The Secret River is a historical novel written by Australian author Kate Grenville and published in 2005. The novel tells the story of William Thornhill, a poor waterman from London who is sentenced to transportation to New South Wales, Australia in the early 19th century for stealing.
Once in Australia, Thornhill and his wife Sal settle along the Hawkesbury River, where Thornhill begins to build a new life for himself and his family. However, tensions arise between the settlers and the Aboriginal people who have lived along the river for generations. Thornhill becomes increasingly involved in the conflicts, leading to a tragic confrontation.
The Secret River explores themes of colonialism, identity, and the clash between different cultures. It depicts the brutality of the early days of Australian settlement, as well as the complex relationships that developed between the settlers and the Indigenous people.
The novel has been widely praised for its evocative and vivid portrayal of early Australian history, as well as its nuanced exploration of complex social and cultural issues. It has won numerous awards, including the Commonwealth Writers' Prize and the NSW Premier's Literary Award, and has been adapted for stage and screen.
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