Mad A Story of Dust and Ashes   By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)

Mad: A Story of Dust and Ashes by George Manville Fenn takes readers on a thrilling journey through the desolate and unforgiving Australian outback during the 19th century. Fenn skillfully weaves a tale of love, loss, and redemption against the backdrop of a harsh and lawless land.

The story follows the protagonist, Richard Maddock, a young and impulsive British gentleman who finds himself exiled to Australia after a series of unfortunate events. As Richard sets foot on this unfamiliar land, he is confronted with the harsh realities of life in the outback. Fenn's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of not only the unforgiving landscape but also the brutal social hierarchy that exists in this land filled with convicts and gold prospectors.

Richard's transformation from an arrogant and spoiled young man to a hardened survivor in the face of adversity is one of the highlights of the novel. Fenn portrays his growth with great sensitivity and realism, making the reader genuinely invested in his emotional journey. As Richard befriends and interacts with the diverse cast of characters that inhabit the outback, he gradually uncovers the mysteries and secrets that lie buried beneath the dust and ashes.

The supporting characters in Mad play an essential role in driving the story forward. From the fearless bushranger, Jack Lee, to the enigmatic and alluring Catherine Grenville, each character is fleshed out with depth and complexity. Fenn's ability to create distinct personalities, complete with their own motivations and flaws, adds an extra layer of realism to the narrative.

Moreover, Fenn's attention to historical accuracy is commendable. His meticulous research is evident in the details of the era, from the rough campsites of the gold miners to the ominous and dangerous spirit of the bushrangers. The author does not shy away from portraying the violence and cruelty that permeated this lawless land, offering readers an unflinching look into the harsh realities faced by those who dared venture into the Australian outback.

While Mad: A Story of Dust and Ashes is undeniably gripping and full of suspense, the pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle portion of the novel. Some scenes feel prolonged, taking away from the overall intensity of the narrative. However, Fenn manages to redeem the story through his exceptional storytelling and his ability to keep readers engaged with his well-drawn characters.

Overall, Mad: A Story of Dust and Ashes is a compelling historical fiction novel. With its vivid descriptions, well-researched historical backdrop, and memorable characters, the book offers a captivating exploration of survival, courage, and human nature. George Manville Fenn showcases his storytelling skills through this enthralling tale that will transport readers to a time and place where only the mad could survive.

First Page:

Septimus Hardon bore his Christian name from no numerical reason, for he was an only child; but his father, Octavius Hardon, Esquire, of Somesham, thought that, like his own, the name had a good bold sound with it a sonorous classical twang. There was a vibration with it that should impress people in the future life of the bearer and add importance denied by Nature; but Mrs Octavius, during her lifetime, was always in disgrace with her lord for shortening the name into Sep, which was decidedly not impressive; while as for Septimus himself, he too was always in trouble with his father for being what he was decidedly impressive, but not in the way his father wished; for to look at Septimus Hardon it might have been supposed that Nature, after trying her 'prentice hand on man, and then making "the lasses, O," had had a quantity of rough stuff left odds and ends, snips and scraps and awkward tags when, sooner than there should be any waste of the precious material, she made Septimus Hardon. You could not say that he was deformed, but there was an odd look about him; his head seemed too big, and was badly thatched, while, by contrast, his body was too small; then his nose was a trifle on one side, and his mouth too wide, though it certainly disclosed an enviable set of teeth; his arms were long, and swung about too much, while one leg was slightly shorter than the other, short enough to make him limp; but there was mildness written in his pitted face, and honesty peered at you from his clear bright eyes... Continue reading book >>