Overall rating and opinion of "Ironbark Hill" by Jennie Linnane
- Jgideon
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Re: Overall rating and opinion of "Ironbark Hill" by Jennie Linnane
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Indeed, Natalie is a symbol of many voiceless children in this world who have been abused by their stepfathers in the homes of their biological mothers.
But I dislike the author‘s failure to bring out how Alex picked a bad temper and become alcoholic.
I have already rated the book 4 out of 4 stars and recommended it to young girls, men and especially women who sacrifice their children for the love of their stepfathers.
Any reader will draw valuable lessons as I have stated in the discussion on valuable lessons.
- Happyday90
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I haven't read the book in full, but the sample and review I read is much enough to recommend it to anyone.
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Did anyone find it hard to establish place and setting? Alex's use of the word bloody suggested a connection with England. Natalie's mention of her racial heritage established the book in Australia. Knowing the historical time wasn't easy either. Automobiles noted semi modern times. Clothing let us know it wasn't too modern. For instance I noticed no mention of female characters wearing trousers. That might have helped Natalie in some crucial scenes.
The book's best part were the characters. Natalie was very believable as a teenage girl navigating so many things. As the oldest child, she helped take care of her siblings, grandfather, and mother. Her stepfather Alex is the ultimate villain. I know of men who took to drink after losing a child. The battle of wits over Natalie's prize heifer Libby is a recurring theme. Yet most of the characters have good and bad qualities. Even Alex and Natalie once had a good relationship.
Teenagers can do both good and bad things. Natalie did her job at the hotel well. She took art lessons from Mrs. Glover. Her goal was to become a landscape painter. Yet she got involved with Mr. Glover. Not heeding her mom's advice regarding neighbor Sam Teagle would be a huge mistake.
The most longsuffering character would have to be her mom. She lost one husband, then ended up in a hard second marriage. Her birthday present to Natalie was altering one of her dresses. At one point she finally had enough of Alex's drinking and abusive behavior.
Some visitors provide another perspective. Natalie envied the daughter. But the son was a big handful. Did anyone else remember a scene from John Grisham's A Painted House? There was an argument over The African Queen. Maybe such incidents inspired the Internet.
My biggest complaint was over some of the language. Profanity still bothers me. I hope that never changes. The use of dialect made some parts confusing to read. Did anyone else use an Amazon Fire Tablet? Natalie's treatment of her faith wasn't enjoyable. Many teenagers do have questions. Some leave their faith, but come back later.
Those few complaints would make it a little hard for me to recommend this book to others. I'd probably give them a heads up first. The book was a better read than a few I've encountered. Hopefully the author continues to improve her craft.
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