What do you think?
Rate this book
Ridgeview Station
A vast outback property. An unforgettable season. A family's fight to save their livelihood. A sweeping tale of love and loss, and the highs and lows of life on the land, from an utterly authentic new voice in rural fiction.
The debut novel by Michael Trant.
Many of Peter and Kelsie Dalton's friends thought they were crazy when they bought Ridgeview Station. But five years on, their hard work, help from Kelsie's parents, and record rainfall have them in high spirits as the summer muster approaches.
Realising they're going to need more help this season, Peter rings around the neighbouring stations to try and find a good worker. After a glowing recommendation, Alexi arrives to give them a hand - and is not at all what they'd expected ...
Everything is going smoothly with the muster before disaster strikes and the Dalton's find themselves battling to save their livestock, their property and their lives.
An entertaining yarn set on a vast outback property peopled with colourful and authentic characters, Ridgeview Station is about love, loss and the spirit of the bush.
The debut novel by Michael Trant.
Many of Peter and Kelsie Dalton's friends thought they were crazy when they bought Ridgeview Station. But five years on, their hard work, help from Kelsie's parents, and record rainfall have them in high spirits as the summer muster approaches.
Realising they're going to need more help this season, Peter rings around the neighbouring stations to try and find a good worker. After a glowing recommendation, Alexi arrives to give them a hand - and is not at all what they'd expected ...
Everything is going smoothly with the muster before disaster strikes and the Dalton's find themselves battling to save their livestock, their property and their lives.
An entertaining yarn set on a vast outback property peopled with colourful and authentic characters, Ridgeview Station is about love, loss and the spirit of the bush.
- GenresAustraliaContemporary
336 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2017
29 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Michael Trant
4 books98 followersMichael Trant is a WA country boy just beginning his new life as an author, following a wide range of careers from marine draftsman to farmer, and pastoralist to FIFO pot-washer. Michael is now based in Perth, having grown up on the family farm at Eneabba, before moving to Geraldton then out to Yalgoo. His debut novel Ridgeview Station was inspired by his time on Gabyon Station, and he highly recommends a visit for those curious about life on a sheep station.
Michael writes with an authentic rural voice, drawing on his experiences to open readers to places and lifestyles foreign to many. He has a passion for farming, writing, and gaming, the order of which vary throughout the year. He still works on farms as a tractor driver, mainly to annoy those teachers who claimed no one would pay him to stare out a window all day.
He is the author of Ridgeview Station, Wild Dogs, and No Trace.
Michael writes with an authentic rural voice, drawing on his experiences to open readers to places and lifestyles foreign to many. He has a passion for farming, writing, and gaming, the order of which vary throughout the year. He still works on farms as a tractor driver, mainly to annoy those teachers who claimed no one would pay him to stare out a window all day.
He is the author of Ridgeview Station, Wild Dogs, and No Trace.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 12, 2022
Ridgeview Station in the vast outback of Western Australia had many head of sheep, run by Pete and Kelsie Dalton and Kelsie's mum Lisa and dad Jack. The stockmen had their own quarters and Ash was one of the permanent staff. As the summer season approached they turned to the local Aboriginal community to get Murray to work for them with the upcoming muster, and their neighbouring property sent a backpacker from Estonia over to help out. Alexi was a hard worker, and knew her way around the bikes they used in the musters. She was also a shock to everyone, as they were expecting a male. With the light plane and three capable pilots, Pete, Jack and Kelsie, they had it under control. Mork and Mindy, their two dogs, were also excellent workers and could almost do the rounding up by themselves.
With the weather warming more, the first muster done and the semis removing the stock for sale, they were looking forward to having money in the bank. But when a violent electrical storm started small fires, the tension in the homestead rose. Kelsie and Alexi, Ash and Murray, Pete in the plane spotting for them, and Jack headed for the fire to build a break which they hoped would stop it in its tracks. But would it work? Could they save the remaining stock or have to move them? Fire had never been a danger where Ridgeview Station was located...
Ridgeview Station is the debut novel by West Australian author Michael Trant, and it was excellent. I read his second book earlier this year - Wild Dogs - which I loved, and it amazes me that Ridgeview Station is this author's first novel. A thoroughly enjoyable, tension filled (at times), authentic look at the sometimes harsh rural living in Australia's bush, and the wonderful characters that inhabit it. Highly recommended.
With the weather warming more, the first muster done and the semis removing the stock for sale, they were looking forward to having money in the bank. But when a violent electrical storm started small fires, the tension in the homestead rose. Kelsie and Alexi, Ash and Murray, Pete in the plane spotting for them, and Jack headed for the fire to build a break which they hoped would stop it in its tracks. But would it work? Could they save the remaining stock or have to move them? Fire had never been a danger where Ridgeview Station was located...
Ridgeview Station is the debut novel by West Australian author Michael Trant, and it was excellent. I read his second book earlier this year - Wild Dogs - which I loved, and it amazes me that Ridgeview Station is this author's first novel. A thoroughly enjoyable, tension filled (at times), authentic look at the sometimes harsh rural living in Australia's bush, and the wonderful characters that inhabit it. Highly recommended.
November 27, 2017
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
An appreciation of the hard yakka that goes into farming in our vast outback is at the soul of debut rural fiction author Michael Trant’s novel, Ridgeview Station. It is an incredible yarn, weaving a tale of love, loss, gains and pure grit that goes into keeping the sprawling property of Ridgeview Station out of trouble for a family and their loyal workers.
When Ridgeview Station first opens, we learn that married couple Peter and Kelsie Dalton traded their thriving coastal farm for a vast outback based station five years ago. Turning this struggling outback property into a profitable piece of land has not been easy but the couple are confident that the current season will return their best results yet. With more cattle than ever to deal with and an upcoming muster to contend with, Peter and Kelsie approach their neighbours for some much needed assistance. Their neighbours offer to send in their respected rouseabout, Alexi, to assist with this important muster. When Alexi arrives at Ridgeview, it comes as a surprise, especially to the workers of the station but this newcomer soon settles into the busy way of life at Ridgeview. When the all important muster kicks off, it seems to be going smoothly and the Dalton family begin to see that soon they will be able to reap the rewards of their five years of hard work. However, mother nature has other plans for Ridgeview and it isn’t long before their livelihood, property and assets all come under threat from the turn of events. Ridgeview Station is a cracking Australian story that demonstrates the strength of the bush spirit.
I was thrilled to be approached by the author of Ridgeview Station, West Aussie Michael Trant, to review his first novel. Those who know my reading tastes are quite aware of the fact that I am a huge fan of Australian rural fiction and I will champion this genre to anyone who will listen. Therefore, when Ridgeview Station came to my possession, I couldn’t wait to get started on this book and I was more than impressed with Michael Trant’s debut offering.
Part of the appeal of Ridgeview Station is the obvious line of authenticity that runs through the veins of this novel. When I read a little about the author of Ridgeview Station, Michael Trant, it actually did not surprise me at all that Michael has many years of experience working on the land. As soon as you begin Ridgeview Station, the sense of realism is blindingly obvious. From my reading Ridgeview Station, I gleaned a thing or two about running a station and developed a new understanding of the perils of mother nature in determining the success of a vast property. The situations, characters and everyday life situations that crop up in this novel are clearly drawn from first hand experience. Trant is a capable author, who is able to spin a cracking yarn from his wealth of knowledge gleaned from his experiences in the bush.
Trant knows a thing or two about characterisation. I immediately warmed to couple Peter and Kelsie Dalton, along with Kelsie’s parents, who I quickly had fingers, toes and everything else crossed for them that Ridgeview would finally make a triumphant return in the muster. Along with the Dalton clan, there are a great band of supporting characters that form the very fabric of this tale. From likeable rogue Bull, to leading hands Ash and Larry, to newcomer Alexi, each contributes equally to the unfolding plot. Trant’s protagonists feel as if they have been modelled on real life figures he has come into contact with during his farming career, which makes the Ridgeview character set all the more authentic. Supporting the human cast in Ridgeview Station are an unforgettable crew of working dogs, who add further flair to this outback tale. Trant also had me reaching for the tissues in this particular narrative thread involving the hard working dogs of Ridgeview.
In terms of the plot in Ridgeview Station, I found myself thoroughly entertained from cover to cover by Trant’s first novel. I was also pleased with the closure offered by this novel, it seemed very plausible and I found myself satisfied with the final turn of events. Upon reflection of my reading of Ridgeview Station, I found that Trant has an easy going, almost conversational writing style, which I connected with early on in the piece. Trant knows when it is the perfect time to change tact and inject his novel with a mixture of emotion, love and tension. There is a strong sense of passion in Trant’s writing which transfers to his characters, setting and storyline. This is a writer who clearly enjoys his craft and is able to pass on this affection to his readership.
My experience with Ridgeview Station was overwhelmingly positive. Ridgeview Station is a fine addition to the rural fiction genre, providing the reader with a sensational silhouette of life on a typical outback station. It comes complete with the highs, as well as lows, of life on the land and these culminate to yield a memorable outback tale that I must rate no less than five full stars.
*I wish to thank the author, Michael Trant, for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
An appreciation of the hard yakka that goes into farming in our vast outback is at the soul of debut rural fiction author Michael Trant’s novel, Ridgeview Station. It is an incredible yarn, weaving a tale of love, loss, gains and pure grit that goes into keeping the sprawling property of Ridgeview Station out of trouble for a family and their loyal workers.
When Ridgeview Station first opens, we learn that married couple Peter and Kelsie Dalton traded their thriving coastal farm for a vast outback based station five years ago. Turning this struggling outback property into a profitable piece of land has not been easy but the couple are confident that the current season will return their best results yet. With more cattle than ever to deal with and an upcoming muster to contend with, Peter and Kelsie approach their neighbours for some much needed assistance. Their neighbours offer to send in their respected rouseabout, Alexi, to assist with this important muster. When Alexi arrives at Ridgeview, it comes as a surprise, especially to the workers of the station but this newcomer soon settles into the busy way of life at Ridgeview. When the all important muster kicks off, it seems to be going smoothly and the Dalton family begin to see that soon they will be able to reap the rewards of their five years of hard work. However, mother nature has other plans for Ridgeview and it isn’t long before their livelihood, property and assets all come under threat from the turn of events. Ridgeview Station is a cracking Australian story that demonstrates the strength of the bush spirit.
I was thrilled to be approached by the author of Ridgeview Station, West Aussie Michael Trant, to review his first novel. Those who know my reading tastes are quite aware of the fact that I am a huge fan of Australian rural fiction and I will champion this genre to anyone who will listen. Therefore, when Ridgeview Station came to my possession, I couldn’t wait to get started on this book and I was more than impressed with Michael Trant’s debut offering.
Part of the appeal of Ridgeview Station is the obvious line of authenticity that runs through the veins of this novel. When I read a little about the author of Ridgeview Station, Michael Trant, it actually did not surprise me at all that Michael has many years of experience working on the land. As soon as you begin Ridgeview Station, the sense of realism is blindingly obvious. From my reading Ridgeview Station, I gleaned a thing or two about running a station and developed a new understanding of the perils of mother nature in determining the success of a vast property. The situations, characters and everyday life situations that crop up in this novel are clearly drawn from first hand experience. Trant is a capable author, who is able to spin a cracking yarn from his wealth of knowledge gleaned from his experiences in the bush.
Trant knows a thing or two about characterisation. I immediately warmed to couple Peter and Kelsie Dalton, along with Kelsie’s parents, who I quickly had fingers, toes and everything else crossed for them that Ridgeview would finally make a triumphant return in the muster. Along with the Dalton clan, there are a great band of supporting characters that form the very fabric of this tale. From likeable rogue Bull, to leading hands Ash and Larry, to newcomer Alexi, each contributes equally to the unfolding plot. Trant’s protagonists feel as if they have been modelled on real life figures he has come into contact with during his farming career, which makes the Ridgeview character set all the more authentic. Supporting the human cast in Ridgeview Station are an unforgettable crew of working dogs, who add further flair to this outback tale. Trant also had me reaching for the tissues in this particular narrative thread involving the hard working dogs of Ridgeview.
In terms of the plot in Ridgeview Station, I found myself thoroughly entertained from cover to cover by Trant’s first novel. I was also pleased with the closure offered by this novel, it seemed very plausible and I found myself satisfied with the final turn of events. Upon reflection of my reading of Ridgeview Station, I found that Trant has an easy going, almost conversational writing style, which I connected with early on in the piece. Trant knows when it is the perfect time to change tact and inject his novel with a mixture of emotion, love and tension. There is a strong sense of passion in Trant’s writing which transfers to his characters, setting and storyline. This is a writer who clearly enjoys his craft and is able to pass on this affection to his readership.
My experience with Ridgeview Station was overwhelmingly positive. Ridgeview Station is a fine addition to the rural fiction genre, providing the reader with a sensational silhouette of life on a typical outback station. It comes complete with the highs, as well as lows, of life on the land and these culminate to yield a memorable outback tale that I must rate no less than five full stars.
*I wish to thank the author, Michael Trant, for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
June 6, 2022
Ridgeview Station gives us an insight into outback farming and after reading this book you'll have a greater understanding and appreciation of just how hard farming life is for families every day.
Having now read both his books which are both excellent reads I can't wait to see what Aussie author Michael Trant writes next. If you enjoy reading rural fiction, then I highly recommend you read this book. You won't be disappointed.
Having now read both his books which are both excellent reads I can't wait to see what Aussie author Michael Trant writes next. If you enjoy reading rural fiction, then I highly recommend you read this book. You won't be disappointed.
July 7, 2022
Ridgeview Station by Michael Trant
Synopsis /
Many of Peter and Kelsie Dalton's friends thought they were crazy when they bought Ridgeview Station. But five years on, their hard work, help from Kelsie's parents, and record rainfall have them in high spirits as the summer muster approaches.
Realising they're going to need more help this season, Peter rings around the neighbouring stations to try and find a good worker. After a glowing recommendation, Alexi arrives to give them a hand - and is not at all what they'd expected ...
Everything is going smoothly with the muster before disaster strikes and the Dalton's find themselves battling to save their livestock, their property and their lives.
My Thoughts /
A vast outback property. An unforgettable season. A family's fight to save their livelihood.
After finishing Australian author, Michael Trant's debut novel, Ridgeview Station I have come away with a renewed appreciation for all the farming families working their livelihood of choice in Australia's vast outback regions.
Meet Peter and Kelsie Dalton. When Ridgeview Station opens, we learn that this married couple have traded their idyllic coastal living to purchase a sheep station in the West Australian outback. The enormous pastoral station is called "Ridgeview" and it is here where they live and work alongside Kelsie's parents, Jack and Lisa. Right from the outset, you can feel the author's deep affection for this country and the people who have called it home.
This book has an abundance of vivid, bright, and striking descriptions of "life on the land". The land - its harsh conditions and uncontrollable weather means that people who choose to work it are continually battling; hoping for the best weather and the best conditions in order to make money and keep their livelihood alive. Coming off the back of a good 'last' season, the Daltons are looking forward to a nice payoff for all their hard work; they owe the bank overdue payments; machinery needs repair or replacing; and they are keen to invest in more diverse stock. But, just as all looks great for a second bumper season, disaster threatens to strike at Ridgeview - fire. Normally rural communities can call upon the services of the Rural Fire Service for assistance when a fire starts. But when you live in the middle of nowhere and your nearest neighbour might only be accessible via plane - fighting a fire comes down to you.
'House is insured,’ Pete had said simply, when Alexi had asked him at dinner if he was worried about the beautiful old homestead. He waved out to the glow on the horizon. ‘The more bush we lose, the less the sheep have to eat. Can’t insure that, or the sheep.'
What follows is a genuinely real tale of life on the land. It's full of heartwarming family moments; of hard work, of how this family deals with loss and hope and a resilient community which is separated by thousands of hectares of harsh landscape. Trant has carved out authentic, relatable, real characters in this story. People full of hopes, dreams, and yes, faults. He has delivered us hard working people who are passionate about their love for the land, their animals and about their business.
After finishing Ridgeview Station, I have learned a thing or two about running a station and a have more thorough understanding of the perils of mother nature in determining the success or failure of a crop on the land. I have concluded that my place is right where I am…..within walking distance from my local coffee shop and supermarket; which, when I visit next, will most likely contain more locally grown produce! Let's all support our local farmers!!
Synopsis /
Many of Peter and Kelsie Dalton's friends thought they were crazy when they bought Ridgeview Station. But five years on, their hard work, help from Kelsie's parents, and record rainfall have them in high spirits as the summer muster approaches.
Realising they're going to need more help this season, Peter rings around the neighbouring stations to try and find a good worker. After a glowing recommendation, Alexi arrives to give them a hand - and is not at all what they'd expected ...
Everything is going smoothly with the muster before disaster strikes and the Dalton's find themselves battling to save their livestock, their property and their lives.
My Thoughts /
A vast outback property. An unforgettable season. A family's fight to save their livelihood.
After finishing Australian author, Michael Trant's debut novel, Ridgeview Station I have come away with a renewed appreciation for all the farming families working their livelihood of choice in Australia's vast outback regions.
Meet Peter and Kelsie Dalton. When Ridgeview Station opens, we learn that this married couple have traded their idyllic coastal living to purchase a sheep station in the West Australian outback. The enormous pastoral station is called "Ridgeview" and it is here where they live and work alongside Kelsie's parents, Jack and Lisa. Right from the outset, you can feel the author's deep affection for this country and the people who have called it home.
This book has an abundance of vivid, bright, and striking descriptions of "life on the land". The land - its harsh conditions and uncontrollable weather means that people who choose to work it are continually battling; hoping for the best weather and the best conditions in order to make money and keep their livelihood alive. Coming off the back of a good 'last' season, the Daltons are looking forward to a nice payoff for all their hard work; they owe the bank overdue payments; machinery needs repair or replacing; and they are keen to invest in more diverse stock. But, just as all looks great for a second bumper season, disaster threatens to strike at Ridgeview - fire. Normally rural communities can call upon the services of the Rural Fire Service for assistance when a fire starts. But when you live in the middle of nowhere and your nearest neighbour might only be accessible via plane - fighting a fire comes down to you.
'House is insured,’ Pete had said simply, when Alexi had asked him at dinner if he was worried about the beautiful old homestead. He waved out to the glow on the horizon. ‘The more bush we lose, the less the sheep have to eat. Can’t insure that, or the sheep.'
What follows is a genuinely real tale of life on the land. It's full of heartwarming family moments; of hard work, of how this family deals with loss and hope and a resilient community which is separated by thousands of hectares of harsh landscape. Trant has carved out authentic, relatable, real characters in this story. People full of hopes, dreams, and yes, faults. He has delivered us hard working people who are passionate about their love for the land, their animals and about their business.
After finishing Ridgeview Station, I have learned a thing or two about running a station and a have more thorough understanding of the perils of mother nature in determining the success or failure of a crop on the land. I have concluded that my place is right where I am…..within walking distance from my local coffee shop and supermarket; which, when I visit next, will most likely contain more locally grown produce! Let's all support our local farmers!!
August 6, 2017
Ridgeview Station is debut novel by Michael Trant. Peter and Kelsie Dalton bought a run down outback station called Ridgeview and with the help of Kelsie parents five years later they thought the gamble was starting to pay off. However, this was not the case; lightning struck started a bush fire. Readers of Ridgeview Station will follow Peter and Kelsie to see what happens.
I enjoyed reading Ridgeview Stations. However, Ridgeview Station did make me cry in parts and other parts it made me smile. I like the way Michael Trant portrays his characters, especially Angus (Bull) a lovely gentle giant. The way Michael Trant describes living in the outback, I feel that I was living there myself. I also like the way Michael Trant show his characters to loved all the animals on Ridgeview Station. Reading Ridgeview Station started me think about climate change and how it can affect rural communities.
Readers of Ridgeview Station will learn about running an outback station and the problems that rural life can cause. Also, what happens when you drink and drive and the effects it has on everyone involved. Reading Ridgeview Station, you will learn about the procedures and problems that affect rural fire brigades.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading Ridgeview Stations. However, Ridgeview Station did make me cry in parts and other parts it made me smile. I like the way Michael Trant portrays his characters, especially Angus (Bull) a lovely gentle giant. The way Michael Trant describes living in the outback, I feel that I was living there myself. I also like the way Michael Trant show his characters to loved all the animals on Ridgeview Station. Reading Ridgeview Station started me think about climate change and how it can affect rural communities.
Readers of Ridgeview Station will learn about running an outback station and the problems that rural life can cause. Also, what happens when you drink and drive and the effects it has on everyone involved. Reading Ridgeview Station, you will learn about the procedures and problems that affect rural fire brigades.
I recommend this book.
May 18, 2018
When they sold their coastal property and bought Ridgeview Station, their friends thought Peter and Kelsie Dalton were mad. It has not been easy, at times a struggle but after five years they have hope that this will be the year things turn around as they approach the summer muster of a good lot of sheep. But they will need more help and a neighbouring property owner recommends Alexi, a backpacker from Estonia. Alexi is nothing like anyone expected and that creates some interesting situations, especially with others working on the property. It seems everything is starting to look up for the Daltons. That is until disaster strikes. That’s when the battle to save all they have worked for begins in earnest. Lives are put at risk.
This is a debut novel but it is obvious from the outset that the author knows the area and lifestyle he is writing about. It is filled with details that have that ring of authenticity, although at times I could have done with a little less when it came to details about dealing with sheep. I’m just not that interested in sheep. What I did find great was the descriptions of the lightning and thunder storm and the incredible description of bush fire. Anyone living in Australia knows the danger that can be. Strong characters moved the story along. I liked a lot of them but I really liked Bull. This was an interesting read and I did enjoy my time with these characters with their Aussie colloquialisms. Of course there is also the bad language as well.
All in all a book worth reading and a great picture of life on an outback sheep station and the hardships that life on the land involves as well as some moments of joy.
This is a debut novel but it is obvious from the outset that the author knows the area and lifestyle he is writing about. It is filled with details that have that ring of authenticity, although at times I could have done with a little less when it came to details about dealing with sheep. I’m just not that interested in sheep. What I did find great was the descriptions of the lightning and thunder storm and the incredible description of bush fire. Anyone living in Australia knows the danger that can be. Strong characters moved the story along. I liked a lot of them but I really liked Bull. This was an interesting read and I did enjoy my time with these characters with their Aussie colloquialisms. Of course there is also the bad language as well.
All in all a book worth reading and a great picture of life on an outback sheep station and the hardships that life on the land involves as well as some moments of joy.
November 26, 2017
Ridgeview Station by Michael Trant is his debut novel.
Peter and Kelsie Dalton swapped their life of living on a coastal farm for a move to an enormous outback property. After 5 years struggling and slogging away it payed off but are they about to lose it all?
The first half of the book was a touch slow as it was mainly about mustering but I absolutely loved the last half on account of becoming quite dramatic and had me on the edge of my seat.
The stand out character for me was Bull, a lovely guy with a big heart, all other characters were lovely too and very appealing except for the mean one.
Overall an easy and enjoyable read.
Peter and Kelsie Dalton swapped their life of living on a coastal farm for a move to an enormous outback property. After 5 years struggling and slogging away it payed off but are they about to lose it all?
The first half of the book was a touch slow as it was mainly about mustering but I absolutely loved the last half on account of becoming quite dramatic and had me on the edge of my seat.
The stand out character for me was Bull, a lovely guy with a big heart, all other characters were lovely too and very appealing except for the mean one.
Overall an easy and enjoyable read.
December 13, 2017
Right from the opening pages of Ridgeview Station, you are immersed into a world that has clearly been crafted by somebody who has lived the very life that this story revolves around. The authenticity that Michael Trant brings to his writing gives Ridgeview Station an almost memoir like quality in its delivery. I had a strong sense while reading that many of the anecdotes sprinkled throughout were in fact based on real events, and likewise, the cast of colourful and oh-so-Australian characters had me feeling as though I was being treated to a mish-mash of personalities that very much exist in another time and another place.
The ebb and flow of station life was depicted with realism rather than romanticism, an important distinction that I appreciated fully. Michael takes full advantage of his audience when weaving important rural and farming issues into his narrative, but he does so with a deft hand at maintaining balance between informing and politicking. I picked up more detail about several issues I only knew the barest about and was also exposed to other situations pertaining to farming that I would never have otherwise contemplated.
I have to say, in all honesty, Ridgeview Station would make a terrific television series. Realistic, funny, authentically dramatic, and above all, a window into a lifestyle still revered throughout this country, despite the majority of our population being concentrated in urban areas. Australian literature, film, and television has a long list of excellent representations on the Australian outback way of life and Ridgeview Station fits perfectly into this catalogue.
Thanks is extended to the author, Michael Trant, for providing me with a copy of Ridgeview Station for review.
The ebb and flow of station life was depicted with realism rather than romanticism, an important distinction that I appreciated fully. Michael takes full advantage of his audience when weaving important rural and farming issues into his narrative, but he does so with a deft hand at maintaining balance between informing and politicking. I picked up more detail about several issues I only knew the barest about and was also exposed to other situations pertaining to farming that I would never have otherwise contemplated.
I have to say, in all honesty, Ridgeview Station would make a terrific television series. Realistic, funny, authentically dramatic, and above all, a window into a lifestyle still revered throughout this country, despite the majority of our population being concentrated in urban areas. Australian literature, film, and television has a long list of excellent representations on the Australian outback way of life and Ridgeview Station fits perfectly into this catalogue.
Thanks is extended to the author, Michael Trant, for providing me with a copy of Ridgeview Station for review.
November 21, 2017
The Australian fiction landscape is a popular one, but Michael Trant brings to it a new voice with a unique story to tell. His debut novel, Ridgeview Station, is a solid start to what may well be a successful career in the genre often dominated by women authors.
I must say, I wasn't aware of this novel until Michael himself contacted me asking if I would review it. I took a look at the blurb and thought it sounded like an interesting story, so agreed. Needless to say, my review is my own words and not in any way influenced by the author contacting me.
I was impressed by Michael's success in drawing me into Ridgeview Station from the first page. He has created such a wonderful cast of colourful characters who are both authentic and believable. You can easily see them interacting on the station, going about their daily chores and the passion and love they have for the land is clear from the beginning. Their relationships intertwine honestly and effectively, and anyone who knows what life is life on the land will recognise how well Michael has done this.
Michael has also done a fantastic job with the setting itself. It is easy to tell that Michael knows the land well - the story is in fact inspired by his own time spent on a station in Western Australia. I love how Michael paints the picture of the land and the terrain. You can almost see the station, the sheep, the endless blue skies, and the vast paddocks and granite outcrops vividly as Michael tells the story. I also loved how he draws together how integral the seasons are on the land, and the stressful impact of relying on mother nature for your future.
The story begins off as a slow burn (pardon the pun - you'll understand once you read), but then when the action starts the book heats up. I found myself reading faster, and turning the pages quicker to find out if the characters and their property would make it - and how.
Ridgeview Station was an easy and enjoyable read. Sure there were a few areas of clunky writing as there is with many debut authors, but there is no denying Michael's storytelling ability. I'm looking forward to seeing what his next effort brings.
I must say, I wasn't aware of this novel until Michael himself contacted me asking if I would review it. I took a look at the blurb and thought it sounded like an interesting story, so agreed. Needless to say, my review is my own words and not in any way influenced by the author contacting me.
I was impressed by Michael's success in drawing me into Ridgeview Station from the first page. He has created such a wonderful cast of colourful characters who are both authentic and believable. You can easily see them interacting on the station, going about their daily chores and the passion and love they have for the land is clear from the beginning. Their relationships intertwine honestly and effectively, and anyone who knows what life is life on the land will recognise how well Michael has done this.
Michael has also done a fantastic job with the setting itself. It is easy to tell that Michael knows the land well - the story is in fact inspired by his own time spent on a station in Western Australia. I love how Michael paints the picture of the land and the terrain. You can almost see the station, the sheep, the endless blue skies, and the vast paddocks and granite outcrops vividly as Michael tells the story. I also loved how he draws together how integral the seasons are on the land, and the stressful impact of relying on mother nature for your future.
The story begins off as a slow burn (pardon the pun - you'll understand once you read), but then when the action starts the book heats up. I found myself reading faster, and turning the pages quicker to find out if the characters and their property would make it - and how.
Ridgeview Station was an easy and enjoyable read. Sure there were a few areas of clunky writing as there is with many debut authors, but there is no denying Michael's storytelling ability. I'm looking forward to seeing what his next effort brings.
July 10, 2018
I’m sure if you were unfamiliar with outback station life in Australia it might be interesting but the story was slow and I struggled to finish it. The author did describe life on a station with some authority however.
May 21, 2022
No real twists or turns, predictable. Read more like a long, long essay on Ridgeview Station than a novel. The main incident of the book went on for way to many chapters, (which I found way to long). Read way to many thoughts of the characters, wanted more action. Enjoyed the author's second book (Wild Dogs) way more than this book where nothing much happens.
January 30, 2022
My firstborn. Very near and dear to my heart.
February 7, 2019
I've had this book sitting on my shelf since it was released in 2017, I really wish it hadn't taken me so long to read it, because it was a fabulous read, so much so, I'm now sporting a fabulous sunburn from where I completely lost track of time while I was lazing on the beach reading it. Then I continued reading it last night until it just about hit me in the face as I lay in bed. With only 40 pages to go, I tried so hard to keep my eyes open, but alas I had to wait until I woke up this morning to finish it.
I met Michael last November at WCFF (West Coast Fiction Festival) and felt terrible that I hadn't yet gotten around to reading his book. What an absolutely lovely and genuine person he was. This book, though fiction is very much inspired by his life experiences working on a sheep station in the Murchison region of WA. This is his first attempt at writing a novel, and as far as I'm concerned, he nailed it.
Ridgeview Station is an unreservedly genuine tale of life on the land, full of family, friendships, hard work, trials, loss, hope and community. The characters in this story are real people, just like us, full of hopes, dreams and faults. They are hard working people who are passionate about the land and about their business. "He'd made the comment that since the house wasn't at risk and it was just bushland burning, he would allow it. The family, however, were more worried about the bush and the stock than their home, a perspective most outsiders had trouble grasping. 'House is insured,' Pete had said simply, when Alexi had asked him at dinner if he was worried about the beautiful old homestead. He waved out to the glow on the horizon. 'The more bush we lose, the less the sheep have to eat. Can't insure that, or the sheep.'"
Life on the land, with it's harsh conditions and uncontrollable weather means that people who choose to run a station or a farm, are continually battling and hoping for the best weather and the best conditions in order to make money and keep their properties. They are passionate people and have to be strong in order to survive the ups and downs that come with living off the land as well as demands from banks who don't care one iota for weather conditions, only money.
The family, Pete, Kelsie, Jack annd Lisa were everything you would want in a family, especially one who live and work together on a property like Ridgeview. There was so much respect and love between them, and their love for their land and animals was so strong, that I was immediatley drawn into their lives, experiencing everything they were going through and hoping against hope that things would work out. I was holding my breath at times, completely absorbed in their fight to save their land against one of natures cruelest beasts, fire.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, especially the quirky ones like old Kev who'd lived on Ridgeview Station for so many years that it was in his blood. Bull, one of the men who come to help the family out in their time of need, using his heavy machinery to try to save the land from burning, was also another genuine and down-to-earth character who I enjoyed. Alexi, a backpacker and farmhand bought a fresh perspective to the story and allowed explantions of the procedures of life on the land as she learnt to understand how everything worked and ran.
I'm so glad I got to spend time with this family on Ridgeview, and I highly recommend you go and grab yourself a copy of this wonderful Australian tale.
I met Michael last November at WCFF (West Coast Fiction Festival) and felt terrible that I hadn't yet gotten around to reading his book. What an absolutely lovely and genuine person he was. This book, though fiction is very much inspired by his life experiences working on a sheep station in the Murchison region of WA. This is his first attempt at writing a novel, and as far as I'm concerned, he nailed it.
Ridgeview Station is an unreservedly genuine tale of life on the land, full of family, friendships, hard work, trials, loss, hope and community. The characters in this story are real people, just like us, full of hopes, dreams and faults. They are hard working people who are passionate about the land and about their business. "He'd made the comment that since the house wasn't at risk and it was just bushland burning, he would allow it. The family, however, were more worried about the bush and the stock than their home, a perspective most outsiders had trouble grasping. 'House is insured,' Pete had said simply, when Alexi had asked him at dinner if he was worried about the beautiful old homestead. He waved out to the glow on the horizon. 'The more bush we lose, the less the sheep have to eat. Can't insure that, or the sheep.'"
Life on the land, with it's harsh conditions and uncontrollable weather means that people who choose to run a station or a farm, are continually battling and hoping for the best weather and the best conditions in order to make money and keep their properties. They are passionate people and have to be strong in order to survive the ups and downs that come with living off the land as well as demands from banks who don't care one iota for weather conditions, only money.
The family, Pete, Kelsie, Jack annd Lisa were everything you would want in a family, especially one who live and work together on a property like Ridgeview. There was so much respect and love between them, and their love for their land and animals was so strong, that I was immediatley drawn into their lives, experiencing everything they were going through and hoping against hope that things would work out. I was holding my breath at times, completely absorbed in their fight to save their land against one of natures cruelest beasts, fire.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, especially the quirky ones like old Kev who'd lived on Ridgeview Station for so many years that it was in his blood. Bull, one of the men who come to help the family out in their time of need, using his heavy machinery to try to save the land from burning, was also another genuine and down-to-earth character who I enjoyed. Alexi, a backpacker and farmhand bought a fresh perspective to the story and allowed explantions of the procedures of life on the land as she learnt to understand how everything worked and ran.
I'm so glad I got to spend time with this family on Ridgeview, and I highly recommend you go and grab yourself a copy of this wonderful Australian tale.
January 8, 2023
As is my wont, I read Michael Trant's first two books in the wrong order. Ridgeview Station feels more like his 'one-man's journey' first novel, drawing upon his lived expertise as a farmer to catalogue life on a large Western Australian sheep station. In Wild Dogs, he takes a variety of regional WA characters and sends them through the landscape on a rollicking adventure. While Wild Dogs is definitely the better book, it's nice to hear the origin story in Ridgeview Station. The hounds also make their way into this book, though they're more the domesticated variety, well as domesticated as a working dog gets: "Damn dog never took her eyes off him."
The origins of the band of characters Trant develops in Wild Dogs can be seen in the station inhabitants, which include two generations of one family, Indigenous farmhands, a live-in farm manager, and visa-seeking international workers. In this book, the landscape doesn't quite hit the heights of a character, but the makings are there. The atmosphere before a bushfire is nicely described: "The air was pungent with the acrid smell of burnt ozone, and the thunder exploded with each strike—a sharp, piercing clap like gunfire echoing off mountains." As is the characterisation of the fire itself: "It was like a living thing—it was a living thing, outsmarting them with every move. Just when they thought they had it cornered, it would jump the lines, mocking their feeble efforts." What city-readers might find interesting in reading this book is how long a game fighting a fire consuming thousands of hectares of an outback station actually is. It's exhausting just reading about it.
The origins of the band of characters Trant develops in Wild Dogs can be seen in the station inhabitants, which include two generations of one family, Indigenous farmhands, a live-in farm manager, and visa-seeking international workers. In this book, the landscape doesn't quite hit the heights of a character, but the makings are there. The atmosphere before a bushfire is nicely described: "The air was pungent with the acrid smell of burnt ozone, and the thunder exploded with each strike—a sharp, piercing clap like gunfire echoing off mountains." As is the characterisation of the fire itself: "It was like a living thing—it was a living thing, outsmarting them with every move. Just when they thought they had it cornered, it would jump the lines, mocking their feeble efforts." What city-readers might find interesting in reading this book is how long a game fighting a fire consuming thousands of hectares of an outback station actually is. It's exhausting just reading about it.
July 13, 2021
4.5 stars
Peter and Kelsie sacrificed everything to buy Ridgeview Station. With the bank breathing down their neck after some difficult years, record rainfall means that this year’s muster will be their best yet and hopefully a sign of things to come.
But life on the land is never easy. Not only is their new station hand not what they expected, but their bumper season; the one that was going to appease the bank and bring some reprieve, is about to turn into anything but. With their whole world turned on it’s head, can Peter and Kelsie survive or is life on Ridgeview Station about to break them?
Well, well, well, didn’t Michael Trant’s Ridgeview Station turn out to be so much better than the blurb alluded to! Not that I thought it would be bad, but it languished in my TBR pile for well over a year and this was a mistake. Not only did it transport me back to the Gulf Country of remote North-West QLD where I used to live, but it got better and better as I read on.
I knew nothing about Trant prior to reading this, but was not surprised to read in the acknowledgments that he worked on a station for years. The authenticity that came through in both the plot and the characters could only come from someone who had ‘been there, done that’ and this lifts the book to the next level. More so, the picture his words paint of the Station’s landscape is beautiful and makes it very easy for the reader to imagine being there as the action unfolds, even if you’re someone who has never left the city!
Whilst the plot is strong and draws you in right from the start, it was the characters that I loved the most. Ash was my favourite, followed closely by Bull, Murray and Lisa; but they were all sensational and Trant writes so well that I could easily visualise them as they went about their business. Moreover, they were all relatable and you felt like you knew them all as soon as you meet them. Trant nails their personalities, especially the ‘Government experts’.
A book that I didn’t want to put down, Ridgeview Station is a novel I highly recommend. With themes of drama, suspense, disaster, family, love, life on the land and the Aussie spirit; there is something in it for everyone.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
Peter and Kelsie sacrificed everything to buy Ridgeview Station. With the bank breathing down their neck after some difficult years, record rainfall means that this year’s muster will be their best yet and hopefully a sign of things to come.
But life on the land is never easy. Not only is their new station hand not what they expected, but their bumper season; the one that was going to appease the bank and bring some reprieve, is about to turn into anything but. With their whole world turned on it’s head, can Peter and Kelsie survive or is life on Ridgeview Station about to break them?
Well, well, well, didn’t Michael Trant’s Ridgeview Station turn out to be so much better than the blurb alluded to! Not that I thought it would be bad, but it languished in my TBR pile for well over a year and this was a mistake. Not only did it transport me back to the Gulf Country of remote North-West QLD where I used to live, but it got better and better as I read on.
I knew nothing about Trant prior to reading this, but was not surprised to read in the acknowledgments that he worked on a station for years. The authenticity that came through in both the plot and the characters could only come from someone who had ‘been there, done that’ and this lifts the book to the next level. More so, the picture his words paint of the Station’s landscape is beautiful and makes it very easy for the reader to imagine being there as the action unfolds, even if you’re someone who has never left the city!
Whilst the plot is strong and draws you in right from the start, it was the characters that I loved the most. Ash was my favourite, followed closely by Bull, Murray and Lisa; but they were all sensational and Trant writes so well that I could easily visualise them as they went about their business. Moreover, they were all relatable and you felt like you knew them all as soon as you meet them. Trant nails their personalities, especially the ‘Government experts’.
A book that I didn’t want to put down, Ridgeview Station is a novel I highly recommend. With themes of drama, suspense, disaster, family, love, life on the land and the Aussie spirit; there is something in it for everyone.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
December 14, 2023
A glowing tribute to pastoral life, Ridgeview Station (2017) by Michael Trant was his debut general fiction tale. Set on a mammoth outback sheep station, it tells the tale of the Dalton family’s daily farm life. It’s the summer mustering season and hopes are high for a much-needed bountiful round-up of sheep to sell. Needing an additional farm hand, they hire Alexi from a neighbouring property. She is a 23-year-old Estonian backpacker, whom the family is initially dubious as to her suitability, but is reassured she is a good worker. Full of detail about the various requirements to run such a huge station, the promising sheep muster is interrupted by a bushfire out of control. A captivating tale that is an ode to our remote station lifestyle and difficulties, with touching human characters and a five star read rating. The authenticity of the book is beyond doubt given the author’s and reviewer’s experience of large pastoral properties. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without inducement.
July 14, 2019
Ridgeview Station is an exciting and authentic book filled with the kinds of characters and dialogue I myself grew up around in the midwest of Australia. Trant has a fantastic hold on both place and dialogue, and I feel like his own experiences on stations in the outback lend a real air of authenticity to this entire book. The first 100 pages are full of the kind of cameraderie and larrikin humour you'd expect, but don't let that dupe you - after that, the shit hits the fan and this novel becomes action packed and full of high stakes and tension. I read most of it in a day and was bowled away with the twist of emotion near the end. My favourite character was probably Bull - a side character, sure, but man was he hilarious and straight talking, not to mention tough: I guess the kind of bloke I'd like to be in some ways!
Superb work and I'm looking forward to reading Trant's next novel.
Superb work and I'm looking forward to reading Trant's next novel.
October 27, 2021
This book is set in outback Australia. After a good season the sheep are looking good and there is plenty of feed. Unfortunately a fire comes through and it looks as though much will be lost. The family fight and the government supplies some help, although bound by rigid rules. Eventually it rains and the fire is put out. A property nearby wants to buy a large number of ewes, so Pete opts to truck them over. He takes 2 of the farm dogs with him. Things take a bad turn and the families are faced with more horror. A fantastic story and wonderfully descriptive.
July 28, 2018
I enjoyed Michael Trant's debut novel. Set in the vast Australian outback, it takes in a sweeping area of land subject to nature's whims. The cast of characters is authentic and appealing. The indepth detail of station life, the nuances of relationships and the conversational tone are adroitly intertwined in an excellent yarn.
August 1, 2022
I recently read MT's latest book, Wild Dogs and enjoyed his writing so decided to read his first.
An insight into life on an isolated cattle station....and how difficult it is !!
As a famous Australian PM said.."life was not meant to be easy ."
An insight into life on an isolated cattle station....and how difficult it is !!
As a famous Australian PM said.."life was not meant to be easy ."
October 1, 2023
I’ve read a lot of books and don’t get around to updating Goodreads straight away. Consequently, I can’t give an adequate rating or review. That said, I have enjoyed every book and don’t regret the time spent reading them. There has been such a variety and one has often led to another.
August 23, 2024
Not sure if it was because this life was familiar to me, but I found this one pretty slow and predictable compared to his other two books. If this life is new to you then its probably much more engaging!
February 5, 2018
Fantastic book. Utterly absorbed in detail and whip-crack dialogue. Real nice.
September 3, 2022
A never ending introduction of characters and a plot that goes nowhere, slowly. Dull and uninteresting.
September 10, 2023
Heart warming story of life on an Australian station.
April 16, 2024
Fabulous true grit Australian novel - great colourful characters, drama, love and the great Auzzie homestead and land as far as the eye can see.
February 28, 2025
This is the third Michael Trant book ive read.
Definitely not my favourite one but he had me the entire book. Its a very different book to the Gabe series but definitely a good read
Definitely not my favourite one but he had me the entire book. Its a very different book to the Gabe series but definitely a good read
March 25, 2025
Very good depiction of station life. A bit boring in the part about the fire. It was very long winded Iin their battle of the fire. Great beginning and ending.
April 14, 2025
Please note- not crime fiction. But if you are looking for something authentic about life on an Australian outback station then this might be just the book for you
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews