Peter Cochrane (1) (1950–)

A strong novel, convincing on the subtleties of relationships in early NSW. It shows the harshness of colonial life, and its hideous consequences for the prior inhabitants. Most of the events told are backed by historical truth, the violence between Aborgines and colonists, even the wife sale. Some of the characters are based on historical figues, such as Andrew Thompson, who left much of his property to the governor. The writing is beautiful, and the plot anything but. The Dramatis Personae becomes a list of the dead. The death toll is like that of several episodes of Midsomer Murders. In that show, arrogance often leads to death. In this novel, it tends to be violent selfishness.… (mehr)