Richard Begbie
Cotter: A Novel
“An important story of banishment, displacement, and crucial first contact, Cotter also tells of a moving and unlikely friendship between two outcasts. Here is beautiful, assured writing about people and place. A novel for readers of Kate Grenville’s The Secret River”
Longhand Press, 2016
A strong story of banishment, displacement, and crucial first contact, Cotter tells of a moving friendship between two very different men, ultimately powerless against the forces of history.
Early in 1822 an illiterate nineteen year-old peasant in County Cork took part in a 'Whiteboy' action in the hope of fairer rent and more land for his struggling family. Instead, he was transported to NSW for life.
The story that follows will subvert popular notions of the convict experience. Cotter's alliance with a fierce Aboriginal leader conspired with his second 'crime' to introduce him to a world understood by few Europeans.
This is a story of power and exploitation, of betrayal and uncertain redemption. It offers a vivid reimagining of real events in the far wilds of a high country 'beyond the limits'.
About the Author
Richard Begbie is a Canberra-region author and wool farmer. His recent book tells the story of a young Irishman named Garrett Cotter who arrives in Sydney as a convict in 1822.
