Palomino - Softcover

Jolley, Elizabeth

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0702219487 ISBN 13: 9780702219481

Publisher: Univ of Queensland Pr, 1998

Synopsis

Elizabeth Jolley's first novel is an unusual, haunting story of the deep relationship between two women, set against the solitude, beauty and harshness of the West Australian landscape.

About this title

From Publishers Weekly

We first meet Laura, a 50-ish doctor who is no longer licensed to practice, as she is returning home to Australia by ship after touring Europe. She finds herself attracted to Andrea, a blonde young woman who reminds her of the beloved palomino horses that she sees every day from the verandahs of her country house. Eventually Andrea comes to stay with Laura on her farm, ushering in an idyllic emotional season. The loving relationship that develops between the two women is complicated; secrets from Laura's past and the mysterious connection between her and Andrea, whose story is told also, through her own words, add suspense and tragedy to the novel. With impeccable skill Jolley (Foxybaby; Milk and Honey reveals Laura's thoughts, feelings and insights, her sensitivity and strength of character, adding up to an affecting portrait of a complex and vulnerable woman. The descriptions of her life on the farm are moving, and of Laura's intolerable tenants, hilarious. Jolley's eye for detail and her accurate ear for dialogue vivify this intimate and honest narrative.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

On a cruise, Laura, a woman in her 50s, sees Andrea, a much younger passenger. Though attracted by Andrea's beauty and vulnerability, Laura does not speak to her. They meet again at a dinner given by a friend, where Andrea accepts an invitation for an extended visit to Laura's farm. The two women become friends, then lovers, sharing the shameful memories that isolate them from others. The novel's themes of loneliness and isolation are effectively conveyed by its structure, built on alternating monologues, and setting, a remote farm. The farm, too, becomes a symbol of regeneration, as the growing love of Laura and Andrea enables them to accept the past and face the future. Recommended. Michael J. Esposito, formerly with Special Libs. Assn., Washington, D.C.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Univ of Queensland Pr
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0702219487
• ISBN 13: 9780702219481
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 260