That Which Hath Been – Dorothea Fairbridge

Set in Old Cape Town, Dorothea Fairbridge’s “That Which Hath Been” is a cleverly written historical romance. The novel controversially reimagines Governor W. A. van der Stel as a noble, rather than tyrannical, figure. Fairbridge draws parallels between Van der Stel’s era and her contemporary world, reflecting themes of imperial loyalty and the shaping of a South African national identity. This compelling tale delves into forgotten histories, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal period at the Cape.