Set against the uneasy relationship society has with its own truth-telling in history, war and politics, Desire Lines is an epic story of love and the lies we tell ourselves to survive – and a reminder that even truths which seem lost forever can find their way home.
Our Preview readers loved this epic story of love and the lies we tell ourselves. Read their reviews below:
Desire Lines is the second book by Felicity Volk. I found it a little slow to get into-it is an unconventional love story, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The history is interesting, and the way that the love story is enveloped in it is fantastic-would highly recommend! – Stacy, NSW, 5 stars
Desire lines is a wonderful book filled with mystery intrigue and a lovely story at the heart. I’m really enjoying reading Australian novels that focus on telling their story intertwined with the history of Australia and this did not disappoint, beautiful narrative and eloquently written would definitely recommend. Thankyou to better reacting for the preview read. – Emma, VIC, 4 stars
“Are you still a liar?” What an opening line! Desire Lines tells the story of Evie and Paddy, from their childhoods in the 1950s to the present. Felicity Volker carefully outlines both lives and masterfully explores their emotions, inner lives and the stories they tell themselves. Whilst it’s an absolute joy to read, I think this book is sometimes a bit longwinded and I felt that some of the chapters might have worked better if they were shorter. – Gwen, VIC, 3 Stars
I found this book hard to follow initially. It felt like reading two different books, a chapter at a time. Once I figured out how the stories were eventually going to meet, I was excited to keep reading and enjoyed the gradual timeline that was developing. I did find the writing a little too descriptive at times, which made reading slow. But in the end, I often read to slow down from the world, so a slower pace is welcome occasionally. – Grace, SA, 3 Stars
The romantic in me kept me turning the pages but, by the end of it, I was tired and wanted to shake both Evie and Paddy for very different reasons. What price do you put on “love”. Which relationships should suffer for the sake of other relationships? This would be a good read for a chick-lit book club. – Alana, VIC, 2 Stars
I was drawn to this story, as I was born close to the Arctic Cricle, grew up in Canberra, love the Blue Mountains and live near Molong. The story opens with “Are you still a liar?” Volk’s descriptive prose is evocative. It took me many pages, chapters to get into the story to the point of almost giving up. About halfway I did get more engrossed and was keen to see how the lives of Paddy and Evie resolved. I wonder if there was too much to cover – early Canberra, Fairbridge Farm, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Whitlam dismissal – themes of architecture, botany, family violence, abuse and trauma, poverty, child migration, lust, desire, the maturation of the nation – maybe too many plot points, all compelling in their own way, however (maybe) too ambitious as the author attempts to develop characters and their storylines as well as showing us much of the history of modern Australia. “perhaps all a lie really is – just a truth that took a wrong turn and lost it’s way.” Overall, it is a capably written story of love within landscape and history. I thank Better Reading for providing me with a preview copy to review. – KT, NSW, 3 Stars
Desire Lines I’m not completely sure how I felt about this novel. Overall it was a good story, and the writing was very descriptive and emotive. The beginning third of the novel was very grim, and it pulled me down and made me wonder if there was any hope for Paddy. There were a few scenes that whacked me in the chest and I had to put the book down to deal with my emotions. The story deals with a lifetime love between Paddy and Evie, at times it is not a positive situation for either of them, at others you can see how much they are drawn to each other and how much they need each other, at others it is destructive, not only to themselves but to the people around the. This book certainly gave my emotions a run through, it also pushed some buttons in me morally and psychologically, but that is the job of a good storyteller and Felicity Volk certainly does this well.- Claire, WA, 4 Stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk is an interesting read, drawing you in from the first page. While in one aspect it is a sweeping family saga across generations, while simultaneously focusing on the day-to-day experiences of people in the emerging Australian nation. I was drawn to the characters and places in this story because of my own experiences. Having grown up and lived in the vicinity for a number of years, I could clearly picture the Canberra suburbs, the developing parliamentary district, and even the farm near Molong. However, as the novel progressed I found myself drifting away from the empathy I had developed for the characters early in the novel. You can’t help but feel for a young Paddy, witnessing the domestic violence directed towards his mother, or for young Evie, finding her way as a woman in a man’s world. Felicity Volk’s novel is excellent in that it allows readers to look back on their own childhoods, look at their relationships with parents, lovers, children, and it delves deep into the human psyche. The characters develop, just as the young Australian nation is expanding around them. Worth the read. – Angela, NSW, 3 Stars.
A beautiful story – spending time with Paddy and Evie as they progress through very different childhoods in different parts of the world, to their first meeting and beyond was a glimpse into how our experiences can shape our future. The passion they develop, not only for each other but their respective fields of expertise and how they navigate this was extremely engaging. At times funny, sad, confronting and emotional this was a detailed story which also re-connected me with the Australian landscape. – Karen, QLD, 4 Stars
Felicity Volk’s Desire Lines is one to savour. The storyline follows two different characters on their life trajectories set against a stunning Australian backdrop. The alternating narratives are beautifully written and evoke lots of emotions on behalf of the reader. The images portrayed by Volk’s skilful use literary devices are nothing short of brilliant. Complex and compelling, Desire Lines is a wonderfully crafted delight to read. Thanks again Better Reading Preview for the advanced copy, and a new author to keep an eye on! – Sarah, VIC, 5 Stars
“In the end, the heart knows what it wants and won’t be stopped.” This line from Desire Lines perfectly sums up the unforgettable love story of Evie and Paddy. Evie and Paddy have polar opposite childhood experiences and are inextricably drawn together in a complicated love that spans 50 years. A beautiful read that tugged at my heartstrings. – Kelly, QLD, 5 Stars’
What a beautiful love story this was. It had the feel of a Fiona Macintosh book. I love story that spanned the ages. It didn’t go down the cliched road of most chick lit books. I absolutely loved it. – Kay, QLD, 5 Stars
My first thought when I picked up this book was ‘Oh no. Not a back and forth book.’ Books that go back and forth in time can sometimes be confusing but luckily this wasn’t one of those. It followed a story in a timely way and was easy to follow. The story was of mainly two people who had such different lives; their lives came together, pulled apart and then came together yet again. It was an interesting story of family, hardships, love and loss. The first part of the book set the scene for both characters (Evie & Paddy) then followed their stories apart and together. It was a bit long winded, overly descriptive in parts and stretched out but it did keep me reading. There was this heart-string inside me that just wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen with these two people in life, in love and in lies and secrets! – Donna, TAS, 3 Stars
Do you believe in ‘love at first sight’? Well this is a book for you. Evie, a middle class Aussie girl from Canberra and Paddy, an orphan shipped to Australia meet at a market in the Blue Mountains. Paddy captures Evie’s heart and their lives become entwined from here on. Lies and secrets that follow, which change their lives forever. Desire Lines explores the impact of love and the choices people make. It was great to have a book that took you through Evie and Paddy’s life stories from childhood and beyond. I loved learning about both of these main characters in Desire Lines by Felicity Volk. The description of the landscapes from the Arctic Circle to our beautiful Australia were nice to read and I could visualize myself there. I did enjoy reading about seeds, plants and trees and now feel like visiting the Botanical Gardens nearby to see if I some that were mentioned. Learning about Paddy as an orphan and how he grew up was shocking and I still can’t believe that is what happened in those days. Would have loved to have learnt more of his life back in England. Anyone who enjoys love stories with all the up and downs in relationships and life will like Desire Lines. – Maria, SA, 4 Stars
Felicity Volk’s Desire Lines is a novel of grand scale and great love. Evie and Paddy are fabulously well-crafted and complex characters (I especially loved Evie’s relationship with her grandmother) who we follow for over 50 years of their intertwined lives. It is in part an exploration of the human spirit as well as the meaning of truth and lies. I learnt a lot about the horrific historical treatment of orphans from the UK and the Australian farm ‘schools’, and the use of native Australian flora leant a weight of authenticity to the story. Overall, a fabulous epic tale I would highly recommend! Thanks so much to Better Reading for this wonderful preview! – Imogen, VIC, 5 Stars
“Desire Lines” by Felicity Volk. Wow what can I say. Such a wonderful story, at times filled with sadness but also with Joy and hope. I could not get enough of this book finding it very hard to put down. The Author developed the characters and their ability to survive so beautifully. The descriptions of Early London and the harsh times experienced by the children who arrived in an unfamiliar Australia was at times hard to fathom, but to watch how the story of friendship and loved devolved to a beautiful story of survival was outstanding. I loved every page of this book, which at times was filled with sadness but also joy and strength. I loved the style of writing, the way the characters came to life. – Christine, QLD, 5 Stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk is a book that at times leaves you reeling. While I did struggle to get into the book after reading the first few pages, once over that hurdle I found myself on an emotional roller coaster. I felt distress about what the children growing up had to deal with, not being ever able to imagine their circumstances. As the characters aged I also felt upset and frustration at how they were now living their lives and what legacy their were imparting on their loved ones. I found myself willing different outcomes and scenarios. While at times a very depressing read, I certainly got caught up in this book. – Kathryn, VIC, 4 Stars
Desire Lines is an epic story of love, politics, history and the lies you will tell to protect others. It’s a thought provoking read and is set over five decades beginning in 1952. A troubled & traumatised seven-year old boy Paddy O’Connor is shipped from Nazareth House, a cruel institution in London to an Australian farm school. Some years later as a teenager, Paddy meets Evie at a market in Leura, NSW and falls in love. Desire Lines tells the story of Evie and Paddy and their compulsive and unconventional love story. The writing is heavily descriptive and lyrical, the characters complex and believable. The plot also delves into some of Australia’s burning political issues at the time. A captivating story that will leave you wanting more. – Gloria, SA, 4 Stars
Set over many decades, Desire Lines by Felicity Volk is a novel that intertwines the stories and lives of Evie Waddell and Paddy O’Conner. Evie comes from a wealthy, privileged family, growing up in the nation’s capital of Canberra. Paddy comes from an underprivileged, troubled background. His father is abusive and at seven years old his parents decide they can no longer look after him financially and send him into institutional care in London and before long he is shipped to a farm school in Australia, just south of Canberra. It is the year 1961, in the Blue Mountains when as teenagers Paddy and Evie meet for the first time and their lives intertwine. Then follows a lifetime of love, lies and secrets. A great read from alternating narratives. I particularly enjoyed reading Paddy’s story and the heartache and trauma he suffered as a child. Thank you, Better Reading, for my ARC. – Hannah, ACT, 4 Stars
This beautifully written book had me entranced by the first page. I loved the characters despite and because of their flaws. I felt disappointment along with anticipation but never stopped caring about Evie and Paddy. The diverse settings were vividly described. I particularly enjoyed the positive depictions of locations, icons and events in my home city of Canberra. It is a captivating love story but also an insightful commentary on gender, class and cultural inequities and the risks and benefits of both the truth and lies in relationships. Highly recommended! – Fiona, ACT, 5 Stars
Felicity Volk, an Australian author with a background in foreign policy, presents Desire Lines, her second novel, following the release of Lightning in 2013. Desire Lines is a story of two individuals, Paddy and Evie, who we follow from childhood to adulthood. Each has troubled lives, Paddy’s story is particularly bleak, truthful and utterly heartbreaking. The leads seem to spin around each other, but they also manage to come together for a time, only to be pulled apart again. The love between the leads traverses place, time, circumstance, position and life’s punishing setbacks. This union left a stain on my heart. Desire Lines is punctuated by poetic prose, which is tempered by strong imagery. I was able to absorb each perfectly formed word supplied by Volk, who is a true literary scholar. Desire Lines issues the reader with insightful references to botany, architecture, government policy, history and world events. I was visibly moved by the themes presented in Volk’s book, from family violence, poverty, parentage, forced migration, abuse, trauma, infidelity, lust, longing, trust, belief and most importantly, the keynote motif of desire. A few sleepless nights went with my experience of reading Desire Lines, it was haunting, yet deeply profound. – Amanda, WA, 5 Stars
Frustrating. Reading the setting of Desire Lines, the incorporation of true historical events, the cross decade format, and the emphasis on Australian native flora and fauna was right up my alley. I found the first third of the story gripping; the locations and character descriptions were vivid and utterly convincing. I felt like I was sitting at the kitchen table with Paddy’s mammy, and I developed a feeling almost immediately of protectiveness over Paddy. That all changed after Paddy and Evie’s first meeting. I found that the story didn’t really go anywhere. Right to the end. My frustration in Paddy’s ‘love’ for Evie was tangible! How could he watch Evie go through a terrible divorce, being accused of adultery, and losing her children, only to stay with his own wife, in his own life? Not to mention my frustration in Evie’s not making a stand against Paddy’s double life for so many decades. Felicity’s writing style is clear and articulate. It paints such a clear picture for the reader. You feel frustrated with the characters indecisive lives because you feel like you know them; or at least what you think you would be doing in their shoes instead. – Brooke, VIC, 3 Stars
Volk’s writing is evocative and lyrical. Desire Lines opens with one of our protagonists, Evie, in the frozen tundra of Norway. Where ‘the sun was preparing to heave itself over the horizon for the first time’, I too was anticipating the first blush of its arrival. For those that like atmospheric reads, this would be a good winter read. I enjoyed the writing, there are some lovely descriptive sentences used by the author and I love a book steeped in history. I knew of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault but this book sent me off to do little more research, it’s a fascinating project and great subject for a story. The brutal history of the shipping off of Britain’s ‘orphans’ is the basis for Paddy’s story and his treatment shapes both his and Evie’s future stories. Their story weaves throughout the years kept me thinking about the characters well after I’d finished the book. I haven’t read the author’s first book, but I’m looking forward to reading it and her future books. I was provided with an ARC of Desire Lines in exchange for an honest review. – Cathy, VIC, 4 Stars
What a read. Desire Lines is a sweeping story of love and lies that can’t help but sweep you away. The book’s beauty is haunting. I predict many will fall in love with Felicity’s epic work. Kirsten, WA, 5 Stars
A well written story about what people do and endure for love. Would have loved more of Paddy’s life in the UK, and Evie’s relationship with her grandmother. Some tough topics but a good read. – Hanadi, NSW, 3 Stars
A great read, very intriguing. As this isn’t the sort of book I would normally read I was excited to see what this book offered. Thoroughly enjoyed this book, characters were very written very well and I got to know them through the story and became quite attached to them. I would recommend this book highly. Kathryn, WA, 3 Stars
What a great story line, such an easy read, enjoyed from cover to cover. – Lynette, NSW, 4 Stars
I was captivated by this beautifully written story. The lyrical prose and vivid details were immersive and such a delight. I thought the characters were fantastic and well developed, I loved seeing their intertwined lives laid out before me over decades as the author explored the concept of choice, the effects of secrets & lies and of course love. Thanks to Better Reading & Hachette for providing a copy for review. – M Manalo, NSW, 5 Stars
There’s a lot to love about Desire Lines. It is beautifully written, it is very authentic to each of the settings and it is a love story between Paddy and Evie who are very believable characters. However, I didn’t love this book as I thought I was going to. Although it had my attention in the beginning, it didn’t hold my interest to the end. This is billed as an epic love story but Evie and Paddy didn’t actually meet each other until almost half way through the book. The first half of the book concentrates on their very different childhoods. Then it was love at first sight, a love which was to last for decades. As in life, this relationship had many ups and downs but I didn’t always feel that Paddy and Evie treated each other as two people in love and at times, I felt the storyline was a bit shallow. I’m sure there are many who will love this book, I just wasn’t one of them. Thank you Better Reading. – Cathie, QLD, 3 Stars
This is an enjoyable book – the two main characters Evie & Paddy, are complex yet believable. Their story is two people from very different walks of life, and how through their choices their futures are intertwined. Told through two perspectives this is a richly woven tale of love and family dynamics. There is a little in this book for everyone, love, family, history, drama, politics. The book is very descriptive of the Australian Flora & fauna, so take your time to enjoy the writing. Thanks you to Better Reading for an advance copy of this book. – Lisa, TAS, 1 Stars
A heartbreaking yet ultimately hopeful story set across decades, I fell in love with this book and it’s characters. – Erin, QLD, 3 Stars
I found myself loving this novel in the end. It was a bit tedious at the start but I persevered with it and I am glad I did. A tale of epic love and tragedy that makes you feel strong emotions for the characters involved. It was one of those novels which stays with you for a long time after you have finished reading. – Aleisha, QLD, 5 Stars
This is a brilliant book. I loved it. The descriptions are excellent, and the reading experience is beautiful and real. The story of Evie and Paddy’s relationship over decades, as well as the necessary background to explain choices, is intricate. The detail shows a great deal of research and I enjoyed the revisit to historical events such as the handing down of the Mabo decision by the High Court. I highly recommend this book. It is one of the best I have read. – Sandra, ACT, 5 Stars
After really struggling with the first chapter I was surprisingly captured by the book. I found the first chapter to be wordy, however once the storyline dropped back to the beginning of the timeline and it started to flow I enjoyed all the added description. I love books where the story is told from different characters perspectives, which this story did excellently, allowing the reader to understand why the characters act in a particular way. I found the earlier years of Paddy, whilst quite depressing, really interesting and felt I understood him and why he was who he was, even though by the end of the book I was (very) frustrated with him. Evie was a character I could relate to and I understood much of what she did, yet for such a strong character I found her frustrating at times with what she tolerated. Overall I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. I loved that it was a story based in Australia with landmarks and cities we could visualise. Whilst there were numerous depressing moments, I liked that the story was true to the damage of Paddy’s younger years. – Leanne, VIC, 3 Stars
Evie and Paddy, are from different backgrounds. Paddy grew up in a poor family, Evie, born into privilege. Even with these differences their lives become entwined, drawing them close together and then pulling them apart again. Evie was taught that telling the truth is important but Paddy was lied to so much in his early years that lying comes naturally to him. Which leads to the opening line of Evie “Are you still a liar?” With this line the story starts and the reader’s interest is piqued. While I really liked how the story moved between the two characters and their timelines I found the book had a lot of unnecessary description of landscape and plant names. This caused my mind to wander and did not hold my full attention. However my interest was always brought back to storyline through the character dialog and their interaction. The story also highlighted that humans can have failings. I identified with the characters and their feelings when they were dealing with competing obligations and needs and I could empathise as they were going through life’s ups and downs. Thank you Better Reading for a copy of this book, overall I enjoyed this story. – Ally, TAS, 3 Stars
This was a good read, but I was pleased to finish it. It started well and there was a lot to enjoy, particularly the descriptions which were extremely vivid and made the reader feel they were actually there experiencing everything. Unfortunately, Paddy’s character, which was well developed early, lost it’s depth as the novel progressed. – Anne, QLD, 3 Stars
I love a book that shows the characters from different perspectives, and over different timelines, and this was no exception. To be able to understand and grow with the character throughout the narrative is addictive, and Felicity does this well. At times it could be difficult to keep track of the timeline, but would make sense again in a paragraph or two. As someone with an interest in plants, I loved the horticultural references scattered throughout the book, and the meanings attached. – Louisa, VIC, 4 Stars
This book in equal parts broke my heart and put it back together as I followed the characters well written story arcs. I enjoyed ignoring everything else on my to do list to read this beautifully written book. – Jessie, VIC, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Desire Lines’ due to Volk’s inapt ability to twist two lives simultaneously across decades. By exploring two individuals and their relationships within their family and themselves, we as a reader connect personally to each character and more emotionally to their eventual connection. Volk’s added addition of horticultural knowledge and insight into Australia’s history creates an addicting read that many will enjoy. – Charlotte, NSW, 4 Stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk was an intriguing book. Whilst it took me a while to get into, once I did, I enjoyed it. There are passages of highly quotable writing, which I always love. The storytelling is beautiful, and the descriptive prose weaves the parallel story lines together wonderfully. A worthwhile read. – Laura, SA, 4 Stars
Volk handles her pencil like an artist, painting rich, textured images as she tells a story traversing a number of decades. The characters are child-like, fallible and forgivable. Her use of metaphor is magical, her botanical references are beautiful and her empathy is enduring. ‘Desire Lines’ is a masterpiece. – Kirralee, SA, 5 Stars
This book was a beautifully told love story that spanned decades. From the very first chapter I felt like I was in the Arctic Circle with Evie. This was a story that wove fiction with history, nature, agriculture with a never-ending love. I found myself getting quite emotional, particularly when Paddy was young, it even brought me to tears at one point. Further through the story I was getting quite frustrated and angry on Evie’s behalf. The characters were very strong and had their own stories to tell which I loved. I did find myself referring back to previous chapters to see how many years had passed. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, so easy to immerse myself into, I loved it. – Tracey, NSW, 5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end. Having grown up and gone to school in Molong I felt a real emotional attachment to this love story, in particular the parts relating to Fairbridge Farm. A beautiful and classy piece of literature. – Justine, NSW, 5 Stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk starts with five words, the question are you still a liar? The first chapter is set in 2012 in the Arctic Circle with landscape architect Evie Waddell. Evie is in the Arctic Circle to plant seeds in a vault which is in a mountain in freezing conditions. Then another character is introduced and the story is set in 1953. Paddy O’Connor. He is sent by ship from London to a farm school in Australia. From his time at the farm school he has many painful memories. It seems Evie and Paddy were meant to meet. In 1962 at a country market in the Blue Mountains they finally do meet. They have a compulsive love that will span decades. Desire Lines is a story of love and lies. It also is a story of a man who is trying to overcome a deeply disturbing traumatic childhood. Even though the characters have a very different upbringing they have a special bond. While Paddy had an upbringing nobody would want Evie had a quite idyllic childhood. They seem to be bound together from the first time they set eyes on each other. I loved the way the characters were written as I could feel so much empathy for Paddy. The novel also shows us a bit about our past, and how children were treated. I highly recommend Desire Lines and look forward to reading more of her books in the future. – Freda, QLD, 5 Stars
What a beautiful story! I was absolutely in awe of this book from page one right until the very end. My immediate thoughts after reading the first couple of pages were that it is amazing how some people choose such very different occupations that then leads them through an interesting, enjoyable journey through life. The manner in which this book has been written takes you on a magical, wistful journey through the unpredictable lives of these people. Along the way the author delves deep into the history surrounding this journey thus making the story even more enjoyable. To survive and uncertain upbringing is a feat in itself. We often weave a tangled web as we proceed through life but this story does show that ‘there is no “right” life’. Words of wisdom contained in the book state: “Make it a good truth. Make it a truth that nourishes the people around you”. (Page 296). Spoken by a wise, nurturing lady in the story. This book is a joy to read and one that makes you wish chores didn’t exist because it is very hard to put down. Excellent read! – Laurel, NSW, 5 Stars
From the first page I realised that Desire Lines was a novel that deserves a slow and careful read. I took my time, allowing myself to be captured by the words and the story itself. In 1962 two teenagers meet. For the next fifty odd years, their lives converge and entwine, full of love and desire, and lies. To a backdrop of Canberra’s growth, architectural and landscape, Paddy and Evie live their lives, both together and apart. The writing is rich, the characters complex. I was thoroughly absorbed from start to finish. A novel I would recommend. – Daniella, QLD, 5 Stars
As a first time reviewer I was excited to receive and start reading this book! An intriguing story written over a passage of time, I found myself intrigued by both the rich characters and language until the very last page! I would recommend this book to lovers of romantic, historical, Australian fiction. You will not be disappointed! – Caren, SA, 4 Stars
Felicity Volk is a master in what makes us human. The characters are so real. I can’t stop thinking about them. A story about lies and truths, what make them good or bad, and how they create who we are. A sad but tender book about people and their lives. Absolutely heart-breaking and real. Yet, beautiful and breath-taking. – Aida, NSW, 4 Stars
Found myself totally immersed in this lengthy book. The love affair of the main characters feels real and fresh despite being set in 2012, 1953 and 1962. It opened my eyes to new subjects such as architecture, landscape architecture, history, law, politics and war. It is an epic, tender, passionate read about unconventional love and “lost truths can find it’s way home”, it’s a huge read like Fiona McIntosh’s Fields of Gold, an eye opener and you will learn lots of amazing information. – Penny, NSW, 5 Stars
I enjoyed Desire Lines and the journey it took me on following the lives of Evie and Paddy. Both characters were believable and likeable and I especially felt for Paddy and the ups and downs he endured throughout the book. I did feel that Paddy’s early life could have been further explored but all in all the storyline moved along nicely. Desire Lines is an intriguing book that had me feeling many emotions – anger, joy, love and sadness. Susan, NSW, 4 Stars
Desire Lines packs a huge emotional punch…and I absolutely adored it! It is an epic story, spanning several decades and continents, following the lives of Evie Waddell and Paddy O’Connor. Despite being a large book, this is an absolute page-turner and I was so invested in the journeys of the two main characters that I could not put this book down. There are elements of the story that are gut-wrenching – particularly relating to Paddy’s upbringing – but the book is also uplifting. I absolutely loved the theme of lies and how they are viewed differently depending on the context and content of the lie. It was very thought-provoking, touching, and beautifully written, I highly recommend it. Amanda, QLD, 5 Stars
Desire Lines is the first book by Felicity Volk that I have read and it certainly won’t be the last. Thanks to Better Reading for my ARC. I loved the way the story intertwined the lives of Evie and Paddy in a truly believable way, transporting the reader into the story. The story cleverly covers a range of topics – love, betrayal, lies, infidelity and spans over 50 years. A very enjoyable read. – Karyn, SA, 5 Stars
Thank you for my copy of Desire Lines by Felicity Volk. This is a sweeping story of lives and how early times affect later, including younger generations. It is the story of Paddy O’Connor and Evie Waddell. Paddy comes from London in difficult circumstances to a new life in Australia. The shell he had to create to get through the tough times made it hard for him to make and keep connections down the track. Evie was born in Australia and had a relatively conventional upbringing with some expectations involved. When their lives crossed is when the emotions really begin. Their pasts intrude in many ways and it takes some big events to help sort through them. I love the architectural and botanical references throughout and seeing how people change and get through their lives. Times may change, but interactions don’t, although thankfully they become more thoughtful as time goes on. I love the way families evolve to cope with changes – it was very authentic. Highly recommend. – Tara, SA, 4 Stars
Desire Lines is a story about two soles from inherently different walks of life and how the choices they made or had made for them by others, entwined their futures through a series of captivating meetings over time. The story captures love, violence, lies, betrayal, social dynamics, and how childhood traumas shape us and are reflected in our life’s choices. The desire to be and have what we cannot and the lies we tell ourselves to survive in ways we can all relate. I fell in love with Paddy and Evie as they fell for each other, my heart broke at the longing they felt when their paths took them in opposite directions, and the growing passion when they found each other again. There were moments I felt that storylines could be further explored, I would have liked to delve deeper into Paddy’s upbringing or Evie’s adolesce and where life took them in those many years apart, but overall I really enjoyed this book and its representation of the truths and failing of just being human. – Renee, NSW, 4 stars
Desire Lines tells the story about Paddy and Evie and how they meet and fall in love. The author uses beautiful descriptive language that engages the reader in both their separate stories and then their life story together. I like how the author presented the book with alternating chapters between telling Paddy and Evie’s stories. I would have liked the author to have further explored Paddy’s story before coming out to Australia as I was most engaged with his story and background. Just prior to Paddy and Evie first meeting, I found that the book did become a bit little bit slow but then it gathered pace again. A wonderful read, full of description and beautifully told. Well worth 4 stars! – Brenda, NSW, 4 stars
A beautifully written, moving story of love and duty, getting old and the regrets we hold. Still haunting me a week after finishing – Rachel, QLD, 4 stars
Initially the author’s heavily descriptive and lyrical writing had me rereading paragraphs to understand the baseline of the story and take in the icy Artic landscape of Longyearbyen but after just a few pages, everything began falling into place. “Are you still a liar?” is a line that becomes a major chord throughout Desire Lines. Felicity Volk’s powerful writing had me actually ‘living’ Paddy; experiencing a rough time as a youngster in England and surviving his hardships and challenges throughout his difficult childhood, being shipped to Australia, and then through adulthood and beyond. Similarly, I felt I was ‘being’ Evie, the second lead character, throughout her growth from childhood into motherhood as she builds her life with her own career and family around her. Desire Lines is delivered spanning many decades from 1952 to 2012, with each chapter focusing on either Paddy or Evie at a progressive time. It deepens as their lives are forever intertwined in a beautiful yet sad love story, with each going about their lives whilst forever being haunted by their deep love for each other. I did find at times there was an amount of ‘filler’ or overuse of wordiness when the delivery could have been a little tighter, especially with the use of technical terms of our various flora. As a non gardener I found this a bit excessive, but could easily scan over these parts to get on with the story. Read this delightful book to discover what their truth is … “perhaps all a lie really is – just a truth that took a wrong turn and lost it’s way.” Desire Lines by Felicity Volk is a wonderful read and I thank Better Reading for providing a preview copy to me for an honest review. #BRPreview – Dani, NSW, 4 stars
A complex story of love across different times, places and people which I found a little choppy. I was captured by the characters especially Evie but found the read a little difficult at times. – Kim, NSW, 3 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I was hooked from start to finish! Looking forward to reading more novels by Felicity Volk. – Therese, NSW, 4 stars
What an incredibly beautiful story! Felicity Volk is a gifted writer, she made me really feel along with the characters. This book was a bit different to what I usually read, but I really enjoyed it. Heartbreaking, moving, secrets and lies, love and loss, this book has everything. At points it was tough, but definitely worth it. Highly recommend! Thanks to Better reading for the ARC 🙂 – Jess, NSW, 5 stars,
Enjoyable book, showing how individual circumstances and choices from childhood to adulthood and life stages countinue to play out, and the impact those decisions can have on others. Also showed how importantance of relationships with others and how that support that others can provide is essential. Ineterwoven into the story was also a reminder of Australia’s past. – Danielle, VIC, 4 stars
Desire Lines is beautifully written book and very descriptive of the surroundings throughout. I really liked both of the main characters Paddy and Evie and their love story too. An enjoyable read through decades of ups and downs, which often had me feeling happy and sad also. Great Australian read. Will definetly recommend to my family and friends. Thanks! – Jennifer, WA, 4 stars
DESIRE LINES – had me hooked from “Are You Still A Liar” – Simply beautiful I loved this book. Paddy and Evie are introduced in an intriguing way and I loved them both. A heartbreaking beautiful book, do not miss this one, there is something in here for us all. – Debbie, VIC, 5 stars
It starts in the poorest parts of mid-twentieth-century London, with the son of a sadistic, vicious, controlling father and a helpless mother; and in the suburbs of the fledgling national capital, with a botanist’s granddaughter; fifty years on, a spite-filled annual text unsent from an arctic ice cave: “Are you still a liar?” The distance between these two extremes, traversing orphans transplanted, the polar seed vault, and the architecture of buildings and landscapes, is one filled with love and lust, cruelty and kindness, history and heartache, and, yes, many lies. Beautifully written, this is a moving and thought-provoking read. – Marianne, NSW, 5 stars
“Are you Still a Liar”. Such a great first sentence to a very enjoyable read. I loved how Evie and Paddy met as Teenagers, and throughout the years they still wanted each other. Different chapters explain their lives before they meet. And how their life experience form them. A great book to read – Bridget, VIC, 5 stars
Desire Lines is a well crafted masterpiece rich in the workings of humanity and steeped in Australia’s history. Volk has written a moving story that not only covers the history of Paddy & Evie’s relationship but the history of our nation. She has expertly intertwined the two and shown the effect one has had on the other while also showing how the same events are seen differently by the different parties involved. There are not many issues from Australia’s history in the past 50 years that have not been touched on in this novel. Volk has produced characters who are as human as all of us and as the novel progresses and Paddy & Evie’s lives both together and apart are laid bare in front of us, we see the frailty of humanity, the compulsions that can overcome us and that the words we tell ourselves to survive are quite often the lies that maim us. Volk has delivered an epic saga that spans 50 years yet leaves you wanting to know what happens next. It captivates the reader and will be talked about for years to come. – Mel, NSW, 5 stars
On his 7th birthday Paddy O’Connor’s life path shifts due to the toss of a coin. Curtly dispatched by an abusive father to a home for foundlings he is set adrift from his loving Mammy and baby brother. Paddy’s intellect is recognised by the Fairbridge Society, who benevolently ship him off to a farm school in rural Australia. However, child abuse is rife and over the years his instinct for self-preservation is honed by his survival of the perversity and treachery of the adult world. Lies and hidden truths are his bedrock. Drawing and building structures are his lifeline. Evie’s introduction to horticulture begins with the yam daisy and is influenced by the loving memories of the botanist grandfather she never knew. Although encouraged to pursue a legal career, she drops out to become a landscape architect. Her story is related with growing, nurturing terms, her life path running along desire lines not the paths laid out. In their teens, Paddy and Evie meet at a country market. This interlude remains in their thoughts as they marry unsurprising partners, raise children and live in different cities. Not until the construction of the High Court in Canberra do they again cross paths and not just professionally. Their sporadic love life takes many detours and dead ends, old roots buckling the path. Will their choices, the gambles taken pay off? Is Paddy still a liar? In ‘Desire Lines’ Felicity Volk’s writing style is richly descriptive. Her research of the places, personalities, history and politics is meticulous, setting the scene vividly. – Anita, QLD, 5 stars
Desire lines is a beautifully written and crafted love story. I very much enjoyed this book – Brielle, NSW, 4 stars
I found “Desire Lines” challenging; despite recognising the truth in it, I bristled at the differences in how the male and female characters were treated. That said, this is a remarkable depiction of a relationship that lasts over 50 years. The difference between male and female characters was undoubtedly deliberate on Volk’s part, as she clearly references matters such as the marriage bar. And there is truth in the completely different ways Evie and Paddy are treated in essentially the same situation – she is cruelly punished, while he gets to have everything. It just left me with a flavour of regret and bitterness that may have been a touch stronger than Volk intended. Volk lingers over social and political changes through the years, and places her characters near some particularly important events. Other characters convey common attitudes and beliefs. At times I found the even pace of the novel a little slow. This is a thoughtful novel with many layers. It’s a novel you want to take your time with, to be sure you’re not missing anything. There’s plenty to think about, as well as a moving and vivid love story. “Desire Lines” will stay with me for some time. – Lorraine, ACT, 4 stars
An enchanting read. It had me from the beginning with interesting characters and a flicking back between past and current times. The characters were relatable and I found myself rooting for Paddy and Evie right to the end. It was hard not to reach through the book and tell them what to do! Really well written. I’ll be on the look out for this author again. – Stacie, NSW, 5 stars
‘Desire Lines’ by Felicity Volk is by far my pick for one of the greatest reads of 2020. A story told across several decades by a group of generational people, this is a page turner from the beginning. This novel was beautifully told, and had me both crying and laughing throughout. A captivating story. Well done Felicity, and thank you Better Reading for the opportunity to review. – Bec, TAS, 5 stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk “Are you still a liar” great first line, made me grip the book a little tighter, intrigued. What a wonderful story of love at first sight, Volk captures this beautifully from Evie’s curiosity as to the maker of models at the market and Paddy deciding right at that time this was the girl for him. I think Paddy had a skewed sense of love though and no wonder from what he’d been through, so much sadness. The first few chapters relating to Paddy’s upbringing served to explain to some degree his reluctance to fight for love and accept abandonment, he wanted Evie but it clearly had to be her choice to be there, he wasn’t going to fight to keep her and in the end he didn’t and I so wanted him to. You could call it arrogance if Paddy was emotionally mature, but he wasn’t. So many instances where Volk’s writing provided the emotion so vividly but then at times I felt it was describing a lust story rather than a love story, sometimes it read as just an affair for sex and maybe that was all it was to Paddy for a period of time. I felt Evie’s frustration and depth of engagement and then Paddy would do/say something and on the surface, all was good again. I also liked the process of building to the conclusion for example, I didn’t know we were at Margaret’s funeral until Evie began a conversation with Monty – remember when you’d write faster when you thought you were getting to the end of the line and wouldn’t fit the words in. The story was well structured with enough information that I could easily look up, for example, the SS Oransay was one of many passenger ships bringing migrants to Australia to start a new life, and the Svalbard Global Seed Vault made for interesting reading too. I didn’t think it was necessary to include the plant names but it didn’t bother me either, I could imagine some green fingered readers picturing the plants and imagining they would sit well together in the landscape, I couldn’t but it wasn’t an issue. I really enjoyed reading this book and I know the marketing hype is there to sell as many as possible however I would disagree with the reference to this being an epic story of love, it is a story of love. I understand the author has another book which I intend to seek out if I can get ahead of my TBR list. THANKS to Better Reading Preview for an advance reading copy. – Maria, QLD< 4 stars
Thank you Better Reading for an advanced copy of Desire Lines for my honest review. Felicity Volk has written an Australian masterpiece from the first line “Are you still a liar”?, this novel has it all, domestic violence, poverty, love, betrayal, the lies we tell ourselves, the lies we tell others & the happiness & trauma that results all at once. This beautifully written novel follows Evie & Paddy and the decades that they come together and fall apart, it’s an unconventional love story of marriages, children, infidelity but written with a deep understanding of the human spirit. The book is written highlighting native fauna & the architecture of the time in a way that has you smelling the eucalyptus & feeling like you have actually seen some of the architecture purely from the description. I found it really hard to put this one down, a great read that had me smiling & made me sad all at once. Thoroughly recommend if you love Australian stories #BRPreview – Penne, NSW, 5 stars
I will not follow where the path may lead, But I will go where there is no path, and I will leave a trail Muriel Storde ‘Desire Lines’ is a powerful and beautifully crafted love story that explores the human condition, the lies we tell and how the truth lasts forever, written by the very talented Felicity Volk. The book looks at the family dynamics in an ever-changing world, a love story that spans over 50 years, the heartbreak, heart warmth and the ability to just survive. Paddy and Evie have an unconventional love story that started at 16 and through different partners, marriages and children, they seem to always find a way back to each other. – Amy, NSW, 5 stars
Desire Lines is full of the ups and downs in life and love, and is made rich by the vast topics covered, including botany, science, theology, poetry, Latin, law, politics, and Australia’s modern history. What I love about this book is Volk’s writing style, it was easy to read and the words and original similes throughout created vivid imagery that drew me into Evie and Paddy’s worlds. What I didn’t like was that this story started to become too political. I enjoyed this book and would recommend Desire Lines. Thank you #BRPreview – Sarah, NSW, 4 stars
What an emotional roller coaster! I loved this book and was genuinely sad to finish it. I think Evie and Paddy will stay with me for quite some time. – Stevie, NSW, 5 stars
If you are a fan of historical romance fiction you will find a lot to like in Desire Lines. A mix of circumstances, deception, lies and love bring Evie and Paddy together. They share a passion for their chosen careers and each other. Paddy’s life is shaped by a desperate childhood and as a “Fairbridge Child” he arrives in Australia, a victim of the horrors of institutional abuse. Paddy is a beautifully developed character, complex and conflicted, hero and coward. Evie’s childhood is more conservative and predictable although she is determined to break free and their meeting sparks a passionate romance that seems to provide both with equal doses of freedom and anxiety. Volk works historical events seamlessly into the story making Desire Lines a blend of history and fiction brought alive by the experiences of the characters. If the goal of historical fiction is to educate and move the reader Desire Lines succeeds on both counts. – Russell, VIC, 3 stars
Felicity Volk’s Desire Lines is a magnificent journey about life! It takes us from the far reaches of Norway, to England in the 1950s and Australia over a period of 60 years. As it does Volk’s beautiful use of language allows us to see the snow and ice, the old and new houses and their surrounds, and the plants and the people as though we were watching it unfold before our eyes! Volk has also given us two credible but flawed main characters in Evie and Paddy, with an interesting support cast, that draws you in yet frustrates as those people keep making poor decisions with long term consequences. It’s a love story without being a romance, as it reveals the lives of the central characters who, apart from extraordinary circumstances, should never have met, yet are inextricably tied to one another! it’s also a tale of Australia’s modern history, without ever falling into the trap of being dry or irrelevant! The author also holds a mirror up to our own lives and challenges us to examine our decisions and question whether we could have chosen the desire lines that would have made our lives more fulfilling. One of 2020’s must-read books! – Chris, QLD, 5 stars
Beautiful, raw, heart-breaking story. An alarming truthful element to the unfolding storyline. A solid page turner, one I will read again. – Heidi, NSW, 4 stars
A beautiful story about first love between two people raised in very different backgrounds over 50+ years navigating around marriages, divorce, children, employment and travel. A very enjoyable book which I read within 2 days – Alanna, TAS, 4 stars
It took me a few chapters to really get into this book as I found the first chapter un-engaging. But once I got into the chapters regarding the childhoods of both Paddy and Evie, I couldn’t put it down. Every time I had to stop, I would literally count down the minutes until I could start reading again. This novel is powerful and impactful and stays with the reader long after the last page has been finished. Fantastic – Kirstie, WA, 4 stars
Wow, what an amazing book. “Desire Lines” took my breath away – the seemingly disparate lives of Evie and Paddy, worlds apart, yet destined to collide – I was captivated as each page held me and insisted I read the next. “Desire Lines” is a work of art, the words on each page creating such strong visualisations that you felt a part of it. It is a book to savour, not to rush through, yet you can’t wait to find out what comes next – with each new chapter in turn you will laugh and cry, you will be amazed and bewildered. Evie and Paddy, born on opposite sides of the world, growing up and eventually meeting, yet destiny has something else planned for them. Their paths continue to collide and then separate – seemingly each with their own individual destinies. You hold your breath and hope that love will win in the end. I loved this book, there is so much in it I will have to read it again, just in case I missed anything! I am now looking forward to reading Felicity Volk’s previous book – hope it’s as good! I wish I could give “Desire Lines” more than 5 stars! – Jane, NSW, 5 stars
I probably won’t have picked this book from the bookshelves but once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The characters are interesting and engaging (I particularly love the side-story of Grandma Margie and her Monty). Paddy and Evie have a complex relationship which still manages to be lonely. Volk draws you into the scene enabling the reader to picture the exact setting. The author manages to interweave aspects of modern Australian history without it becoming a History lesson. Loved the book, loved the ending, will now have to read Volk’s previous book – Lightning’! – Liz, WA, 5 stars
While Volk writes beautifully, really evoking the Australian landscape, ultimately I struggled to connect with the characters. I was frustrated that Evie fell for the “I’m married in name only, for the kids’ sake” line so commonly used by cheating husbands, and more frustrated about how poorly Paddy treated her and his wife. I really wanted something better for Evie. This book is more of an emotional exploration than a story with a plot, and ultimately didn’t satisfy me. – Helen, VIC, 3 stars
Desire Lines follows the intertwined lives of Paddy and Evie through decades of ups and downs, facing the realities of life and love and how messy it can all be. I loved the idea of the desire lines – a well worn pathway through the grass rather than the allocated path, but I felt that this could be explored a bit better throughout. I liked how the story was told from the viewpoints of both Paddy and Evie, and I enjoyed their childhood the most. Certain scenes and times in the book captured me, but others fell flat or felt quite rushed. Overall, it was a lovely book and was a good reminder of how the decisions we make and the lies we tell impact not just us, but everyone around us, despite our best efforts. – Brooke, NSW, 3 stars
Evie learns from an early age about honesty and a search for a “good truth” but Paddy, at the same early age but on a different continent, has been taught about secrets and lies. When they meet, so begins a love affair that spans five decades, and which is told from each of their point of view in alternating chapters, set against a backdrop of various milestones in Australia’s social and political history. During the course of this ime they each marry other people but this does not stop them from pursuing their hearts’ desire, despite the inevitable hurt and pain caused not only to others, but to themselves. Throughout this extremely well written, almost poetic, book there is a highly evocative sense of various starkly contrasting and sometime evolving places, but a thread of compassion and forgiveness also weaves its way through. Thanks to Better Reading for giving me the opportunity to be introduced to this wonderfully articulate writer via a book which I think would make a fabulous film. – Pamela, VIC, 5 stars
I wanted to love this book and I can already see that I am in a minority. This is the sort of book that I love to read but I just felt like it was full of too much fluff and not enough of the story lines that piqued my interest. I liked the way the story was constructed with moving between the 2 characters and timelines, but I wanted more about Paddy and his UK family, the way that ended was so disappointing. I love Evie’s storyline with her grandmother but that also fell flat. This book explores the impacts of love ones in our lives and the choices we make to be loved. I just felt that there was so many good storylines that were lazily just cut off, and the bits we did spend time exploring in great depth didn’t add enough value to make me care about this book. 3 stars – Di, QLD, 3 stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk is a love story involving Evie Waddell and Paddy O’Connor.The book follows each of them individually, in the past and present, and gradually their stories overlap in interesting ways. The writing is very descriptive, and you become very involved in the story, and keep waiting for the happy ending. I really enjoyed the book. – Fay, VIC, 4 stars
A thoroughly enjoyable, satisfying book. The two main characters, Paddy and Evie both have very different beginnings to life, one heartbreaking, the other more privileged. However this novel shows life happens to us, no matter how we start out. Sometimes heart rending, sometimes joyous, funny, poignant, sad. All emotions are encompassed in this book. A great read. – Ros, ACT, 5 stars
Desire Lines is a wonderful but heartbreaking story set over many decades. The two main characters, Evie and Paddy come from completely different backgrounds but their lives become entwined. The secrets and lies that follow change both their lives forever. I thought this was a beautiful book and especially enjoyed the parts about native flora and architecture and found our brutal history regarding orphans very shocking. Overall Felicity Volk’s book was very enjoyable. – Sharah, QLD, 5 stars
There isn’t much this beautifully crafted and constructed novel doesn’t cover… love, loss, mistakes, poverty, domestic violence, infidelity, choices, lies, regrets, forgiveness, intergenerational connection, landscapes, structures, politics across time and place(s). Paddy and Evie invite us to consider the complexities of navigating life – born of worlds so inherently different, the randomness of how people’s lives intersect. What holds them? What shapes them? What shackles them and where does it all ultimately land them in time…and at what cost? It’s the intersection of their decisions and the impacts on one another and those closest to them as they go about their ordinary lives that is examined in these pages – humans fumbling their way through – doing it right and getting it wrong but really just doing the best they can with what they got. A very human condition. Both Evie and Paddy are deeply courageous and deeply flawed and I loved getting to know them because of that. I enjoyed all of the characters on the peripheral of their shared story as well, often pondering what additional perspective they might have added to the Paddy and Evie tale if space was held for that telling. Oh – the webs we weave. – Annie, VIC, 4 stars
I really enjoyed reading Desire Lines. It covered parts of history and locations that I had previously never read about, and seemed meticulously researched. Although some characters didn’t seem likeable to start with, the excellent writing drew me into their lives and had me hoping for a happy ending. I look forward to reading more books from Felicity Volk. – Brianna, SA, 4 stars
In Desire Lines, Felicity Volk has created a unique work of fiction that chronicles the lives, loves and lies of Paddy O’Connor and Evie Waddell for over half a century. I found the story absorbing and beautifully written. The characters were well drawn and the descriptions of place were evocative and poetic. At times the subject matter was distressing and dealt with difficult issues such as domestic violence and the institutional sexual abuse of children. Society has been telling lies throughout and about history and sometimes individuals such as Paddy need to lie to themselves and others in order to survive. Desire Lines provokes an emotional response and at times I found myself tearing up or angry at the life that was dealt to the young Paddy. Evie and Paddy’s stories are told in separate chapters and are interwoven against a background of interesting times in Australia’s recent history and a variety of places such as London, Laura, Canberra and Moloney. Ultimately the story of star crossed lovers, Desire Lines is a fascinating read that has many facets and will strike a chord promoting individual responses with readers. – Janelle, NSW, 5 stars
Set against the backdrop of spectacular Australian landscrapes this book shares an epic love story. From tragic childhoods and unfair fates this story, spanning time and distance, delivers a passionate and tender insight into a beautiful and sometimes devastating love story. I completely enjoyed this well written book. – Samantha, QLD< 4 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The two main characters, Paddy and Evie, were both likeable and believable. I could feel for them as they went through life’s ups and downs. Paddy had a tough beginning to life, and grew up the hard way, while Evie had a much happier upbringing, but fate brought them together. The intertwining of their lives is very realistic, as we watch them grapple with competing obligations and needs. I could identify every step of the way. This book is a breath of fresh air. It encompasses elements of recent history and an insight into life and human failings to produce a story to which anyone could relate. – Karen, VIC, 5 stars
Felicity Volk writes with an easy to read style. Her use of descriptive prose is beautiful in parts but her underlying plot theme, for me anyway, became unpleasant. Starting at the North Pole, she moves us and her characters from London, Canberra and NSW in 1952 finishing at the North Pole and NSW in 2012. Her story revolves around the love story of Paddy, a poor boy, given up by his parents and sent to Australia and Evie, a young girl living in Canberra. Felicity has taken us all on a very long journey. I felt no sympathy for her characters but I loved the way the history of Canberra and NSW was weaved around them. I was happy to turn the last page on family breakups, love making and lies. – Andrew, ACT, 3 stars
This was a really intense story that was hard to put down. A true love story, with many twists and turns, some of their own making and some forced upon them, this story really pulls at the heart strings. Tracing the main characters lives from the early years and beyond, the effects on their relationships helped the story move. I found the opening chapter a little confusing at the start, but as the story ebbed and flowed, it’s true importance became obvious. The would make a beautiful film, one that you’d have to pack the tissues for. – Jodie, WA, 5 stars
Desire Lines is a story about love, loss, consequences and second chances. It spans the lifetimes of it’s characters and leaves you feeling as though there are no significant gaps in the telling of their stories. Wrought with parallels and poetry this book explores the fragile state of humanity and the repercussions of ones decisions, lies and ambiguity. I was truly impressed by the knowledge the author showed of the main characters chosen career paths and the Australian history she so easily blended into the story line. Intelligent and moving, it’s a story that will draw you in and take you on a literary journey. – Belinda, VIC, 3 stars
Felicity Volk is a writer that grabs your attention from the moment your eyes hit the first sentence of Desire Lines. Her writing is smooth, engaging and draws you into her intertwined plots throughout the novel. I loved the way she took the two main characters, Evie and Paddy, and started to weave their separate lives together, drawing them close and then drawing them apart again, taunting the reader – will they ever resolve their relationship, what will happen? I was so drawn into Evie and her longing for a lifetime companion and her ever-present disappointment, but she still could not let go. Paddy’s passiveness grows out of his childhood and seems to influence everything in his life, except his career. As an architect – is he trying to design and build something solid and lasting, something he can’t quite seem to grasp in his own life. This is an intriguing book that took me on a journey of love, sadness, frustration and joy. – Lee, NSW, 4 stars
Desire Lines Desire Lines intertwines two stories against primarily a backdrop of Australia . The story tells the lives of two main characters Paddy, who comes to Australia as a ward with the Fairbridge Society and Evie, who comes from a middle class Australian family. Paddy and Evie meet and part ways throughout their life. Desires Lines is beautifully told with each character telling their story chapter by chapter. The book commences in 2012 with Evie in Longyearbyen in the Arctic Cirlce. The book then begins the background to their story Paddy in London in 1952 then shifting between Evie in Canberra in the same year and so on until the years roll by with each telling their story until it is 2012 again. The bond between the two is compelling which makes for a great read. They do no follow a well worn path but a path they create and are destined to follow – their own desire line. “I will not follow where the path may lead, but I will go where there is no path, and I will leave a trail” Muriel Strode – Karyn, ACT, 4 stars
From the opening quotes, Felicity Volk had me hooked. The development of each character, as we watched both main characters, Paddy and Evie, from early childhood well into adult life and the scope of topics covered truly is testament to Volk’s incredible writing. I really enjoyed this book and found myself constantly wanting to read more; to learn more. It wasn’t always the easiest of reads, Paddy’s childhood in particular, but like with all people there is always events that shape who you are whether good or bad and this was part of his story. I highly recommend Desire Lines, and I personally cant wait to see what Volk does next. – Rachelle, TAS, 4 stars
There are two characters in this story, Paddy and Evie. The author wrote that each chapter is belong to one of them. A pretty slow story as these two characters are finally meet each other not until by half of the book. Before that, i keep wondering where this story is going??? I was abit annoyed at first. Once these two characters met, it starts becoming an addictive reading. Felicity, you developed Paddy and Evie characters amazingly, until you let me fall in between love and hate for each of them. It is a must read!! – Vivi, NSW, 5 stars
A heart wrenching story, Desire Lines is a very good read. My heart simply broke for Paddy and his Mum, and I found it close to unbearable to read those painful scenes. Immersing yourself in this book is bittersweet, but worth it. I enjoyed the socio-political perspective throughout, giving context to the unconventional love story that was playing out for the reader. I recommend this book, but be prepared for heartbreak. – Alice, NSW, 4 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed ‘Desire Lines’. This beautifully crafted novel explores the effects of childhood trauma, the lies – and truths – we tell ourselves and others, and the many facets of love. Volk’s prose is lyrical, and her characters are complex and believable, suggesting a writer that has a true appreciation of the human condition. I particularly liked the way Volk linked the names and attributes of various plants and trees to the history of the land and the emotions of her characters, so that they become characters in their own right. An original idea for a story, beautifully told. – Dominique, SA, 5 stars
This book was expansive containing characters across generations and countries. Whilst I found the first few pages of the story harder to get involved with the rest of the book flowed beautifully. I got caught up in the characters stories which involved childhood scars that forged their life paths but ultimately as their lives and stories unfolded they settled into themselves. A standout quote for me was “There was no right life and there was no wrong one either. There was just life. You made the best decisions with what you knew at the time.” A lovely book reminding us that we all try our best with what life sends us. Readers of Liane Moriaty will enjoy this author. – Danielle, VIC, 5 stars
Desire Lines by Felicity Volk. I’m sorry to say but this book wasn’t for me. I tried but just couldn’t get into it. I’m not sure why but I didn’t like the style of writing. I’ll give it another go at a different time. Thank you for this opportunity though. – Jodie, NSW, 1 star
“Are you still a liar?” I was hooked from the very first sentence of this new novel by Felicity Volk and couldn’t put it down. Desire Lines is a love story spanning 50 years, following the lives of two people from very different backgrounds and the growth of a nation that they help to build. Paddy O’Connor is a successful architect and Evie Waddell’s work as a landscape architect takes her to the Arctic Circle to bury Australian seeds in a frozen mountain vault. Evie grew up in Canberra with a loving family. Paddy is one of many English “orphans of the living” sent to Australia for a better life. They meet as teenagers in the Blue Mountains, sharing his love of building and hers of plants. Although their lives will take them in different directions, their bond is unbreakable. Evie is honest and frank and learnt the difference between good and bad lying at an early age. Paddy’s lies hide the truth. Evie and Paddy show great strength of character and resilience through good times and bad. Together and apart they prove that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. I highly recommend this beautifully written and fascinating story. – Sarah, NSW, 5 stars
Absolutely wonderful book from the 1st chapter to the last, A love story that is so different it will have readers hooked, the chapters are easy to read with places and dates, Paddy and Evie’s love story spans decades ( no spoilers ) loved this book – Deborah, NSW, 5 stars
Desire Lines is a novel about Evie and Paddy and their lives. The novel starts with an elderly Evie and then weaves into her childhood and thus Paddys. When I read this book I wasn’t really sure what it was trying to communicate to me. My initial thoughts were that this would be a novel and love,loss, giref and the lives we tell (big or small). I got half way through the book and cuaght myself thinking ‘what is this author trying to tell me? what is the point on this story?’ and maybe thats just it. It doesn’t have a point of view but merely presents to peoples stories who at one point in time come together? I found it very hard hearding as there were some very strong themes around abuse, neglect and violence. What was more diffculty was the story was told through childrens eyes, so reading through the events as they appeared made me feel helpless and somewhat frustrating. I feel like this book could almost have been 2 seperate stories… the childhood of evie and the childhood of paddy. Whilst I enjoyed the style the author used to write and language was beautfiul, not sure this book hit the mark for me. – Katarzyna, VIC, 2 stars
Have you ever followed a well-worn pathway through the grass instead of the concrete path that you’re supposed to be on? That’s what a desire line is, it’s the pathway people take instead of the trail designed to be followed. Sometimes people take a shortcut because of instinct, sometimes because it’s following others before them. That’s the premise of this beautiful story of two people whose lives seem destined to be intertwined by the choices they make and the circumstances they have no control over. Set across a broad timeline and various locations across Australia and the world. I really enjoyed this book and I couldn’t put it down. There are some wonderful passages that I loved and read over and over. Thank you Better Reading for the advance copy of this book. – Angelynn, NSW, 5 stars
The only problem with reading for review is the tendency to over analyse and find faults when thinking what to write. Given that most people read for the pure enjoyment, i’m just going to go with my first reaction. I’m generally not a love story type of person but i was hooked from the very first chapter. The prose is exquisite, the early years’ of the two main characters Paddy and Evie are so beautifully written i found myself wanting to ration my reading rather than gulp it down. Drawn together as teenagers with vastly different backgrounds, their story spans decades.Far from being a poolside romance read (no disrepect, these definitely have a place) it is a rich character driven novel, “…it makes no difference. In the end, the heart knows what it wants- Juanita, NSW, 5 stars
Wow, what a beautiful novel! I was hooked from the first page. Paddy’s younger years broke my heart. You’ll absolutely love it. – Bec, QLD, 4 stars
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