Is there such a thing as real fiction?
Yes… and it’s called Border Watch (re-titled and re-released as Wings of Fear), the debut novel by Queensland author (and pilot) Helene Young. So, ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts and let Helene take you on a fabulous journey, flying with the dedicated and intensely private Captain Morgan Petland (and crew) as she and hunky ex-SAS soldier, Rafe Daniels, work together to expose a devastating terrorist threat on Australian soil.
This story is HUGE.
It has depth of both plot and character that you rarely see in the contemporary romance-suspense genre, giving readers a story as rich as our big brown land and as vast as the pristine coastal waters that surround it. Helene’s vivid descriptions of life, the land and the sea in the N/E tropics will make Aussies glow with pride (and make those not lucky enough to live here want to visit.)
The author, like her heroine, is not afraid to tackle the difficult stuff head on and this story boldly touches on the political, the personal, and the cultural by exposing chinks in Australia’s defence systems as well as chinks in the personal armour of Captain Petland and aloof Customs Agent, Rafe. As a result, readers are guaranteed plenty of turbulence for Morgan, both in the air and in love. Helene also skilfully weaves substantial sub-plot and back-story through this novel so that each character has ample baggage to deal with. (In fact, I’d say excess baggage charges are applicable for this lot. LOL)
I certainly had no problem remaining seated until Captain Helene Young turned off the fasten seatbelt sign on the last page. I actually didn’t want the journey to end at all, reading the last one-hundred pages without stopping.
What I loved.
Everything. Helene really knows how to build up emotion and sensual tension. My tummy tripped at one point – and it’s been a long time since a darn book has done that! LOL. As for that wonderfully outrageous co-pilot – come on Helene, she’s too real not to be based on someone. I loved getting to know Lauren and Gav and enjoyed being up there with the crew, part of the playful banter and the camaraderie.
What I learned.
Lots and it’s a bit scary! I had no idea just how vulnerable we were. God bless the guardians of our coastline who dedicate their careers and lives to protecting our beautiful country.
What will linger long after I’ve read the book.
Helene’s descriptions of our menacingly magnificent far north. I so want to go there. But until then (and until her next novel) perhaps I’ll just read Border Watch again. It’s a very real journey.
Get to know more about Helene Young and her writing here http://www.heleneyoung.com/ and become a fan – like me – of the facebook group Australian Outback Romances and Mysteries
I'm in the middle of reading Jenn and I'm right with you. What a mind blowing read. Congratulations Helene!
Jenn, what can I say but thank you!!
I was doing one last sweep of the eloops before I go to bed – early start in the morning – and I saw your post about the review.
I read it and promptly burst into tears! You're very generous! Thank you.
And I'll sleep with a smile on my face!!
Made you cry, Helene!! Hope it was tears of joy – LOL Hey, if I can get that reaction loke that maybe I should give up novels and just write reviews LOL. Serioulsy, it's easy to write a review with a book like Border Watch.
What a fantastic recommendation. Now I'll have to buy it. Sounds brilliant.
Shayne
Yay Helene, no wonder there is a second print run happening. Can't wait to get my hands on a copy.
And well done Jenn, another fab review m'dear. And the far north is gorgeous. I know you'll fall in love with it, so you need to find the time to get there. Wouldn't it be spooky if you flew qantaslink and Helene turned out to be your pilot…
I already have my copy on my TBR pile and looking foward to reading it!
Thanks for the fab review, Jenn.
Hugs
Serena
I lolled on my bed thinking I'll just start this and then go and do the washing. Couple of hours later, no washing. I thought the crash scene was a rip snorter! I had to sit up at that point. Great characters and great atmosphere. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.