Blessed Are the Dead
Blessed Are the Dead
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Brief
Beta336
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
Mystery & Crime FictionSouth Africa • 1950s
2012
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Blessed Are the Dead by Malla Nunn follows Detective Sergeant Emmanuel Cooper in apartheid-era South Africa as he investigates the disappearance of a teenage Zulu girl linked to a powerful tribal chief. The narrative explores themes of justice, cultural tensions, and personal conflicts amidst a racially divisive society.
Mysterious
Dark
Gritty
Suspenseful
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
1,071 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Blessed Are the Dead by Malla Nunn is praised for its rich, atmospheric setting and strong character development, portraying South Africa's cultural and racial tensions. Critics appreciate the intricate plot and historical depth. Some find the pacing slow at times, but the compelling narrative and unique detective story compensate for this.
Who Should Read Blessed Are the Dead?
A reader who enjoys Blessed Are the Dead by Malla Nunn is likely captivated by historical crime fiction set in South Africa, akin to fans of Alexander McCall Smith’s The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency or Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher Mysteries, appreciating rich cultural backdrops and intricate mysteries.
1,071 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
Mystery & Crime FictionSouth Africa • 1950s
2012
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!