The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline Review: Friendship and Atonement in Colonial Australia

Plot Summary

“The Exiles,” by Christina Baker Kline, weaves together the stories of three women whose lives intertwine in the harsh landscape of 19th-century Australia. Evangeline, a young governess in Victorian London, finds herself pregnant and wrongly accused of theft, leading to her imprisonment in Newgate Prison and subsequent transportation to Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) on a convict ship. Onboard, she forms a crucial friendship with Hazel, a resourceful young woman also convicted of theft. Their lives eventually intersect with Mathinna, an Aboriginal girl orphaned and “adopted” by the Governor of Tasmania and his wife, a situation fraught with its own unique cruelties. The novel explores themes of survival, friendship, and the brutal realities of colonial life.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

“The Exiles” is a compelling and deeply moving historical novel. Kline masterfully creates relatable characters, vividly portraying their struggles against the backdrop of a harsh and unforgiving environment. The story is ultimately one of hope and resilience, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. This book is one of the best in the category about women living in the past forced by circumstance and the misfortune of being born female at the wrong time, to settle in an alien country and live a life other than that mapped out at birth.

Writing Style, Character Development, and Themes

Kline’s writing style is richly descriptive, bringing the historical setting to life with vivid details. The character development is excellent; each woman is fully realized, with her own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. The author explores themes of injustice, survival, the importance of friendship, the consequences of colonialism, and the possibility of atonement. The shameful historical treatment of women by men is highlighted through the fictional narratives of Evangeline, Hazel, and Mathinna.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of intense drama interspersed with quieter, more reflective passages. The narrative structure, which alternates between the perspectives of Evangeline, Hazel, and Mathinna, keeps the reader engaged and provides a comprehensive view of the events unfolding. The plot held my interest throughout.

Language and Imagery

Kline’s use of language is evocative, creating vivid imagery that transports the reader to Victorian London and the rugged landscapes of Australia. The descriptions of the convict ship, the prison, and the natural environment are particularly striking.

Emotional Impact

“The Exiles” is an emotionally powerful novel that evokes a range of emotions, from sadness and anger to hope and joy. The stories of Evangeline, Hazel, and Mathinna are deeply affecting, and their struggles resonate long after the book is finished. The novel is a brutal tale in many ways, with tragedy and despair. It will provoke deep thought about the injustices of the past and the enduring power of the human spirit.

Themes and Messages

The novel conveys several important messages about the importance of empathy, the resilience of women, and the need to confront the dark chapters of history. Kline effectively exposes the brutality of the convict system and the devastating impact of colonialism on the Aboriginal population.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Strong character development
  • Vivid historical setting
  • Compelling plot
  • Emotionally resonant
  • Exploration of important themes

Weaknesses:

  • None noted.

Recommendation

I highly recommend “The Exiles” to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, stories about strong women, or books that explore themes of social justice. Readers who appreciate authors like Geraldine Brooks or Kate Grenville would likely enjoy this novel.

Rating

5 out of 5 stars

Overall Impression

“The Exiles” is a beautifully written and deeply affecting novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It is a powerful story of survival, friendship, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

Where to Get It

You can find “The Exiles” at various online retailers and bookstores. Check your preferred bookseller, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local independent bookstore. You can also find more information about the author and the book on My Ebook or follow Christina Baker Kline’s website christinabakerkline.com or follow her on social media @bakerkline