Sarah Thornhill - Kate Grenville

I was excited to be given this for Christmas, having loved 'The Secret River', and it did not disappoint. It centres on the aftermath of the events of the first book, from the point of view of the daughter of its main characters, who gradually comes to understand what lies beneath her comfortable lifestyle. It also introduces new themes, as later settlers and children with mixed backgrounds further complicate the dynamics of race and class, raising questions of identity and belonging. Although it's an easy read, it is gripping and thought-provoking, and the central characters are likeable and convincing.