Many of the best Australian fiction books also explore the relationship between the settlers and the native Australians in different ways. Some may be more subtle, while others are more direct in depicting the cultural clashes and the attempts at understanding and co - existence.
One of the best Australian fiction books in 2018 could be 'The Life to Come' by Michelle de Kretser. It delved into complex relationships and the immigrant experience in Australia in a really engaging way.
Australian historical fiction often features the unique landscape of Australia. The vast outback, the coastal areas, and the harsh environment play important roles in the stories. For example, in 'The Thorn Birds', the outback is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, influencing the lives and fates of the characters.
Australian crime fiction often has a strong sense of place. The vast and diverse Australian landscape, whether it's the outback, small coastal towns or big cities, plays a big role in the stories. The characters are usually tough and resourceful, reflecting the Aussie spirit. For example, in 'The Dry', the harsh drought - affected environment is almost like another character.
They often feature the harsh and beautiful landscapes of the outback. For example, in many books, you'll read about vast deserts, unique wildlife, and extreme weather conditions.
Many Australian rural fiction books also tend to have a slower pace compared to urban - centric stories. This allows for in - depth exploration of the characters' inner lives and their relationships with each other and the land. It gives readers a chance to really soak in the rural atmosphere and understand the values and traditions that are part of rural Australian life.
They also tend to explore the complex relationships between different groups in Australian history. For example, the relationship between the European settlers and the Aboriginal people is a common theme, like in 'The Secret River'. This includes the cultural clashes, power dynamics, and attempts at co - existence. Moreover, Australian historical fiction may touch on the development of Australian society from a colonial outpost to an independent nation, showing how values, traditions, and social structures have evolved over time.
Australian farming fiction books often feature the vast and diverse Australian landscape. They might describe the unique flora and fauna that are part of the farming environment. For example, the eucalyptus trees and kangaroos that are often seen in the outback where farming takes place.
Often, they have a strong sense of place. For example, the Australian landscape, be it the outback or the coastal areas, plays a big role in the stories. The characters are also usually complex and diverse, representing different aspects of Australian society.
The best Australian crime fiction often features complex relationships. This could be between the characters themselves, or between the characters and the Australian environment. The environment can be both a hindrance and a help in solving the crimes. For instance, in 'Mystery Road', the Aboriginal connection to the land is an important part of the story. Also, these stories are not afraid to show the darker side of Australian life, from small - town secrets to big - city crime. And they usually have a well - crafted mystery that keeps the readers guessing until the very end.
One of the great Australian historical fiction books is 'The Thorn Birds' by Colleen McCullough. It tells a multi - generation love story set against the backdrop of the Australian outback. Another is 'Oscar and Lucinda' by Peter Carey. It's a complex tale that delves into the relationship between two very different characters in the 19th - century Australia. And 'The Secret River' by Kate Grenville is also excellent. It explores the early days of white settlement in Australia from the perspective of an English convict.