Cape of Storms

by John Gordon Davis

James McQuade, a young handsome marine biologist sails on a whaler into the Antarctic. On board is Victoria Rhodes, one of a number of nurses, and James falls hopelessly in love with her. However, other members of the crew, who range from ordinary as seamen go to very rough personalities, also lust after Victoria. Her origins become the centre of attention and an air of mystery surrounds her. Following a return to port in Cape Town drama ensues and startling facts emerge. The author depicts the brutality of both whaling and human behaviour with no holds barred and undeniable insight in this thrilling novel. It is packed with adventure, sexual frustrations, and mystery.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

442 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1970

About the author

John Gordon Davis was born and grew up in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He had a degree in Political Science and an LLB. He served on the bar in Southern Rhodesia, before UDI in that country.

He became a full time writer after the success of his first book Hold my hand I'm dying.

He ran a course in fiction writing from Andalusia in Spain. He passed away in November 2014 and is survived by his wife Rosemary.

Reviews

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read his first book 'Hold my Hand I'm Dying'.. a long time ago and thought I would give this book a go! Lots of South African name places and words that have brought bittersweet memories! But the 'no holds barred' descriptions of killing whales for their flesh and oils and the human life on an English Whaling Factory Ship navigating the Antarctic Seas was quite hard going and yet grippingly interesting. James McQuade, a 30 year old marine biologist from South Africa has been doing these trips for a number of seasons, but on this bitter voyage, a spark of brightness in the Nursing Sister on board - Victoria Rhodes. The crew are a hurly-burly lot of different Afrikaans nationalities, different colours, personalities and sexual appetites. Despite the mysteries surrounding her origins, McQuade falls in love with Victoria, that leads them both when on dry land to be confronted by the political discourse of white vs black vs coloureds! But in this man's story, the reader is hopeful for a happy ever after ending for our couple!

[Lesa Lunda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read.

[John Polson · Rating 4 out of 5]

So different to 'Hold my Hand' - but a great read.

[Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been Some time since I read this book. A compelling romance against the background of whaling and apartheid. This book will make you into an enemy of whaling. It also demonstrates the evil of apartheid when a child is not allowed to associate with her mother because the child is 1/16 East Indian.