The Billabong by Jack Byrne

The Billabong by Jack Byrne – four out of five stars

Jim Kelly has lost his family and now fights to eke out a living in the Outback of the late 1800’s. It’s backbreaking work in a less than hospitable environment. The multitude of deadly wildlife is only one of the hazards he faces.

When one of those dangers nearly takes his life, Mark Turner comes to his aid. Mark is a man of secrets and contradictions. Jim knows the man is hiding something. But since Mark saved his life, he’s willing to overlook that, especially as he finds himself drawn closer and closer to him.

When Mark finds himself in danger, Jim must decide if he is willing to risk everything to help the other man.

I very much enjoyed the descriptions of life in the Outback, and of the land itself. It’s fairly obvious that the author knows what he is talking about as far as animal handling and ranching practices are concerned.

Even though The Billabong is not the author’s first work, Mr Byrne is still new to the scene. I’m glad to report that with a few minor exceptions, the writing style is well developed.

The Billabong is a classic slow burn, with aspects of hurt/comfort and gay for you.