Kitombo

by Ronald T. Jones

Portuguese colonizers maintain a foothold in 17th century West-Central Africa. From their colony in Angola, Portuguese forces and the African mercenaries they employ, wage war on the powerful, but strife-ridden Kongo Empire and adjacent kingdoms. Having won a resounding victory over a Kongolese army at the Battle of Mbwilla in 1665, the Portuguese are bent on crushing the whole of Kongo once and for all. But a formidable stumbling block impedes the fulfillment of their expansionist goals. Soyo, a breakaway Kongolese province, is ruled by Grand Prince Paulo da Silva, a leader every bit as ambitious as his European enemies. Silva is intent on expanding and solidifying his control over Kongo. Aided by a nobleman from an allied kingdom who harbors an implacable hatred for the Portuguese, Grand Prince da Silva will not hesitate to confront Portuguese aggression. The Portuguese will not suffer any challenges to the authority that they are attempting to stamp on the region. It will all come to a head at Kitombo, where the fate of an empire will be decided.

95 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 20, 2018

Reviews

[Stafford Battle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great characters, great warrior battles

If you are interested in African combat, this is a good fast read. Warrior princes, royal family intrigue, bloody spear vs musket action, heroes who fought and died for their beliefs. My only complaint is this felt like a slice from a much bigger work of fiction about the European invasion of Africa. Maybe the author will grace us with the entire story one day detailing how African kings fought back and won against the odds.