Walkabout

I really enjoyed this sequel to The Billabong, and really you should read that one first. The guys grow closer, live and ride together, and the relationship was well done. Mark is a bit odd in a couple ways, and neither Jim nor I are quite sure what to make of him. The characters are very likeable for the most part, and I loved the descriptions of their work and the countryside.
I am VERY happy there is a sequel and that there will be a further book of novel length. I want to know more about this place, this time, and these men.

'Walkabout' is Jack Byrne's second novella, following the lives of Jim and Mark whom I met in 'The Billabong'. I very much enjoyed his debut short and was looking forward to this installment to see what was now going on in these guys’ lives, particularly since last I saw of them, they'd escaped jail and were heading into the outback. Okay, yeah, I just like saying \"outback\". I'm picturing a Foster's commercial, except I've been soundly reprimanded that Aussies don't drink that, and they never say \"put a shrimp on the barbie\".
Along their way, Jim and Mark encounter a young man trapped under the body of his dead horse. They pull him out, but all of Mark's medical supplies were left back at the jail. Mark leads Jim to his friend, Min Yong's, encampment to get help for the boy. Jim is surprised to learn that Mark speaks fluent Chinese and that Min Yong and he have known each other for a long time. They are given a place to rest for a few days and then Mark and Jim are on their way again.
Jim gets a firsthand look at what life will be like with Mark when they rob some settlers. Of course, it's not robbing when they simply hold them up for some food and then Mark pays them for it. Jim is so confused. Then they manage to get some work as drovers, but three weeks of being around other people and not being able to touch makes both Jim and Mark snarly. The only thing I can say about their reunion is that it's explosive! Unfortunately, what happens next, in a town they just stopped in for a beer, isn't good, and I was left hanging.
Okay, Jack, you better hurry up with the next installment because now I'm on pins and needles waiting. And, by the way, the Snowy Mountains and a horse named Regret? I love that movie. Great job, Jack, and I can't wait to read more.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews