When Norah Devaney arrives kicking and screaming in the middle of the night, calling for revenge on ‘the Whistling Man’ who killed her mum, Gilberta’s peace is ruined. They escape the asylum together and meet Kedalak and Malkar, two Indigenous brothers who help them on their harrowing journey home. The four of them form unlikely friendships while on the hunt to track down the man who killed Norah’s mum.
This book is a reminder that queer people have always existed, and while fictional, it reflects the hardships and attitudes faced by queer people of that time. I felt the queer representation was presented in a beautiful and authentic way, and it felt natural rather than forced or overdone.
I would have loved to spend more time in the setting of the asylum, as it created such an eerie atmosphere and was such an interesting and unique setting to explore.
The story was fast-moving and a real page turner. I found myself thinking about the book while at work and constantly wanting to pick it back up to see what would happen next.
The characters were so well written and engaging. I would have loved the book to be slightly longer so that we could get more character development and deeper insight into their lives before they were admitted to the asylum, as this would have made their journeys even more impactful. I loved the flashback scenes when we got a glimpse of Norah's life pre asylum - and I wish we got flashbacks for Gilberta as well, as they are such an interesting character!
I recommend this book to ages 14+, as there are some heavy topics and emotional scenes that may be confronting for younger readers. Overall, I really enjoyed this story! It was unique to any other Australiana historical fiction I have read.
Congratulations Meg on such a beautiful novel, I look forward to reading more of your work!
Title: A Flash in the Dust
Author: Meg Caddy
Publisher: UQP, $21.99
Publication Date: June 2026
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780702271090
For ages: 14+
Type: Young adult novel
