Fern Vale; or, the Queensland Squatter. Volume 1

"Fern Vale; or, the Queensland Squatter. Volume 1" by Colin Munro is a story that plunges into the world of 19th-century Queensland, Australia, where settlers strive to build new lives amidst the rugged landscape. It tells of themes such as colonial life and obtaining land, viewed through the lens of the time period. William Ferguson and his sister Kate stand out, dealing with the hardships of starting fresh in the Australian wilderness. As William embarks on a journey to acquire land for his family, Kate's concerns highlight the dangers and potential conflicts with the Indigenous people, while outside perceptions against Australian colonists add layers of complexity. Overall, the feel is an experience about colonization, family ties, and the transformation of these settlers in a strange new world.