Bestselling Novel 'Water Drumming In The Soul' Available Free on Amazon

The bestselling literary fiction ebook 'Water Drumming In The Soul: A Novel of Racy Love in the Heart of Africa' by author Eric Madeen will be available at no charge from February 20 through February 22, 2026. The novel, which draws inspiration from Madeen's own experiences as a Peace Corps volunteer in Francophone Gabon, Africa, will be accessible in ebook form exclusively at Amazon during this promotional period. This limited-time offer provides readers with an opportunity to engage with a work that has garnered significant critical praise and reader appreciation for its authentic portrayal of African culture and complex human relationships.

The novel follows Peace Corps volunteer David Fields as he attempts to build a medical dispensary in an equatorial African village where traditional beliefs and social taboos present constant challenges. The story takes a dramatic turn when David meets Assam, a local woman whose water drumming captivates him and leads to a passionate, tension-filled relationship that drives the narrative toward what reviewers describe as a haunting conclusion. Madeen's personal background informs the novel's setting and themes, as he constructed a primary school complex in a rainforest village during his own Peace Corps service after graduating from the University of Arizona, an experience that directly inspired this fictional work.

Critical reception for 'Water Drumming In The Soul' has been overwhelmingly positive, with notable figures in literature and academia praising its authenticity and narrative power. Zaheer Baber, Professor of Sociology at University of Toronto, commented on Madeen's storytelling prowess, noting that the characters challenge traditional stereotypes and present a nuanced portrayal of African culture. Author Elizabeth Montano, known for The Eternal Dawn Trilogy, compared the novel's quality to works by literary masters like Hemingway, highlighting its beautiful and realistic writing. Reader reviews on Amazon have similarly praised the novel's exploration of themes like culture, identity, and human connection, describing it as an emotional rollercoaster with well-developed characters and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged.

This promotional availability matters because it increases accessibility to a work that has been recognized for its cultural significance and literary merit. The novel is shelved in the permanent collection of books by Peace Corps writers in the Library of Congress, indicating its value as a document of cross-cultural experience. By offering the ebook free of charge, more readers can experience Madeen's portrayal of Africa that moves beyond stereotypes to present complex characters and relationships. The timing of this promotion allows both existing fans and new readers to acquire a copy of what has been described as a modern-day classic without financial barrier, potentially expanding the audience for literary fiction that bridges cultural divides.

Madeen's broader body of work includes other acclaimed titles that explore cross-cultural themes, though 'Water Drumming In The Soul' remains particularly notable for its deep connection to the author's personal history. The free availability period represents a strategic opportunity for readers to discover a novel that has resonated with both critics and general audiences for its authentic voice and compelling narrative. Those interested in learning more about the author can visit his website at https://ericmadeen.com, though the primary focus remains on the novel itself and its temporary accessibility through the Amazon platform during the specified dates.