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In his latest and eighth book, Ziener (Visionary) by Adriaan takes a bold and refreshing departure from his previous works. While his earlier novels are more grounded in personal experiences and reality, this novel delves into a blend of psychological intrigue, the supernatural, and ethical dilemmas. Through an intricate and multi-layered storyline, Groen skilfully intertwines past and present, creating a compelling narrative that urges the reader to keep turning pages until the very end.
The story opens with Luc, a medical doctor and specialist in forensics, who finds himself at a crossroads following his own resuscitation after a severe cardiac episode. During his hospital stay and subsequent rehabilitation, Luc begins to experience a series of strange and unexplainable visions. These visions seem to connect to his time working at a mission hospital in rural Tanzania, raising the unsettling question of whether these are echoes of the past or warnings of an impending future. While struggling to ask for help, Luc confides in a few people close to him and eventually decides to go back to the mission hospital in Tanzania to potentially warn old colleagues. Still recovering, the journey is challenging and he is confronted with changes that have occurred over the years, personally and in his familiar surroundings. Will he make it on time to stop the possible future events?
What stands out in Ziener is its exploration of profound themes beneath the surface of the thriller-like plot. Groen reflects on the emotional and psychological impact of life-altering events, touching on the complexities of guilt, the burden of knowledge, and the ethical challenges faced by medical professionals working in resource-limited settings. Luc’s internal struggles offer an introspective view of a man grappling with both his past and the weight of future possibilities.
Groen’s writing draws readers into Luc’s inner world while providing vivid descriptions of the Tanzanian setting. The novel’s pace balances moments of quiet introspection with more urgent and suspenseful scenes. This combination of reflective storytelling and urgent tension adds depth to the narrative, making Ziener a valuable addition to Groen’s body of work.
For long-time fans of Adriaan Groen, this book marks a subtle evolution in his storytelling style. New readers will find themselves drawn into the novel’s blend of psychological depth and narrative urgency. What is compelling about this story is that, in between the lines, it says a lot about life-changing events, the impact of blindness, the consequences of working as a tropical medicine doctor. and feelings of guilt. If you are a fan of Adriaan Groen’s books, this is a refreshing must-read!
