The Last Hunt

The Last Hunt follows South African police detective Benny Griessel and his partner Vaughn Cupido as they investigate the disappearance of a former police colleague. The case leads them into an international web involving rhino poaching, organized crime, and government corruption. In parallel, a former CIA operative arrives in Cape Town on a personal mission that becomes intertwined with Griessel and Cupido's investigation. The narrative moves between France, South Africa, and Bordeaux as connections emerge between seemingly unrelated events. Former enemies must work together under mounting pressure from police leadership and politicians who want the case closed. The investigation forces both detectives to confront questions of loyalty and justice within a system where right and wrong are not clearly defined. The story examines themes of moral compromise and redemption against the backdrop of modern South Africa's ongoing struggles with corruption, conservation, and the lingering effects of apartheid.

Readers find The Last Hunt to be a complex police procedural that builds tension throughout, with many highlighting the authentic portrayal of South African politics and corruption. The parallel investigations in Paris and South Africa maintain interest. Readers praised: - Detailed character development, especially Benny Griessel and Vaughn Cupido - Accurate depiction of South African social issues - Fast-paced final third of the book - Multiple storyline management without confusion Common criticisms: - Slow start for first 100 pages - Too much political context for some readers - Translation feels stiff in places - Some found the ending rushed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (400+ ratings) Reader quote: "Meyer weaves the complexities of modern South Africa into a gripping crime novel without sacrificing pace or plot" - Amazon reviewer Several readers noted this is not the best entry point for new readers to the series.

Blood Safari by Deon Meyer A South African bodyguard tracks a missing conservationist through the wilderness while uncovering corruption and ecological crimes.

A Beautiful Place to Die by Malla Nunn A police detective investigates murder in 1950s apartheid South Africa, navigating racial tensions and political complexities.

A Carrion Death by Michael Stanley Detective Kubu solves murders in Botswana while confronting diamond smuggling operations and tribal politics.

Dead at Daybreak by Deon Meyer An ex-cop in Cape Town investigates a brutal home invasion that connects to historical crimes during South Africa's apartheid era.

The Sunday Hangman by James McClure Two detectives in apartheid-era South Africa pursue a killer while dealing with the constraints of their segregated police force.

🔍 Deon Meyer writes his novels in Afrikaans before they are translated into English and 27 other languages 🌍 "The Last Hunt" takes inspiration from real-life corruption scandals in South Africa, particularly during Jacob Zuma's presidency 🦁 The book's original Afrikaans title is "Prooi," which means "prey" in English 👥 The novel features Meyer's recurring character Benny Griessel, a detective who has appeared in multiple books while battling alcoholism 🏆 "The Last Hunt" won the 2020 Nielsen Booksellers Choice Award, chosen by South African booksellers as their favorite book of the year