The Rewilding by Donna Cameron

BOOK REVIEW

This is a riveting tale with a timely message.

Central Coast based author Donna Cameron’s novel, The Rewilding, is set in present-day Australia, much of it on the Central Coast.

It offers readers an exhilarating adventure while poignantly addressing the pressing issue of climate pollution.

This dual-layered narrative captivates with its thrilling plot and profound environmental commentary, making it a must-read for those who enjoy fast-paced fiction with a deeper message.

On the surface, The Rewilding is a classic adventure story.

It features a wonderfully crafted chase, dangerous encounters, and the timeless battle between good and the violent fallen.

The novel’s male protagonist, Jagger Eckerman, a corporate whistleblower, finds himself in hiding in a remote cave in Bouddi National Park to escape a powerful adversary.

His unexpected encounter with the book’s gritty hero Nia Moretti, a fierce environmental activist with her own reasons for seeking refuge, sets the stage for an intense and unpredictable journey.

Their initial animosity evolves into a complex relationship as they are forced to flee together, navigating numerous threats and challenges.

Cameron skillfully weaves these elements into a gripping narrative, ensuring that readers are on the edge of their seats.

The plot’s twists and turns are as wild and unpredictable as the natural landscapes the characters traverse, making for an enthralling read.

However, The Rewilding is more than just an adventure story.

At its core, it serves as a powerful critique of humanity’s impact on the planet.

Through the character of Nia, Cameron voices urgent warnings about the dire consequences of environmental degradation.

Nia’s stark observations about climate change and its devastating effects resonate deeply, highlighting issues such as super-storms, megafires and the plight of climate refugees.

Her declaration, “Humans are bloody stupid… there’s people around the world already suffering,” underscores the gravity of our current environmental crisis.

Cameron’s narrative doesn’t just highlight the problems; it also advocates for urgent reform.

By embedding these themes within a compelling story, she adds a potent voice to the ongoing climate debate, urging readers to reflect on their role in preserving the planet.

In The Rewilding, Donna Cameron delivers an electrifying and thought-provoking novel that beautifully balances adventure with a call to environmental action.

It’s a passionate, urgent reminder of the stakes at play in our fight against climate change, wrapped in a story that’s impossible to put down.

For those looking for a novel that thrills and inspires, especially Coasties with an appetite for great contemporary story telling, The Rewilding is an essential read.

David Abrahams