Convicts, Crimes and Tragic Times

 Convicts, Crimes and Tragic Times

Reviewed By  Nan van Dissel       February 17, 2026

 

Author  Tony Matthews.

Distributor:      Big Sky Publishing
ISBN:                 9781923514188
Publisher:         Big Sky Publishing
Release Date:   2 February 2026  

Website:    https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/convicts-crimes-and-tragic-times/ 

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Dark Days of Old Australia 

Historian and author Tony Matthews’s latest meticulously researched book “Convicts, Crimes and Tragic Times Dark Days of Old Australia” not only gives the reader insight into some of these long-forgotten heroes and villains and their illegal activities but also into savage nineteenth century justice.

Thanks to the author, many of these long-lost stories, which form the essence of Australia’s dramatically wild and colourful past, have been rediscovered.

Readers are transported to Australia’s colonial era, as they read some fascinating true crime cases from these times the author has unearthed. Not only stories of evil villains, ruthless executers, and harsh judges but also of those who have taken the wrong turn or made a mistake; these he has vividly and methodically documented.

This book is a must read for those interested in Australia’s lawless past and the forces which shaped the nation. The comprehensive ‘Source and Notes’ and index will assist the reader with ample information for future research into Australia’s rich and interesting past.

History, Non Fiction