Title: Brynleith Rising
Author: D A Mayes
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 9781514466421
Pages: 218
Genre: Fiction
Reviewed by: Ella Vincent
Pacific Book Review
Brynleith Rising is an intriguing novel about a New Zealand family and a visitor who changes their lives forever. It tells the story of Daniel Matheson, a British photographer who becomes a tenant at the property of the Leith family near their successful vineyard. After he falls in love with one of the daughters, Georgia, he’s forced to confront his terrible past which keeps him from achieving full intimacy and sharing his love for her. Daniel must also deal with a tragedy that changes the Leith family forever.
Brynleith Rising is a fascinating portrayal of how family dynamics and post-traumatic stress disorder can affect a person’s life. Daniel is a complicated protagonist who wants to find love and family with the Leiths, but is haunted by his inner demons. Georgia is a compassionate and strong character who helps Daniel overcome the trauma he has in his life. Author DA Mayes’ writing mixes light banter with serious dialogue about family dysfunction. The Brynleith family has many complicated stories within the family that add to the rich tapestry of Brynleith Rising.
The beauty of the New Zealand scenery adds to the complexity of this well written novel. The New Zealand rural area, or “bush”, is presented as a sprawling escape from Daniel’s problems. The fields near Brynleith are presented so vividly in Mayes’ writing, readers will feel that they’re transported to New Zealand. The music of Bob Dylan is also a creative theme in the novel. Boy Leith, the patriarch of the family, and Daniel bond over their love of Bob Dylan’s introspective lyrics that mirror struggles they both have in their lives.
Brynleith Rising would be best for fans of books about complicated family dynamics, like Jonathan Franzen’s The Corrections. The book would be good for readers who are fans of books about surviving trauma, like Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Even though the book is the second in a series, readers will be able to dive in to the book without missing any crucial plot points. The prologue helpfully updates readers on character development so the reader is caught up on the novel. Brynleith Rising would be great for book discussions to explore the many complex issues addressed in the novel.
Mayes has written a book that readers will love and be enlightened by as well. Brynleith Rising is an impactful novel which will make readers want to know more about the Leith family.
