Dust Devils by Roger Smith is a gripping and gritty crime thriller set in South Africa, plunging readers into a story marked by violence, betrayal, and the search for redemption. Smith’s ability to capture the complex socio-political landscape of South Africa is exceptional, and it serves as more than just a backdrop – it’s almost a character in its own right.

The story centers on journalist Robert Dell, who is framed for the brutal murder of his own family. Seeking justice and vengeance, he’s joined by his estranged father, Bobby Goodbread, a former CIA operative with a dark past. As they navigate the unforgiving landscapes of South Africa, from Cape Town’s corruption-riddled streets to the remote bushveld, their path intersects with several equally flawed and sinister characters, including Inja Mazibuko, a sadistic local warlord.

Smith doesn’t shy away from exposing the brutality and raw tensions in post-apartheid South Africa, addressing issues like political corruption, racial conflicts, and the effects of violence on both individuals and society. His writing is fast-paced and visceral, filled with high-stakes action scenes that draw readers in while also evoking deeper questions about morality, loyalty, and justice.

This novel is not for the faint-hearted. Its graphic descriptions of violence are unsettling but serve to underscore the harsh realities of its setting and characters. The dialogue is punchy, and the characters are complex, each carrying scars from their pasts that reveal themselves as the plot unfolds.

Overall, Dust Devils is a dark, intense, and powerful thriller that delivers a raw, unflinching portrayal of crime and survival in a land scarred by historical and present-day traumas. It’s a must-read for fans of crime fiction who appreciate depth, realism, and a touch of the brutal reality that shapes Roger Smith’s work.