AustLit

'First published in 1934, this novel tells the story of a British man who migrates to Australia in 1842 and is transformed by his colonial experiences.'

'This work, which she sub-titles 'a light novel' is an English mystery story, revolving round a theft of jewels and a murder at 'Tattingwood Hall.' It is something more than a mystery story, however, and might be as aptly described as a highly amusing and clever satire on certain aspects of modern English and American social life, in which a wealthy film artist with an avid love of publicity and an amateur aviator's craze of flying stunts are satirised with rare subtlety. The part which a monkey plays in the story gives it a bizarre flavour and heightens the entertainment of the author's spicy narrative.'

Source:

'Recent Fiction', The West Australian, 10 June 1933, p.4.

A documentary-style book by Chauvel published to coincide with the release of his film, In the Wake of the Bounty.

'Jonah, born a hunchback, is feared and revered in equal measure as the ruthless leader of the Push, a violent gang that terrorises the slums of Waterloo. Chook, a fellow member of the Push, is Jonah's loyal best friend. But after a chance encounter with his son, the result of a casual affair, Jonah decides to abandon the larrikin life and settle down. He marries Ada, the mother of his child, and takes advantage of an opportunity to open his own business. Chook, too, leaves the Push and finds love in the arms of factory worker, Pinkey. But can either man escape his awful past?'

Source: Publisher's blurb (Text Publishing edition).