The Naked Country

Deep in cattle country in Australia's remote north, Lance Dillon's stud bull is killed by a party of Aborigines led by Mundaroo, and Dillon is himself speared. A dramatic manhunt across rugged terrain ensues. This early novel demonstrates Morris West's skill as a writer, keeping readers glued to their seats.

Lance Dillon is owner of a new cattle station on the southern fringe of Australia's Arnhem Land. When an Aboriginal hunting party targets Dillon's prize bull for a ritual killing, and then spears Dillon in the shoulder, it's clear they want him off their traditional land.

Under the merciless rays of the burning sun, the wounded Dillon flees into the bush, with expert tracker Mundaru in hot pursuit.

Dillon's city-born wife Mary and handsome local policeman Neil Adams set out to search for her husband. The gruelling journey throws them together, and it is not long before each is secretly hoping that Dillon is never found alive.

The Naked Country is a terrifying manhunt set in one of the harshest and most remote regions of the world.

'West is a great storyteller, a writer who can spin a fine yarn, and keep us guessing until the tale is told.' The Age