What do you think?
Rate this book
Simon Fonthill #7
The Shangani Patrol
In the African Cape, Simon Fonthill—one-time subaltern and ex-captain in the North West Frontier’s Royal Corps of Guides—and his wife Alice find themselves on tribal land and at the mercy of ruthless Matabele warriors. While being held under the orders of the warrior king Lobengula, Fonthill becomes aware of a Portuguese plot to undermine a valuable treaty between Lobengula and the richest man in Africa, Cecil Rhodes. When friction develops between Rhodes and the Matabele tribesmen, Fonthill is forced to take sides. Together with Alice and his comrade 352 Jenkins, he becomes embroiled in one of the bloodiest battles in British history, the Shangani River massacre.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 7, 2010
6 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
John Wilcox
19 books33 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
John Wilcox started out as a local reporter and journalist in Birmingham before spending many years in industry, which took him all round the world. He finally sold his company to devote himself to writing full-time. He lives in Salisbury.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
John Wilcox started out as a local reporter and journalist in Birmingham before spending many years in industry, which took him all round the world. He finally sold his company to devote himself to writing full-time. He lives in Salisbury.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 2, 2022
Read this book in 2010, and its the 7th volume of the great "Simon Fonthill" series.
Its the year AD 1893, and we find Simon Fonthill, his wife Alice, and their comrade '352' Jenkins at the mercy of the Matabele warriors while being on their land.
While being prisoner of the Matabele King, Lobengula, Fonthill becomes aware of a plot from the Portuguese to undermine the treaty made by Lobengula and the richest man in Africa, Cecil Rhodes.
This plot will cause friction between Lobengula and his tribesmen and Rhodes, and in this situation Foonthill, Alice and '352'Jenkins will have to make their choice who to support, and become involved into one of the bloodied battles in British history, that of the Shangani River massacre.
What is to follow is a fantastic and thrilling South African military adventure for Fonthill, his wife Alice and '352' Jenkins, in which they will be taken along in a power struggle between formidable men and having to choose sides, before ending this tale as bloody fighters at the Shangani River massacre, and all this is brought to us by the author in a very remarkable and believable fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this wonderful series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Superb Shangani Patrol"!
Its the year AD 1893, and we find Simon Fonthill, his wife Alice, and their comrade '352' Jenkins at the mercy of the Matabele warriors while being on their land.
While being prisoner of the Matabele King, Lobengula, Fonthill becomes aware of a plot from the Portuguese to undermine the treaty made by Lobengula and the richest man in Africa, Cecil Rhodes.
This plot will cause friction between Lobengula and his tribesmen and Rhodes, and in this situation Foonthill, Alice and '352'Jenkins will have to make their choice who to support, and become involved into one of the bloodied battles in British history, that of the Shangani River massacre.
What is to follow is a fantastic and thrilling South African military adventure for Fonthill, his wife Alice and '352' Jenkins, in which they will be taken along in a power struggle between formidable men and having to choose sides, before ending this tale as bloody fighters at the Shangani River massacre, and all this is brought to us by the author in a very remarkable and believable fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this wonderful series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Superb Shangani Patrol"!
June 18, 2022
This folows the the history of British lads who tried to save the day, save Africa from colonialist of southern Africa that thievery and looting good from nature or african tribes and frankly others.
I dare to say that British in XIX c are like Polish fighting for thay're independens, Division to Dywizja.
Lobengula died from smallpox on January 22 or 23 1894. Meanwhile, the Ndebele warriors gradually succumbed to the company's superior firepower. Soon after the king's death, the Ndebele izinDuna submitted to the British South Africa Company.
His kingdom was the last of the major African states to be destroyed by the colonialists in southern Africa. From the second decade of the 19th century to about 1840 southern Africa had been convulsed in turmoil and destruction.
With colonialism, which began in South Africa in 1652, came the Slavery and Forced Labour Model. This was the original model of colonialism brought by the Dutch in 1652, and subsequently exported from the Western Cape to the Afrikaner Republics of the Orange Free State and the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek.
---
The Shangani Patrol (or Wilson's Patrol) was a 34-soldier unit of the British South Africa Company that in 1893 was ambushed and annihilated by more than 3,000 Matabele warriors in pre-Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), during the First Matabele War.
I dare to say that British in XIX c are like Polish fighting for thay're independens, Division to Dywizja.
Lobengula died from smallpox on January 22 or 23 1894. Meanwhile, the Ndebele warriors gradually succumbed to the company's superior firepower. Soon after the king's death, the Ndebele izinDuna submitted to the British South Africa Company.
His kingdom was the last of the major African states to be destroyed by the colonialists in southern Africa. From the second decade of the 19th century to about 1840 southern Africa had been convulsed in turmoil and destruction.
With colonialism, which began in South Africa in 1652, came the Slavery and Forced Labour Model. This was the original model of colonialism brought by the Dutch in 1652, and subsequently exported from the Western Cape to the Afrikaner Republics of the Orange Free State and the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek.
---
The Shangani Patrol (or Wilson's Patrol) was a 34-soldier unit of the British South Africa Company that in 1893 was ambushed and annihilated by more than 3,000 Matabele warriors in pre-Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), during the First Matabele War.
February 20, 2017
Fonthill, Alice, 352 Jenkins and their new tracker comrade get caught up in an African adventure at the behest of Cecil Rhodes. More of the same fun stuff from Wilcox. Lots of action, a decent plot, and good characterisation. They get stronger with each installment.
I love reading the Fonthill series not just for their action and adventure, but because I learn lots about the litany of minor campaigns fought during Queen Victoria's reign.
A very worthwhile series to dive into if you enjoy historical fiction.
I love reading the Fonthill series not just for their action and adventure, but because I learn lots about the litany of minor campaigns fought during Queen Victoria's reign.
A very worthwhile series to dive into if you enjoy historical fiction.
October 21, 2022
A great read. At first I thought it was going to be a Boys' Own type of adventure story, but this novel is much deeper. It has a great characters, a hero who's a bad shot and not particularly good horseman, a loving marriage and a female character in Alice who is a woman who knows her own mind. She is also the one who comments on the behaviour of Cecil Rhodes and the way the British Empire treated the African rulers. Can thoroughly recommend this novel.
July 31, 2019
Excellent storytelling as usual in this historical novel series.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series and see where Fonthill Alice and Jenkins 354 end up this time
Looking forward to reading the next in the series and see where Fonthill Alice and Jenkins 354 end up this time
October 7, 2015
My review, as posted to my blog, chatterverse.wordpress.com:
There seem to be two main problems with books that claim to be ‘historical fiction.’ The first is, you’ll be pleased to know, simple: that of categorisation. What should be included? Why? Or, more specifically: how historical does historical fiction need to be? How fictional? Where’s the line, and exactly how far over it did Wilbur Smith ultimately go? It seems that ‘historical fiction’ has become something of a nebulous category, regardless of where it started, and so it can be difficult to determine what pieces of literature might rightfully belong to it.
The second problem (I hope you’re appreciating this breathtaking example of my organisational skills) seems to be that ‘historical fiction’ brings to mind – or, at least, to my mind – visions of elderly gentlemen, probably wearing spectacles, and not anything particularly extraordinary.
But that doesn’t have to be the case.
Historical fiction can be exciting. It can be groundbreaking. It can be the best thing you’ve read all week. Maybe it’s not always those things, and like every other genre there are good examples and there are poor examples, but the point here is that it can be. There are no rules against it.
John Wilcox’s historical fiction is a prime example of the good stuff. They focus primarily on British Imperial history, but they read like pure, undiluted adventure stories. They’re interesting, entertaining, clever, and fun, and they take the reader on a journey of discovery as they bring each period to vibrant life. More importantly, however, they never scrimp on the historical fact, ensuring that each novel, while undoubtedly fictional, has a strong foundation in real events. Rich with a winning combination of fast-paced action and quieter, reflective scenes, Wilcox’s novels go the whole nine yards, and then at least three more, at the double.
The Shangani Patrol is a particularly good installment in a series of particularly good books. The main character, Simon Fonthill, and his omnipresent best friend, Jenkins, return to Africa initially out of a somewhat misplaced desire to go on holiday – ‘somewhat misplaced’ since Simon and Jenkins are well-established trouble magnets – but wind up becoming involved in the escalating local conflict, and soon enough, Fonthill and his accompanying band of merry men (and women) are thoroughly immersed in the action.
Anyone familiar to the series will recognise the formula, as the same formula structures the entirety of the Fonthill series. It is not, however, tedious, because Wilcox’s application of the formula is, with each book, given fresh life through his considerable attention to detail, historical fact, and Wilcox’s intriguing characterisation.
Alice, in particular, is a favourite of mine. A childhood friend of Simon’s, she follows her dream to become a freelance reporter despite significant and constant disapproval, subsequently proves herself on a number of difficult campaigns, marries Simon, and continues to do exactly what she wants to. Their marriage is nothing less than a partnership, and although Simon frequently despairs at how readily Alice will wander into danger, he soon realises that his protests are falling on deaf ears.
Alice is something of an unusual character, given Wilcox’s chosen time period, but she is not unbelievable, and to read about a young, talented women finding her way in a world undoubtedly made for men, in a book that claims to be historical fiction, is certainly something I’m willing to support.
Wilcox deals with other stereotypes in a similar fashion. Fonthill and Jenkins are undoubtedly the heroes of the series, prevailing against terrible odds in equally terrible conditions, but they are not the all-powerful British soldiers one might expect, but, rather, ordinary, fallible men with both strengths and weaknesses. Fonthill is a gifted strategist and leader, but a mediocre shot and even worse brawler, for example, and Jenkins, in turn, is a crack shot and excellent horseman, but has a tendency to get badly lost, and isn’t particularly fond of large bodies of water. Heroes they might be, but gods they are not, and in characterising them thusly, Wilcox arguably brings greater believability to his novels.
To conclude: these books deal with historical events, but they do so in an entertaining, accessible, intelligent manner, and they’re well worth a read for anyone interested in the genre, but hoping to avoid a textbook full of names and dates.
There seem to be two main problems with books that claim to be ‘historical fiction.’ The first is, you’ll be pleased to know, simple: that of categorisation. What should be included? Why? Or, more specifically: how historical does historical fiction need to be? How fictional? Where’s the line, and exactly how far over it did Wilbur Smith ultimately go? It seems that ‘historical fiction’ has become something of a nebulous category, regardless of where it started, and so it can be difficult to determine what pieces of literature might rightfully belong to it.
The second problem (I hope you’re appreciating this breathtaking example of my organisational skills) seems to be that ‘historical fiction’ brings to mind – or, at least, to my mind – visions of elderly gentlemen, probably wearing spectacles, and not anything particularly extraordinary.
But that doesn’t have to be the case.
Historical fiction can be exciting. It can be groundbreaking. It can be the best thing you’ve read all week. Maybe it’s not always those things, and like every other genre there are good examples and there are poor examples, but the point here is that it can be. There are no rules against it.
John Wilcox’s historical fiction is a prime example of the good stuff. They focus primarily on British Imperial history, but they read like pure, undiluted adventure stories. They’re interesting, entertaining, clever, and fun, and they take the reader on a journey of discovery as they bring each period to vibrant life. More importantly, however, they never scrimp on the historical fact, ensuring that each novel, while undoubtedly fictional, has a strong foundation in real events. Rich with a winning combination of fast-paced action and quieter, reflective scenes, Wilcox’s novels go the whole nine yards, and then at least three more, at the double.
The Shangani Patrol is a particularly good installment in a series of particularly good books. The main character, Simon Fonthill, and his omnipresent best friend, Jenkins, return to Africa initially out of a somewhat misplaced desire to go on holiday – ‘somewhat misplaced’ since Simon and Jenkins are well-established trouble magnets – but wind up becoming involved in the escalating local conflict, and soon enough, Fonthill and his accompanying band of merry men (and women) are thoroughly immersed in the action.
Anyone familiar to the series will recognise the formula, as the same formula structures the entirety of the Fonthill series. It is not, however, tedious, because Wilcox’s application of the formula is, with each book, given fresh life through his considerable attention to detail, historical fact, and Wilcox’s intriguing characterisation.
Alice, in particular, is a favourite of mine. A childhood friend of Simon’s, she follows her dream to become a freelance reporter despite significant and constant disapproval, subsequently proves herself on a number of difficult campaigns, marries Simon, and continues to do exactly what she wants to. Their marriage is nothing less than a partnership, and although Simon frequently despairs at how readily Alice will wander into danger, he soon realises that his protests are falling on deaf ears.
Alice is something of an unusual character, given Wilcox’s chosen time period, but she is not unbelievable, and to read about a young, talented women finding her way in a world undoubtedly made for men, in a book that claims to be historical fiction, is certainly something I’m willing to support.
Wilcox deals with other stereotypes in a similar fashion. Fonthill and Jenkins are undoubtedly the heroes of the series, prevailing against terrible odds in equally terrible conditions, but they are not the all-powerful British soldiers one might expect, but, rather, ordinary, fallible men with both strengths and weaknesses. Fonthill is a gifted strategist and leader, but a mediocre shot and even worse brawler, for example, and Jenkins, in turn, is a crack shot and excellent horseman, but has a tendency to get badly lost, and isn’t particularly fond of large bodies of water. Heroes they might be, but gods they are not, and in characterising them thusly, Wilcox arguably brings greater believability to his novels.
To conclude: these books deal with historical events, but they do so in an entertaining, accessible, intelligent manner, and they’re well worth a read for anyone interested in the genre, but hoping to avoid a textbook full of names and dates.
October 14, 2012
Another look at Africa with Jenkins 352 and Simon Fonthill. With Simon's wife as well. This time we see a seedier side of the Victorian British land grab, and how Cecil Rhodes manipulates the less sophisticated and worldly wise natives.
Most of the book sets us up for a long view of what was occurring and because of that, we don't have a good time scale, nor a map in this book. Both of which would have helped.
The action, and instead of fighting to protect the empire, but in this case, expand the empire, is the last 20% of the story, instead of all bound throughout.
Not that there isn't action, or that there are not enemies. This time, we do not have the usual bumbling and fumbling Victorian Officer that has existed before to use their pride to thwart Fonthill's directness in doing what is right.
In some sense that is better, because in every operation before, always have a fool above Simon to thwart him as seemed too much. Simon has been at this long enough that he is recognized as an expert. And that should be played on more. That, and a next generation to hand off what he and Jenkins have learned to.
The series continues to hold my attention, well written, and the c
Most of the book sets us up for a long view of what was occurring and because of that, we don't have a good time scale, nor a map in this book. Both of which would have helped.
The action, and instead of fighting to protect the empire, but in this case, expand the empire, is the last 20% of the story, instead of all bound throughout.
Not that there isn't action, or that there are not enemies. This time, we do not have the usual bumbling and fumbling Victorian Officer that has existed before to use their pride to thwart Fonthill's directness in doing what is right.
In some sense that is better, because in every operation before, always have a fool above Simon to thwart him as seemed too much. Simon has been at this long enough that he is recognized as an expert. And that should be played on more. That, and a next generation to hand off what he and Jenkins have learned to.
The series continues to hold my attention, well written, and the c
May 7, 2012
A good read from John Wilcox, but this book seems to be one of those ones that you could describe as a contract fulfilment or maybe an author struggling for ideas?
Its still written with JW's skill and flair, the characters are still fun and full of life, but with this book i was happy to get to the end, and thinking i hope the next book is better and a return to the brilliance of the past.
So should you the reader buy it...Yes, its still a good read, and while i may cast doubt on it, its in comparison to his excellent books of the past, if i compare it to other writers then its well worth the spend.
I look forward to the next book and the next episode of the intrepid duo of 352 and Fonthill (or are they a trio now the wife seems to go everywhere?)
(Parm)
Its still written with JW's skill and flair, the characters are still fun and full of life, but with this book i was happy to get to the end, and thinking i hope the next book is better and a return to the brilliance of the past.
So should you the reader buy it...Yes, its still a good read, and while i may cast doubt on it, its in comparison to his excellent books of the past, if i compare it to other writers then its well worth the spend.
I look forward to the next book and the next episode of the intrepid duo of 352 and Fonthill (or are they a trio now the wife seems to go everywhere?)
(Parm)
December 20, 2014
Another great historical adventure romp from John Wilcox. Once again, good characters that are well described and interesting. The plot keeps cracking on from one incident to the next with barely a dull moment to draw breath. Great boys book for holiday or relaxing read.
June 13, 2016
I intend to follow up and find the other books in the Wilcox series. The history is accurate and he's a master of weaving his characters into the fabric of the time.
February 19, 2022
Read a while ago and didn't enjoy.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews