The Death of John Lacey (Ben Hobson, A&U)

Ben Hobson’s third novel tells the fragmented story of the life and demise of John Lacey, a ruthless, violent settler of a Victorian gold rush town. John and his brother have made their home in an early goldfields settlement that is not much more than a collection of tents. By the novel’s end, John wields control over the fledgling town of Lacey. Intersecting with the title character’s life is the story of half-brothers Ernst and Joe Montague, who together live precarious, nomadic lives that result in several violent incidents with both John and the townspeople of Lacey. John’s story is told in instalments, often from the perspectives of several characters who have fallen within his orbit. While this has the benefit of introducing a cast of other interesting and complex characters, it also, unfortunately, draws attention to the missed opportunity for a more complete version of John’s rise to power. Hobson is a gifted storyteller—the writing is minimalist and fast-moving—and the novel is a well-drawn picture of life in the settlement. The early scenes of gold mining in particular capture the allure and depravity of prospecting and its promise of freedom. The book also doesn’t shy away from the harsh reality of colonial violence; there are numerous instances of settlers murdering, deceiving and committing other brutal acts against Indigenous characters. The Death of John Lacey is a propulsive read and, despite its historical setting, will appeal to all fans of contemporary Australian crime and thrillers.

Brad Jefferies is the digital editor of Books+Publishing, Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Reviews