Author(s): Joel Deane

Fiction

An ancient man without a past hails a taxi driven by a petty criminal with no future. Reluctantly, the pair embarks on a journey in search of a legendary whaler and murderer known only as the Norseman. This is a one-way trip — but who’s taking who for a ride?The Norseman’s Song is a stylish blend of gothic mystery and modern crime noir. Evoking the spirit of Joseph Conrad and Edgar Allan Poe, Joel Deane creates a violent and lyrical vision of contemporary Australia with the pace and energy of a road movie and the haunting atmosphere of a nightmare.'This is beautifully written crime noir by a writer in total command of his craft. A gripping, yet lyrical, read' — Big Issue'A bold unfolding of a succession of nightmares issuing from probable truths and feverish imaginings, a striking juxtaposition of legendary past and seedy present ... Deane belongs to a long line of yarn spinners in Australian fiction from Henry Lawson to Frank Hardy to Peter Carey and beyond.' — Sydney Morning Herald'Deane puts a new spin on the gothic tradition, with Australian flavours peppering this dark tale.' — Herald Sun'Joel Deane blends contemporary noir and historical gothic in a fast-paced thrillercum- road-novel. A cracking piece of Aussie literature.' — Andy Murdoch, MX