Pelican Pool: A Novel

"Pelican Pool: A Novel" by Sydney Loch, paints a vivid picture of life in Australia's rugged outback during the early 1900s. Set in the isolated mining camp of Surprise Valley, the story explores the complex relationships and dreams of its residents against the backdrop of a harsh but breathtaking wilderness. The narrative begins by immersing the reader in the Australian landscape, setting the stage for the introduction of the camp and its inhabitants. We meet Maud Neville, a determined young woman torn between her father's desires and her growing attraction to James Power. Their developing relationship, full of emotional tension, unfolds amidst the challenges of camp life and the hopeful promise of Pelican Pool, a place of dreams and mystery. The story masterfully combines vibrant descriptions with emotional depth, suggesting themes of love, ambition, and the relentless struggles of frontier life.