An easy to read romance novel showcasing beautiful Queensland.
Feature image credit: Simon & Schuster
Dr Anita Heiss is an internationally published author of over 23 books. She is a proud member of the Wiradyuri Nation of Central NSW. Her impressive credentials include Professor of Communications at the University of Queensland, publisher-at-large of Bundyi, and winner of the 2022 NSW Premier’s Indigenous Writers Prize.
Her latest novel, Red Dust Running, is set in Brisbane and country Queensland. It is the story of Annabelle who has moved back to Brisbane from Sydney after a disastrous affair with a client. She is preparing the launch of a new First Nations Gallery and she is determined not to let romance get in the way of her career again.
Annabelle has three very close girlfriends, and they decide to celebrate one of their birthdays by going to a rodeo in the country. Not normally Annabelle’s cup of tea! It is there that she meets a cowboy called Dusty. What could possibly go wrong if they just have a little fling?
This is a love story about differences vs things in common. How much do we need to change who we really are to find love, or should we remain true to ourselves?
Red Dust Running is not a novel with great depth. It is a nice romantic story with the usual toing and froing as the protagonists wrestle with their feelings. The friendship of the four friends or tiddas (an Aboriginal word for ‘sisters’) is the central part to the story. They have been together a long time and always have each other’s back. This is very evident throughout the book and it just feels right.
Red Dust Running shows the stark contrast between city and country and asks us to reflect on what defines us. What are we willing to change? Woven throughout are moments when the girls have to stand up for what they believe and sometimes, let that go.
So, if you like reading light, comfortable rom-com novels, this is one for you — with a relatable leading lady, strong friendships, and a beautiful backdrop. Heiss shows respect for Elders and the connections with the land, culture, and family. Language is also regularly dropped into the narrative. These are all woven throughout the story and may give the reader just a little bit more understanding of the effect colonisation has had on our First Nations people.
Some readers may think that there are too many issues raised, and not enough plot to really get your teeth into. It does however increase awareness for these issues, and maybe create some discussion. Red Dust Running has a rather abrupt ending, and it would have been nice to see this relationship fleshed out a bit. Maybe in another book?
So, a love story, not too deep or fraught with too many emotions, from the perspective of strong First Nations women, is what awaits when you read this new novel from Anita Heiss.
Reviewed by Sue Mauger
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Simon & Schuster
Released: April 2025
RRP: $22.99
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