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Jan 30, 2019wyenotgo rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
I am somewhat conflicted in my response to this book. I should perhaps deal first with what it was that troubled me about it. First, it's manipulative of the reader's emotions and for me, that's difficult to forgive. Second, the plot is almost entirely predictable. Third (and perhaps less troubling) is that the thing is a bare-faced morality play, which may not sit well with many readers. A morality play demands a light touch, and here it's done in a manipulative fashion. But in most other respects, it's a very well written book, particularly so when we consider that this is Ms. Stedman's first published novel. The writing is straightforward and unadorned but entirely appropriate to the subject matter, setting and characters. In places, her style reminded me of that of Kent Haruf (and in my book, that's high praise). The setting (West Australia), era (post WW One) and vernacular (Aussie but never overdone) are all bang-on. Finally, regarding the plot: I believe most readers will either love it or hate it (mostly for the reasons stated above). I give Ms. Stedman credit for having managed to place her main protagonists (in both families) in a situation where there is no acceptable solution; this cannot possibly end well. As to how she resolves it? I will say no more; let every reader decide for themselves whether she has been successful.