Reviews
It’s hard to believe any book could come closer to conveying the essence of this astonishing series of events. If ever there was a five star read, this is it. W.J. Kirton more…
The author has utilised the results of obvious extensive research to imbue this period of the seventeenth century with realism; the marine detail is especially noteworthy. The characters are well rounded, believable and their interaction adds to the credibility of this work. Highly recommended, this is a novel of compelling potency with the guarantee of several enthralling hours marooned with the passengers of the Batavia. Robert Crickard more…
Die a Dry Death is a deeply unnerving tale, based on true events and told in a rich, evocative voice which draws a reader in and doesn’t let go until well after the last page is turned and the book is set aside. Kimberley Menozzi more…
I planned to read this novel over the course of a week. Instead, I found myself staying up (far too) late and finished it in two nights. I found it nearly impossible to put down. Susan Spann more…
DaDD is indeed a compelling tale and Greta has been fascinated by the story for twenty five years. Her writing skills are impeccable. One is drawn immediately into the scenario and carried on by the sheer power of her depiction, the characters she builds and the settings she creates. Loretta Proctor more…
The author has taken one of the lesser known episodes of Dutch/Australian history and with infinite skill has created a page-turning story of adventure, mayhem and murder with enormous impact. Die a Dry Death cannot fail to satisfy the most demanding and critical of readers of historical fiction. An excellent read and highly recommended. Malcolm Mendey more…
Based on a true story, Die a Dry Death is a fascinating historical adventure that ratchets up the tension with every turn of the page. Greta van der Rol’s accomplished debut novel is a gripping exploration into both the endurance of the human spirit and its darker side. Steeped in authenticity, Die a Dry Death is sure to impress even the most demanding of historical fiction readers. Readers who love to be immersed in a historical period will appreciate the precise research that has gone into this work; while those who enjoy an action-oriented and plot-driven story will be riveted. N. Gemini Sasson more…
The book is both an informative tale from an historic standpoint, and a great insight Into an infamous chapter in Western Australia’s (New Holland’s) early maritime history, I found it to be an absorbing book with obvious painstaking research having been done, well crafted and written in great style. Peter more…
As you read this book, you’ll see how you get attracted to it and want to keep reading as you hope for the best for the poor souls on the desolate islands… and yet you know it is not necessarily going to go that way. I recommend this book to any historical fiction fan, and to all friends of books based on real life and given an extra dimension through fiction. Heikki Hietala more…
The writing is superb, as is the pace. I cannot recommend this strongly enough. It’s a tough read, at times heart breaking, but ultimately its worthiness shines through. And what marks it out as a great book, is what it says without words. F. Meek more…
