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Denizen: Winner of the Penguin Literary Prize

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( 606 ratings, 110 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Denizen by James McKenzie Watson, winner of the Penguin Literary Prize, is a gripping tale that delves into the dark and often dangerous facets of rural life. The story unfolds in the Australian countryside, where secrets, isolation, and looming threats intertwine. It explores themes of mental health and societal expectations, creating a tense atmosphere as the protagonist confronts inner and outer demons.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you enjoy gripping crime and thriller narratives laced with psychological depth and an exploration of rural Australian life, this book may captivate you. It weaves a tense and haunting tale that delves into themes of isolation and personal demons, offering a fresh perspective on storytelling that both thrills and provokes thought.

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Denizen: Winner of the Penguin Literary Prize

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Denizen: Winner of the Penguin Literary Prize is a rural thriller from the winner of the 2021 Penguin Literary Prize.

This novel is bound to get book clubs talking.
THE AUSTRALIAN

This is a not-to-be-missed reading experience.
HAYLEY SCRIVENOR

'Unquestionably is one of the best novels by an Australian author in recent times. It is spellbinding, credible and very cleverly constructed.'
ARTS HUB

A thriller exploring rural Australia's simultaneous celebration of harsh country and stoic people - a tension that forces its inhabitants to dangerous breaking points.

On a remote property in western NSW, nine-year-old Parker fears that something is wrong with his brain. His desperate attempts to control this internal chaos spark a series of events that gallop from his control in deadly and devastating ways.

Years later, Parker, now a father himself, returns to the bushland he grew up in for a camping trip with old friends. When this reunion descends into chaos amid revelations of unresolved fear, guilt and violence, Parker must finally address the consequences of his childhood actions.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Denizen by James McKenzie Watson has received praise for its gripping narrative and atmospheric setting. Reviewers highlight the novel's intense portrayal of psychological depth and rural isolation. The thriller aspect is well-executed, contributing to a suspenseful and thought-provoking story that keeps readers engaged.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781761046100

Publisher: Penguin Random House Australia

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 19 July 2022

Country: Australia

Imprint: Viking Australia

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 154.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 470g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Winner of the 2021 Penguin Literary Prize, James McKenzie Watson writes short and novel-length fiction with a focus on health and rural Australia. Denizen was informed by his upbringing in regional NSW. James co-hosts the health and writing podcast James and Ashley Stay at Home and works as a nurse.

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