Mona's gift

by Thomas William Shapcott

At Mona Enright's hospital for sick babies, the tang of harbour air, sharpened by the fuel smell of the ferries, breezes in through French doors opening onto a wide verandah. Beyond is the swirl and urgency of wartime Sydney — and servicemen, on leave from the front, seeking company and a good time.
Seduced by Mona's lyrical voice and her hungry, sensuous body, Captain Ted Stephen draws strength from their sudden affair. Yet the physical and emotional strains of the New Guinea campaigns leave Ted wasted and withdrawn, causing him and Mona to question the direction of their lives.
Years later, Mona's nephew, Michael, recreates her and Ted through their letters and diaries, yet even from a distance Mona seems to take control.

Genres: Australia

255 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Thomas William Shapcott AO is an Australian poet, novelist, playwright, editor, librettist, short story writer and teacher.