The Precipice

Although written entirely in first-person, Thea's voice maintains a compelling authenticity and engagement throughout the novel. The musings of the 77-year-old on the antics of her 'ant-like' new neighbours, her discovery of the creative powers of her writing, and her passion for the rocky landscape of the national park are at times laugh-out-loud funny, sadly acerbic and ultimately horrific. Virginia Duigan, a scriptwriter and novelist, has created a fascinating character in Thea, whom I grew to love. I can't wait to read more of Duigan's books.

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Duigan controls the pace and tension of The Precipice with a masterly hand, never giving away too much or underestimating how complicated and slippery human behaviour can be. If careful character studies and a mystery followed methodically from start to finish are your preference, its highly recommended. At the end of the book, although you might not agree with the choices Thea has made, there is no doubt you will have enjoyed being with her while she made them.

Kirsten Alexander, The Book Show, ABC RN

Duigan's approach to truth-telling in fiction in some ways harks back to Dostoyevsky. Thea dares us to disbelieve her and the more she does so, the more powerful her account becomes. Is it possible for an unreliable witness, a witness who might be, by her own admission, paranoid, to tell a truth others are too blind, lazy or self-absorbed to see?

Dorothy Johnston, Sydney Morning Herald

In these gradations and in her privacy the novel accumulates its power. Duigan builds the tension and reveals Thea's history in such understated ways that the novel darkens almost imperceptibly. Its narrative brink, however, is a sharp one. The psychological astuteness of her portrayal recalls Thea Astley's work. But as Thea's eccentricity begins to unravel into more erratic and sexually ambivalent behaviour, then into violence, Elizabeth Jolley's work suggests itself as a more obvious precedent.

The Australian

I can't put it down. A wonderful narrative voice.

Virginia Gay, First Tuesday Book Club

Thea is a reader's delight. She is forthright, acerbic, erudite, and clear-eyed about her feelings. This beautifully structured book will grab you with its heart-stoppingly audacious ending.

Jennifer Somerville, Good Reading

“Coolly crafted psychological thriller, as the plot thickens at a steadily controlled pace, step by careful step, towards a grimly captivating conclusion. This novel’s powerful intention is realised with memorably affecting style. Highly recommended.”

Ian McFarlane, The Canberra Times

The rising tension leads to a terrifying conclusion in this compelling psychological thriller.

Jean Ferguson, Illawarra Mercury

This compulsive and beautifully written novel is perfect for reading groups as there is so much to discuss. This is definitely an issue book but it is also a tight psychological drama.

Booktopia

Loved it. She is such a seemingly effortless writer - wonderfully taut, well-thought-out plot; great, interesting, complex characters - entirely believable, all of them. And just so, so readable and compelling.

Catherine Hill