The Cloud

«The Cloud» — a novel by Robbie Arnott, one of the most vibrant contemporary Australian writers. The story unfolds in the remote highlands of Tasmania and combines elements of westerns, thrillers, and magical realism. At the center of the plot is the story of twins Iris and Floyd Renchow, descendants of exiled English convicts. Living on the fringes of society and trying to make ends meet, they learn about a generous reward for the head of a puma nicknamed The Cloud. Once, these predators were brought here to exterminate the overpopulated deer, and now the last remaining puma in these parts terrorizes the area, killing sheep and people. Lacking weapons and a clear plan, the brother and sister set out into the harsh and mystical highlands. But there, their confrontation with nature evolves into something more than just a hunt, forcing them to confront both the ancient secrets of this land and their own dark past. The line between hunter and prey is increasingly blurred, and the predatory greed of humans proves to be no less dangerous than the instincts of a wild animal.