"The Debatable Land" - A Novel

Arthur Colton

Summary

Arthur Colton's "The Debatable Land" immerses readers in the intricate and oft-contentious relationships between rival nations, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the moral ambiguities of imperialism. Colton employs a rich tapestry of lyrical prose, blending historical narrative with a fictional lens to capture the tensions in regions defined by disputed territories. The book artfully oscillates between personal stories and broader geopolitical landscapes, offering a nuanced perspective on the fraught legacy of colonialism and the constant struggle for self-definition in the face of external forces. Colton, an astute observer of political and cultural nuances, draws upon his background in international relations and his profound interest in the effects of national borders on human lives. This synthesis of personal and academic experience informs his portrayal of characters who navigate the complex web of loyalties and betrayals within a fluid sociopolitical landscape. His previous works reflect an earnest commitment to examining the intersection of place and identity, culminating in this poignant exploration of the human condition. Readers interested in the themes of nationalism and the personal dimensions of conflict will find great value in "The Debatable Land." Colton offers a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with contemporary discussions on borders and belonging. This book is not only a significant contribution to historical literature but also a reflection on the enduring impact of our shared human experience.

Available since: 09/18/2023.

Print length: 148 pages.

Other books that might interest you

Candide

Voltaire

"Candide, or Optimism" is a satirical novella written by the French philosopher Voltaire, first published in 1759. It follows the adventures of the young Candide, who is raised in a utopian world and taught that “all is for the best.” The narrative takes him through a series of misfortunes, exposing him to the harsh realities of the world, ultimately leading him to question his optimistic beliefs. Voltaire uses Candide’s journey to satirize religion, governments, the military, and the philosophy of optimism, particularly as espoused by Leibniz. "Candide" is considered one of the greatest achievements of Western literature

Show book

Day of Days

Darren Canady

In 1958 Martin Luther King Jr. was stabbed in the chest by a deranged woman at a Harlem book signing. His recovery and three-hour conversation with the Black mystic Howard Thurman changed the course of Civil Rights history. This full-cast audiobook explores this conversation and the decades of revolution, community building, and lived experiences that preceded it.

Show book

The Dilemma

Sarah Hawthorn

A daughter visits the island of Guernsey to unearth horrifying family truths and solve a decades-old mystery surrounding her mother, in this historical page-turner.1958. Esme, a novelist, finds a potential new literary project. A housemaid named Clara was convicted of murder, perhaps unjustly, amid the ending of World War II and the liberation of Guernsey from Nazi occupation. Esme’s trip to Guernsey is an opportunity not only to research the case, but to learn more about her mother’s family—as well as to heal from the heartbreak inflicted on her by the man she loved . . .1915. A teenager marries her childhood sweetheart before he heads off to fight in the Great War. But he doesn’t come back, and Jane, presumed a widow, flees Guernsey—devastated by her loss. In London, Jane finds a new life and a new husband—but her past isn’t done with her yet. This absorbing novel follows the parallel paths of two generations of women, and as each is faced with painful decisions and shocking discoveries, a question emerges: Can a lie be forgiven when the truth seems too much to bear?

Show book

Unshackled - The Australian...

Michael Beashel

Step into the tumultuous world of Gold Rush-era Sydney Town, where history unfolds before your eyes in all its gritty, unvarnished glory. The past comes alive, invoking vivid memories of a bustling Sydney under construction.
In the roiling year of 1855, the vibrant city of Sydney is thriving, and the future looks promising for John Leary. His dreams of construction are materializing, and his heart swells with anticipation as his beloved wife Clarissa is expecting their first child. Together with his trusted partner Sean Connaire, they've left their mark by erecting some of the city's most significant structures. Yet, amidst this success, jealousy lurks in the shadows, and a shadowy rival plots to undermine a crucial Leary project.
John Leary's ability to steer his own company is hampered by his father-in-law's majority ownership stake. Determined to regain control, he orchestrates a buyout, unwittingly inviting a silent partner into his life who threatens the very harmony of his marriage. Meanwhile, an unexpected connection emerges as ex-convict Gerry Gleeson reveals himself to be John's uncle and offers assistance in unmasking the saboteur.
This tale unfurls against a backdrop of raw ambition, buried secrets, and clandestine dealings. Will these forces propel the young builder towards ruin, or will he emerge victorious in the face of adversity? Prepare to embark on a riveting journey through the second instalment of The Australian Sandstone Series, a captivating historical fiction saga that provides a fresh, immersive perspective on nineteenth-century Sydney as it rises from the ground up. While part of a series, each book stands as an independent story, inviting you to explore this captivating era at your leisure.

Show book

George Silverman's Explanation

Charles Dickens, Dominic Gerrard

George Silverman’s Explanation (published in The Atlantic in 1868) is one of Charles Dickens’ rarer short stories. Here the author immerses himself entirely in his character of George Silverman: addressing the reader in a dramatic monologue in which he is reticent, perhaps even unwilling to open up to us, but at the same time compelled to unburden his heart.  
So deeply does Dickens embody the role of Silverman that in a letter to an editor he writes that: 'I feel as if I had read something (by somebody else) which I should never get out of my head …’ 
This tale is an indictment against poverty as powerful as you will find in any of Dickens’ larger works. It is also a biting satire against the 'daring ignorance' and little 'meannesses' found in many non-conformist movements. Above all it is a deeply affecting examination of how far a childhood of of both want and punishing religious control can impact a man’s self-worth and future happiness. 
Narrated by Dominic Gerrard 
Cover Art by Léna Gibert

Show book

The Milliner of Bendigo

Darry Fraser

Trouble with the law, a missing sister, and a growing attachment to the wrong man - Evie Emerson has a dangerous path ahead of her... From a bestselling Australian author comes an exciting and twisty historical mystery and adventure.

1898: Bendigo, Victoria

Evie Emerson has worked hard to build a fashionable clientele for her hats. But when an ex-paramour employs underhanded tactics after his attempt to coerce an engagement fails, Evie's reputation is in tatters. On the heels of having to put a case together to defend herself in court, Evie's life is thrown into further turmoil when the disappearance of her sister takes her to Cobram.

Roving reporter Fitzmorgan O'Shea has troubles of his own: his involvement in uncovering police corruption has placed a target on his back. And while hunting a new story in Cobram his problems collide with Evie's when his research exposes malicious intimidation and threats designed to make local landholders give up their properties.

For Raffety Dolan, he accepted long ago it's Fitz Evie loves - and his feelings will remain unrequited. But when a disgraced ex-policeman comes searching for revenge, he's ready to go save his friends.

There, on the banks of the mighty Murray, with so much misunderstood history and secrets between the three friends - plus the legitimate threat of being shot at - will they survive long enough to discover the truth?

'A fabulous storyteller who underlies this compelling plot with strong female characters who challenge the status quo ... an authentic, seamless and riveting tale.' Better Reading

Show book