HachetteI was pleasantly surprised to discover one of my former (Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing) classmates’ novels in print. My admiration increased immensely when I read Past the Shallows; it is, quite simply, breathtaking. In a small community on a forbidding stretch of Tasmanian coast, brothers Harry and Miles’ lives are ruled by the sea. The shadow of their Mother’s death hangs in the air; questions remain and, although Harry was too young to remember the accident, Miles is beginning to piece things together. Through the eyes of the two boys, the reader is taken on a poignant and unexpected journey. Beautiful, tragic and highly evocative in it’s portrayal of the ocean, the author’s sparse prose hits just the right notes; never too much information nor too little. Past the Shallows is a story that lingers long after reading. You will feel compelled to tell your friends about it; lend it to them; give it as a gift! Although I had access to a ‘free’ copy, I will buy this novel (not least to support the publication of new local authors, but) because it’s a ‘keeper’; something to treasure and re-read. Highly recommended.
BiP staff review by Penny
