Review of The Last Apple Blossom by Mary-Lou Stephens
The Last of the Apple Blossom by Mary-Lou Stephens
The Last of the Apple Blossom by Mary-Lou Stephens published by HQ (HarperCollins Australia) is a beautifully presented novel that begins with a stunning cover and carries over into a touching story from start to finish. It sweeps us up quickly (in its care and flames) into the world of bushfires, the rise and fall of the Tasmanian apple tree business and into the homes and hearts of generations of families that have passed through the vortex of a firestorm. This reading journey cultivates in us an organic appreciation for those who have experienced and survived such trauma. We can smell the ‘burnt apples, dead livestock and charred eucalypts.’ For the horrors of the Tasmanian bushfires of 1967 (known as Black Tuesday) are sincerely felt and understood, along with the harrowing loss suffered by Catherine Turner’s family and friends.
Although the title and cover first captured my attention, once entering the pages of this incredibly moving story, my heart erupted in so many directions. This novel did not disappoint. It promised and delivered on every front. Mary-Lou has done an amazing job in presenting creatively a difficult period in Tasmania’s history. Through setting, characters and plot she has masterfully uncovered topics of grief, perseverance and resurrection.
Mary-Lou’s research is meticulous, as confirmed by the text and stated in her Author Notes. Although she has no apple orchard growing experience, she has gleaned from the best in the field. But in the area of bushfires, like most of us here in Australia, she has lived through such disasters, and as a result rendered a realism in many scenes. The dark billows of fear, that rise from the smoke and blaze as it destroys properties and lives, is not something you ever forget. And Mary-Lou has painted with accuracy these gut-wrenching scenes of destruction.
There are many essential threads to this story with multiple points of view. But these prove useful and are easily followed with smooth transitions. The various perspectives provide a complete picture, helping us to sympathise with this believable cast affected by trauma and disappointment. For grief takes on many forms and faces and we can see how each character deals with his/her own loss.
The story spans over the years from 1967 to present day but each period is clearly noted so we are aware of the movement of time. I think this worked very well in showing the long term effects of the fires, politics and deaths on the remaining characters.
The novel is filled with powerful descriptive prose, displaying the author’s gift of language and story-telling. It is hard to believe this is a debut novel but acknowledgments explain how Mary-Lou worked diligently on this manuscript with a writing mentor, beta readers and her editor to bring it to such a polished satisfying end.
A nice ingredient I wish to mention, due to my own interest, is the use of Mary-Lou’s experience in the music industry. She utilises it well in telling the stories of Catherine, Mark and Angela. Plus, the song writing element adds a magical touch that becomes a soothing balm for wounds.
Although ‘The Last Apple Blossom’ clearly expresses through its characters, plot and setting the difficulties and challenges the Tasmanian orchardists faced from fires and political decisions, the novel also offers hope and how dreams are an essential part of the healing process. I am reminded of the words by American poet Langston Hughes: ‘Hold fast to dreams /For if dreams die/Life is a broken-winged bird/That cannot fly.’ Led by a determined Catherine— Mark, Annie, Dave and their children cling to this fragile wing of hope to rise above the waves of calamity that surge against them.
I believe this novel will appeal to those who enjoy strong family sagas wrapped in secrets and meticulously researched historical drama inspired by true events. Out of the ashes, lessons are learned as this story teaches about the trials of a landscape and how those challenges can shape its people. I truly loved this novel and highly recommend it. 5 Stars from me.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher HQ (HarperCollins Australia) for the digital ARC to read and review.
This review is also posted on Goodreads and links from my social media accounts.
