Lost in Tanganyika

I was given a print copy of Lost in Tanganyika by Thomas Thorpe in exchange for an honest review.

Since I promise to be honest here, I must say from the start, Lost in Tanganyika didn't really live up to my expectations. It is not a bad book by any means, it just didn't grab me. What can I say.

Lost in Tanganyika is the seventh book in the Damon Mysteries series. I have not read any of the previous books. Other than having the main characters of the Damon's, I don't think it necessary to have read the other books first.

The story is set in Africa (kind of obvious given the title) and the unpronounceable (for me) names and places got in my way (yeah, I know, it's Africa, what did I expect). I wasn't drawn into the vast expanse of Africa, I didn't feel I was a part of the action so to speak. Perhaps more description of the landscape would have been helpful.

I didn't feel the passion from the main characters. They were separated for about a year, and their reunion was treated in a rather matter-of-fact way. Of course being that the Damon's are British may account for the lack of demonstrable emotion.

The best way I can explain my reaction to Lost in Tanganyika is that for me it read more like a report of what took place, than a story to become lost in (no pun intended). Because the story didn't engage my imagination, I was more sensitive than usual to grammatical errors and typo's. They weren't overpowering but they were noticeable.

So, bottom line, Lost in Tanganyika by Thomas Thorpe is an okay book, but not the gripping page turner I was expecting. I wouldn't try to discourage anyone from reading it. As with any book, there will be those who think it is absolutely fantastic, and those who will be less impressed. Sadly, this time I am with the latter.


Mike