Book Reviews

Book Blurb

In New South Wales, Australia, in 1876, sweating out a living from the savage, dry wilderness tests a man’s worth. Cattleman Jim Kelly gave up everything he knew to outrun the law with his lover Mark Turner. Struggling to survive, the two turn to crime and venture farther into the harsh outback. And while Jim is enthralled by Mark’s almost paranormal strength and physical power, he starts to question his love after seeing Mark’s explosive temper first hand.

 
Sequel to The Billabong
A novella from the Dragon-ghosts of Viscaya Universe

 

Book Review

'Walkabout' is Jack Byrne's second novella, following the lives of Jim and Mark whom I met in 'The Billabong'. I very much enjoyed his debut short and was looking forward to this installment to see what was now going on in these guys’ lives, particularly since last I saw of them, they'd escaped jail and were heading into the outback. Okay, yeah, I just like saying "outback". I'm picturing a Foster's commercial, except I've been soundly reprimanded that Aussies don't drink that, and they never say "put a shrimp on the barbie".

Along their way, Jim and Mark encounter a young man trapped under the body of his dead horse. They pull him out, but all of Mark's medical supplies were left back at the jail. Mark leads Jim to his friend, Min Yong's, encampment to get help for the boy. Jim is surprised to learn that Mark speaks fluent Chinese and that Min Yong and he have known each other for a long time. They are given a place to rest for a few days and then Mark and Jim are on their way again.

Jim gets a firsthand look at what life will be like with Mark when they rob some settlers. Of course, it's not robbing when they simply hold them up for some food and then Mark pays them for it. Jim is so confused. Then they manage to get some work as drovers, but three weeks of being around other people and not being able to touch makes both Jim and Mark snarly. The only thing I can say about their reunion is that it's explosive! Unfortunately, what happens next, in a town they just stopped in for a beer, isn't good, and I was left hanging.

Okay, Jack, you better hurry up with the next installment because now I'm on pins and needles waiting. And, by the way, the Snowy Mountains and a horse named Regret? I love that movie. Great job, Jack, and I can't wait to read more.

 

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.

Additional Information

Format	ebook
Length	Novella, 70 pages/17035 words
Heat Level
Publication Date	27-August-2014
Price	$3.99 ebook
Buy Link	https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/walkabout-by-jack-byrne-1335-b