David Farrell's Blog, page 2
May 29, 2024
NZ Booklovers NZ Reviewer Chris Reed
In his impressive new novel Where the Birds Don't Fly, David Farrell continues the compelling saga of the Wilde family, following their incredible journey from Africa to start afresh in New Zealand. With his remarkable storytelling style and profound insights into the immigrant experience, Farrell crafts a relatable narrative that resonates with both universal truths and intensely personal struggles.
The novel picks up from Farrell's acclaimed debut Chameleon, as the Wildes, led by Rory, make the wrenching decision to leave their tumultuous homeland behind. From the outset, Farrell immerses readers in the disorienting reality of upheaval, capturing the obstacles and challenges involved in navigating a new land's customs, idioms, and cultural nuances.
Yet Farrell's true narrative quality lies in his ability to mine the depths of the human experience, peeling back the layers of what it means to start over, to forge a sense of belonging in a place that is at once foreign and achingly familiar. The Wildes' quest for acceptance becomes a profound meditation on resilience, as they confront the harsh realities of being ‘othered’ and the seductive attraction of retreating into insular communities that resist change.
Farrell's characters are richly drawn and utterly compelling, their struggles rendered with empathy and nuance. The bond that develops between Rory and his Māori connection Tāne is a particular highlight, as the two men uncover shared histories of colonisation and grapple with the complex legacies of immigration on indigenous populations. Their relationship serves as a potent reminder that the search for belonging is a universal human yearning that transcends borders and cultures.
Beneath the compelling storyline, the novel's emotional resonance is Farrell's well-chosen prose, which captures the inherent poetry almost hard-baked into the New Zealand landscape. His descriptions of the country's flightless bird species are particularly evocative, serving as a poignant metaphor for the Wildes' own quest for refuge and freedom. In Farrell's hands, the natural world becomes a mirror for the characters' inner lives, reflecting their hopes, fears, and indomitable spirits.
Where the Birds Don't Fly is a powerful testament to the human capacity for resilience and adaptation. Farrell's exploration of the challenges faced by immigrants and marginalised communities is tempered by an abiding sense of hope – a belief that, even in the face of adversity, connection and understanding are always within reach.
With its nuanced character portraits, richly atmospheric settings, and profound emotional depths, this novel cements Farrell's status as a writer of rare talent and insight. Where the Birds Don't Fly is a captivating, immersive reading experience that will stay in the hearts and minds of readers long after the final page.
Farrell invites us to embark on an unmatched journey of self-discovery, one that ultimately affirms the unifying power of our shared humanity.
The novel picks up from Farrell's acclaimed debut Chameleon, as the Wildes, led by Rory, make the wrenching decision to leave their tumultuous homeland behind. From the outset, Farrell immerses readers in the disorienting reality of upheaval, capturing the obstacles and challenges involved in navigating a new land's customs, idioms, and cultural nuances.
Yet Farrell's true narrative quality lies in his ability to mine the depths of the human experience, peeling back the layers of what it means to start over, to forge a sense of belonging in a place that is at once foreign and achingly familiar. The Wildes' quest for acceptance becomes a profound meditation on resilience, as they confront the harsh realities of being ‘othered’ and the seductive attraction of retreating into insular communities that resist change.
Farrell's characters are richly drawn and utterly compelling, their struggles rendered with empathy and nuance. The bond that develops between Rory and his Māori connection Tāne is a particular highlight, as the two men uncover shared histories of colonisation and grapple with the complex legacies of immigration on indigenous populations. Their relationship serves as a potent reminder that the search for belonging is a universal human yearning that transcends borders and cultures.
Beneath the compelling storyline, the novel's emotional resonance is Farrell's well-chosen prose, which captures the inherent poetry almost hard-baked into the New Zealand landscape. His descriptions of the country's flightless bird species are particularly evocative, serving as a poignant metaphor for the Wildes' own quest for refuge and freedom. In Farrell's hands, the natural world becomes a mirror for the characters' inner lives, reflecting their hopes, fears, and indomitable spirits.
Where the Birds Don't Fly is a powerful testament to the human capacity for resilience and adaptation. Farrell's exploration of the challenges faced by immigrants and marginalised communities is tempered by an abiding sense of hope – a belief that, even in the face of adversity, connection and understanding are always within reach.
With its nuanced character portraits, richly atmospheric settings, and profound emotional depths, this novel cements Farrell's status as a writer of rare talent and insight. Where the Birds Don't Fly is a captivating, immersive reading experience that will stay in the hearts and minds of readers long after the final page.
Farrell invites us to embark on an unmatched journey of self-discovery, one that ultimately affirms the unifying power of our shared humanity.
April 20, 2024
So what’s it like being an author?
This is the most asked question I get and the hardest to be open about.
I can’t talk on behalf of all writers, but will share my experiences. Family, witness what I put into it. They see the long hours on my face and the pain in my eyes, but don’t always notice the emotional side of producing a book.
There are exhilarating highs and desperate lows. The most dominant of which will influence whether someone pursues the vocation. Balancing reality and creativity is critical, even though it’s seen as a solitary profession.
My joys come from creating the first draft when the story takes on a life of its own. The other is what readers garner from my work - there’s nothing more rewarding.
The downs are devastating. The toughest to deal with is the apathy from those close to you. I don’t expect them to read the book, but at least try.
Another crippler is the industry itself. Plagued by a predatory faction who lures authors with false promises of producing a best seller. If this were possible, why aren’t they doing so for themselves?
The secret is to never give up. Write about what matters and makes a difference. To write is everything.
Where The Birds Don't Fly
I can’t talk on behalf of all writers, but will share my experiences. Family, witness what I put into it. They see the long hours on my face and the pain in my eyes, but don’t always notice the emotional side of producing a book.
There are exhilarating highs and desperate lows. The most dominant of which will influence whether someone pursues the vocation. Balancing reality and creativity is critical, even though it’s seen as a solitary profession.
My joys come from creating the first draft when the story takes on a life of its own. The other is what readers garner from my work - there’s nothing more rewarding.
The downs are devastating. The toughest to deal with is the apathy from those close to you. I don’t expect them to read the book, but at least try.
Another crippler is the industry itself. Plagued by a predatory faction who lures authors with false promises of producing a best seller. If this were possible, why aren’t they doing so for themselves?
The secret is to never give up. Write about what matters and makes a difference. To write is everything.
Where The Birds Don't Fly
March 29, 2024
Out now
Get ready for the much anticipated literary fiction release of 2024 as author David Farrell takes readers on a riveting ride in his latest book 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬.
This book forms part of the series “The Wilde Collection” and is an absolute page turner with heartfelt relationships, and a story that takes you on an unmatched journey of discovery.
David Farrell’s writing style is nothing short of captivating with intrigue that every reader loves.
He has a keen ability to bring the characters to life, making them relatable and enthralling.
Prepare to be immersed in a narrative that explores the complexities of life.
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
This highly anticipated book is poised to captivate readers especially those who love a vibrant storyline that explores new travel destinations.
𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬 is a testament to the power of writing and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
This book forms part of the series “The Wilde Collection” and is an absolute page turner with heartfelt relationships, and a story that takes you on an unmatched journey of discovery.
David Farrell’s writing style is nothing short of captivating with intrigue that every reader loves.
He has a keen ability to bring the characters to life, making them relatable and enthralling.
Prepare to be immersed in a narrative that explores the complexities of life.
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
This highly anticipated book is poised to captivate readers especially those who love a vibrant storyline that explores new travel destinations.
𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬 is a testament to the power of writing and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
March 22, 2024
Preview of press release. Where The Birds Don't Fly
Preview of press release.
Get ready for the much anticipated literary fiction release of 2024 as author David Farrell takes readers on a riveting ride in his latest book 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬.
This book forms part of the series “The Wilde Collection” and is an absolute page turner with heartfelt relationships, and a story that takes you on an unmatched journey of discovery.
David Farrell’s writing style is nothing short of captivating with intrigue that every reader loves.
He has a keen ability to bring the characters to life, making them relatable and enthralling.
Prepare to be immersed in a narrative that explores the complexities of life.
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
This highly anticipated book is poised to captivate readers especially those who love a vibrant storyline that explores new travel destinations.
Where The Birds Don't Fly is a testament to the power of writing and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
Get ready for the much anticipated literary fiction release of 2024 as author David Farrell takes readers on a riveting ride in his latest book 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬.
This book forms part of the series “The Wilde Collection” and is an absolute page turner with heartfelt relationships, and a story that takes you on an unmatched journey of discovery.
David Farrell’s writing style is nothing short of captivating with intrigue that every reader loves.
He has a keen ability to bring the characters to life, making them relatable and enthralling.
Prepare to be immersed in a narrative that explores the complexities of life.
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
This highly anticipated book is poised to captivate readers especially those who love a vibrant storyline that explores new travel destinations.
Where The Birds Don't Fly is a testament to the power of writing and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
February 27, 2024
Excerpt - Where The Birds Don't Fly.
"An icy breeze nipped at my cheeks and the beachfront whistled a
mournful tune. All took refuge from the winter night.
I waited, though for what I could not tell.
‘What is in store for us all?’ I whispered into the ether. ‘Please
help my family. Lead me in the right direction.’
The heavens stirred, brightening the sea in a heavenly radiance.
Blues, greens and prancing white horses replaced the monochrome
voids. A tranquillity overcame the turmoil.
With the lure of hope, the ocean washed the footprints of my
existence from the sands, her breath settling on my lips as a soft,
salty kiss. Her timeless beauty had already faded with modernisation.
Commercialism mocked her integrity, neon lights, her garish
jewellery.
No wish to see the onslaught. I turned away, replacing her
comforting smell with the stench of fossil fuel."
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
Pre-Order your copy of 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬 now for a special pre-release price of $0.99 or £0.99 or €0.99.
Where The Birds Don't Fly Releasing 29 March 2024
Paperback pre-order coming soon.
mournful tune. All took refuge from the winter night.
I waited, though for what I could not tell.
‘What is in store for us all?’ I whispered into the ether. ‘Please
help my family. Lead me in the right direction.’
The heavens stirred, brightening the sea in a heavenly radiance.
Blues, greens and prancing white horses replaced the monochrome
voids. A tranquillity overcame the turmoil.
With the lure of hope, the ocean washed the footprints of my
existence from the sands, her breath settling on my lips as a soft,
salty kiss. Her timeless beauty had already faded with modernisation.
Commercialism mocked her integrity, neon lights, her garish
jewellery.
No wish to see the onslaught. I turned away, replacing her
comforting smell with the stench of fossil fuel."
A story of resilience, belonging, and the quest for acceptance.
Pre-Order your copy of 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗢𝗡'𝗧 𝗙𝗟𝗬 now for a special pre-release price of $0.99 or £0.99 or €0.99.
Where The Birds Don't Fly Releasing 29 March 2024
Paperback pre-order coming soon.
February 15, 2024
Where The Birds Don't Fly
Never give up. No matter the odds.
Follow your heart. Listen to your mind.
Rely on gut feel. Believe in yourself.
It is all we have to make a difference.
Have goals to reach your dreams.
Set timelines when to achieve them.
Treat every barrier as a step closer.
Do it for yourself.
Follow your heart. Listen to your mind.
Rely on gut feel. Believe in yourself.
It is all we have to make a difference.
Have goals to reach your dreams.
Set timelines when to achieve them.
Treat every barrier as a step closer.
Do it for yourself.
January 19, 2024
Where the Birds Don't Fly - Pre-release
As we start revealing the cover of WHERE THE BIRDS DON'T FLY by David Farrell, we thought we would share the blurb to tantalize your reader tastebuds.
"𝗔 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲.
The Wilde family leave Africa in search of a home in this fictional memoir set during a time of global prejudice and intolerance. Shedding light on the struggles migrants endure while rebuilding their lives.
The story focuses on the family's isolation and challenges to adapt to a new culture. They grasp the significance of acceptance and see it as necessary to gain approval.
In New Zealand, they become friends with the Ncube household from Zimbabwe, who share the difficulties of raising a child there.
A strong bond forms between Rorke and his colleague Tāne Williams. They uncover a common history of colonisation and explore the impact of immigration on indigenous communities. Where The Birds Don't Fly
Their boss, Fran White, and regional manager, Hugh Biggete, intimidate employees who dare question the status quo.
Despite encountering bias and mockery, the Wildes' remain undeterred in their journey. They stay away from fellow immigrants who resist change and continue to be rooted in their past.
With the world's highest number of flightless bird species, will this foreign country, Aotearoa, offer them a comparable refuge?
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗙𝗹𝘆."
"𝗔 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲.
The Wilde family leave Africa in search of a home in this fictional memoir set during a time of global prejudice and intolerance. Shedding light on the struggles migrants endure while rebuilding their lives.
The story focuses on the family's isolation and challenges to adapt to a new culture. They grasp the significance of acceptance and see it as necessary to gain approval.
In New Zealand, they become friends with the Ncube household from Zimbabwe, who share the difficulties of raising a child there.
A strong bond forms between Rorke and his colleague Tāne Williams. They uncover a common history of colonisation and explore the impact of immigration on indigenous communities. Where The Birds Don't Fly
Their boss, Fran White, and regional manager, Hugh Biggete, intimidate employees who dare question the status quo.Despite encountering bias and mockery, the Wildes' remain undeterred in their journey. They stay away from fellow immigrants who resist change and continue to be rooted in their past.
With the world's highest number of flightless bird species, will this foreign country, Aotearoa, offer them a comparable refuge?
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗙𝗹𝘆."
November 24, 2023
99c/99p Black Friday special
𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗞 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗟
Get your reduced price on The Chameleon KINDLE.
Valid from the 23 - 30 November 2023.
𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴!!
My second book planned for early 2024
Get your reduced price on The Chameleon KINDLE.
Valid from the 23 - 30 November 2023.
𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴!!
My second book planned for early 2024
August 18, 2023
Back to mine - classics weekend
Because of my recent reviews in unfamiliar genres, I indulged in reading Rudyard Kipling The Jungle Book and Charles Dickens Oliver Twist. Oh, what a joy. It sits so well. Read and write what you feel. Reviews to come.
June 8, 2023
The Chameleon 1st year aniiversary
The first year passed with a twinkle.
Let me know your thoughts and better still a review.
Book two is in final edit.
Thank you to all for the feedback and support.
The Chameleon
Let me know your thoughts and better still a review.
Book two is in final edit.
Thank you to all for the feedback and support.
The Chameleon
