Leopard at the Door

By: Jennifer McVeigh

Narrated by: Katharine Lee McEwan

Set in Kenya in the 1950s against the fading backdrop of the British Empire, a story of self-discovery, betrayal, and an impossible love.

After six years in England, Rachel has returned to Kenya and the farm where she spent her childhood, but the beloved home she'd longed for is much changed. Her father's new companion - a strange, intolerant woman - has taken over the household. The political climate in the country grows more unsettled by the day and is approaching the boiling point. And looming over them all is the threat of the Mau Mau, a secret society intent on uniting the native Kenyans and overthrowing the whites.

As Rachel struggles to find her place in her home and her country, she initiates a covert relationship, one that will demand from her a gross act of betrayal. One man knows her secret, and he has made it clear how she can buy his silence. But she knows something of her own, something she has never told anyone. And her knowledge brings her power.

©2017 Jennifer McVeigh (P)2017 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"A dramatic historical period piece...[with] a harrowing, well-paced plot. McVeigh excels ratcheting tension in the plot, and she has a keen eye for the minutiae of everyday life in Kenya.... The novel is perfect for cold winter days." (The Free Lance-Star)

"Readers who want a story that keeps them on edge will enjoy this historical novel rich with emotional and sociopolitical drama." (Kirkus Reviews)

"[A] captivating and thought-provoking story....McVeigh’s beautiful prose and harrowing plot will quickly absorb readers, particularly those interested in 1950s Africa, by sensitively approaching themes of race, cultural evolution, and the humanness that unites us all." (Publishers Weekly)

zebras

most memorable moments:. galloping horseback next to a heard of galloping zebras! I was there with wind in my face.

Beautiful, compelling story

This book is one of the best books I have ever read. Not only is it a beautiful love story, but it also is a moving history of the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya.

Excellent Story of Colonization

This story tells of the atrocities of the English in Africa. Hard to listen to in parts yet this story, while not a true one, gives details based on history of white privilege and racism in a country they took over. Well worth the listen.

Great Historical Fiction

Good story with interesting historical element. Great narration. For me, the first 2/3 of story was good, and the final 1/3 was great!

Great Novel

So much of what happened in this period of the African history is covered in this book. I was so unaware of the extent of it. Jennifer McVeigh brings it to life in a compelling way. I couldn't stop listening. I'm so glad I have head phones so I could listen while I worked.

Sad and beautiful

Read the book a year ago and now have just listened to the narration. I actually knew people that had to leave Kenya , they moved to Australia. Beautifully written and such a sad story for all involved. A good history lesson, while keeping one’s interest. Definitely could see both sides of the story, too bad The British didn’t treat everyone equal from the beginning, instead of making them indentured servants.
This was such a good read and so well done by the narrator I’ve recommended it to my book club.

Thoroughly enjoyable

A look into a part of British colonialism. Painfully ugly. When one group of people believe they have to right to civilize another. Tragically this continues today. The love of a daughter for her parents and the tragedy that unfolds was very riveting. A love story of forbidden passion. I felt I was in Kenya among its people and land. Highly recommend this book.

Must read!

Fascinating. could not put it down. Well read too.
Made you want to help her get the truth out.

IMPERIALISM

Wonderful story but very sad. Would love to see the movie! Great strength and so glad for how far we have come....or have we?

Engrossing

This book keeps you on your toes! I remember the Mau Mau uprisings in the 1950s. We were so far removed from them but this book puts one right in the middle of the mixed feelings the British in Africa must have felt. Especially those that had been born in Africa of British parents! An exciting and engrossing read i enjoyed very much.