Review of 'Among the Grey Gums' by Paula J Beavan

Review of 'Among the Grey Gums' by Paula J Beavan

Release date: June 5, 2024

Publisher: HQ

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REVIEW

What an exhilarating trip down colonial Australia lane with Paula J Beavan at the wheel in her new novel Among the Grey Gums! It is a fierce adventurous tale with so many twists, obstacles and surprises it kept me on my toes driving through a minefield of events! I felt truly transported to the 1842 Bushranger era, riding along-side Lucy caught up in her dilemmas and hoping Sam would appear at the right moments. My own nerves were rattled reading about the murder and threats and wanted to hide in my dreams from the notorious Smokey Gang! I was holding my breath when Lucy and others were challenged and threatened by this unusual band of thieves and killers.

Lucy, a bullock driver, is a strong and determined woman who is tired of men telling her what she can and cannot do. Her drive for independence sometimes runs interference with Constable Sam, the man who is trying to help free her brother-in-law from hanging for a crime he and others do not believe he has committed. The chase is on against time, elusive criminals and crooked men in high places. In the process of uncovering the evidence they need for Joe’s acquittal, Lucy discovers much about her husband, her own heart and how to conquer the battles she must face.

There are many colourful supporting characters that round out this wonderfully spun historical mystery. The pacing is perfect, the tension continuous, the plot complex and the setting believable. Paula has done her research remarkably well and from it constructed a solid framework for a fantastic story that pulled me in rapidly and never let me go! This is an excellent highly polished delivery that I enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

There is also a surprise romance that adds another delightful layer of glue that pulls it together even tighter. Sam is a great lead character along-side Lucy and, in many ways, her glorious match. Of course, I cannot forget the adorable animals who also played important parts! I won’t say anymore or spoil the journey for other readers but grab this book, throw on a blanket, set by a crackling fire with your hot chocolate and enjoy the exhilarating goose-bump-ride! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Many thanks to HQ and Netgalley for the review copy.