Set in far north queensland in the early 20th century this novel shows us a slice life for a variety of the inhabitants of the isolated communities that were to be shaken by the arrival of a major cyclonic storm. Based on an actual event, this is Australia's worst natural disaster in terms of fatalites but was probably largely forgotten due to it's distance from major population centres and the passage of time. Well-researched, it involves factual characters who were present at the time of the disaster, as well as other lesser players, all presented to the reader with character and dialogue that would be expected of the period. The characters are interesting and engaging, and you find yourself caring about their fate with a sense of foreboding as they approach the inevitable arrival of the cyclone. The scene of the cyclone striking is both terrrifying and exciting, and the book acts as a fitting tribute to the many fatalities that followed. A large number of these were not noted in the official record at the time, being either native peoples or migrant workers on local pearling operations. A good absorbing read, and enjoyable whether or not you're a history buff.