Identity: Larry Cummins, Bushranger

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‘Peter Long once again impresses with his new novel, Identity: Larry Cummins – Bushranger. After the resounding success of Steve Hart: Last Kelly Standing, this next novel explores the story of the infamous Larry Cummings, who happens to be Peter’s own ancestor. Part of what makes Identity a great read is how the style is not afraid to alter itself, with some chapters reading almost like freestyle poetry, a stream-of-consciousness soliloquy that contrasts beautifully with the classic-style prose. In particular, the chapter detailing one of Larry’s experiences in prison reads near-perfectly as a slam poem, with reoccurring elements and the evocative, desperate struggle to keep his sense of reason. A historical novel that will delight fans of the genre, but still with an invigorating spin that keeps it engaging for a modern-day reader.’ Nita Delgado, Reviewer

‘The recreation of the everyday lives of the characters is absolutely convincing – as is the presentation of their emotional and psychological lives. Peter Long’s ability to render the fine details of life in this period with historical authenticity is on a level equal to Hilary Mantel’s writing about Cromwell and the 17th Century in England. Larry’s first-person accounts of the physical and psychological trauma of incarceration by the colonial authorities are intensely affective and disturbing. The descriptions of the brutal attempts to break prisoners’ resistance and annihilate their identity would stand up against similar narratives of personal degradation in world literature – Primo Levi’s If This is A Man and Solzhenitsyn’s Gulag books come to mind. While readers gain an intensely affective insight into Larry Cummins’ personality, in the final chapter where the dramatic personae of the novel are gathered for a wake/inquisition into Larry’s life, they all give contradictory accounts of him. When it is noted that even his grave can’t be located, it is concluded ‘He’s as hard to locate in death, as he is in life.’ This is a clever twist in this narratively sophisticated novel.’ Professor Stephen S. Torre

‘A vivid tale of a bushranger’s life and an animated insight into the motives, consequences, and the ultimate price of living as an outlaw. A page-turner.’ Edita Mukic, Author of 'Between Before and After'

‘A wonderful follow-up to Steve Hart – The Last Kelly Standing. The way in which Peter Long has authentically recreated the essence of 1860s colonial Australia, told through the eyes of various characters, is nothing short of masterful. Colloquial dialogue, visceral descriptions and impeccable research, all weave together to form a vivid story, a time capsule to the past. The plight of Larry Cummins’ colourful life of adventure, heartache, resolve, and risk-taking, has been beautifully recreated by an author whose family connections make the story heartfelt and real. You’ll peer down Larry’s rifle sights, smell the gunpowder, gallop astride a colt pursued by an unrelenting trooper. You’ll laugh, cry and suffer with him, you’ll smell the sweetness of freedom, rebuild a life, find love again, endure hard times, take a chance. And you never know who might make an appearance in this metaphoric retelling of history. An intriguing and reflective ending.’ Jack Roney, Author of the Detective Jarrod O’Connor Series: 'The Angels Wept', 'The Demons Woke', 'The Shadows Watch'

‘Peter Long’s literary style compels thought and reflection. In my view, a truly underrated author adding compelling and important works to the Australian historical fiction genre. A few pages into Identity and I was swept along. I read this in a weekend – you will too. Masterful.’ Cate Sawyer, Co-author of 'Winning Short Story Competitions: Essential tools for the serious writer'

‘Larry was a larger-than-life character whose voice captures the very essence of Australian outback living. Despite the hardship he suffers and the results of his own bad decisions, he maintains a sharp sense of humour and moral compass. Both sides of Larry are held up for closer inspection – the loving family man and introspective thinker, and the impulsive, poverty-hardened opportunist who lived by his wits and belief in his own streak of luck. Identity is a fascinating, fictional take on historical events, especially for Australian readers who grew up on stories of wild colonial boys. The main character is likeable and thought-provoking.’ K. M. Steele, Author of 'Hunt for the Virgin Rainbow'

For more Identity: Larry Cummins, Bushranger reviews, visit Goodreads.