Ghost in the Drum

Voted 2025’s Book of the Year by readers at Cape Town independent bookstore The Book Lounge, this is a raw and unapologetic exploration of the complexities of the creative industry, fame, mental health and the often-hidden cost of ambition. It confronts its themes with honesty and depth, and Nthato’s masterful control of pacing and atmosphere draws the reader in from the very first page. His precision in shaping space and time within the narrative is striking too, creating an immersive and finely balanced reading experience. Each moment feels deliberate and charged with meaning. The result is a gripping, thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read that lingers long after the final page.