What's the Name of That Book??? discussion

The book I'm searching for is set in a fictional European outpost or military station in what is supposed to be Africa (I believe). I believe it's near a desert. The natives are treated badly by the people who run the station but help protect the natives from attacks by barbaric tribes. The main character, leader of the outpost, temporarily goes away (very long, hard journey), and when he returns to the outpost there has been some kind of change or revolt and he is now being treated as a slave. I believe he gets kicked out of his house...starves to death?? Dies from attacking Europeans?? Cannot remember the ending!!!! Please help!!!!

When did you read this book?

Around 6 or 7 years ago but I think it's an older book. Similar theme to An Outpost of Progress or Heart of Darkness.

Is it a Chinua Achebe book?

Or maybe V.S. Naipaul?

Unfortunately, I don't think it's either of those authors. Thank you for the suggestions in any case.

Perhaps one of Paul Theroux's novels?

I looked at his list of works, doesn't seem to be him :(

Maybe by JM Coetzee?

I just read two this very year. Maybe its one of these.


The Coup


Black Mischief

Emily wrote: "The main character, leader of the outpost, temporarily goes away (very long, hard journey), and when he returns to the outpost there has been some kind of change or revolt and he is now being treated as a slave. I believe he gets kicked out of his house...starves to death?? Dies from attacking Europeans?? Cannot remember the ending!!!! Please help!!!! .."

This definitely sounds like


Things Fall Apart

Was there any paranormal type events in it? There is a very good book called The Blue Sword with a similar theme. There are some paranormal elements in this book--mental powers, an enchanted sword, a dragon and a male secondary character who is extremely old (as in over several hundred years.)

Waiting for the Barbarians by JM Coetzee!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you!!!

Thank you, Jennifer, and all of the others! I nearly missed Jennifer's comment!

Glad we got there! :)