The Helpers by S. E. Nelson is a gripping international thriller that exposes the hidden power structures behind conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. What begins as the coverage of a familiar rebel uprising quickly unravels into a dangerous conspiracy involving shadowy elites, foreign interests, and religious authority. Nelson blends suspense with political insight, drawing on historical echoes of colonial exploitation to give the story weight and credibility. The African setting is treated with seriousness and respect, serving as more than a backdrop for intrigue but as a central force in the narrative. As a contribution to African and Africa-centred political fiction, the novel challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, resources, and accountability. It is well suited for readers who enjoy intelligent thrillers grounded in real-world history and global politics.

The Helpers by S. E. Nelson is a gripping political thriller that blends espionage, moral conflict, and historical trauma into a richly layered story set across the Democratic Republic of Congo, Europe, and the United States. Beneath the façade of a familiar rebel conflict lies a chilling revelation of a powerful underground organization called The Helpers, composed of influential businessmen, clergy, and political elites, manipulating violence and instability to maintain control over Congo’s vast natural resources. The story unfolds through multiple, well-interwoven perspectives. American journalist Jenny Osborne and photojournalist John Spencer arrive in Kinshasa seeking truth but instead stumble into a deadly web of secrecy. Parallel to their journey is that of French intelligence officers Lance Lemmand and Pierre-Jean Philippe, whose covert investigation steadily exposes the scale and ruthlessness of The Helpers. Perhaps the most emotionally arresting thread is Kai’s story. One of a young Congolese girl whose personal trauma becomes the moral heartbeat of the novel and the catalyst for exposing hidden atrocities. Nelson excels at sustaining mystery and tension. The novel is punctuated with assassinations, betrayals, and near escapes that function as effective cliffhangers, compelling the reader forward. The pacing is deliberate, allowing political intrigue to unfold without sacrificing emotional depth. What is particularly praiseworthy is the author’s courage in confronting uncomfortable themes like colonial legacy, corruption, sexual violence, and institutional hypocrisy, all without romanticizing them. A minor critique lies in the density of characters and subplots, which may occasionally challenge less attentive readers. However, this complexity ultimately reinforces the realism of global espionage networks rather than detracting from the story. The Helpers is recommended for readers who enjoy intelligent thrillers with social conscience. It is both unsettling and enlightening. The book deserves a 5 star rating with no reservations at all!