Review by Ify_Reviewer -- Return to Eternity

Ify_Reviewer · Post by **Ify_Reviewer** » 25 Oct 2020, 17:27

[Following is a volunteer review of "Return to Eternity" by Jenni Barnett.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Return to Eternity by Jenni Barnett is a historical fiction set in Australia. The story explores life as it may have been for Aboriginal people of Australia before the inversion of the Europeans. It also sheds light on the struggles modern-day Aboriginal descents have in preserving their history and rich cultural heritage. Rex, a seventh generations' descent of Joseph Bancroft, who was an Englishman, and Isla Migaloo, a native Aboriginal, remains the epicenter of the story. Rex is an ambitious young student of anthropology working on his doctorate thesis. The process of his research allowed him the opportunity to study his family records, which proved to be a valuable resource for his research thesis and career development.

There are a lot of actual historical facts intertwined with this fictional drama. Even though Return to Eternity has a racial theme, Jenni Barnett did the nice work of not lacing it with hate and so much negativity.

The book is structured in such a way as to make reading lucid. Events are grouped in parts, and each part unfolds in chronological order. The preface is a good backdrop for the story. Including the map of the Kabi District at the beginning of the book is helpful to none Australian readers.

Return to Eternity is a character-driven novel. The characters are well-developed and the personalities of the characters shine through their tones. There are enough turns and twists to keep the read eventful. The vivid description of Australia's wilderness and the landscape is capable of stirring up the desire for adventure.

Return to Eternity is the third in Jenni Barnett's Dreamtime trilogy. That notwithstanding, the book is complete in itself. I like the supportive relationship between Rex and Audrey. They were there for each other without losing a sense of themselves in the process. The addition of relevant pictures made the book come alive.

There is nothing to dislike about Return to Eternity. There is so much knowledge to unpack from the book. The quality of research work the author put into this writing is quite commendable. It is a good read for all lovers of historical fiction, mystery, adventure, and familial drama. Young adults, as well as adults, will enjoy the book equally. This is because very few borderline profanities were encounter. Sexual references were also made connotative. I will rate Return to Eternity three out of four stars. The book will benefit from another round of editing.

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Return to Eternity
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GianKosi77 · Post by **GianKosi77** » 13 Dec 2020, 20:33

It is a nice book to read. I consider the author to be a wise person for having criticize racism without making anyone feel condemned.

Goodness C N · Post by **Goodness C N** » 19 Jan 2021, 01:26

I love that this book explores topics like racism and I find it fascinating. Coupled with a well-written review, I'll definitely read this.

Mtibza eM · Post by **Mtibza eM** » 19 Jan 2021, 02:57

Thank you for the great review.

Chizioboli · Post by **Chizioboli** » 21 Jan 2021, 13:10

I often wonder what happened to the pure unmixed bloods in Australia, Canada and America. It is so sad that either they do not exists or they do not want to be known. I loved every bit of your review and how descriptive it was. I hope to read this book soonest. Great job