The Curlew’s Eye

 The Curlew’s Eye

Reviewed By  Grasshopper2       September 1, 2021

 

Author  Karen Manton

Distributor:      Allen & Unwin
ISBN:                 9781760879518
Publisher:         Allen & Unwin
Release Date:   September 2021  

   Website:   https://www.allenandunwin.com

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This mysterious story The Curlew’s Eye, set in the remote outback near Darwin is very cleverly constructed. In the beginning Greta, her partner Joel and their three boys are driving from the South to Joel’s old homestead near Darwin. They wander from place to place getting work when they can.

The family is very connected, close, with each of them taking care of the other. It is this gentle beginning which lulls the reader into a sense of adventure, rather than the difficulties the main characters have, dealing with past demons.

Joel was raised in the homestead with seven brothers and a sister. The newly arrived family stay in a cabin, which Joel and Greta need to renovate as the property is going to be sold. The young woman is stoic, never daunted by a lack of flooring or a nearby poisoned lake. She begins with minor jobs as Joel starts to get the fencing upgraded. The boys are happy playing outside and exploring.

Gradually as the brooding wet season build up begins, so does the mystery. Joel is a quiet man who has not discussed his past, but an old hut, a strange girl and a nasty neighbour all contribute to Greta’s sense of unease. Parts of stories that Joel has told her about his childhood lead to questions. Greta has her own past to deal with and the pressure builds.

Karen Manton has a wonderful feel for the outback and describes it so well the reader can smell the dust and feel the heat. She cleverly focusses on details and helps the reader make sense of all the loose ends of the mysteries that besiege the family; loose ends that Greta and Joel must understand and then put to rest.

Fiction