INDEPENDENT REVIEWS - TOP READS 2025

It is difficult not to compare this novel with Dalton’s Boy Swallows Universe; they both include a complex plot, an element of fantasy and are set in Brisbane. This story is contemporary and tells of the violence, brutality and human exploitation associated with the drug trade. A glorious extra in this novel are the pen and ink sketches by Paul Heppell which are an integral part of the story, as the main character is a gifted teenager who dreams of being (no, it’s more than a dream; she is determined to be) a famous artist with her work exhibited in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Another difference between the two stories is that this one focusses on the homeless community (or the “houseless” people, as the artist prefers to call them). The statistics presented by Dalton, relating to the influx of people into SE Queensland and the numbers living on the streets of Brisbane are startling and deeply disturbing, particularly when juxtaposed with the exploitation of the

vulnerable.

Yes, this book contains graphic language and violence, but there is also beauty: this is a story of loss, love, hate and coming to understand and accept who you are. The characters are wonderfully described and developed, and the writing abounds with memorable philosophical phrases. The one that really grabbed me is when the artist is describing her future when the public is viewing her exhibition: “I find it motivating to consider what all those people are going to one day make of my life choices …. It reminds me to apply a strong sense of significance to everything I do.” 

Couldn’t we all benefit from taking that approach to life?

A 9 out of 10 for this one from me.

Carol.

What a great read! The story begins in 1863 when Icelandic teenager, Helga arrives at a farm ready to begin work and a new life. We watch as this already strong, independent girl matures. The author weaves in Icelandic and Danish legal history at one of the major milestones of Helga’s life.

Helga navigates her way through a world where women can be quite vulnerable. Strong and determined she manages life, children, a hand-to-mouth existence and the constant fear that today may be the day that her fisherman husband doesn’t return from the dangerous waters. The family eventually moves to Canada where life, despite hardships, becomes a little more secure and a little less hand-to-mouth than it had been in Iceland.

Helga was the great grandmother of the book’s author. The story walks a nice line between fiction and the real life and times of the protagonist and her family. It makes for a compelling read. 

It's an Indie book. In my view, it could have had a tighter edit. For example, a theme related to mermaids could have been woven in more seamlessly. I rate it an 8 or 9 though. Well worth the read! 

Book club members are welcome to borrow it from me.
Melinda.