Land der Dornen

A historical novel by Colleen McCullough, the famous author of The Birds Die Singing. The story takes place in the second half of the 19th century, mainly in Australia (New South Wales), and follows the life of Elizabeth Drummond, a young Scotswoman from a poor family in Kinross. In 1872, Elizabeth, then sixteen years old, is sent across the ocean to marry her distant cousin Alexander Kinross, who has gone from a poor Scottish apprentice to a powerful and wealthy businessman in Australia thanks to the discovery of a rich gold vein. Alexander builds the entire town of Kinross around his mine and becomes an influential figure in the colony. However, Elizabeth enters the marriage full of fear: Alexander seems alien, frightening and inaccessible to her. The marriage remains cold and formal – Elizabeth withdraws into herself, her home and motherhood, while Alexander continues his dynamic life.

The central triangle is Alexander's long-time lover Ruby Costevan – a sensual, strong, outspoken and independent woman who runs a brothel and businesses in the city. Ruby is the opposite of Elizabeth: while Elizabeth is introverted, fragile and puritanical, Ruby is passionate and pragmatic. Their destinies intertwine in complex ways, and Alexander remains trapped between duty to his wife and passion for his mistress.

The Touch is a moving story about the touch that can heal or destroy, about love that grows slowly out of respect and about women who find strength in difficult circumstances. Perfect for fans of family sagas. A long but striking novel that brings to life a turbulent era in the making of modern Australia.