It was recently announced that SOL: My Friend and Adversary, Sol Kerzner, a memoir by Peter Venison, is one of the four titles shortlisted for the inaugural Gambling Book Awards. Congratulations to the author and publisher, Melinda Ferguson of Ride or Die Press, an imprint of Melinda Ferguson Books.

The winner will be announced on 19 January 2026.

https://www.thebookseller.com/news/four-books-shortlisted-for-the-inaugural-gambling-book-awards

About the book

Sol Kerzner, the controversial and charismatic business tycoon, once dominated the Southern African tourism landscape. He left an indelible mark by developing dream destinations like Sun City, The Palace, and the Atlantis developments in the Bahamas and Dubai.

In this riveting memoir, Venison – Sol’s longtime associate, confidante, and eventual adversary – offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the life of Kerzner whose legacy has long been shrouded in mystery, with no comprehensive biography until now. Venison fills in the gaps with vivid personal anecdotes and exclusive details, including the little-known relationship between Kerzner and Mandela, which played a crucial role in South Africa’s political transition in the early 1990s.

This tour de force unveils the true Kerzner – the brilliant, magnetic, chain-smoking, whiskey-drinking workaholic – who transcended borders and became a key player in the international hospitality industry and South Africa’s own Sun King.

About the author
Peter Venison began his career as a desk clerk in London. He later joined Kerzner’s Southern Sun in South Africa. He worked closely with Kerzner on iconic projects like The Palace of the Lost City and Atlantis, Bahamas. He has consulted on global assignments and is the author of eight books. A Commander of the Victorian Order, he resides in Surrey.