The Uncaged Sky by Kylie Moore-Gilbert is a riveting and harrowing memoir of survival, detailing her 804-day imprisonment in Iran. Shortlisted for TheThe Uncaged Sky by Kylie Moore-Gilbert is a riveting and harrowing memoir of survival, detailing her 804-day imprisonment in Iran. Shortlisted for The Age Book of the Year for Non-Fiction and the 2023 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Non-Fiction, this book reveals the extraordinary resilience of a woman unjustly detained.
Arrested at Tehran Airport in 2018, British-Australian academic Moore-Gilbert was falsely accused of espionage and sentenced to ten years in prison after a sham trial. Her account of life in Tehran’s Evin and Qarchak prisons is vivid and heart-wrenching. Isolated in a filthy solitary confinement cell, subjected to relentless interrogations, and enduring extreme physical and psychological hardships, she faced unimaginable adversity. Yet, her spirit remained unbroken.
Moore-Gilbert’s resilience is the core of this story. Despite the crushing conditions, she found ways to resist. She forged secret connections with other prisoners, smuggled letters, and undertook hunger strikes, showing remarkable courage. The injustice she endured, and the broader mistreatment of women within the system, is infuriating, making her defiance all the more inspiring.
The narrative also highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding her release, a dramatic prisoner swap involving multiple nations. Yet, it remains a deeply personal story of inner strength and the determination to reclaim freedom.
The Uncaged Sky is a powerful meditation on hope and human endurance. Moore-Gilbert’s story of fortitude leaves a lasting impact, offering a stark reminder of the value of freedom and the strength required to hold on to it....more
“Stone Yard Devotional” is an exquisite novel that strikes with an understated brilliance, quietly inviting readers into its layered story as effortle“Stone Yard Devotional” is an exquisite novel that strikes with an understated brilliance, quietly inviting readers into its layered story as effortlessly as a breath — though we all know the craft behind such subtlety is anything but simple. In this tale, a woman withdraws from city life to a secluded religious community in the hauntingly stark Monaro plains. A self-imposed exile with no faith in God, she stumbles into a rhythm of contemplation, weaving memories of her mother with the unsettling undercurrents of monastery life.
Her solitude is pierced by three dark visitations, each one tugging her closer to questions that leave readers both uneasy and profoundly moved. The storyline brims with unexpected beauty and disquieting truths, as mice swarm, a lost sister’s remains reappear, and an uninvited visitor unearths painful pasts. Through these episodes, Stone Yard Devotional explores timeless themes: the nature of goodness, forgiveness, and whether grief ever truly ends.
This book is a meditative masterpiece, unfolding with grace and ease that belies its depth. It’s introspective without being overly sombre, and readers will find themselves both charmed and unsettled as they wander alongside its enigmatic narrator. A spellbinding, memorable read, “Stone Yard Devotional” captivates in every sense....more
The Perfect Golden Circle by Benjamin Myers is a beautifully crafted novel set in the summer of 1989, amidst the rural landscapes of England. It folloThe Perfect Golden Circle by Benjamin Myers is a beautifully crafted novel set in the summer of 1989, amidst the rural landscapes of England. It follows the story of two unlikely companions—Calvert, a traumatised ex-soldier, and Redbone, a free-spirited drifter—who form an unexpected friendship as they create elaborate crop circles in secret.
Their nocturnal ventures, born from a desire to create something beautiful and mysterious, turn into a global sensation. Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing England, Myers explores themes of creativity, rebellion, and the power of human connection. His prose vividly captures the English countryside, turning each scene into a tribute to the landscape’s quiet splendour.
The novel balances the deeply personal struggles of its characters with a broader reflection on the nature of art and the need for meaning in uncertain times.
Ultimately, The Perfect Golden Circle is a story of healing, resilience, and the transformative power of shared purpose, perfect for readers who appreciate introspective and beautifully rendered tales....more
The Labyrinth by Amanda Lohrey is a mesmerising novel that deeply explores grief, isolation, and the human need for connection, all woven through the The Labyrinth by Amanda Lohrey is a mesmerising novel that deeply explores grief, isolation, and the human need for connection, all woven through the intricate metaphor of the labyrinth itself. I adored how Lohrey captures the nuances of Erica Marsden’s emotional turmoil after her son’s imprisonment and her retreat into solitude. The setting—a rundown shack on the coast—provides the perfect backdrop for Erica’s obsession with building a labyrinth, which serves as both a physical and symbolic journey of healing.
Lohrey’s prose is both lyrical and meditative, pulling readers into Erica’s inner world where art becomes a means of reckoning with her past and reconciling her fraught relationships. What I found particularly striking is the way Lohrey portrays Erica’s gradual re-entry into the world around her. Despite her desire to remain disconnected, the kindness of strangers begins to unravel her isolation, reminding us of the powerful and restorative force of human connection.
This is a novel that lingers, offering profound reflections on guilt, denial, and the complex dynamics between parents and children. Lohrey beautifully demonstrates how art can be both destructive and redemptive, making The Labyrinth a thought-provoking and richly layered work. The awards it has garnered, including the 2021 Miles Franklin Award, are well deserved, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a novel that challenges and restores in equal measure.
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn is an extraordinary blend of history, intrigue, and the resilient spirit of women in wartime. Having already read and The Alice Network by Kate Quinn is an extraordinary blend of history, intrigue, and the resilient spirit of women in wartime. Having already read and loved one of Quinn’s books, I found this one just as captivating. The novel’s magic lies in its foundation on real-life events—historical moments that are often overlooked or forgotten. Kate Quinn shines a spotlight on the courageous women of the Alice Network, a real World War I spy ring, giving their heroics the recognition they deserve.
The dual narrative structure, alternating between World War I and post-World War II, kept me engrossed from start to finish. In the 1915 storyline, Eve Gardiner, a fictional spy, becomes an integral part of the Alice Network under the formidable leadership of Lili (Louise de Bettignies), a real historical figure. Eve’s bravery and the tension of her dangerous mission in occupied France are palpable. In contrast, the 1947 storyline follows Charlie St. Clair, an American college student, as she enlists Eve’s help to track down her missing cousin, Rose. Their intertwined journeys lead them to face past betrayals and personal demons.
What I found particularly compelling is how Quinn humanises these women, blending fact and fiction seamlessly. Eve and Charlie’s characters, though fictional, are brought to life with such depth that you can’t help but root for them as they navigate their quests for justice and redemption.
Quinn is a master at highlighting the unsung heroines of war, and I’m a huge fan of how she champions their stories. The Alice Network is a gripping, emotional read, reminding us of the bravery and sacrifice of women whose roles in history have often been sidelined. A definite recommendation for anyone who loves historical fiction with a strong female cast....more
*Sand Talk* by Tyson Yunkaporta is a radical and thought-provoking exploration of life from an Indigenous perspective, akin to Bruce Pascoe’s *Dark Em*Sand Talk* by Tyson Yunkaporta is a radical and thought-provoking exploration of life from an Indigenous perspective, akin to Bruce Pascoe’s *Dark Emu*. Yunkaporta masterfully weaves topics as varied as evolution, cosmology, science, and even Schrödinger’s cat into a coherent reflection on how modern life has strayed from ancient patterns of creation. He asks how this divergence impacts us and how we might realign ourselves with sustainable, long-term thinking.
At its core, *Sand Talk* offers a template for living, using Indigenous symbols, lines, and shapes to make sense of the world. Yunkaporta emphasises the importance of listening, learning from the past, and incorporating Indigenous methods into contemporary systems. His deeply personal stories and ‘yarns’ ground the book’s philosophical insights, making it both engaging and practical.
What stands out is Yunkaporta’s clear-eyed humility. He shares his own flaws and complexities while making a compelling case for Indigenous knowledge as a guide to a more sustainable and interconnected future.
*Sand Talk* is an unforgettable read that challenges readers to rethink their perspectives. It offers a fresh lens on life’s complexities, encouraging deep reflection and practical change. A rich, generous, and inspiring work that lingers long after the final page....more
*Stargirl* by Jerry Spinelli is a captivating coming-of-age novel that balances the joy of individuality with the bittersweet realities of adolescence*Stargirl* by Jerry Spinelli is a captivating coming-of-age novel that balances the joy of individuality with the bittersweet realities of adolescence. The story follows Leo Borlock, an ordinary high school student who has always followed the unspoken rule of blending in. That is, until the arrival of Stargirl Caraway, an eccentric and free-spirited girl who disrupts the conformity of Mica Area High School with her quirky clothes, spontaneous ukulele performances, and acts of kindness.
Stargirl's vibrant presence initially enchants her peers, injecting colour and excitement into the otherwise predictable high school experience. Her unwavering authenticity and nonconformity are both inspiring and refreshing. However, as is often the case with the fickle nature of popularity, her classmates soon turn against her. What was once admired becomes the very reason she is shunned.
As joyful and uplifting as Stargirl’s free spirit can be, the novel is also tinged with sadness, particularly in its exploration of how harshly society can react to difference. Leo's internal struggle—his deep admiration and love for Stargirl, alongside his desire to fit in—reflects the emotional complexities of adolescence. The novel's bittersweet tone highlights the tension between staying true to oneself and the fear of rejection.
Spinelli weaves a story that is as heartwarming as it is melancholic, illustrating the fleeting nature of popularity and the emotional toll of nonconformity. Stargirl's journey is both joyful and tragic, reminding readers that standing out can come at a cost. *Stargirl* is a tender, emotional read that lingers long after the final page....more
*Sheilas* by Eliza Reilly is a breath of fresh air in the world of Australian history, bringing to light the audacious women who deserve far more than*Sheilas* by Eliza Reilly is a breath of fresh air in the world of Australian history, bringing to light the audacious women who deserve far more than a fleeting (if any) mention in our textbooks. Reilly presents an entertaining and satirical romp through the lives of some of Australia's most badass, trailblazing women—women who broke rules, shattered expectations, and left indelible marks on history, even though they’ve largely been overlooked.
Reilly’s sharp wit and infectious admiration for these trailblazing women, make *Sheilas* both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply inspiring. From Merle Thornton chaining herself to pub counters to demand women's rights, to the fearless Nancy Wake cycling through Nazi strongholds, the book is filled with stories of daring, courage, and rebellion. It’s a delightfully irreverent celebration of women who refused to behave—and in doing so, changed the course of history.
This book is not just a recount of historical facts; it's an empowering call to action to remember the forgotten female heroes of Australia and to recognise their rightful place in the nation's narrative. Reilly's storytelling is both fun and poignant, filled with satirical digs at those who wrote these women out of history while wholeheartedly lifting up the achievements of these unsung heroines.
For anyone who loves a good laugh, a bit of history, and a healthy dose of feminist energy, *Sheilas* is a must-read. These women deserve recognition and Reilly's brilliant retelling ensures they’re unforgettable....more
**spoiler alert** *Drums of Autumn*, the fourth instalment in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series, is a compelling continuation of the story of time-tra**spoiler alert** *Drums of Autumn*, the fourth instalment in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series, is a compelling continuation of the story of time-traveller Claire Fraser, her Highlander husband Jamie, and now their daughter Brianna. This novel transports readers to colonial America, where the wild frontier serves as a rich backdrop for the characters’ personal struggles and historical events.
Gabaldon’s ability to weave together intricate historical details with personal, often heart-wrenching, moments is on full display here. Jamie and Claire’s deep love and their resilience in the face of adversity continue to captivate. However, what truly stands out in *Drums of Autumn* is Brianna’s journey—her leap into the unknown in search of the parents she never truly knew, and the challenges she faces in a world both dangerous and unfamiliar to her.
While this book is beautifully written and engaging, it does feel slower-paced at times, particularly in the middle sections. The plot occasionally gets bogged down in detail, which may test the patience of some readers. However, the emotional depth of the characters, especially in their relationships, makes this a rewarding read.
The novel’s exploration of family, belonging, and the consequences of altering history is thought-provoking. Brianna’s relationship with Roger, as well as her complex feelings about her parents, adds layers of emotional conflict that kept me invested.
A solid 4-star read, *Drums of Autumn* delivers the passion, adventure, and historical richness readers have come to expect from Gabaldon, though it may not have the same urgency or tightness of plot as earlier entries in the series. Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful and moving addition to the saga.
Just finished “The Assistants” by Camille Perri - a 2-star read for me. While the premise of assistants rising up against corporate power has potentiaJust finished “The Assistants” by Camille Perri - a 2-star read for me. While the premise of assistants rising up against corporate power has potential, the execution falls flat. The characters are more caricatures than fully developed individuals. Tina Fontana, the main character, is relatable in her struggle with debt, but where her journey should have depth, it instead relies on predictably lazy writing. The supposed development arcs for the characters feel forced and shallow, with little real growth or complexity.
The novel also suffers from an overabundance of pop culture references, which detract from the story and make it feel dated rather than engaging. The humour is *sometimes* there, but it doesn’t make up for the lack of authenticity or the unrealistic portrayal of what assistants actually do.
While it’s refreshing to see assistants take the spotlight, the plot quickly becomes a predictable heist with little substance. Overall, it’s an amusing concept but lacks the sharpness and depth to make it more than an average read.
Paul Carter’s “Don’t Tell Mum I Work on the Rigs. She Thinks I’m a Piano Player in a Whorehouse” is a collection of anecdotes from his life as an oil Paul Carter’s “Don’t Tell Mum I Work on the Rigs. She Thinks I’m a Piano Player in a Whorehouse” is a collection of anecdotes from his life as an oil rig worker in some of the world’s most remote and dangerous locations. From near-death experiences to bizarre encounters with wildlife and eccentric colleagues, the potential for thrilling and entertaining storytelling is evident.
However, the execution falls short. Carter’s stories, while undoubtedly filled with drama and danger, are delivered in a disjointed and often crude manner, which detracts from their impact. The pacing is erratic, with some anecdotes dragging on unnecessarily, while others are rushed, leaving little time to build suspense or engage the reader fully. The writing style is conversational but lacks polish, often relying too heavily on shock value rather than crafting a compelling narrative.
What could have been a gripping and insightful glimpse into a world few of us will ever experience instead becomes a series of missed opportunities. The humour, intended to lighten the darker moments, often feels forced, and the stories, though inherently fascinating, lose their potency in the telling. Overall, a disappointing read that struggles to live up to its potential. Two stars....more
As a lifelong lover of Paris and a devoted Francophile, I was particularly thrilled to pick up “A Secret Garden in Paris” by Sophie BRating: 3.5 Stars
As a lifelong lover of Paris and a devoted Francophile, I was particularly thrilled to pick up “A Secret Garden in Paris” by Sophie Beaumont. This book is like slipping into a cosy pair of slippers—perfect for reading by the fire on a crisp day or while lounging on the beach. It's a tale that keeps your interest without being too demanding, making it an ideal escape into the romance and beauty of Paris.
Set against the backdrop of a blooming Parisian spring, Beaumont weaves a story around three women facing life-altering challenges. Emma Taylor, grieving the sudden death of her mother, seeks refuge in Paris with her grandmother, Mattie. Her only clue to her mother’s hidden past is an enigmatic photograph, leading her on a journey of discovery in the city of love.
Charlotte Marigny, a celebrated garden designer, thought her life was settled until her husband, Tom, inexplicably began to withdraw. Fleeing to her native Paris from London, she seeks clarity and solace in the gardens she loves.
Meanwhile, Arielle Lunel, a widowed florist, has finally begun to rebuild her life after her husband’s death and the revelation of his overwhelming debts. Just as she regains her footing, her controlling in-laws return with a proposal that threatens to upend everything.
As the paths of these three women intersect in the romantic gardens of Paris, their unexpected friendship becomes the key to transforming their lives.
“The Secret Garden in Paris” is a captivating story of loss, love, and renewal. Beaumont’s vivid descriptions of Paris and its gardens are a delight, drawing the reader into the city’s enchanting atmosphere. The novel is a gentle, heartwarming read that offers comfort and hope, perfect for those who enjoy stories of friendship and personal growth set against a beautifully rendered backdrop.
The setting of Paris in springtime adds an enchanting backdrop to the story. Beaumont's descriptions of the city's gardens and streets are vivid and evocative, making you feel as if you are walking alongside the characters. The secret garden itself becomes a symbol of healing and new beginnings, a place where the characters find solace and strength.
This book is perfect for anyone who loves Paris, gardens, or stories about strong women overcoming adversity. It's a heartwarming read that offers a perfect escape into a world of beauty and resilience.
**Disclaimer:** I was given an uncorrected proof of this book in return for an honest review. This was my first time being asked to review a book, making this experience even more exciting....more
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