alive on the page. The story captures and plots, twists and turns keep you captive. I'm always a little sad to say goodbye
December 31, 2024
Didn’t finish book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews