Knot of Stone



Knot of Stone: The Day that Changed South Africa's History is a 2011 historical murder mystery novel penned by South African/Dutch author Nicolaas Vergunst.

Development
In the creation of this novel, Nicolaas Vergunst undertook meticulous research, drawing from a wide array of sources. These sources included private letters, diaries, oral history, and official documents, all aimed at constructing an authentic backdrop for his narrative.

Plot Summary
The narrative of "Knot of Stone" takes root in the year 1510 when the Viceroy of Portuguese India, Francisco de Almeida, met a grim fate upon his arrival at the Cape of Good Hope. He was assassinated and hastily buried in an unmarked grave. For centuries, this event had been attributed to a clan of retaliatory Khoikhoi herders. However, Vergunst's novel unveils a different truth - Almeida's murder was orchestrated due to the disappearance of a rare stone and a book belonging to the Order of Santiago.

The novel's protagonists, Dutch historian Sonja Haas and Afrikaans archaeologist Jason Tomas, unexpectedly find themselves connected when they discover a five-century-old skeleton at the base of Table Mountain. Their collaboration is further enriched by psychic Laurence Oliver, whose unique abilities play a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries surrounding this historical enigma. Their quest leads them to Portugal, where they confront thefts and even the murder of a colleague. Laurence Oliver, with his psychic insights, guides them toward a dossier compiled by Walter Johannes Stein.

Their search for new evidence takes them northward to ancestral burial sites, remote mountain sanctuaries, sacred springs, medieval monasteries, and rare museum artifacts. Along this journey, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a sangoma, whose revelations assist in piecing together not only the historical past but also their own identities. Each revelation has varying consequences for the characters, adding complexity to the narrative.

Themes and Style
"Knot of Stone" stands out in the literary landscape due to its departure from mainstream historical writing. The novel incorporates elements from dreams, oral traditions, and ancestral voices, creating a unique blend of historical fiction and mysticism. This creative approach engages readers with a thought-provoking narrative that challenges conventional historical storytelling.