No Jazz For The Leaving
By Katende Ngeleka.
By Katende Ngeleka.
What if the pursuit of freedom came at the cost of everything you've ever known?
Set between the fictional Sumbu, the vibrant streets of 1985 Kinshasa and the allure of Paris, No Jazz For The Leaving is a striking blend of literary fiction, magical realism and historical fantasy.
Troubled saxophonist Mulumba dreams of escaping his small village to make his mark on Kinshasa's legendary rhumba scene before one day performing on the stages of Paris. Meanwhile, Mr. Morgan, a French conman disguised as a clergyman, is haunted by a relic he stole decades earlier, carrying with him a darkness he cannot outrun.
Their journeys unfold across continents, where music, magic, ambition and ancient forces collide in a story that explores freedom, sacrifice and the choices that shape our lives.
One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was its atmosphere. The setting feels incredibly vivid, transporting you from bustling city streets to moments of quiet reflection, while the blend of music, folklore and the supernatural gives the story a distinctive identity.
The contrast between hope and darkness keeps the narrative compelling, and both protagonists bring very different motivations that gradually intertwine in fascinating ways.
Katende Ngeleka's writing creates a world that feels rich in culture and history, making this much more than an adventure across continents. It is a story about identity, ambition and the price of chasing the future you long for, even when the past refuses to let you go.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Literary fiction
- Magical realism
- Historical fantasy
- African literature
- Music-inspired storytelling
- Character-driven journeys
A richly atmospheric story where music, myth and ambition intertwine, following two unforgettable journeys across continents as dreams collide with destiny.
No Jazz For The Leaving is out now and available to purchase.
