A River in Borneo: A Tale of the East Indies

In 1964 during the Far Eastern War, Lieutenant Charles Kirton discovers a mysterious discovery in the dense mangrove swamps of Borneo that leads him to fulfill his mission and uncover the truth behind a strange event from 1867. The story has echoes of Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

The summer of 1964, during the Far Eastern war, also known as the 'Confrontation,' a British Royal Marine patrol received orders to penetrate Indonesian Borneo to locate a river believed to be used by the Indonesians to build up supplies before launching a major attack on Sarawak. Lieutenant Charles Kirton, tasked with this mission, made an extraordinary discovery amidst the dense mangrove swamps bordering a river in Borneo. Not only did this discovery enable Kirton to fulfill his mission, but it was also intensely personal and unpleasantly macabre. From this highly charged opening sequence, the story flashes back a century to 1867, revealing the truth behind this strange event. Young Henry Kirton, Second Officer of the auxiliary steamship River Tay, was dumped ashore in Singapore, badly injured by a fall from the rigging of his ship.

Woodman's compelling tale echoes the works of Joseph Conrad, delving into themes of exploration, mystery, and the human condition. The novel's historical setting adds depth and intrigue, as it explores the complexities of colonialism and the impact it had on the lives of individuals and communities.

Through the character of Lieutenant Kirton, Woodman explores the moral dilemmas and ethical challenges faced by individuals in the midst of conflict. Kirton's mission is driven by a desire to protect his country and allies, but his actions also have unintended consequences, leading him to confront the darker aspects of human nature.

The novel's exploration of the river and its surrounding environment is vivid and evocative, providing a backdrop for the unfolding events. The mangrove swamps are a symbol of isolation and danger, while the river itself holds secrets and mysteries that are gradually revealed throughout the story.

Overall, "The River" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the complexities of the human experience during times of war and exploration. Woodman's writing is masterful, and his characters are well-developed, making for a compelling and engaging read.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493075164