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Winter #3
Land of Fences
Finn and Kas are surviving on the coast—more than surviving: they’re enjoying the surf, the summer and being together. And now, the lights of Wentworth mean life could soon be back to normal. Finn is cautiously optimistic, but Kas knows she can never escape her status as a Siley, and that a return to slavery is a very real possibility. She’s nervous. And it turns out she’s right to be. When Kas is captured and taken inside the fences, Finn faces his greatest challenge yet.
Land of Fences is the compelling third and final novel in Mark Smith’s highly acclaimed action-packed trilogy that began with The Road to Winter.
‘An unmissable series.’ Sydney Morning Herald
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2019
20 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Mark Smith
6 books120 followersMark Smith lives on the west coast of Victoria, Australia, He is the author of four novels: The Road To Winter, Wilder Country, Land of Fences and If Not Us (all Text Publishing). Wilder Country won the 2018 Australian Indie Book Award for YA. Mark is also an award winning writer of short fiction. He is the co-curator of Mind Went Walking, The Songs of Paul Kelly Reimagined and Into Your Arms, The Songs of Nick Cave Reimagined (both Fremantle Press). HIs first adult novel will be published by Pan Macmillan in January 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 13, 2019
This is a thrilling final episode and marvellous conclusion to this excellent ya dsytopian series by talented writer Mark Smith.
Kas, Finn and Ray have enjoyed a wonderful, peaceful summer in Angowrie. While Ray tends the veggie gardens and looks after the cooking, Finn and Kas have enjoyed swimming, diving for seafood and hunting. However, when Ray fixes an old radio they hear a broadcast telling them the country has been divided into regions they know there days of peace and solitude are numbered as the regional commissioner will start rounding up everyone to move into settlements. When two old friends, Daymu and JT turn up and tell them that their old enemy Ramage has been made Commissioner of their region with the ruthless and cruel Tusker at his side, they know they must leave for somewhere safer to hide. As Sileys, Kas and Daymu would be sent back to slavery if caught by Ramage. Unfortunately, during their escape their worst fears are realised and they are captured by Ramage's troops. Kas and Daymu are sent to work in the factories and farms at the regional centre in Wentworth, an area surrounded by security guards and fences. Finn and JT must now not only escape Ramage and Tusker but also find some way to break through the fences if they are to have a chance of rescuing the girls.
Mark Smith has written a wonderful trilogy that is bound to become a classic high school read. There is plenty of action throughout and particularly in this final episode, with strong, brave and resilient lead characters and sensitively handled relationships. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and Text Publishing for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book
Kas, Finn and Ray have enjoyed a wonderful, peaceful summer in Angowrie. While Ray tends the veggie gardens and looks after the cooking, Finn and Kas have enjoyed swimming, diving for seafood and hunting. However, when Ray fixes an old radio they hear a broadcast telling them the country has been divided into regions they know there days of peace and solitude are numbered as the regional commissioner will start rounding up everyone to move into settlements. When two old friends, Daymu and JT turn up and tell them that their old enemy Ramage has been made Commissioner of their region with the ruthless and cruel Tusker at his side, they know they must leave for somewhere safer to hide. As Sileys, Kas and Daymu would be sent back to slavery if caught by Ramage. Unfortunately, during their escape their worst fears are realised and they are captured by Ramage's troops. Kas and Daymu are sent to work in the factories and farms at the regional centre in Wentworth, an area surrounded by security guards and fences. Finn and JT must now not only escape Ramage and Tusker but also find some way to break through the fences if they are to have a chance of rescuing the girls.
Mark Smith has written a wonderful trilogy that is bound to become a classic high school read. There is plenty of action throughout and particularly in this final episode, with strong, brave and resilient lead characters and sensitively handled relationships. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and Text Publishing for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book
August 23, 2019
Finn and Kas had been lulled into a false sense of safety in their small coastal town which now held only them and the elderly Ray. Along with Rowdy, Finn’s dog. Surfing, fishing, diving – enjoying themselves. Until the day the truck arrived, demanding anyone who had survived to turn themselves in. JT and Daymu had joined them before the truck’s arrival, weak and exhausted after their escape. Finn knew they needed a few more days for the two of them to build up strength, but they didn’t have the luxury of time.
With Kas and Daymu still wearing trackers – Siley’s could never escape – Finn knew they needed to get away. But their escape was foiled. Their capture was particularly hard as the girls were separated from the boys and Finn and JT knew they were in trouble. Taken to two different compounds – a long way apart – the future looked bleak for them all. But Finn and JT were determined to escape – any opportunity and they’d be gone. But could they? The soldiers were brutal, their cruelty knew no bounds.
Would Finn and JT manage an escape and be able to rescue the girls?
Land of Fences is the 3rd and final in the Winter Trilogy by Aussie author Mark Smith, and I’m very sad it’s over. A brilliant set of dystopian young adult novels set in Australia, the intrigue and mystery along with the electrifying pace is captivating. Thoroughly enjoyable, Land of Fences is one not to be missed. But this is a trilogy that must be read in order to appreciate the ongoing story. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Text Publishing for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With Kas and Daymu still wearing trackers – Siley’s could never escape – Finn knew they needed to get away. But their escape was foiled. Their capture was particularly hard as the girls were separated from the boys and Finn and JT knew they were in trouble. Taken to two different compounds – a long way apart – the future looked bleak for them all. But Finn and JT were determined to escape – any opportunity and they’d be gone. But could they? The soldiers were brutal, their cruelty knew no bounds.
Would Finn and JT manage an escape and be able to rescue the girls?
Land of Fences is the 3rd and final in the Winter Trilogy by Aussie author Mark Smith, and I’m very sad it’s over. A brilliant set of dystopian young adult novels set in Australia, the intrigue and mystery along with the electrifying pace is captivating. Thoroughly enjoyable, Land of Fences is one not to be missed. But this is a trilogy that must be read in order to appreciate the ongoing story. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Text Publishing for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2019
4.5★s
The Land of Fences is the third book in the Winter series by award-winning Australian teacher and author, Mark Smith. For some months, Finn, Kas, Ray and the dog, Rowdy have been living, in a world now so different, an idyllic existence: hunting and growing food, swimming and surfing. They know it probably can’t last, and when Ray puts batteries in the portable radio, they hear an “official” broadcast: Authorities have organised the area into zones, and appointed leaders. Power seems to be sporadically restored, and Kas worries her subdermal Siley tracker will soon again be functional.
When two friends, made during the previous winter’s skirmishes with the Wilders and the No-landers, arrive, the news they bring is not good. Wilder Ben Ramage, the man certain to hold a grudge against them all, has been made the Regional Commissioner of their zone, with his deputy, the hated Tusker and the support of the Army. Kas and Finn, J.T and Daymu know they need to leave Angowrie before they are flushed out.
But their escape doesn’t go according to plan, and Finn and J.T. find themselves separated from their Siley girls. Help comes from unexpected quarters, but against sound advice, they decide to travel to Wentworth to mount a daring rescue. It will involve a long trek to the hub and close calls with pursuers before crossing seemingly impenetrable boundary fences.
Smith’s trilogy beautifully illustrates that, even in a first-world country, an apocalyptic event can result in opportunists seizing power by force. And when that apocalyptic event depletes the numbers of the defence forces, those opportunists might be appointed by virtue of that position and use it to make arbitrary decisions that affect the lives of their opponents: corruption at its basest level. Do right and good eventually win out?
Smith’s young protagonists are often surprisingly mature, and while their youth provides energy and resilience, their lack of life experience occasionally means they misplace trust and make poor decisions. At seventeen, Finn recognises this: “It seems my life since the virus has been a string of quick decisions. I never know whether they’re right or wrong until things either go pear-shaped or they don’t. Mostly they’re guesses. But I’m getting better at making them.” Readers will find it hard not to invest in these characters.
Smith gives the reader a fast-paced finale to this excellent YA trilogy. Finn and co are clever and resourceful, brave and loyal, and very determined. Again, this last installment has heroes and villains (and, yes, some violence), humour and heartache, and plenty of excitement. It may be branded Young Adult, but it is certain to be enjoyed by older readers as well. An excellent conclusion from this talented author.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
The Land of Fences is the third book in the Winter series by award-winning Australian teacher and author, Mark Smith. For some months, Finn, Kas, Ray and the dog, Rowdy have been living, in a world now so different, an idyllic existence: hunting and growing food, swimming and surfing. They know it probably can’t last, and when Ray puts batteries in the portable radio, they hear an “official” broadcast: Authorities have organised the area into zones, and appointed leaders. Power seems to be sporadically restored, and Kas worries her subdermal Siley tracker will soon again be functional.
When two friends, made during the previous winter’s skirmishes with the Wilders and the No-landers, arrive, the news they bring is not good. Wilder Ben Ramage, the man certain to hold a grudge against them all, has been made the Regional Commissioner of their zone, with his deputy, the hated Tusker and the support of the Army. Kas and Finn, J.T and Daymu know they need to leave Angowrie before they are flushed out.
But their escape doesn’t go according to plan, and Finn and J.T. find themselves separated from their Siley girls. Help comes from unexpected quarters, but against sound advice, they decide to travel to Wentworth to mount a daring rescue. It will involve a long trek to the hub and close calls with pursuers before crossing seemingly impenetrable boundary fences.
Smith’s trilogy beautifully illustrates that, even in a first-world country, an apocalyptic event can result in opportunists seizing power by force. And when that apocalyptic event depletes the numbers of the defence forces, those opportunists might be appointed by virtue of that position and use it to make arbitrary decisions that affect the lives of their opponents: corruption at its basest level. Do right and good eventually win out?
Smith’s young protagonists are often surprisingly mature, and while their youth provides energy and resilience, their lack of life experience occasionally means they misplace trust and make poor decisions. At seventeen, Finn recognises this: “It seems my life since the virus has been a string of quick decisions. I never know whether they’re right or wrong until things either go pear-shaped or they don’t. Mostly they’re guesses. But I’m getting better at making them.” Readers will find it hard not to invest in these characters.
Smith gives the reader a fast-paced finale to this excellent YA trilogy. Finn and co are clever and resourceful, brave and loyal, and very determined. Again, this last installment has heroes and villains (and, yes, some violence), humour and heartache, and plenty of excitement. It may be branded Young Adult, but it is certain to be enjoyed by older readers as well. An excellent conclusion from this talented author.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
Read
April 23, 2019‘Packed with heart-thumping, adrenaline-pumping, nail-biting action. I couldn’t put it down.’
Fleur Ferris
‘An epic story of survival, fast-paced action and characters we really care about.’
Tristan Bancks
Fleur Ferris
‘An epic story of survival, fast-paced action and characters we really care about.’
Tristan Bancks
June 2, 2019
I've been very invested in the survival of Finn, Rowdy, Kas and Ray. I've been rooting for them since the very beginning of The End of Winter, the first book in this series. This book is what I call a hook book, a book that gets young men reading, I have a bunch of Yr 11 boys at school who are hanging out to get their hands on this one, I was really pleased to get an advance copy from Netgalley.
The story picks up with a marvellous opening scene of Finn and Kas swimming in the rockpools and surf of the bay, there is a great sense of happiness and calm and the love between these two is so beautiful to read. Then this is shattered immediately as they become aware of the advance of troops to their town who declare it uninhabitable and out of bounds. The team are on the run again but get caught almost immediately and transported to a processing centre where they are tagged with trackers. Of course nothing is as simple as that. Finn's mortal enemies Ramsay and Tusker are still causing him trouble and this time they mean to take him out completely. They are now in positions of power and have the backing of the new regional powers. This is disastrous for Finn and Kas.
Like both of the other books the action is full on in this, there is a lot going on, daring escapes through dangerous ground, terrible hunger and thirst and constant fear. Through all this we have the wonderful love of Finn and Kas, their protectiveness for those they become involved with along the way and lots of scary moments as they fight to regain their land and home.
I've so enjoyed this series. I'll continue to recommend it to students and keep buying copies, we currently have 5 of each of the previous books and they are hardly ever on the shelves.
The story picks up with a marvellous opening scene of Finn and Kas swimming in the rockpools and surf of the bay, there is a great sense of happiness and calm and the love between these two is so beautiful to read. Then this is shattered immediately as they become aware of the advance of troops to their town who declare it uninhabitable and out of bounds. The team are on the run again but get caught almost immediately and transported to a processing centre where they are tagged with trackers. Of course nothing is as simple as that. Finn's mortal enemies Ramsay and Tusker are still causing him trouble and this time they mean to take him out completely. They are now in positions of power and have the backing of the new regional powers. This is disastrous for Finn and Kas.
Like both of the other books the action is full on in this, there is a lot going on, daring escapes through dangerous ground, terrible hunger and thirst and constant fear. Through all this we have the wonderful love of Finn and Kas, their protectiveness for those they become involved with along the way and lots of scary moments as they fight to regain their land and home.
I've so enjoyed this series. I'll continue to recommend it to students and keep buying copies, we currently have 5 of each of the previous books and they are hardly ever on the shelves.
August 2, 2023
Land of Fences is the thrilling final book in the Winter trilogy.
A thoroughly entertaining, suspenseful and nail-biting dystopian tale. It’s a fantastic read…Loved it!
Listened to the audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Narrated by Ben Hall
Duration: 6 hrs, 18 min. 1.25x Speed
A thoroughly entertaining, suspenseful and nail-biting dystopian tale. It’s a fantastic read…Loved it!
Listened to the audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Narrated by Ben Hall
Duration: 6 hrs, 18 min. 1.25x Speed
December 9, 2020
Fantastic last book in the Winter trilogy. Devoured this in a day and a half. I found it darker and more desperate than the first two volumes, and a real roller- coaster ride for the protagonists.
Such a fast-paced and exciting trilogy, with a lot to think about on a deeper level about society and equality and humanity; the planet with its precious and dwindling resources.
Timely too, with the deadly virus sweeping the country, asylum seekers, a wall keeping people both in and out. Would translate so well to screen, too.
Such a fast-paced and exciting trilogy, with a lot to think about on a deeper level about society and equality and humanity; the planet with its precious and dwindling resources.
Timely too, with the deadly virus sweeping the country, asylum seekers, a wall keeping people both in and out. Would translate so well to screen, too.
July 6, 2019
Thanks to Mark Smith for writing an action packed, easy to read survival trilogy covering important social issues that we can safely put into the hands of any of our students from year 7 to 12... and it's set in Australia!
I just finished book three and was very satisfied. The story of course revolves around Finn and Kas but many of the characters from the previous 2 books reappear. The action and suspense continues as does the feeling... "how on earth are they going to get out of this?". I liked the way Finn's character continued to develop and that he could still see things in shades of grey rather than black and white. I would have liked to see a bit more of Kas's internal world/development. One reviewer mentioned that they would have liked to see more detail in this book to make it a little more believable; there were times where I felt the same however I acknowledge that would have made the book a lot longer than the other two and perhaps this would have taken away that quick/easy to read format and therefore the appeal and accessibility to some of the target audience. I know Mark is thinking of writing something for an adult audience next but I sincerely hope that he returns to young adult fiction with the view of producing another amazing read that we can give to any of our students - but BOYS in particular!
I just finished book three and was very satisfied. The story of course revolves around Finn and Kas but many of the characters from the previous 2 books reappear. The action and suspense continues as does the feeling... "how on earth are they going to get out of this?". I liked the way Finn's character continued to develop and that he could still see things in shades of grey rather than black and white. I would have liked to see a bit more of Kas's internal world/development. One reviewer mentioned that they would have liked to see more detail in this book to make it a little more believable; there were times where I felt the same however I acknowledge that would have made the book a lot longer than the other two and perhaps this would have taken away that quick/easy to read format and therefore the appeal and accessibility to some of the target audience. I know Mark is thinking of writing something for an adult audience next but I sincerely hope that he returns to young adult fiction with the view of producing another amazing read that we can give to any of our students - but BOYS in particular!
July 2, 2019
A great conclusion to a brilliant series. Land of Fences retained the momentum of the previous two installments in the Road to Winter trilogy, and delivered everything readers had been hoping for. Revenge, redemption, rescue and revelations are all here. A touch of sadness at the loss of some characters, but also the joy of reunions too. The developing relationship between Kas and Finn was beautifully rendered by Mark Smith, who has a light and lyrical touch when describing them together. The ongoing hardship of the displaced Sileys was also a great plot element - there are definitely parallels to be drawn in today's cultural landscape, which makes this novel all the more believable (unfortunately). All the threads are drawn together here and while there is not a neat bow tied, all the lines lead to hope and new beginnings. Congratulations Mark Smith - this is a great addition to the #LoveOzYA lexicon, and the series an instant classic. I can't wait to see what comes next!
For ages 13 and up.
For ages 13 and up.
June 2, 2019
With this book, I’ve finished the Winter Trilogy! Thinking back to all three books, this last book was probably my least favourite of the series, only because it felt like too much plot was squeezed into a small book, and I wanted more! I think this book could easily have been split into two to give the whole story more detail.
I love where the plot went overall, but I also felt this one was a little more unbelievable. The land is basically under martial law with the army in control, but this group of teenagers was able to do more than I think would have been realistic in this situation. And I might have been able to believe that was possible if I’d had more detail.
That being said, I still enjoyed it and would recommend reading the series, because the first two books were awesome, and this one did wrap up the series in really nice way. The main characters are really likeable even with their flaws (which is ideally what you want in characters - flawed enough to be realistic, but still likeable), and I found myself really rooting for them. I also love the focus that this book puts on asylum seekers, with an important message about equality.
Also, the relationship between Finn and his dog is probably my favourite relationship in the whole series! I love Rowdy so much!
I love where the plot went overall, but I also felt this one was a little more unbelievable. The land is basically under martial law with the army in control, but this group of teenagers was able to do more than I think would have been realistic in this situation. And I might have been able to believe that was possible if I’d had more detail.
That being said, I still enjoyed it and would recommend reading the series, because the first two books were awesome, and this one did wrap up the series in really nice way. The main characters are really likeable even with their flaws (which is ideally what you want in characters - flawed enough to be realistic, but still likeable), and I found myself really rooting for them. I also love the focus that this book puts on asylum seekers, with an important message about equality.
Also, the relationship between Finn and his dog is probably my favourite relationship in the whole series! I love Rowdy so much!
November 13, 2021
I’ve really enjoyed this series, gripping enough to want to finish it and with characters you’re invested in to want to know where they end up. The descriptions of squalid and trying conditions bring the settings alive without being tedious and wordy and the story develops quickly. I’ll be buying this series for my preteens next year, they’ll love it.
November 14, 2024
Did enjoy it once again much the same as the start of the series but was good to finish the 3
Ray and rowdy remain the best character
Willow being an 11 year old made the book feel even more so unbelievable as the 1st two books kept an sense of possibility
Ray and rowdy remain the best character
Willow being an 11 year old made the book feel even more so unbelievable as the 1st two books kept an sense of possibility
July 4, 2019
Really happy with this conclusion to ‘The Road to Winter’ trilogy. Finn is such a believable character - as a teenage boy he’s not supposed to know all the answers and get everything right all the time and Mark has portrayed that perfectly.
The book was certainly action packed and at about 80% through I was worried about how it was all going to end! The pacing was terrific, it really kept me racing along wanting to know what was going to unfold next.
The book was certainly action packed and at about 80% through I was worried about how it was all going to end! The pacing was terrific, it really kept me racing along wanting to know what was going to unfold next.
August 11, 2019
Mark Smith knows how to write a page turner! A great conclusion to an awesome trilogy! This series has switched many reluctant Year 8 readers on to reading!
February 25, 2020
Rly nice serious, with cool ideas, characters, a fast pace, and an awesome setting.
April 8, 2024
Better than the other two... or maybe i just got used to the bad writing. The whole series was a nice read tho
July 15, 2019
[Received for review from NetGalley]
I've loved Mark Smith's first two books in the Winter trilogy, and the third, Land of Fences didn't disappoint. What a relief! I've become nervous about third acts, however Land of Fences brought more thought-provoking, nail-biting action in the lives of our brave adolescent survivors. The battle to escape the emerging regime in a virus-riddled society, choosing who to trust, encountering old enemies, and discovering that there are often two sides to a tragic story. Set against the beautiful but harsh Australian landscape (which almost becomes it's own character), the futures of our heroes will finally be decided. Can there be peace and happiness in such chaos and disaster?
Great recommended reading for our Year 8 -10 students who love adventure, relatable Australian settings, and mature plot points (no fluff here!).
I've loved Mark Smith's first two books in the Winter trilogy, and the third, Land of Fences didn't disappoint. What a relief! I've become nervous about third acts, however Land of Fences brought more thought-provoking, nail-biting action in the lives of our brave adolescent survivors. The battle to escape the emerging regime in a virus-riddled society, choosing who to trust, encountering old enemies, and discovering that there are often two sides to a tragic story. Set against the beautiful but harsh Australian landscape (which almost becomes it's own character), the futures of our heroes will finally be decided. Can there be peace and happiness in such chaos and disaster?
Great recommended reading for our Year 8 -10 students who love adventure, relatable Australian settings, and mature plot points (no fluff here!).
August 3, 2019
Yes, this is a Young Adult series but don't let that put you off - it's every bit as propulsive and immersive as the Hunger Games trilogy. Set in a near future, gone feral Australia where the population has been dramatically reduced after a viral epidemic. You need to read the three books in sequence - this will NOT work as a standalone - so I'll just say that this is a very satisfying conclusion to a terrific series. It's an absolute page turner.
June 17, 2019
No thinking required over how many stars to give this book!! It's a marvellous finale to the "Winter" trilogy and I found it really engrossing. There is lots of action, a smidgen of romance and the same wonderful (and not so wonderful) characters. If you've read the other two books in the trilogy you won't be disappointed.
July 2, 2019
The final in one of my all time favourite series. Another action packed page turner. The characters really get inside your heart and there were plenty of times when I held my breath that things would turn out ok. I am satisfied with the way the trilogy has finished. Highly recommended!
September 4, 2019
Highly satisfying resolution to a well developed dystopian world.
Tense and action-packed.
Tense and action-packed.
February 12, 2023
4.5★s
The Land of Fences is the third book in the Winter series by award-winning Australian teacher and author, Mark Smith. The audio version is narrated by Ben Hall. For some months, Finn, Kas, Ray and the dog, Rowdy have been living, in a world now so different, an idyllic existence: hunting and growing food, swimming and surfing. They know it probably can’t last, and when Ray puts batteries in the portable radio, they hear an “official” broadcast: Authorities have organised the area into zones, and appointed leaders. Power seems to be sporadically restored, and Kas worries her subdermal Siley tracker will soon again be functional.
When two friends, made during the previous winter’s skirmishes with the Wilders and the No-landers, arrive, the news they bring is not good. Wilder Ben Ramage, the man certain to hold a grudge against them all, has been made the Regional Commissioner of their zone, with his deputy, the hated Tusker and the support of the Army. Kas and Finn, J.T and Daymu know they need to leave Angowrie before they are flushed out.
But their escape doesn’t go according to plan, and Finn and J.T. find themselves separated from their Siley girls. Help comes from unexpected quarters, but against sound advice, they decide to travel to Wentworth to mount a daring rescue. It will involve a long trek to the hub and close calls with pursuers before crossing seemingly impenetrable boundary fences.
Smith’s trilogy beautifully illustrates that, even in a first-world country, an apocalyptic event can result in opportunists seizing power by force. And when that apocalyptic event depletes the numbers of the defence forces, those opportunists might be appointed by virtue of that position and use it to make arbitrary decisions that affect the lives of their opponents: corruption at its basest level. Do right and good eventually win out?
Smith’s young protagonists are often surprisingly mature, and while their youth provides energy and resilience, their lack of life experience occasionally means they misplace trust and make poor decisions. At seventeen, Finn recognises this: “It seems my life since the virus has been a string of quick decisions. I never know whether they’re right or wrong until things either go pear-shaped or they don’t. Mostly they’re guesses. But I’m getting better at making them.” Readers will find it hard not to invest in these characters.
Smith gives the reader a fast-paced finale to this excellent YA trilogy. Finn and co are clever and resourceful, brave and loyal, and very determined. Again, this last installment has heroes and villains (and, yes, some violence), humour and heartache, and plenty of excitement. It may be branded Young Adult, but it is certain to be enjoyed by older readers as well. An excellent conclusion from this talented author.
The Land of Fences is the third book in the Winter series by award-winning Australian teacher and author, Mark Smith. The audio version is narrated by Ben Hall. For some months, Finn, Kas, Ray and the dog, Rowdy have been living, in a world now so different, an idyllic existence: hunting and growing food, swimming and surfing. They know it probably can’t last, and when Ray puts batteries in the portable radio, they hear an “official” broadcast: Authorities have organised the area into zones, and appointed leaders. Power seems to be sporadically restored, and Kas worries her subdermal Siley tracker will soon again be functional.
When two friends, made during the previous winter’s skirmishes with the Wilders and the No-landers, arrive, the news they bring is not good. Wilder Ben Ramage, the man certain to hold a grudge against them all, has been made the Regional Commissioner of their zone, with his deputy, the hated Tusker and the support of the Army. Kas and Finn, J.T and Daymu know they need to leave Angowrie before they are flushed out.
But their escape doesn’t go according to plan, and Finn and J.T. find themselves separated from their Siley girls. Help comes from unexpected quarters, but against sound advice, they decide to travel to Wentworth to mount a daring rescue. It will involve a long trek to the hub and close calls with pursuers before crossing seemingly impenetrable boundary fences.
Smith’s trilogy beautifully illustrates that, even in a first-world country, an apocalyptic event can result in opportunists seizing power by force. And when that apocalyptic event depletes the numbers of the defence forces, those opportunists might be appointed by virtue of that position and use it to make arbitrary decisions that affect the lives of their opponents: corruption at its basest level. Do right and good eventually win out?
Smith’s young protagonists are often surprisingly mature, and while their youth provides energy and resilience, their lack of life experience occasionally means they misplace trust and make poor decisions. At seventeen, Finn recognises this: “It seems my life since the virus has been a string of quick decisions. I never know whether they’re right or wrong until things either go pear-shaped or they don’t. Mostly they’re guesses. But I’m getting better at making them.” Readers will find it hard not to invest in these characters.
Smith gives the reader a fast-paced finale to this excellent YA trilogy. Finn and co are clever and resourceful, brave and loyal, and very determined. Again, this last installment has heroes and villains (and, yes, some violence), humour and heartache, and plenty of excitement. It may be branded Young Adult, but it is certain to be enjoyed by older readers as well. An excellent conclusion from this talented author.
August 24, 2019
This is the third book of Mark Smith’s Wilder trilogy and it continues the story of Finn and Kas who have been enjoying a more relaxed time at the beach, however this changes when the lights start to flicker and a radio signal comes up with a message - is life going to return to normal and what will this mean for each of their futures? What follows is both exciting and captivating. I found Mark Smith’s writing style easy to read and the story line flows with just the right amount of descriptive section and fast moving events. The characters are well developed and believable. An excellent read not just for young adults but for all who enjoy dystopian stories.
Highly recommended read.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Text Publishing for a copy to read and give an honest review.
Highly recommended read.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Text Publishing for a copy to read and give an honest review.
October 26, 2019
And... it’s finished. Wow what a series. I had brought the first Road to Winter book a few years back and neglected reading it for ages but boy am I glad I picked it up that one day. I actually loved the series it was different yet similar but in a good way. The story was amazing and very emotive. Really opens your eyes and pushes you to be more grateful for you never know when things could change and you could lose it all. There were a few parts of the book that I think weren’t quiet there such as the relationships between the people and some of the events that were a bit cliche and I would’ve loved for the characters to be a bit more described Finn particularly.
However the book was still amazing and filled with action, loss, love, friendship, family, suspense, excitement, happiness and sadness, and of course bravery in doing what is right and fighting for the things and people that you love, sticking to your morals and doing what you believe to be right whisky helping out wherever you can. It was brilliant how he incorporated modern day issues with the ‘sileys’ and I think a lot of people young and old could do with reading the books.
I picked up this book and barely put it down I was so hooked on it I almost finished the whole thing in 3 days but some other outside factors came into play and I didn’t get to read the last chapter for a week or two but the ending was still great. It finished with enough said yet some still to wonder I do believe a bit more could have been said about Daymu, JT, Danka and Ash but that’s ok Ray broke my heart but it was still perfect and made sense and I loved his character. The ending wasn’t completely finished and things could still turn very pear shaped but with the nature and storyline of the book it finished as best as it could.
I would defiantly recommend to readers particularly late primary school to high school as it is easy to read and child appropriate though some parts do include a bit of violence.
Overall great book and series I really enjoyed it and am glad I read it will miss it and the wild ride it took me on and am very thankful for how it opened my eyes.
However the book was still amazing and filled with action, loss, love, friendship, family, suspense, excitement, happiness and sadness, and of course bravery in doing what is right and fighting for the things and people that you love, sticking to your morals and doing what you believe to be right whisky helping out wherever you can. It was brilliant how he incorporated modern day issues with the ‘sileys’ and I think a lot of people young and old could do with reading the books.
I picked up this book and barely put it down I was so hooked on it I almost finished the whole thing in 3 days but some other outside factors came into play and I didn’t get to read the last chapter for a week or two but the ending was still great. It finished with enough said yet some still to wonder I do believe a bit more could have been said about Daymu, JT, Danka and Ash but that’s ok Ray broke my heart but it was still perfect and made sense and I loved his character. The ending wasn’t completely finished and things could still turn very pear shaped but with the nature and storyline of the book it finished as best as it could.
I would defiantly recommend to readers particularly late primary school to high school as it is easy to read and child appropriate though some parts do include a bit of violence.
Overall great book and series I really enjoyed it and am glad I read it will miss it and the wild ride it took me on and am very thankful for how it opened my eyes.
June 13, 2019
Advanced warning....don’t start reading this late at night. Action packed finale for the Winter trilogy, winding up the adventures of Finn, Kas, Ray and Rowley.
As a reader, we can feel happy for how this final chapter played out with new characters and old, getting everything they deserved.
In order to protect Kas, Finn leaves the only true home he has known. His belief that everyone deserves to live free and equal pushes him to the limits and our hearts break for him. Old foes appear, as formidable as ever. New friends and saviors find ways to help and stand up to the brutality to the best of their ability.
A fitting conclusion to the series that is great for the YA 14+ market.
As a reader, we can feel happy for how this final chapter played out with new characters and old, getting everything they deserved.
In order to protect Kas, Finn leaves the only true home he has known. His belief that everyone deserves to live free and equal pushes him to the limits and our hearts break for him. Old foes appear, as formidable as ever. New friends and saviors find ways to help and stand up to the brutality to the best of their ability.
A fitting conclusion to the series that is great for the YA 14+ market.
September 27, 2019
A bitter sweet conclusion to a story i really enjoyed. What I loved about this conclusion compared to so many others is it didn't try to fix every little thing which made this more believable then some others i have read. It just took care of the important parts and you leave the world knowing they are "safe" for now.....
On the flip side of this, I would have liked a little more punishment. I get what Smith was trying to do by making both Finn and Dowling better people than Ramage but I still would have liked a more definitive punishment. Still an enjoyable conclusion to an action packed series.
On the flip side of this, I would have liked a little more punishment. I get what Smith was trying to do by making both Finn and Dowling better people than Ramage but I still would have liked a more definitive punishment. Still an enjoyable conclusion to an action packed series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2019
Final volume in the Winter series set in a dystopian Australia, where a mysterious virus has killed off most of the population. Only scattered families or individuals have survived, living a tough, violent life, living off the land and trying to avoid becoming followers or slaves to various gangs who roam the countryside, killing and raping at will.
Ramage is the leader of one of the most powerful gangs. He becomes the government appointed leader around Wentworth as the country slowly begins to regroup. But he uses his power to capture Kas, the girlfriend of Finn, who has been hiding out on the coast.
And now, Finn wants to try and free Kas who has been imprisoned in Wentworth.
Ramage is the leader of one of the most powerful gangs. He becomes the government appointed leader around Wentworth as the country slowly begins to regroup. But he uses his power to capture Kas, the girlfriend of Finn, who has been hiding out on the coast.
And now, Finn wants to try and free Kas who has been imprisoned in Wentworth.
May 7, 2021
The 3rd book in the trilogy about Finn, Kas and Willow and Rowdy the Dog and Ray the old man.
I was super keen to read the final book in the series to see where all the characters end up.
I didn’t expect to get emotional but I was totally invested in the relationships of the characters and glad that the loved charActers managed to make their way through the challenges and survive.
Although there was plenty of death and sadness as well.
All very believable and plenty of suspense
I loved how these characters grew throughout then 3 books
I was super keen to read the final book in the series to see where all the characters end up.
I didn’t expect to get emotional but I was totally invested in the relationships of the characters and glad that the loved charActers managed to make their way through the challenges and survive.
Although there was plenty of death and sadness as well.
All very believable and plenty of suspense
I loved how these characters grew throughout then 3 books
June 3, 2019
A short and snappy book, that was consistently fast paced.
The main characters even with their flaws are likeable, and I kept rooting for them the whole book. I also enjoyed the focus on the plot, and how the characters dealt with it.
The themes explored (friendship, death, asylum seeking, equality) were dealt with in a manner that really caught my attention well.
Thanks to Text Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC!
The main characters even with their flaws are likeable, and I kept rooting for them the whole book. I also enjoyed the focus on the plot, and how the characters dealt with it.
The themes explored (friendship, death, asylum seeking, equality) were dealt with in a manner that really caught my attention well.
Thanks to Text Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC!
September 28, 2019
Amennyire imádtam a trilógia első két részét, annyira csalódást okozott a befejező kötet. Hiába voltak benne váratlan fordulatok, valahogy végig azt vártam, hogy legyen már vége. Nincs ezen mit szépíteni, untam, és ezt én sajnálom a legjobban. Lehet, hogy túl sok idő telt el az előző rész olvasása óta, és közben megkopott a kötődésem a szereplőkhöz, de az is megeshet, hogy maga a műfaj az, amit "kinőttem" a részek közt eltelt időben. A könyv jó, csak nekem nem feküdt.
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