What do you think?
Rate this book
Burning Fields
Romeo and Juliet set in Queensland's sugar cane fields in 1952, as the daughter of an Anglo-Australian family falls for an Italian immigrant against the wishes of her family.
1948 The world is struggling to regain a sense of balance after the devastation of World War II, and the sugar cane–growing community of Piri River in northern Queensland is no exception.As returned servicemen endeavour to adjust to their pre–war lives, women who had worked for the war effort are expected to embrace traditional roles once more.
Rosie Stanton finds it difficult to return to the family farm after years working for the Australian Women's Army Service. Reminders are everywhere of the brothers she lost in the war and she is unable to understand her father's contempt for Italians, especially the Conti family next door. When her father takes ill, Rosie challenges tradition by managing the farm, but outside influences are determined to see her fail.
Desperate to leave his turbulent history behind, Tomas Conti has left Italy to join his family in Piri River. Tomas struggles to adapt in Australia–until he meets Rosie. Her easy–going nature and positive outlook help him forget the life he's escaped. But as their relationship grows, so do tensions between the two families until the situation becomes explosive.
When a long–hidden family secret is discovered and Tomas's mysterious past is revealed, everything Rosie believes is shattered. Will she risk all to rebuild her family or will she lose the only man she's ever loved?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2018
20 people are currently reading
827 people want to read
About the author
Alli Sinclair
9 books215 followersAlli Sinclair is an Australian multi-award winning author published who has lived in Argentina, Peru, and Canada. She’s climbed some of the world’s highest mountains and worked as a tour guide in South and Central America. Australia has always been close to Alli’s heart as she loves the diverse landscapes and the rich multicultural heritage of this wonderful land.
Alli’s books explore history, culture, love and grief, and relationships between family, friends and lovers. She captures the romance and thrill of discovering old and new worlds and loves taking readers on a journey of discovery. When not writing novels, Alli works as a producer and screenwriter for TV and cinema.
Alli’s books explore history, culture, love and grief, and relationships between family, friends and lovers. She captures the romance and thrill of discovering old and new worlds and loves taking readers on a journey of discovery. When not writing novels, Alli works as a producer and screenwriter for TV and cinema.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
July 18, 2019
A wonderful book that sees Rosie returning to her family home, a cane farm in far north Queensland, after spending the years of the WW2, and those just after it, in Brisbane. Even though both of her brothers were lost during the war her parents don't seem too thrilled to have her back home. However, after her father becomes incapacitated after suffering from a stroke, Rosie steps up to start to run the farm, much to her father's dismay. He doesn't see it as "women's work", even though Rosie is a strong independent woman who is more than capable of doing a good job. Nor does he like her being friendly with "the dagos next door", the Conti family who have recently immigrated from Italy.
Rosie finds herself drawn to Tomas Conti, a survivor of the war in Italy, and their growing attraction is hindered by his demons from the war, as well as her family's distrust. Then Rosie stumbles across a family secret that will turn her entire world upside down. Rosie's confusion as to her place, Tomas' reticence to talk about the past and a new stranger in town sprouting vitriol against Tomas all combine to bring about a powerful finale, both emotionally and to the magnificent land of the cane fields as well.
Alli Sinclair weaves a tale about growing love, during a time when racism and sexism is rife. Where some characters seem stereotypical clichés, others, like Rosie and Tomas are beautifully drawn. All told, Burning Fields is an enduring story that wont be forgotten in a hurry. I recommend this book to all readers.
Rosie finds herself drawn to Tomas Conti, a survivor of the war in Italy, and their growing attraction is hindered by his demons from the war, as well as her family's distrust. Then Rosie stumbles across a family secret that will turn her entire world upside down. Rosie's confusion as to her place, Tomas' reticence to talk about the past and a new stranger in town sprouting vitriol against Tomas all combine to bring about a powerful finale, both emotionally and to the magnificent land of the cane fields as well.
Alli Sinclair weaves a tale about growing love, during a time when racism and sexism is rife. Where some characters seem stereotypical clichés, others, like Rosie and Tomas are beautifully drawn. All told, Burning Fields is an enduring story that wont be forgotten in a hurry. I recommend this book to all readers.
September 10, 2018
3.5 stars
I'll admit I decided to read this book because it sounded like it would be a nice, little romance taking place in Australia a few years after World War 2. I was actually pleasantly surprised to see there was so much more going on with the story and it had some substance.
Rosie Stanton has returned home to her family's sugar cane farm in Queensland. She wants to help her father out by doing the books, but he seems to think a woman doesn't have any business working on the farm. He also isn't happy Rosie has met Italian immigrant Tomas Conti whose family owns the neighboring farm. And while the war might be over, scars still remain that might prevent everyone from moving on with their lives.
The story went back and forth between Rosie in 1948 Australia and Tomas in Italy during the war. The book deals with some heavy subjects including sexism, racism, and substance abuse which really add depth to the story. Definitely recommend as a romance because the chemistry between Rosie and Tomas is good but there's also enough to the story to enjoy as just a general fiction/ historical fiction novel as well.
I won a free advance digital copy from a giveaway. I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
I'll admit I decided to read this book because it sounded like it would be a nice, little romance taking place in Australia a few years after World War 2. I was actually pleasantly surprised to see there was so much more going on with the story and it had some substance.
Rosie Stanton has returned home to her family's sugar cane farm in Queensland. She wants to help her father out by doing the books, but he seems to think a woman doesn't have any business working on the farm. He also isn't happy Rosie has met Italian immigrant Tomas Conti whose family owns the neighboring farm. And while the war might be over, scars still remain that might prevent everyone from moving on with their lives.
The story went back and forth between Rosie in 1948 Australia and Tomas in Italy during the war. The book deals with some heavy subjects including sexism, racism, and substance abuse which really add depth to the story. Definitely recommend as a romance because the chemistry between Rosie and Tomas is good but there's also enough to the story to enjoy as just a general fiction/ historical fiction novel as well.
I won a free advance digital copy from a giveaway. I was under no obligation to post a review and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
November 16, 2018
This brilliantly written story takes place in 1948 not long after the Second World War. After many years of working for the Australian Women's Army Service Rosie Stanton heads home to the family farm.
Rosie knew it was never going to be easy to return home after losing her brothers in the war. Home as she knew it would never be the same and when her father takes ill, Rosie has to take over the running of the farm. Having a female take on these duties was frowned upon by many and they were just waiting for her to fail.
Having never read any books by Aussie author Alli Sinclair I was uncertain what to expect when I started this book, but I was more than pleasantly surprised. Historical fiction is a favourite genre of mine and this was historical fiction at its best in my opinion. Beautifully written story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in highly recommending it to everyone who enjoys reading historical fiction.
Rosie knew it was never going to be easy to return home after losing her brothers in the war. Home as she knew it would never be the same and when her father takes ill, Rosie has to take over the running of the farm. Having a female take on these duties was frowned upon by many and they were just waiting for her to fail.
Having never read any books by Aussie author Alli Sinclair I was uncertain what to expect when I started this book, but I was more than pleasantly surprised. Historical fiction is a favourite genre of mine and this was historical fiction at its best in my opinion. Beautifully written story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in highly recommending it to everyone who enjoys reading historical fiction.
May 7, 2018
Rosie Stanton was heading home from Brisbane to her family’s cane farm, Tulpil in Piri River, northern Queensland. Her thoughts were in turmoil – she knew her parents, especially her father would be against her returning home to stay, but that’s what she wanted to do. The Sicilian passenger on the bus whom she was seated beside was an interesting companion, but when she discovered Tomas Conti was also disembarking in Piri River she was surprised; learning his family owned the property adjoining Tulpil was a bigger shock. She knew what her father’s thoughts would be on that…
It was 1948; the war was over but the turmoil remaining wasn’t. Rosie had lost her brother Geoffrey, and Alex was still missing in action – although they hadn’t lost hope, it was fading. Tomas also had secrets he was keeping from his time during the war years in Italy. Would Tomas settle and find peace in Australia? He knew Rosie’s kind and generous nature could help him – if he let her.
When Rosie’s dad suffered a stroke, Rosie took over the running of the farm. But she struggled against everything that was tradition as well as a definite threat at having a woman in the role. What would be the outcome in this male dominated world; a world which Rosie wanted to improve, to see women equal to men?
Burning Fields is an excellent historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alli Sinclair, set just after the second world war and focusing on the Australians and immigrant Italians (among others) Set in far north Queensland, the vastness of the cane fields, the racism and ostracization which is still around in today’s world, and the struggle of women who’d worked a man’s role when the men were off at war, then having to return to being the “little woman” around the house when the men wanted their old jobs back. An intriguing, fascinating story, Burning Fields is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
It was 1948; the war was over but the turmoil remaining wasn’t. Rosie had lost her brother Geoffrey, and Alex was still missing in action – although they hadn’t lost hope, it was fading. Tomas also had secrets he was keeping from his time during the war years in Italy. Would Tomas settle and find peace in Australia? He knew Rosie’s kind and generous nature could help him – if he let her.
When Rosie’s dad suffered a stroke, Rosie took over the running of the farm. But she struggled against everything that was tradition as well as a definite threat at having a woman in the role. What would be the outcome in this male dominated world; a world which Rosie wanted to improve, to see women equal to men?
Burning Fields is an excellent historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alli Sinclair, set just after the second world war and focusing on the Australians and immigrant Italians (among others) Set in far north Queensland, the vastness of the cane fields, the racism and ostracization which is still around in today’s world, and the struggle of women who’d worked a man’s role when the men were off at war, then having to return to being the “little woman” around the house when the men wanted their old jobs back. An intriguing, fascinating story, Burning Fields is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
May 21, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Burning Fields, the latest novel from Australian author Alli Sinclair, melds together love, the past, war and sacrifice, all within the one involving tale. Sinclair takes her novel to the sugar cane fields of Queensland, just after the close of World War II. The tale that emerges is a powerful one that echoes Australia of times past.
Burning Fields takes the reader to a time of great flux, the year 1948. The action of this novel is set in the sugar cane fields of Northern Queensland. While many in this region, across the country and the globe are coming to terms with the devastation of the World War II, Rosie Stanton is making the journey home. After being away from the family sugar cane farm for a number of years while serving in the Australian Women’s Army Services, Rosie Stanton makes the difficult trek home. With her brothers lost to the war, Rosie is the only remaining Stanton left to help manage her family’s fledging farm. But Rosie struggles trying to assert her place at home again. Her father is unwilling to let her take on the reins of the property and she clashes with him over his attitude to the Italian family that neighbour their farm. But when Rosie’s father’s health takes a turn for the worst, Rosie steps up and begins to take over the operations of the family farm. Despite the misgivings and oppositions from many, including her own father, Rosie is determined to succeed. Linked to Rosie’s story is that of Tomas Conti, a young Italian man who has survived the war and now works with his family on their farm, which is situated next door to the Stanton farm. Tension and attraction arises between Rosie and Tomas when their worlds collide. However, the secrets each has, their past and the opposition from their respective families means this couple may never get their happy ever after.
Burning Fields marks another stellar new release that I have been eagerly anticipating with bated breath. I have loved each and every one of Alli Sinclair’s novels. She always manages to transport her reader to a different historical landscape and fully immerse her audience in her unfolding narrative. Burning Fields is no exception and I loved how Sinclair combined the Italian World War II experience, to Australia’s not too distant past, with our current climate. I was extremely impressed with Alli’s latest effort.
Burning Fields has a fantastic and highly engaging narrative structure. It works on a double time frame narrative and both storylines draw the reader in with complete ease. We first travel with Rosie, the leading lady of this tale, from Brisbane to her home town, which is situated in Northern Queensland, near the Piri River. We are also taken via flashbacks to Italy in the heat of the war, as we unearth Tomas Conti, the lead male protagonist in this novel’s past. Each storyline is carefully composed and rich in detail. I was fully immersed in each storyline that featured in Burning Fields.
All Sinclair shows us what she is made of and yet again composes a setting that is fully entrenched in the time and place of the locale in which she is presenting to her readership. I am always in awe of Sinclair’s ability to so easily transport her reader to a specific historical panorama and Burning Fields is no exception. We effortlessly move from the perilous and suspicious times of World War II Italy, to post World War II Australia. In moving the reader to the year 1948, Sinclair works to highlight the social climate of this time. She puts the spotlight on racial prejudice (particularly for Italians), expectations of women and the intense feelings of loss experienced by those on the home front. For me personally, the starring feature of this book was the focus on women’s history and the challenges women faced adjusting to roles on the domestic front after committing to jobs of great responsibility, or man’s work during the war. Sinclair does an absolutely superb job of outlining a feminist history of Australian women during the post World War II period.
Another wonderful feature of Burning Fields are the rich descriptions of the sugar cane fields and the farms that keep this industry ticking over. There are some healthy descriptions contained in this novel of the process of sugar cane farming, which I found enlightening. There were many times during my reading of this novel that I could feel myself walking through the cane fields. Sinclair has obviously completed her homework on this aspect of her novel and it shines through her novel.
Sinclair’s main character, Rosie Stanton was a real trailblazer and clearly well ahead of her time. This fierce heroine left quite the impression on me. I appreciated the secret that followed Rosie and why she left her lucrative position in Brisbane with the Women’s Army, to return to her family’s farm. Her first interaction with Tomas on the bus was spellbinding and I found myself completed invested in their potential romance from the very beginning. Romance is Sinclair’s forte and she nails it in this novel. I loved the mix of romance, secrets, past hindrances and family opposition that followed this couple. It wasn’t a standard pathway to love, but when it finally reached its destination, I was over the moon with the final result.
There are some fantastic themes covered in Burning Fields. From racial discrimination, sexism, misogyny, alcoholism, grief, loss, PTSD, addiction, forbidden love and family traditions/culture. If you are a lover of all things Italian expect to be dazzled by the scenes involving Tomas’ family and their delectable food, as well as traditional Italian customs. There is also a rich historical element to this novel. Sinclair explores fascism, the influence of Mussolini, the treatment of the Italian people in Australia and she highlights the experience of internment camps. Finally, I must mention the flooring secret twist towards the close of the novel, it made me gasp! I didn’t see it coming, but it added another great layer to this tale.
I know in reading a recent piece on this novel by the very talented author Alli Sinclair that she wanted to write a story that would resonate with readers today. Sinclair also intended for Burning Fields to spark some talk around the conditions for women, as well as immigrants and how these stigmas have changed or remained the same. Well Alli, I think you have fulfilled this expectation and more. I implore all readers to seek out Burning Fields, the latest historical fiction title from Alli Sinclair.
*I wish to thank Harlequin-Mira for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Burning Fields is book #53 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
Burning Fields, the latest novel from Australian author Alli Sinclair, melds together love, the past, war and sacrifice, all within the one involving tale. Sinclair takes her novel to the sugar cane fields of Queensland, just after the close of World War II. The tale that emerges is a powerful one that echoes Australia of times past.
Burning Fields takes the reader to a time of great flux, the year 1948. The action of this novel is set in the sugar cane fields of Northern Queensland. While many in this region, across the country and the globe are coming to terms with the devastation of the World War II, Rosie Stanton is making the journey home. After being away from the family sugar cane farm for a number of years while serving in the Australian Women’s Army Services, Rosie Stanton makes the difficult trek home. With her brothers lost to the war, Rosie is the only remaining Stanton left to help manage her family’s fledging farm. But Rosie struggles trying to assert her place at home again. Her father is unwilling to let her take on the reins of the property and she clashes with him over his attitude to the Italian family that neighbour their farm. But when Rosie’s father’s health takes a turn for the worst, Rosie steps up and begins to take over the operations of the family farm. Despite the misgivings and oppositions from many, including her own father, Rosie is determined to succeed. Linked to Rosie’s story is that of Tomas Conti, a young Italian man who has survived the war and now works with his family on their farm, which is situated next door to the Stanton farm. Tension and attraction arises between Rosie and Tomas when their worlds collide. However, the secrets each has, their past and the opposition from their respective families means this couple may never get their happy ever after.
Burning Fields marks another stellar new release that I have been eagerly anticipating with bated breath. I have loved each and every one of Alli Sinclair’s novels. She always manages to transport her reader to a different historical landscape and fully immerse her audience in her unfolding narrative. Burning Fields is no exception and I loved how Sinclair combined the Italian World War II experience, to Australia’s not too distant past, with our current climate. I was extremely impressed with Alli’s latest effort.
Burning Fields has a fantastic and highly engaging narrative structure. It works on a double time frame narrative and both storylines draw the reader in with complete ease. We first travel with Rosie, the leading lady of this tale, from Brisbane to her home town, which is situated in Northern Queensland, near the Piri River. We are also taken via flashbacks to Italy in the heat of the war, as we unearth Tomas Conti, the lead male protagonist in this novel’s past. Each storyline is carefully composed and rich in detail. I was fully immersed in each storyline that featured in Burning Fields.
All Sinclair shows us what she is made of and yet again composes a setting that is fully entrenched in the time and place of the locale in which she is presenting to her readership. I am always in awe of Sinclair’s ability to so easily transport her reader to a specific historical panorama and Burning Fields is no exception. We effortlessly move from the perilous and suspicious times of World War II Italy, to post World War II Australia. In moving the reader to the year 1948, Sinclair works to highlight the social climate of this time. She puts the spotlight on racial prejudice (particularly for Italians), expectations of women and the intense feelings of loss experienced by those on the home front. For me personally, the starring feature of this book was the focus on women’s history and the challenges women faced adjusting to roles on the domestic front after committing to jobs of great responsibility, or man’s work during the war. Sinclair does an absolutely superb job of outlining a feminist history of Australian women during the post World War II period.
Another wonderful feature of Burning Fields are the rich descriptions of the sugar cane fields and the farms that keep this industry ticking over. There are some healthy descriptions contained in this novel of the process of sugar cane farming, which I found enlightening. There were many times during my reading of this novel that I could feel myself walking through the cane fields. Sinclair has obviously completed her homework on this aspect of her novel and it shines through her novel.
Sinclair’s main character, Rosie Stanton was a real trailblazer and clearly well ahead of her time. This fierce heroine left quite the impression on me. I appreciated the secret that followed Rosie and why she left her lucrative position in Brisbane with the Women’s Army, to return to her family’s farm. Her first interaction with Tomas on the bus was spellbinding and I found myself completed invested in their potential romance from the very beginning. Romance is Sinclair’s forte and she nails it in this novel. I loved the mix of romance, secrets, past hindrances and family opposition that followed this couple. It wasn’t a standard pathway to love, but when it finally reached its destination, I was over the moon with the final result.
There are some fantastic themes covered in Burning Fields. From racial discrimination, sexism, misogyny, alcoholism, grief, loss, PTSD, addiction, forbidden love and family traditions/culture. If you are a lover of all things Italian expect to be dazzled by the scenes involving Tomas’ family and their delectable food, as well as traditional Italian customs. There is also a rich historical element to this novel. Sinclair explores fascism, the influence of Mussolini, the treatment of the Italian people in Australia and she highlights the experience of internment camps. Finally, I must mention the flooring secret twist towards the close of the novel, it made me gasp! I didn’t see it coming, but it added another great layer to this tale.
I know in reading a recent piece on this novel by the very talented author Alli Sinclair that she wanted to write a story that would resonate with readers today. Sinclair also intended for Burning Fields to spark some talk around the conditions for women, as well as immigrants and how these stigmas have changed or remained the same. Well Alli, I think you have fulfilled this expectation and more. I implore all readers to seek out Burning Fields, the latest historical fiction title from Alli Sinclair.
*I wish to thank Harlequin-Mira for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Burning Fields is book #53 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
August 5, 2018
3.5 Stars
I love Alli Sinclair’s books and was excited to read a book where one of my favourite authors joined one of my favourite genres, Australian Historical Fiction. However this book just didn’t do it for me. It was well written and the story-line was good but somewhere along the line the delivery fell flat.
The story revolves around Rosie, a third generation cane grower, and Tomas, newly immigrated from Italy.
The story touches on issues of racism, women’s worth, the effects of the war on family and PTSD.
Rosie was just too overbearing for my liking. I liked she was strong and stubborn but the way she told everyone off about opening up but held her own demons in irked me.
The story had too many weak characters that made it a little depressing.
I would still recommend it as a good read, just not fabulous, because it’s interesting to see how far we have and haven’t come in men’s attitude towards women.
This review is part of the Beauty & Lace bookclub
See the original bookclub review here
I love Alli Sinclair’s books and was excited to read a book where one of my favourite authors joined one of my favourite genres, Australian Historical Fiction. However this book just didn’t do it for me. It was well written and the story-line was good but somewhere along the line the delivery fell flat.
The story revolves around Rosie, a third generation cane grower, and Tomas, newly immigrated from Italy.
The story touches on issues of racism, women’s worth, the effects of the war on family and PTSD.
Rosie was just too overbearing for my liking. I liked she was strong and stubborn but the way she told everyone off about opening up but held her own demons in irked me.
The story had too many weak characters that made it a little depressing.
I would still recommend it as a good read, just not fabulous, because it’s interesting to see how far we have and haven’t come in men’s attitude towards women.
This review is part of the Beauty & Lace bookclub
See the original bookclub review here
May 29, 2018
A really interesting, well written story.
May 19, 2018
I was approached by author Alli Sinclair to review her latest novel, Burning Fields. I was interested in reading about Rosie, Alli Sinclair's independent heroine. So I requested an ARC which was sent to me by the publisher via Net Galley.
As the novel opens in the post-WWII era, Australian Rosie Stanton has been living on her own in Brisbane and is accustomed to making her own decisions, but harassment at her job has forced her to return to the family farm. I found her situation very relatable from the outset. Other American readers may have a similar reaction since the MeToo movement has increased awareness of workplace harassment. Sexist attitudes were pervasive during this period. Rosie had to fight for respect from her father and the surrounding community.
Some wonderful exceptions to the denigration of women were the hero, Tomas Conti, and his family who owned the farm next door to the Stantons. As Italians, they were victims of prejudice mainly resulting from Italy having been an enemy during WWII. Yet Rosie's father had more personal reasons for his animus against Italians. This anti-Italian bigotry was one of the obstacles in the path of HEA for Rosie and Tomas.
I thought that Burning Fields was a beautiful and moving romance. Rosie's feminism and the foregrounding of post-WWII antagonism against immigrants from countries that had been Axis Powers may cause readers to think about these issues.
For my complete review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2018/...
As the novel opens in the post-WWII era, Australian Rosie Stanton has been living on her own in Brisbane and is accustomed to making her own decisions, but harassment at her job has forced her to return to the family farm. I found her situation very relatable from the outset. Other American readers may have a similar reaction since the MeToo movement has increased awareness of workplace harassment. Sexist attitudes were pervasive during this period. Rosie had to fight for respect from her father and the surrounding community.
Some wonderful exceptions to the denigration of women were the hero, Tomas Conti, and his family who owned the farm next door to the Stantons. As Italians, they were victims of prejudice mainly resulting from Italy having been an enemy during WWII. Yet Rosie's father had more personal reasons for his animus against Italians. This anti-Italian bigotry was one of the obstacles in the path of HEA for Rosie and Tomas.
I thought that Burning Fields was a beautiful and moving romance. Rosie's feminism and the foregrounding of post-WWII antagonism against immigrants from countries that had been Axis Powers may cause readers to think about these issues.
For my complete review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2018/...
August 18, 2018
I enjoyed probably the first half of Burning Fields but unfortunately the book started to grate on my nerves from about the 50% mark.
I live in Cairns, so I was expecting to be captivated by the setting, a fictional sugar cane farming town of north Queensland (Sinclair does thank the Cairns historical society in her end notes).
However, the book was very dialogue driven and lacked the descriptive style to bring the beauty of the area to life on the page. This style caused the scenes set in Italy to feel quite underdone also.
I have come to expect food porn when Italian characters are featured but, even here, Sinclair doesn't deliver. They eat olives, cheese and bread. The Australians eat lamingtons. *yawn*
WW2 (and post WW2) is my favourite historical time period for books, but I didn't think this worked due to a lot of the language and actions of the characters being way more modern than they should for the time.
Sinclair introduces the themes of racism, PTSD, alcoholism, and gender inequality but again, our characters don’t address these issues like I would expect anyone to in 1948. Sinclair also needs to try and ‘show not tell’ a little more. The book’s themes seemed to be shoved down your throat instead of organically woven into the plot. (Our heroine's, Rosie, rambling about not being allowed in the pub was ridiculous, for example.)
Rosie and her leading man, Tomas, had a nice meet-cute in the beginning. Their romance after that though lacked any great chemistry. Especially since, essentially, this is a romance novel much more than any great piece of women’s literature.
As I said, this is quite a dialogue heavy book and in some cases, less could have been more. As in, there are whole chunks of dialogue where one character is telling another character a secret/past experience (essentially the dreaded info dump) that could have more effectively been told with a flashback.
I didn’t mind the flashbacks of Tomas’s time during the war in Italy. Again, however, there was too much of one character telling another what had happened instead of Sinclair actually writing a scene for the action. For example, the event where Tomas’s grandfather died should have been written as a scene instead of a throw away memory/conversation. (Ditto with Rosie’s Brisbane experience and her time with the Australian Women’s Army Service.)
As you can probably tell, I was pretty disappointed in this book. (I received my copy via the publisher and Net Galley and I must add there were quite a few spelling and grammar errors I hope were fixed up before its publication.) Only just a 3 out of 5 in my opinion.
I live in Cairns, so I was expecting to be captivated by the setting, a fictional sugar cane farming town of north Queensland (Sinclair does thank the Cairns historical society in her end notes).
However, the book was very dialogue driven and lacked the descriptive style to bring the beauty of the area to life on the page. This style caused the scenes set in Italy to feel quite underdone also.
I have come to expect food porn when Italian characters are featured but, even here, Sinclair doesn't deliver. They eat olives, cheese and bread. The Australians eat lamingtons. *yawn*
WW2 (and post WW2) is my favourite historical time period for books, but I didn't think this worked due to a lot of the language and actions of the characters being way more modern than they should for the time.
Sinclair introduces the themes of racism, PTSD, alcoholism, and gender inequality but again, our characters don’t address these issues like I would expect anyone to in 1948. Sinclair also needs to try and ‘show not tell’ a little more. The book’s themes seemed to be shoved down your throat instead of organically woven into the plot. (Our heroine's, Rosie, rambling about not being allowed in the pub was ridiculous, for example.)
Rosie and her leading man, Tomas, had a nice meet-cute in the beginning. Their romance after that though lacked any great chemistry. Especially since, essentially, this is a romance novel much more than any great piece of women’s literature.
As I said, this is quite a dialogue heavy book and in some cases, less could have been more. As in, there are whole chunks of dialogue where one character is telling another character a secret/past experience (essentially the dreaded info dump) that could have more effectively been told with a flashback.
I didn’t mind the flashbacks of Tomas’s time during the war in Italy. Again, however, there was too much of one character telling another what had happened instead of Sinclair actually writing a scene for the action. For example, the event where Tomas’s grandfather died should have been written as a scene instead of a throw away memory/conversation. (Ditto with Rosie’s Brisbane experience and her time with the Australian Women’s Army Service.)
As you can probably tell, I was pretty disappointed in this book. (I received my copy via the publisher and Net Galley and I must add there were quite a few spelling and grammar errors I hope were fixed up before its publication.) Only just a 3 out of 5 in my opinion.
May 28, 2018
I enjoyed Burning Fields so much, it really was such a treat to read. Alli Sinclair is a writer who never fails to deliver a great story, and while this newest release of hers is a little different to her previous novels, established fans can rest assured that it contains all of the usual Alli magic. For those who have not read any of Alli’s novels, this is a great one to start with.
I always feel a connection to the stories Alli writes. In this instance, it was the setting. I spent my teenage years living on a Queensland cane farm. It’s common for cane farms to have more than one house, harking back to the days when a farm supported multiple generations. These days, only one generation will usually work a farm and some farmers even live in town, rather than on the farm itself. That was the case for us, we were renting a farm house that was no longer needed, but the cane was at our back fence, and the work sheds were just outside our kitchen window, so we were very much in the thick of it. That roar of a cane fire, the snapping and popping, the sweet smell; it’s like no other sort of fire, the way it rears up and then burns itself out. While the town I was in was not as far north as the one in this novel, it still had a high population of Italian immigrants; my own husband is third generation. This novel was filled with so many familiar things, the nostalgia had me reading long into the night and over breakfast the next day. I loved Burning Fields and it’s going to remain a firm favourite of mine.
Peopled with a cast of all sorts, Burning Fields is a novel that is so rich in atmosphere and authenticity. From the traditionalist father/progressive daughter dynamic to the ease of best friends who have known each other forever, brothers and sisters, men and their Nonnas; the relationships and character interactions were second to none. I adored Rosie, her big heart, her progressivism, and her willingness to work to secure her family’s legacy, she was such a great heroine to follow. She never once frustrated me, I was championing her the whole way, no matter what, or who, she was turning her hand to.
I really enjoyed Tomas’s story and the way it was presented. War complicates so much, and for those who had to live under constant threat, their stories all no doubt contain many shades of grey. For countries such as Italy, who switched sides during the war and were also occupied by both the Allies and the Nazis, their people were put under enormous strain to resist and conform, in equal measure. I had so much admiration for Tomas and for Nonna, with her secret network of women. That’s a story I’d love to read more on! I thought Alli did so well with piecing together a valid picture of Australia post WWII. The roles of women reverting, the racism and suspicion attached to immigrants from certain nationalities, the contention associated with mixed marriages, men suffering from survivor guilt and PTSD expected to just pick up the reins and get on with it; all of these issues were woven tightly into the narrative and explored with thorough authenticity.
While Burning Fields is driven by a love story, it’s very firmly an historical fiction, an exploration of multi-cultural history within Australia against a background of social change. This novel has wide appeal and I will be recommending it highly far and wide.
Thanks is extended to Harper Collins Publishers Australia for providing me with a copy of Burning Fields for review.
I always feel a connection to the stories Alli writes. In this instance, it was the setting. I spent my teenage years living on a Queensland cane farm. It’s common for cane farms to have more than one house, harking back to the days when a farm supported multiple generations. These days, only one generation will usually work a farm and some farmers even live in town, rather than on the farm itself. That was the case for us, we were renting a farm house that was no longer needed, but the cane was at our back fence, and the work sheds were just outside our kitchen window, so we were very much in the thick of it. That roar of a cane fire, the snapping and popping, the sweet smell; it’s like no other sort of fire, the way it rears up and then burns itself out. While the town I was in was not as far north as the one in this novel, it still had a high population of Italian immigrants; my own husband is third generation. This novel was filled with so many familiar things, the nostalgia had me reading long into the night and over breakfast the next day. I loved Burning Fields and it’s going to remain a firm favourite of mine.
Peopled with a cast of all sorts, Burning Fields is a novel that is so rich in atmosphere and authenticity. From the traditionalist father/progressive daughter dynamic to the ease of best friends who have known each other forever, brothers and sisters, men and their Nonnas; the relationships and character interactions were second to none. I adored Rosie, her big heart, her progressivism, and her willingness to work to secure her family’s legacy, she was such a great heroine to follow. She never once frustrated me, I was championing her the whole way, no matter what, or who, she was turning her hand to.
I really enjoyed Tomas’s story and the way it was presented. War complicates so much, and for those who had to live under constant threat, their stories all no doubt contain many shades of grey. For countries such as Italy, who switched sides during the war and were also occupied by both the Allies and the Nazis, their people were put under enormous strain to resist and conform, in equal measure. I had so much admiration for Tomas and for Nonna, with her secret network of women. That’s a story I’d love to read more on! I thought Alli did so well with piecing together a valid picture of Australia post WWII. The roles of women reverting, the racism and suspicion attached to immigrants from certain nationalities, the contention associated with mixed marriages, men suffering from survivor guilt and PTSD expected to just pick up the reins and get on with it; all of these issues were woven tightly into the narrative and explored with thorough authenticity.
While Burning Fields is driven by a love story, it’s very firmly an historical fiction, an exploration of multi-cultural history within Australia against a background of social change. This novel has wide appeal and I will be recommending it highly far and wide.
Thanks is extended to Harper Collins Publishers Australia for providing me with a copy of Burning Fields for review.
January 13, 2019
I found this beautiful, captivating read hard to put down! Set after the Second World War in North Queensland – a time of change and hard work, Burning Fields was able to effortlessly take me to another time and place. Connecting with the characters in books these days I sometimes feel is lacking, but with this book I loved them all from the very start. Loved the story of Rosalie and Tomas and also Tomas’ back story during the war. What a treat this book was, devouring in a couple of days, and loving every page of it.
August 5, 2018
Burning Fields by Alli Sinclair is a new story set in the era of 1948 in the sugar-cane fields and farming area of North Queensland.
I really enjoyed this story, hearing about sugar-cane, the work involved in this type of farming, it's dilemmas and setbacks.
This is historical fiction filled with adventure for all involved.
It'll touch your heart and you'll fall in love with most of the characters; and some who you'll dislike.
The novel talks about fascism, our history of when the Italians first came out here to Australia to sugar-cane farm in North Queensland and the conflict that often took place.
On a lighter note, it has a 'touch of Italian romance' and I'll just have to find a recipe for the Sicilian Apple Cake mentioned and made in the story!
I really enjoyed this story, hearing about sugar-cane, the work involved in this type of farming, it's dilemmas and setbacks.
This is historical fiction filled with adventure for all involved.
It'll touch your heart and you'll fall in love with most of the characters; and some who you'll dislike.
The novel talks about fascism, our history of when the Italians first came out here to Australia to sugar-cane farm in North Queensland and the conflict that often took place.
On a lighter note, it has a 'touch of Italian romance' and I'll just have to find a recipe for the Sicilian Apple Cake mentioned and made in the story!
June 9, 2018
This one is set in times of change the second world war has not long ended and there are big changes, men returning home from things that no one should have had to go through woman who have worked tirelessly keeping their countries going are now sent back to the kitchens and Rosie Stanton is on her way home from Brisbane to the family’s cane farm in Piri River Northern Queensland and there will be many upheavals to come. This is a compelling, moving story that had me hooked from page one, this is one not to be missed.
Change is hard for most people and Rosie sees a lot of changes when she arrives home unannounced to the family home she has lost one brother in the war and one is still missing her parents are doing their best and she is home to stay after losing her secretarial job in Brisbane, Rosie joined up in the Australian Woman’s Army during the war and is a very independent woman and finds it hard to be pushed back all the time because she is a woman, on the bus trip home she meets and Italian man on his way to join his family on a neighbouring cane farm will this change Rosie’s life? ‘
Tomas Conti has finally arrived in Australia to join his family so much has happened to him during the war and he is a different person will he ever find true happiness again? Meeting his new neighbour Rosie on that bus might be just what he needs to end the turmoil he goes through.
This is a story that I didn’t want to put down a beautiful so very well deserved romance between Tomas and Rosie but so much more as well so many underlying issues to overcome and I love how Rosie coped with it all her strength and caring comes full force wow what a woman and to see her get her man left me feeling very happy. Tomas is such a hero the things he did for his country helped make him what he is today. MS Sinclair you bought these issues and these wonderful people to life for me on the pages and left me feeling good that they did make a difference in the end with what they went through thank you for a fantastic story. This is one that I highly recommend I did love it.
Change is hard for most people and Rosie sees a lot of changes when she arrives home unannounced to the family home she has lost one brother in the war and one is still missing her parents are doing their best and she is home to stay after losing her secretarial job in Brisbane, Rosie joined up in the Australian Woman’s Army during the war and is a very independent woman and finds it hard to be pushed back all the time because she is a woman, on the bus trip home she meets and Italian man on his way to join his family on a neighbouring cane farm will this change Rosie’s life? ‘
Tomas Conti has finally arrived in Australia to join his family so much has happened to him during the war and he is a different person will he ever find true happiness again? Meeting his new neighbour Rosie on that bus might be just what he needs to end the turmoil he goes through.
This is a story that I didn’t want to put down a beautiful so very well deserved romance between Tomas and Rosie but so much more as well so many underlying issues to overcome and I love how Rosie coped with it all her strength and caring comes full force wow what a woman and to see her get her man left me feeling very happy. Tomas is such a hero the things he did for his country helped make him what he is today. MS Sinclair you bought these issues and these wonderful people to life for me on the pages and left me feeling good that they did make a difference in the end with what they went through thank you for a fantastic story. This is one that I highly recommend I did love it.
July 21, 2018
I really enjoy Alli Sinclair’s books and this one is no exception. In some ways quite a lot of this story is not unfamiliar to me, even though I’ve never lived on a cane farm or in northern Queensland. But I grew up in northern NSW and holidays we took were often to southern QLD. Up around the border is a huge cane growing area and the fields and smell of the burning cane are really familiar to me. Also, as I’ve mentioned many times before, my husband is a first-generation born Australian. Like the Contis in this book, his family are from Sicily and both his parents came here in the 50s after WWII had ended but when attitudes towards Italians could still be deeply hostile. My mother-in-law has been quite upfront about some of the negativity she experienced working in a shop in a small country town. She was only a very young girl during the war, but for many people that didn’t matter.
Rosie Stanton has been living and working in Brisbane but has now returned to the family farm. One of her brothers is confirmed lost in the war, the other believed to also have been killed. Rosie has a head for figures, a way with mechanics but her father doesn’t seem to want her back on the family farm, constantly urging her to return to Brisbane. Rosie is desperate to help however, hurt by her father’s rejection of her and her skills. If she was a man, surely her father wouldn’t be treating her like this. He doesn’t want her anywhere near his workers, anywhere near the books. But Rosie is nothing if not determined and she’s passionate about making the farm her life.
Rosie meets Tomas Conti on the bus back to her family town. The Contis have purchased the farm next door to Rosie’s family and Tomas is late joining them. The two hit it off quite well although there are some complications in the form of her father’s hostility towards Italians and Tomas’ Nonna, who warns Rosie off falling for her grandson. Rosie wonders if it’s because Nonna doesn’t find her good enough for Tomas because after all, who is good enough for their grandson in a Nonna’s eyes?
There was so much I enjoyed about this but the role of women was definitely at the forefront. Rosie is so clever and capable and she really wants to be involved in the family farm but the way in which her father shuts her down time and time again is so frustrating and hurtful for her. Actually her father was making me really frustrated but his sharpness about her not being involved was so at odds with other parts of his character that I was really wondering what was going on. I loved the way it played out, that all was not as it seemed, and that there was so much more to it than Rosie herself realised. She had lots of progressive ideas and was a really proactive person. I found her determination to save the family farm and her tenaciousness really admirable and it really did seem that Rosie would be able to accomplish whatever she set her mind to. She has endless patience with both her parents as well, no matter how frustrating and upsetting they are.
I liked her friendship with Tomas as well, the two of them seek each other out as a way almost of winding down and their walks and talks are really enjoyable. Tomas’ past is not unpredictable but that didn’t lessen the impact and it’s obvious how it has affected him. But I also liked that a lot in this book seemed to symbolise new beginnings – Rosie is undergoing a new beginning even though she’s returning to her childhood home. Tomas is undergoing a new beginning by moving across the world to an entirely different country. Rosie’s parents face a new beginning where they must finally share the knowledge they’ve carried for years and Rosie and Tomas are potentially embarking on a new and shared beginning.
This was a really lovely read, a great way to pass an afternoon.
***A copy of this novel was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Rosie Stanton has been living and working in Brisbane but has now returned to the family farm. One of her brothers is confirmed lost in the war, the other believed to also have been killed. Rosie has a head for figures, a way with mechanics but her father doesn’t seem to want her back on the family farm, constantly urging her to return to Brisbane. Rosie is desperate to help however, hurt by her father’s rejection of her and her skills. If she was a man, surely her father wouldn’t be treating her like this. He doesn’t want her anywhere near his workers, anywhere near the books. But Rosie is nothing if not determined and she’s passionate about making the farm her life.
Rosie meets Tomas Conti on the bus back to her family town. The Contis have purchased the farm next door to Rosie’s family and Tomas is late joining them. The two hit it off quite well although there are some complications in the form of her father’s hostility towards Italians and Tomas’ Nonna, who warns Rosie off falling for her grandson. Rosie wonders if it’s because Nonna doesn’t find her good enough for Tomas because after all, who is good enough for their grandson in a Nonna’s eyes?
There was so much I enjoyed about this but the role of women was definitely at the forefront. Rosie is so clever and capable and she really wants to be involved in the family farm but the way in which her father shuts her down time and time again is so frustrating and hurtful for her. Actually her father was making me really frustrated but his sharpness about her not being involved was so at odds with other parts of his character that I was really wondering what was going on. I loved the way it played out, that all was not as it seemed, and that there was so much more to it than Rosie herself realised. She had lots of progressive ideas and was a really proactive person. I found her determination to save the family farm and her tenaciousness really admirable and it really did seem that Rosie would be able to accomplish whatever she set her mind to. She has endless patience with both her parents as well, no matter how frustrating and upsetting they are.
I liked her friendship with Tomas as well, the two of them seek each other out as a way almost of winding down and their walks and talks are really enjoyable. Tomas’ past is not unpredictable but that didn’t lessen the impact and it’s obvious how it has affected him. But I also liked that a lot in this book seemed to symbolise new beginnings – Rosie is undergoing a new beginning even though she’s returning to her childhood home. Tomas is undergoing a new beginning by moving across the world to an entirely different country. Rosie’s parents face a new beginning where they must finally share the knowledge they’ve carried for years and Rosie and Tomas are potentially embarking on a new and shared beginning.
This was a really lovely read, a great way to pass an afternoon.
***A copy of this novel was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
January 1, 2021
Set in the northern Queensland sugar cane fields in 1948 BURNING FIELDS by Alli Sinclair beautifully tells the love story of Rosie Stanton and Tomas Conti. Rosie is struggling to settle back into to life in Australia after serving during World War II, and trying to convince her father to allow her to help out on the family sugar cane field is next to impossible. Tomas is trying to become accustomed to life in Australia after suffering through Mussolini's terror of Italy and Tomas' hometown of Sicily.
I fell in love with Tomas from the very first chapter! He was perfectly mysterious but also gentlemanly and kind, just like I imagine many Italian men of his era to be. I could also very well relate to Rosie and her frustration at being expected to fall back into the sexist role expected of females in Australia back then after working so hard during the war. Post-war Australia really is a fascinating period of history, and I think Sinclair has perfectly captured many of the issues everyday Australians and immigrants faced during that time. 5 stars!
I fell in love with Tomas from the very first chapter! He was perfectly mysterious but also gentlemanly and kind, just like I imagine many Italian men of his era to be. I could also very well relate to Rosie and her frustration at being expected to fall back into the sexist role expected of females in Australia back then after working so hard during the war. Post-war Australia really is a fascinating period of history, and I think Sinclair has perfectly captured many of the issues everyday Australians and immigrants faced during that time. 5 stars!
June 15, 2018
3.5 * https://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogsp...
‘Sometimes the biggest battles are the ones we have inside us.’
Burning Fields is a historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alli Sinclair. Having previously enjoyed Alli’s other books (HERE) it was a fresh change to find her delve into the sugar cane fields of far north Queensland just after the conclusion of WWII. Although there is a love story here, I would suggest that the stronger plot is that of Australia’s multicultural history and the background to social and cultural changes that were occuring at the time.
There are also flashbacks to fill in details regarding Tomas’s thoughts and actions in Italy during the war. I thought this was well done and a clever way to backfill information. Using this information, combined with events in Queensland straight after the war, helped to demonstrate how complicated war is - none more so than for Italian citizens who found themselves switching alliances part way and the terrible angst and pressure it placed on those who remained to either conform or resist. As in the case of Tomas, nothing is as it seems - and for good reason.
There is much to appreciate about this read. Everything from: wartime Italy, Italian family bonds (love Nonna), to life as an immigrant in ‘White Australia’ especially in the far rural reaches of the Queensland cane fields - racism was rife. I loved the descriptions of town life and the distances and strong community that was conveyed. Alli also touched on the struggle for women post war and the expectation of returning to their prewar roles after having contributed so much for the war effort. The attitude towards women, not only sexism in a professional capacity, but also during social circumstances.
I congratulate Alli for tackling some topical issues - not only of the past but seen through present eyes, as it will surely would stimulate conversation. These issues set against a enticing location, combined with engaging relationships - Tomas and Rosie, Nonna and Rosie’s mother and father - will provide a most entertaining story for readers.
Tomas guided her hand upwards and rested it over her heart ...
‘This is where home is. I have spent too long trying to figure out what home means to me and I have finally come to the realisation that your home is wherever you feel love.’
‘Not Italy?’
‘Not Italy. Not Australia. Not the moon. Here,’ he squeezed her hand that still lay over her heart.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Sometimes the biggest battles are the ones we have inside us.’
Burning Fields is a historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alli Sinclair. Having previously enjoyed Alli’s other books (HERE) it was a fresh change to find her delve into the sugar cane fields of far north Queensland just after the conclusion of WWII. Although there is a love story here, I would suggest that the stronger plot is that of Australia’s multicultural history and the background to social and cultural changes that were occuring at the time.
There are also flashbacks to fill in details regarding Tomas’s thoughts and actions in Italy during the war. I thought this was well done and a clever way to backfill information. Using this information, combined with events in Queensland straight after the war, helped to demonstrate how complicated war is - none more so than for Italian citizens who found themselves switching alliances part way and the terrible angst and pressure it placed on those who remained to either conform or resist. As in the case of Tomas, nothing is as it seems - and for good reason.
There is much to appreciate about this read. Everything from: wartime Italy, Italian family bonds (love Nonna), to life as an immigrant in ‘White Australia’ especially in the far rural reaches of the Queensland cane fields - racism was rife. I loved the descriptions of town life and the distances and strong community that was conveyed. Alli also touched on the struggle for women post war and the expectation of returning to their prewar roles after having contributed so much for the war effort. The attitude towards women, not only sexism in a professional capacity, but also during social circumstances.
I congratulate Alli for tackling some topical issues - not only of the past but seen through present eyes, as it will surely would stimulate conversation. These issues set against a enticing location, combined with engaging relationships - Tomas and Rosie, Nonna and Rosie’s mother and father - will provide a most entertaining story for readers.
Tomas guided her hand upwards and rested it over her heart ...
‘This is where home is. I have spent too long trying to figure out what home means to me and I have finally come to the realisation that your home is wherever you feel love.’
‘Not Italy?’
‘Not Italy. Not Australia. Not the moon. Here,’ he squeezed her hand that still lay over her heart.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 29, 2018
Set in north Queensland post WWII, Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields is a stunning, evocative novel that rewrites the narrative for Australian themed historical romance.
As with her previous novels, Burning Fields dives deeply into the historical setting, in this case of both the north QLD cane fields and war-torn Italy, while maintaining strong characterisation, and steady plot development. A Sinclair novel isn't complete without what is becoming in my opinion Alli's trademark focus on woman-led narrative detailing the challenges and hard-won advances of women of that particular time period.
Burning Fields female protagonist Rosie Stanton is a strong-willed woman who is clearly ahead of her time. Having served in the Australian Women's Army and arguably having more worldly experience than her father sets the scene quite early. She is a formidable character, steadfast yet compassionate and so delicately vulnerable.
The story of Tomas Conti, an Italian immigrant who is struggling to find his feet in a new set of circumstance is Australia is authentic and touching. Certainly much research went into understanding the difficulties and prejudices faced by Italian post-WWII immigrants.
Love, family, accepting the past in order to embrace your future, and believing in yourself are just some of the qualities that shine through in Burning Fields. This is absolutely a must-read.
If you liked Judy Nunn's depiction of the harsh north Queensland terrain and cane fields in Elianne you'll adore Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields.
As with her previous novels, Burning Fields dives deeply into the historical setting, in this case of both the north QLD cane fields and war-torn Italy, while maintaining strong characterisation, and steady plot development. A Sinclair novel isn't complete without what is becoming in my opinion Alli's trademark focus on woman-led narrative detailing the challenges and hard-won advances of women of that particular time period.
Burning Fields female protagonist Rosie Stanton is a strong-willed woman who is clearly ahead of her time. Having served in the Australian Women's Army and arguably having more worldly experience than her father sets the scene quite early. She is a formidable character, steadfast yet compassionate and so delicately vulnerable.
The story of Tomas Conti, an Italian immigrant who is struggling to find his feet in a new set of circumstance is Australia is authentic and touching. Certainly much research went into understanding the difficulties and prejudices faced by Italian post-WWII immigrants.
Love, family, accepting the past in order to embrace your future, and believing in yourself are just some of the qualities that shine through in Burning Fields. This is absolutely a must-read.
If you liked Judy Nunn's depiction of the harsh north Queensland terrain and cane fields in Elianne you'll adore Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields.
November 17, 2018
I liked the first half of the book much more than the second half, which started to have way too many things happening and character development that I didn't believe. While the love story was interesting, the dialogue was terrible, e.g. "Love me...love me now."
June 19, 2018
Full review at: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
Burning Fields is a bit of a change of direction for Australian author Alli Sinclair in that it is set right here in Australia, in the time following World War II.
Sinclair has taken a time of great upheaval for women and explored what this period meant, the war was over and many men were returning home; needing to adjust to life away from the war and often take back their pre-war jobs. Women who had stepped up during the war effort and worked were now expected to return to their traditional roles. Not all women were happy to step back into their previous roles.
Rosie Stanton has been in Brisbane but an unexpected crumbling of the life she had built sees her return to the family farm in the small town of Piri River. She wants to help run the farm but some old-fashioned attitudes are difficult to shift now that the war is over.
Burning Fields is a story that explores many of the issues faced in the post-war days from farming succession, love, loss, discrimination, the suspicion of those different to us, addiction, loyalty and family.
Alli Sinclair has done it again, she has written a story that brings together two very different people, two very different places and two times that may only span 5 years but when it comes to times of war 5 years can be a lifetime.
Burning Fields is a story that I really enjoyed, I liked the slow unfolding of the mysteries and I was firmly on the side of Rosie, cheering her on to get the position she so desperately wanted, and was perfect for.
It was interesting to explore a post-war community that was on one hand quite multicultural but at the same time prejudiced.
Burning Fields brings together very different worlds for healing, moving forward and new growth in the post-war canefields of northern Queensland. A story with a strong-willed and passionate heroine I couldn’t help but love
Burning Fields is a bit of a change of direction for Australian author Alli Sinclair in that it is set right here in Australia, in the time following World War II.
Sinclair has taken a time of great upheaval for women and explored what this period meant, the war was over and many men were returning home; needing to adjust to life away from the war and often take back their pre-war jobs. Women who had stepped up during the war effort and worked were now expected to return to their traditional roles. Not all women were happy to step back into their previous roles.
Rosie Stanton has been in Brisbane but an unexpected crumbling of the life she had built sees her return to the family farm in the small town of Piri River. She wants to help run the farm but some old-fashioned attitudes are difficult to shift now that the war is over.
Burning Fields is a story that explores many of the issues faced in the post-war days from farming succession, love, loss, discrimination, the suspicion of those different to us, addiction, loyalty and family.
Alli Sinclair has done it again, she has written a story that brings together two very different people, two very different places and two times that may only span 5 years but when it comes to times of war 5 years can be a lifetime.
Burning Fields is a story that I really enjoyed, I liked the slow unfolding of the mysteries and I was firmly on the side of Rosie, cheering her on to get the position she so desperately wanted, and was perfect for.
It was interesting to explore a post-war community that was on one hand quite multicultural but at the same time prejudiced.
Burning Fields brings together very different worlds for healing, moving forward and new growth in the post-war canefields of northern Queensland. A story with a strong-willed and passionate heroine I couldn’t help but love
June 10, 2018
Another great read by Alli Sinclair giving a 1948 insight into the North Queensland cane fields, the variety of nationalities who worked them, some of whom had fled the war in Europe and their own countries. The Romeo/Juliet romance which brings to mind the question once again: why can't we celebrate our similarities instead of marking our differences. With my local cane fields beginning just a street or two away from me, this story had a significance to me and the amazing history I have learned since living in cane country. Thank you Alli Sinclair, I love your work.
May 17, 2018
I really enjoyed this historical fiction set in Australia after WWII, it explores the treatment of immigrants, especially Italians who suddenly became the enemy during the war. It also explores small town behaviour and what is real in times of trouble. I loved the dual timeline of Tomas and what he had been through during the war, and I enjoyed the relationship between him and Rosie that emerged despite her father's distaste for Italians. I definitely recommend this great book by Australian author Alli Sinclair
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a copy in return for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a copy in return for an honest review.
April 23, 2018
I received an advanced reading copy of this book. Thanks Alli!!!
One of the things I really loved about this book is that it was way more than just a romance. As per all of Alli's books, we slip back in time to understand more of the current story. This time, however, her book is set in Australia - far north Queensland in the sugar cane fields. It is just after WWII when the women are all returned to their normal lives after being part of something important with the War Effort.
Rosie has returned home to her parent's farm in an endeavour to be a part of something bigger than herself, whilst escaping something that happened to her in Brisbane. Tomas is joining his family from Italy, also escaping something from his past and attempting to forge a future in his new adopted country. There is much to keep them apart - racism, their past and their families. Will they be strong enough together to find themselves a future?
Secrets are found constantly throughout this book - it keeps you reading to find out how this will affect our main characters. These secrets also tear at your heartstrings as you fall in love with Rosie and Tomas and their heartache becomes yours.
This is a lovely snapshot of our past, as well as our future, with the strength of character that pushes Rosie to be who she becomes in spite of the mindset of 1948 Australia. She gives strength to those around her and reminds us that we can be who we want to be. If she can do it with so much to fight against, we can do it in this easier time.
Love and family. Forging a future. Building on the past. These are all key themes within Burning Fields and I urge you to give it a read. This lovely story will captivate you and have you asking for more of Rosie and Tomas and their story.
One of the things I really loved about this book is that it was way more than just a romance. As per all of Alli's books, we slip back in time to understand more of the current story. This time, however, her book is set in Australia - far north Queensland in the sugar cane fields. It is just after WWII when the women are all returned to their normal lives after being part of something important with the War Effort.
Rosie has returned home to her parent's farm in an endeavour to be a part of something bigger than herself, whilst escaping something that happened to her in Brisbane. Tomas is joining his family from Italy, also escaping something from his past and attempting to forge a future in his new adopted country. There is much to keep them apart - racism, their past and their families. Will they be strong enough together to find themselves a future?
Secrets are found constantly throughout this book - it keeps you reading to find out how this will affect our main characters. These secrets also tear at your heartstrings as you fall in love with Rosie and Tomas and their heartache becomes yours.
This is a lovely snapshot of our past, as well as our future, with the strength of character that pushes Rosie to be who she becomes in spite of the mindset of 1948 Australia. She gives strength to those around her and reminds us that we can be who we want to be. If she can do it with so much to fight against, we can do it in this easier time.
Love and family. Forging a future. Building on the past. These are all key themes within Burning Fields and I urge you to give it a read. This lovely story will captivate you and have you asking for more of Rosie and Tomas and their story.
July 30, 2018
Thank you Beauty & Lace and Harlequin Mira for my copy of Burning Fields by Alli Sinclair in return for an honest review.
I must admit, I'm conflicted by this book. It was a wonderful story and the author has very obviously put in a LOT of research. The characters were authentic and believable and the story takes the reader back to a by-gone era and makes you really feel as if you are there. However, the story seemed to come off a bit 'preach-y' in places as if the author was trying to instruct or educate you and then placing the words in the characters mouths/thoughts. I know this is what author's do but the delivery fell flat, it did come across as stilted in places and almost as a school lesson. Despite this, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone.
As the author states in the Author Note "it is interesting to see how far, or how little in some instances, we have come". The author has definitely succeeded in this endeavour as the book makes you think and you can't help comparing life then to life now.
I must admit, I'm conflicted by this book. It was a wonderful story and the author has very obviously put in a LOT of research. The characters were authentic and believable and the story takes the reader back to a by-gone era and makes you really feel as if you are there. However, the story seemed to come off a bit 'preach-y' in places as if the author was trying to instruct or educate you and then placing the words in the characters mouths/thoughts. I know this is what author's do but the delivery fell flat, it did come across as stilted in places and almost as a school lesson. Despite this, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone.
As the author states in the Author Note "it is interesting to see how far, or how little in some instances, we have come". The author has definitely succeeded in this endeavour as the book makes you think and you can't help comparing life then to life now.
March 24, 2019
When a female war worker returns to a rural hometown in the aftermath of World War II, there is bound to be conflict between her new outlook and the older, more traditional ways. In Alli Sinclair’s Burning Fields, there is that and more. Part homecoming story, part coming of age, with a family secret revealed.
With her brothers lost to the war, Rosie Stanton is determined to help her family’s farm thrive. Soon meeting and feeling a pull towards a new neighbor, Tomas Conti, Rosie finds herself coming up against her father’s unwillingness to allow her to do anything but “women’s work” and his prejudice against Italians. And Tomas faces his own challenges, as a new man in town enflames anti-Italian sentiment in his vendetta against Tomas.
While Rosie finds acceptance and joy with the neighboring Conti family, and love with Tomas, this is more than a romance. It is also a story that illuminates the rampant sexism and racism of the time. While other novels have served a similar purpose, Burning Fields also brings to light the “White Australia” policy that would have affected families like the Contis.
Suitable for Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult fiction readers who enjoy Historical Fiction with chaste romance, Burning Fields is a bit of a gem when it comes to modern fiction set in the post-World War II era.
I’ve been wanting to read more from Australian and New Zealand authors, and I am happy to have discovered Alli Sinclair. I’m looking forward to reading more from her.
This review refers to a digital galley read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
With her brothers lost to the war, Rosie Stanton is determined to help her family’s farm thrive. Soon meeting and feeling a pull towards a new neighbor, Tomas Conti, Rosie finds herself coming up against her father’s unwillingness to allow her to do anything but “women’s work” and his prejudice against Italians. And Tomas faces his own challenges, as a new man in town enflames anti-Italian sentiment in his vendetta against Tomas.
While Rosie finds acceptance and joy with the neighboring Conti family, and love with Tomas, this is more than a romance. It is also a story that illuminates the rampant sexism and racism of the time. While other novels have served a similar purpose, Burning Fields also brings to light the “White Australia” policy that would have affected families like the Contis.
Suitable for Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult fiction readers who enjoy Historical Fiction with chaste romance, Burning Fields is a bit of a gem when it comes to modern fiction set in the post-World War II era.
I’ve been wanting to read more from Australian and New Zealand authors, and I am happy to have discovered Alli Sinclair. I’m looking forward to reading more from her.
This review refers to a digital galley read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 29, 2018
Set in north Queensland post WWII, Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields is a stunning, evocative novel that rewrites the narrative for Australian themed historical romance.
As with her previous novels, Burning Fields dives deeply into the historical setting, in this case of both the north QLD cane fields and war-torn Italy, while maintaining strong characterisation, and steady plot development. A Sinclair novel isn't complete without what is becoming in my opinion Alli's trademark focus on woman-led narrative detailing the challenges and hard-won advances of women of that particular time period.
Burning Fields female protagonist Rosie Stanton is a strong-willed woman who is clearly ahead of her time. Having served in the Australian Women's Army and arguably having more worldly experience than her father sets the scene quite early. She is a formidable character, steadfast yet compassionate and so delicately vulnerable.
The story of Tomas Conti, an Italian immigrant who is struggling to find his feet in a new set of circumstance is Australia is authentic and touching. Certainly much research went into understanding the difficulties and prejudices faced by Italian post-WWII immigrants.
Love, family, accepting the past in order to embrace your future, and believing in yourself are just some of the qualities that shine through in Burning Fields. This is absolutely a must-read.
If you liked Judy Nunn's depiction of the harsh north Queensland terrain and cane fields in Elianne you'll adore Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields.
As with her previous novels, Burning Fields dives deeply into the historical setting, in this case of both the north QLD cane fields and war-torn Italy, while maintaining strong characterisation, and steady plot development. A Sinclair novel isn't complete without what is becoming in my opinion Alli's trademark focus on woman-led narrative detailing the challenges and hard-won advances of women of that particular time period.
Burning Fields female protagonist Rosie Stanton is a strong-willed woman who is clearly ahead of her time. Having served in the Australian Women's Army and arguably having more worldly experience than her father sets the scene quite early. She is a formidable character, steadfast yet compassionate and so delicately vulnerable.
The story of Tomas Conti, an Italian immigrant who is struggling to find his feet in a new set of circumstance is Australia is authentic and touching. Certainly much research went into understanding the difficulties and prejudices faced by Italian post-WWII immigrants.
Love, family, accepting the past in order to embrace your future, and believing in yourself are just some of the qualities that shine through in Burning Fields. This is absolutely a must-read.
If you liked Judy Nunn's depiction of the harsh north Queensland terrain and cane fields in Elianne you'll adore Alli Sinclair's Burning Fields.
May 31, 2018
Alli always gets me in the feels, I fell in love with Tomas's past and the way rosie and Tomas connected with each other everything was so well written. Everything about this novel had me in awe including the way Tomas confessed his love to rosie. Alli you did not disappoint me at all 10/10!
March 21, 2019
A young woman returns to the family farm after a stint in the big city. As she works through the challenges that threaten her family’s livelihood, she learns to trust her instincts and stand up for herself in a male-dominated world. Author Alli Sinclair brings the Australian sugarcane farming community to life in the somewhat uneven but fairly enjoyable book Burning Fields.
In the northern Queensland community of Piri River, Rosie Stanton comes home to regain her composure. After serving the efforts of Australian soldiers in Brisbane during World War II, Rosie thought she could continue life in the big city. An uncomfortable encounter convinces her to go home to the family sugarcane farm. She knows life on the farm; she understands it. No one, she thinks, will try to take advantage of her there.
While the last sentiment may be true, Rosie has forgotten that farm life is still driven by men—the same problem she found in Brisbane. Never mind that her father is having trouble keeping the financial records straight, and Rosie suspects one of the farmhands of fixing the books. Because of her gender, Rosie is told, she needs to keep her opinions to herself.
She’s had enough of cowing in a corner, however, and she practically bullies her father into letting her take over day-to-day operations. When he suffers a health setback and the suspicious farmhand turns out to be just as rotten as Rosie guessed, she steps into the role of leader. Men challenge her along the way, but she holds her ground.
Not all of the men in her life think of her as dimwitted or incapable, however. Tomas Conti, a newly-arrived Italian immigrant, finds Rosie charming. He’s one of the few people in town to call her by her full name—Rosalie—and they share common ground on the fact that their families’ farms sit adjacent to one another. It doesn’t hurt that Tomas is incredibly handsome, and he exudes a mysterious air. Rosie knows he’s hiding something, but the secret only makes her more curious about him.
A strong anti-Italian viewpoint runs through Piri River, however. It’s well-known that for a time the Italians fought with the Axis powers during the war, and many of the families lost loved ones in battle. They eye all Italians with suspicion, Rosie’s father included. As she fights to save her family’s farm from financial ruin and also to protect her growing friendship with Tomas, Rosie learns she’ll have to juggle trials she never imagined possible.
Author Alli Sinclair does an admirable job of highlighting the problem of prejudice in Piri River. While many American readers might see racism through a particular lens, Sinclair reminds readers that hatred exists in other places. It’s not a uniquely North American problem.
Her descriptions of Australian farmland will certainly charm readers. Main character Rosie doesn’t dwell on her time in Brisbane, instead focusing on Piri River. Sinclair’s choice to follow Rosie around the small Queensland town allows readers to focus on the action and the characters.
Unfortunately, the novel lacks in both areas. Early on Rosie’s mother is introduced as struggling with alcoholism due to losing her two sons in the war. Other than the occasional mention of her drunkenness and her stumbling into and out of scenes, however, she doesn’t contribute anything to the story. Other characters, like Rosie’s best friend and even her father at times, don’t do much other than help Rosie bide time from one disaster to the next.
Rosie herself exhibits inconsistencies. At times she seems level-headed, ready to take on her father’s patriarchal views in order to help the family. Other times she’s petulant, faulting Tomas for not opening up to her about personal topics soon after they’ve met. His brooding manner makes it clear he has suffered during the war, but Rosie pesters him about it like a teenager whining about wanting to go out on the weekend. At the end of it all, readers won’t be sure exactly what Rosie thinks because she herself doesn’t know.
The book offers many predictable plot twists, but a few unexpected ones at the end feel forced and unnecessary. Also, at times the characters seem to be begging for attention to social issues. In one scene, Rosie wonders aloud when women will get their due and whether there will ever be a time when they can speak up for their rights. While Sinclair’s intentions should be applauded, the “on-the-nose” treatment of these topics is a little too much to handle.
Readers who want something quick for a weekend and who would like a peek into life in Australia may enjoy this one. Those expecting a more thoughtful, meaty book might want to give the book a pass. I recommend readers Borrow Burning Fields.
In the northern Queensland community of Piri River, Rosie Stanton comes home to regain her composure. After serving the efforts of Australian soldiers in Brisbane during World War II, Rosie thought she could continue life in the big city. An uncomfortable encounter convinces her to go home to the family sugarcane farm. She knows life on the farm; she understands it. No one, she thinks, will try to take advantage of her there.
While the last sentiment may be true, Rosie has forgotten that farm life is still driven by men—the same problem she found in Brisbane. Never mind that her father is having trouble keeping the financial records straight, and Rosie suspects one of the farmhands of fixing the books. Because of her gender, Rosie is told, she needs to keep her opinions to herself.
She’s had enough of cowing in a corner, however, and she practically bullies her father into letting her take over day-to-day operations. When he suffers a health setback and the suspicious farmhand turns out to be just as rotten as Rosie guessed, she steps into the role of leader. Men challenge her along the way, but she holds her ground.
Not all of the men in her life think of her as dimwitted or incapable, however. Tomas Conti, a newly-arrived Italian immigrant, finds Rosie charming. He’s one of the few people in town to call her by her full name—Rosalie—and they share common ground on the fact that their families’ farms sit adjacent to one another. It doesn’t hurt that Tomas is incredibly handsome, and he exudes a mysterious air. Rosie knows he’s hiding something, but the secret only makes her more curious about him.
A strong anti-Italian viewpoint runs through Piri River, however. It’s well-known that for a time the Italians fought with the Axis powers during the war, and many of the families lost loved ones in battle. They eye all Italians with suspicion, Rosie’s father included. As she fights to save her family’s farm from financial ruin and also to protect her growing friendship with Tomas, Rosie learns she’ll have to juggle trials she never imagined possible.
Author Alli Sinclair does an admirable job of highlighting the problem of prejudice in Piri River. While many American readers might see racism through a particular lens, Sinclair reminds readers that hatred exists in other places. It’s not a uniquely North American problem.
Her descriptions of Australian farmland will certainly charm readers. Main character Rosie doesn’t dwell on her time in Brisbane, instead focusing on Piri River. Sinclair’s choice to follow Rosie around the small Queensland town allows readers to focus on the action and the characters.
Unfortunately, the novel lacks in both areas. Early on Rosie’s mother is introduced as struggling with alcoholism due to losing her two sons in the war. Other than the occasional mention of her drunkenness and her stumbling into and out of scenes, however, she doesn’t contribute anything to the story. Other characters, like Rosie’s best friend and even her father at times, don’t do much other than help Rosie bide time from one disaster to the next.
Rosie herself exhibits inconsistencies. At times she seems level-headed, ready to take on her father’s patriarchal views in order to help the family. Other times she’s petulant, faulting Tomas for not opening up to her about personal topics soon after they’ve met. His brooding manner makes it clear he has suffered during the war, but Rosie pesters him about it like a teenager whining about wanting to go out on the weekend. At the end of it all, readers won’t be sure exactly what Rosie thinks because she herself doesn’t know.
The book offers many predictable plot twists, but a few unexpected ones at the end feel forced and unnecessary. Also, at times the characters seem to be begging for attention to social issues. In one scene, Rosie wonders aloud when women will get their due and whether there will ever be a time when they can speak up for their rights. While Sinclair’s intentions should be applauded, the “on-the-nose” treatment of these topics is a little too much to handle.
Readers who want something quick for a weekend and who would like a peek into life in Australia may enjoy this one. Those expecting a more thoughtful, meaty book might want to give the book a pass. I recommend readers Borrow Burning Fields.
July 4, 2018
Burning Fields is the sixth novel by Australian author Ali Sinclair. Set during the post war year of 1948, this historical fiction story captures both the tension and change that permeates Australian society. Told in the third person, it follows two young protagonists, Rosie in 1948 and Tomas in 1943. The narrative seamlessly alternates between the two timelines to give the reader a true sense of life during and after the war.
Rosie was an inspirational character for women of all ages. Returning from Brisbane to her home town of Piri River in North Queensland, she is a woman ahead of her time. Intelligent, independent and hardworking, Rosie wants to work on the family sugar cane farm after working for the war effort. Her father is a traditionalist though, believing that a woman’s place is in the kitchen while her mother is struggling with her own demons. She is barely functioning after the death of one son and the disappearance of another during the war. Fate is on Rosie’s side when family circumstances change, unfortunately for the worse. Despite the massive upheaval, Rosie continues to fight for equality in her family home in some subtle and not so subtle ways.
During this trying time, Rosie also finds herself falling for the newly arrived Italian man, Tomas. Here, Rosie finds herself fighting a second battle; the prejudice and racism that is rife amongst the community as well as her family. It was moving witnessing Rosie stand up for the immigrant Italians who faced horrific physical and verbal abuse from the local community who distrusted them because of Italy’s role during the war. Unlike many in her local community, Rosie believed that each person should be judged on who they are as an individual, not as a group. This is an important reminder for today’s society, where there are many people who could take a leaf out of Rosie’s book.
Tomas was inspirational character for men today. Initially I was not as interested in his 1943 story set in Palermo, Sicily, but as I continued to read I found I became more intrigued. I came to appreciate that Tomas’ timeline is an important window into the efforts the civilian made to assist the allies. It portrays the physical and mental hardship that the Italians faced that many would find difficult to fathom in modern society. Linking Tomas’ war role with personal heart-break was a stroke of genius as it had me emotionally invested in his back story.
Thanks to a grandmother who was a wonderful role model promoting equality between the sexes, Tomas, just like Rosie, is ahead of his time. He respects women and this is evident in not just his words, but also in his actions. Tomas is always there to support Rosie as a friend, or more, and knows that she is a woman who can look after herself. Watching their relationship grow was a joy as they proved time and again to the nay sayers that they belonged together.
With themes of family, friendship, gender roles as well as war and it’s effects, this is an uplifting novel that will remind readers that we can always learn from the past.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the opportunity to review this gorgeous book.
#AWWC#
Rosie was an inspirational character for women of all ages. Returning from Brisbane to her home town of Piri River in North Queensland, she is a woman ahead of her time. Intelligent, independent and hardworking, Rosie wants to work on the family sugar cane farm after working for the war effort. Her father is a traditionalist though, believing that a woman’s place is in the kitchen while her mother is struggling with her own demons. She is barely functioning after the death of one son and the disappearance of another during the war. Fate is on Rosie’s side when family circumstances change, unfortunately for the worse. Despite the massive upheaval, Rosie continues to fight for equality in her family home in some subtle and not so subtle ways.
During this trying time, Rosie also finds herself falling for the newly arrived Italian man, Tomas. Here, Rosie finds herself fighting a second battle; the prejudice and racism that is rife amongst the community as well as her family. It was moving witnessing Rosie stand up for the immigrant Italians who faced horrific physical and verbal abuse from the local community who distrusted them because of Italy’s role during the war. Unlike many in her local community, Rosie believed that each person should be judged on who they are as an individual, not as a group. This is an important reminder for today’s society, where there are many people who could take a leaf out of Rosie’s book.
Tomas was inspirational character for men today. Initially I was not as interested in his 1943 story set in Palermo, Sicily, but as I continued to read I found I became more intrigued. I came to appreciate that Tomas’ timeline is an important window into the efforts the civilian made to assist the allies. It portrays the physical and mental hardship that the Italians faced that many would find difficult to fathom in modern society. Linking Tomas’ war role with personal heart-break was a stroke of genius as it had me emotionally invested in his back story.
Thanks to a grandmother who was a wonderful role model promoting equality between the sexes, Tomas, just like Rosie, is ahead of his time. He respects women and this is evident in not just his words, but also in his actions. Tomas is always there to support Rosie as a friend, or more, and knows that she is a woman who can look after herself. Watching their relationship grow was a joy as they proved time and again to the nay sayers that they belonged together.
With themes of family, friendship, gender roles as well as war and it’s effects, this is an uplifting novel that will remind readers that we can always learn from the past.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the opportunity to review this gorgeous book.
#AWWC#
July 1, 2018
I have a really soft spot for Australian historical fiction. I honestly believe that I’ve learned more about our country from reading than I did in school – and of course, it’s a lot more pleasurable. One part of Aussie history I’m particularly interested in is the post-WWII era, when people from many different cultures came to Australia. Burning Fields covers the arrival of an Italian family to the sugar cane growing area of northern Queensland brilliantly and also the (slowly) changing role of women post war. Wrapped up beautifully in a story about family and romance, this is a fantastic book to spend a rainy weekend with.
Rosie Stanton, the heroine, returns home to the family cane farm to find things much changed. She’s coy about why she left Brisbane, but years working for the Australian Women’s Army Service have shown her that women have an active role to play anywhere. Unfortunately, her father and her home town haven’t moved with the times. Her father is reluctant to let Rosie play any role in the farm, despite having strong skills in accounting and mechanics. Her mother is falling apart after the loss of her brothers. Rosie’s growing friendship with Tomas Conti, recent arrival from Italy and part of the family who owns the neighbouring farm, is viewed with hostility. It seems that nobody wants Rosie’s knowledge and skills, unless it’s for ‘traditional’ women’s roles. But when Rosie’s father becomes ill, Rosie steps up to run the farm. People aren’t happy with the way she is doing things and Tomas’s own family is warning Rosie to stay away from him. Can Rosie make her way forward?
Alli Sinclair cleverly illustrates the old attitudes towards women and immigrants in Burning Fields without preaching. It fits in perfectly with the story and having Rosie as a strong, independent heroine further highlights the differences in a time that really wasn’t that long ago. Rosie isn’t perfect though, which makes her all the more likeable to the reader. She’s frustrated with the men in town treating her like dirt and her initial reaction to a family secret is honest (if not all that ladylike!) Tomas is a sweet hero. When I say sweet, I mean that he’s modern and content to let Rosie find her own way while he supports her in the background. His own war history was also fascinating to read, as it revealed a period in history I didn’t know a lot about. There is another character who nearly steals the show – Tomas’s Nonna. Nonna is a feisty lady who fully believes in the rights of women and cares deeply for her family. Nonna is also not backwards in coming forwards. She also introduces Rosie to the pleasures of delicious Italian food!
Overall, Burning Fields is a lovely story that details the role of women in the post-war era combined with a delightful romance. Definitely a fun read!
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Rosie Stanton, the heroine, returns home to the family cane farm to find things much changed. She’s coy about why she left Brisbane, but years working for the Australian Women’s Army Service have shown her that women have an active role to play anywhere. Unfortunately, her father and her home town haven’t moved with the times. Her father is reluctant to let Rosie play any role in the farm, despite having strong skills in accounting and mechanics. Her mother is falling apart after the loss of her brothers. Rosie’s growing friendship with Tomas Conti, recent arrival from Italy and part of the family who owns the neighbouring farm, is viewed with hostility. It seems that nobody wants Rosie’s knowledge and skills, unless it’s for ‘traditional’ women’s roles. But when Rosie’s father becomes ill, Rosie steps up to run the farm. People aren’t happy with the way she is doing things and Tomas’s own family is warning Rosie to stay away from him. Can Rosie make her way forward?
Alli Sinclair cleverly illustrates the old attitudes towards women and immigrants in Burning Fields without preaching. It fits in perfectly with the story and having Rosie as a strong, independent heroine further highlights the differences in a time that really wasn’t that long ago. Rosie isn’t perfect though, which makes her all the more likeable to the reader. She’s frustrated with the men in town treating her like dirt and her initial reaction to a family secret is honest (if not all that ladylike!) Tomas is a sweet hero. When I say sweet, I mean that he’s modern and content to let Rosie find her own way while he supports her in the background. His own war history was also fascinating to read, as it revealed a period in history I didn’t know a lot about. There is another character who nearly steals the show – Tomas’s Nonna. Nonna is a feisty lady who fully believes in the rights of women and cares deeply for her family. Nonna is also not backwards in coming forwards. She also introduces Rosie to the pleasures of delicious Italian food!
Overall, Burning Fields is a lovely story that details the role of women in the post-war era combined with a delightful romance. Definitely a fun read!
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
June 24, 2018
1948. World War II has been over for a few years now, and Australian society is on the cusp of radical change. A transformation that Rosie Stanton, the feisty protagonist of Alli Sinclair’s new novel, welcomes with open arms. But such changes don’t come without a struggle. On returning to her home town to help out on her family’s struggling sugar cane farm, Rosie finds herself caught between traditional attitudes and new opportunities. And she also finds a chance for love—if only she can overcome her father’s prejudice against Italians.
Set against the stunning backdrop of rural Queensland, Australia, and war-torn Sicily, Burning Fields is a bit of a new direction for Alli Sinclair, while still offering much of what her fans have come to expect and love about her previous books: dual time lines with rich historic detail, along with themes of family, adventure, multicultural experience, and a bit of romance thrown in. But this new novel digs even deeper into the human experience by exploring racism, feminism, tolerance, and the various expressions of love that bind people together: to family, to community, and to the wider world.
This compelling story is populated with vivid characters drawn from real life. Rosie is a strong woman who knows what she wants out of life, if not precisely how to get it, and she has the tenacity to fight to the bitter end for the people she loves and the causes she believes in. Tomas Conti, her Italian love interest, is a man of deep secrets, with a heart as big as Queensland itself. They are surrounded by a supporting cast of well-fleshed out characters, some struggling to make ends meet in the tough world of sugarcane farming and others risking their lives to liberate their country from Nazi occupation.
Although Burning Fields takes place seven decades ago, its themes are still entirely relevant today in the world of #metoo and rising nationalism. I couldn’t put the book down. It is a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The novel is now in bookstores in Australia and will be released in the United States in November.
Set against the stunning backdrop of rural Queensland, Australia, and war-torn Sicily, Burning Fields is a bit of a new direction for Alli Sinclair, while still offering much of what her fans have come to expect and love about her previous books: dual time lines with rich historic detail, along with themes of family, adventure, multicultural experience, and a bit of romance thrown in. But this new novel digs even deeper into the human experience by exploring racism, feminism, tolerance, and the various expressions of love that bind people together: to family, to community, and to the wider world.
This compelling story is populated with vivid characters drawn from real life. Rosie is a strong woman who knows what she wants out of life, if not precisely how to get it, and she has the tenacity to fight to the bitter end for the people she loves and the causes she believes in. Tomas Conti, her Italian love interest, is a man of deep secrets, with a heart as big as Queensland itself. They are surrounded by a supporting cast of well-fleshed out characters, some struggling to make ends meet in the tough world of sugarcane farming and others risking their lives to liberate their country from Nazi occupation.
Although Burning Fields takes place seven decades ago, its themes are still entirely relevant today in the world of #metoo and rising nationalism. I couldn’t put the book down. It is a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The novel is now in bookstores in Australia and will be released in the United States in November.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews