A choppy, blunt and obvious style, too much political correctness, flat characters and cloying dialogue leave this brief thriller short on excitement and sympathy.
Reviewed by David on September 04, 1999
Genre: Science Fiction (Romance, Conspiracy Theory, Australian Aborigine, ESP)
Synopsis: When Dr. James Hay, a researcher into strange legends and unusual phenomena of Australia, finds an ancient black obelisk, a series of unusual events take place. While the tribal elders come to revere this find, and appear to find cosmic significance in this discovery, Dr. Hays is beset by hordes of publicity hounds trying to get their hands on the extraordinarily hard rock and its strange markings. The government is set on taking control of this Aboriginal treasure, and envious scientists are set on discrediting Dr. Hay and his theories. Enlisting the help of Samantha Louis, an investigative journalist known for her integrity, James embarks on a journey guided by ancient Australian tales, otherwordly signs and increasing danger, which culminates in the myth-haunted Glass House Mountains in South Australia.
Full Review: While the plot has potential, there seem to be a number of flaws detracting from the enjoyment of this short novel. Most of all, there is lack of sufficient motivation. People either act without any background motivation as villains, or accept explanations from others that contradict their previous opinions without argument or much supporting evidence. The romantic subplots are clearly telegraphed, and use some of the more obvious Romance conventions. The denouement contains too many new fantastic elements and a significant amount of thinly disguised preaching
While the Australian tradition and folklore add a fresh background to the story, the shortcomings in the plot and character development leave the novel without much entertainment value.
As a good fantasy with Aboriginal motifs, I would prefer to recommend Patricia Wrightson's fantasy trilogy: The Ice is Coming, The Dark Bright Water, and Journey Behind the Wind, now, alas, out of print.
Overall: 3.5; Plot: 3.5; Characters: 4; Style: 3; World-building: 3.5; Originality: 4.5;
Copyright date 1999, , Electronic, 129 pages
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