The Wideawake Hat by Amanda Giorgis is the first novel in the Applecross Saga Series This was the first novel I had read by this author. This is a story of those brave people who traveled across the world to see a new life in the various countries down under. They traveled from the Scottish Highlands to remote New Zealand, life was harsh for the early pioneers who ventured into a new land far across the seas where opportunity beckoned for those who could endure the hardships. The story while fictional involves people who were real. James Mackenzie was not a fictional character of fiction. He truly existed, but of the many stories told of him it is hard to know what is true and what might just have some of the old Highlands mixed in. I found that Amanda writing was amazing. She is a talented and gifted author. It is not easy to write a story that intertwines
real history with the fictional story. This is a brilliant read! It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. The world building is detailed and imaginative. This novel has strong, well-developed characters and an interesting story line that keeps you turning the pages. I recommend this novel and would read more novels by this author. Amanda did a beautiful job setting up her saga and I can’t wait to see what happens in her following novels! I gave this honest, voluntary review after being given a free copy of the novel
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There is a happy ending to this tale which will make your heart full--if not laughing a bit
A young couple take off for New Zealand to start a new life where the possibilities are far better then in Scotland. They are not quite sure where they will find suitable land and keep traveling until they find the almost perfect spot. They settle down and eventually meet another young couple who have settled not too far away. They all become fast friends and help each other in all endeavors. One day George took off to find any sheep that had strayed. The weather turns ominous and a deluge had the rivers running wild. George dies and leaves Sophie pregnant and husbandless. The community is really helpful but it takes another man to finally break through Sophie's grief.James Mackenzie had showb up one day and was helping the young couple. This book is more about his life which according to the author is a true one. He definitely gets in a bit of trouble here and there--but did everything he could to aid Sophie and her fatherless young son that he possibly could. Eventually they marry--and still troubles hound them. He and his dog Friday were absolutely incredible!There is a happy ending to this tale which will make your heart full--if not laughing a bit at how it became a happy ending!
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Jude
A light well written insight into the life of a Legend of New Zealand
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 8, 2019