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Part of "Gangreen" series
"Gangrene: Black Venus" by Jef Geeraerts is a powerful and provocative novel that explores the darker side of human nature and colonialism. The book, originally published in Dutch in 1981, is a sequel to Geeraerts' earlier work "Black Venus," and follows the story of a white Belgian man, Jean Dever, who becomes embroiled in the world of sex and crime in the Congo during the 1950s. The novel is set against the backdrop of the end of colonial rule in the Congo, and the chaos and violence that ensued. Dever is a man who is both attracted to and repulsed by the darkness that he finds in the Congo. He is drawn to the power and wealth that colonialism offers, but is also repelled by the brutality and corruption that he witnesses. The novel is written in a stark and unflinching style, with Geeraerts pulling no punches in his depiction of the violence and depravity that Dever encounters. The prose is vivid and visceral, with the author creating a sense of place that is both alluring and menacing. One of the key themes of the novel is the corrupting influence of power and the ways in which it can warp and distort an individual's sense of morality. Dever is a man who is consumed by his desire for power and control, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his position. This leads him down a dark path, and the reader is left to question whether he is truly a victim of his circumstances or if he is ultimately responsible for his own downfall. Another theme that the novel explores is the legacy of colonialism and the impact that it has on both the colonizers and the colonized. Geeraerts does not shy away from the brutality and exploitation that were inherent in the colonial project, and he shows how this legacy continues to shape the lives of those who were involved. In conclusion, "Gangrene: Black Venus" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that offers a stark and unflinching look at the darker side of human nature and colonialism. Geeraerts' vivid prose and uncompromising vision make for a compelling and challenging read, and the novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who dare to delve into its pages...
Josephine Tey
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For readers who appreciated the historical aspect of 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Daughter of Time' by Josephine Tey is a great choice. The novel follows a detective who becomes fascinated with the historical figure of Richard III and sets out to clear his name, exploring themes of truth and perception.
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If you were drawn to the complex characters and moral ambiguity in 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt is a must-read. The novel follows a group of classics students at a small college who become embroiled in a murder, examining themes of privilege, morality, and the darker side of human nature.
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If you were drawn to the vivid setting and cultural exploration in 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Poisonwood Bible' by Barbara Kingsolver is a great choice. The novel follows a Baptist family from Georgia who move to the Belgian Congo in the 1950s, examining themes of colonialism, religion, and the human condition.
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For readers who enjoyed the historical and criminal aspects of 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr is a thrilling choice. The novel follows a criminal psychologist and a journalist as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in 1890s New York City, exploring themes of science, psychology, and social justice.
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If you were intrigued by the political themes and moral ambiguity in 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Secret Agent' by Joseph Conrad is a classic choice. The novel follows a group of anarchists in late 19th century London as they plan a terrorist attack, examining themes of politics, morality, and the human condition.
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For readers who appreciated the noir style and complex plot of 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The Yiddish Policemen's Union' by Michael Chabon is a unique choice. The novel follows a detective in an alternate history where Jewish refugees have created a temporary state in Sitka, Alaska, exploring themes of identity, justice, and the human condition.
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If you enjoyed the exploration of complex themes and moral ambiguity in 'Gangrene: Black Venus', 'The City & The
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