"'The Shadow' by Sloan Blecher, is a rich, sprawling literary saga fit to be filmed. The title is perfect because it’s about the shadows of power and history that can loom over land and family for some time to come. The shadow affects them in ways that are very impactful; sometimes irreversible. The farming community and rural areas are the backdrop for this expansive drama, which begins in 1966 with Jack, Eileen, and Liz, exploring the hardships, challenges, missteps, and high points experienced by the Campbells. Life is hard for communities like these, from weather to finances, and this author explains how and why through the plot and characters.

It’s the Duncans, a new family that comes to the valley, that acts as a catalyst for more problems to arise. The Campbells and the Duncans go through family turmoil and strife that no one should ever have to. The family fabric is torn, and we see and feel the ramifications through Blecher’s amazing writing. The drama in this novel is intense and powerful, so trigger warnings could apply, but it is well worth the read if you love intensity. With these characters thrust into chaotic events, you begin to wonder if they’ll ever find their way again. Blecher knows how to weave a truly seductive family drama, full of emotional rollercoasters and conflict. The characters are relatable, especially if you’ve ever been embroiled in desperate family situations. Though fiction, the author has based it on actual events and some personal experience–real people have gone through these things. There are many themes to enjoy in this novel, but one is the personal relationships between families. The ties that bind can also stifle, which can drive them outside of the family circle into unhealthy areas. The author depicts this concept in various scenes and with certain characters. I admire the psychological aspects of the characters and the insightful ways Blecher delivers dialogue or carries out scenes. The writing is dramatic and refreshing, something unexpected but satisfying in every chapter. Having spent some years on a farm growing up, I can personally relate to some of the points the author conveys. 'The Shadow' by Sloan Blecher is an awesome read that could rival Yellowstone any day."

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Rated 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars (based on 3 reviews)
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Rated 5 out of 5
February 4, 2025

What a great read! I’m not as expressive as others but I really enjoyed reading this book. I related to the everyday farm life that I experienced on my aunt’s farm when I was young but without any of the dramatic happenings that occurred in this book. Once I got into it, it was a real page turner and I did not expect the ending!

Enjoy the ride!

SC
Rated 5 out of 5
August 7, 2023

I was captivated by the immersive world of ‘The Shadow’, which skillfully captures the remoteness and isolation of the 60s and 70s in rural Australia. The author’s brilliant portrayal of this era brought the novel to life in a way that resonated deeply with me. A captivating read that masterfully evokes the essence of its time.

Cono
Rated 5 out of 5
July 29, 2023

Riveting story line & very well written.

I loved the dialogue of the everyday running and challenges of the farming life in Australia in 1960’s & 70’s and how the family dynamics worked.

I found I either loved or loathed the main characters

Except for “Fran” as I think we all know a Fran:)

Intense and somewhat disturbing in parts “The Shadow” is a must read. I loved it.

You will not forget this book anytime soon!

Julie Ede