Overview

An African American missionary-explorer risks everything to save a nation, leading to the first international human rights trial. Inspired by true events, discover the inspiring story of a forgotten African American hero whose passion for human rights helped free an enslaved nation. As a young boy growing up in post-Civil War Virginia, William Sheppard knew he wanted to explore the world. What he never expected was becoming a human rights hero who would change the world forever. ""I didn't call Africa. Africa called me."" But as a black American missionary, he faced heartbreaking prejudice in pursuing his passion to explore and to serve. When he finally arrives in the Congo with his unlikely white missionary colleague - Samuel Lapsley - a deep interracial friendship emerges as they face hardships establishing their mission. The two venture deep into the dangerous, Belgian-controlled Congo ruled by the evil King Leopold II. Traveling by steamship 1,000 miles up the Congo River, these two novice missionaries battle lurking pythons, rampant disease, and cannibal tribes. When tragedy strikes the mission, Sheppard's sadness drives him in search of adventure to overcome his grief, discover new kingdoms, and ultimately, his true self. Against all odds, his discoveries bring him global fame where he is celebrated among kings, queens, and presidents. Despite his accomplishments, Sheppard longs to return to America to marry his fiancée - Lucy Gantt - a talented musician and teacher. Letters keep their love alive, but Sheppard has to know if the distance has made their love stronger and will she still go to the Congo to serve beside him? When he returns to America, he's shocked by new Jim Crow laws, virulent racism, and the rising oppression of black American civil rights. The world has changed, but for Sheppard, his relationship with Lucy and his notoriety has only grown stronger. Returning to the Congo mission with Lucy, the stakes are raised when Sheppard makes a shocking discovery: Leopold has enslaved the entire Congo for the rubber trade and his own profit. Unbeknownst to the outside world, slavery and oppression have fallen like darkness over the Congo. Millions have perished. Armed with only a simple camera, the courageous Sheppard knows he has to act. Risking everything, he captures photos, and his images expose Leopold's atrocities to the world, forcing the first international human rights trial in modern history. Sheppard faces an epic courtroom battle. Millions of lives are at stake. Who will win? The monarch or the missionary? Among Kings includes historical photos, Author's Note, Book Club Leader's Guide Questions, and references.

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9780983023050

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Completely riveting read about history, crime and faith in the Congo. This novel explores the dark history surrounding the exploitation of the Congolese people under the rule of King Leopold II through the eyes of a black missionary from the USA. Whilst I personally knew of the broader history surrounding this dark period in the Congo's history, I found myself captivated by the descriptions, characterization and passion that the author clearly injected into his writing as well as discovering a previously unknown heroic character. I became utterly absorbed in the story and felt bereft upon its completion. This is an essential novel in so many ways for so many readers. History, crime, political intrigue, faith, drama and realism are just some of the areas that this novel touches upon and I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone. Verity Boxall, UK Among Kings should be made into a movie. It is a gripping story, filled with pathos, and entertaining at the same time. I loved the strong imagery, the cunning plot, and the author's intelligent handling of character. From the experience of young Shamba, the descriptions of the tribes and their way of life, the setting in the heart of the jungle, to the experiences of the characters, the author takes readers on a journey to an exciting world that is possible in movies. Grace Mazzo Among Kings absolutely wins for me in that it opens up another chapter of history that I had never read about before. This is the true purpose of historical fiction and this author has hit the nail on the head with his adventure. I absolutely adored this story and cannot recommend it highly enough. Grant Leishman Among Kings deserves four out of four stars. The book is addictive, deep, and fascinating. As much as the atrocities committed in the Congo by Leopold II are known historical facts, the figure of William Sheppard is unknown to the general public, not only in the USA but mainly in the world. I believe that this book could be turned into a successful film.I can say without fear of making a mistake that Among Kings may soon be the book of the year 2021. It is a real gem. Lina Mueller, Online Bookclub

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