The Moving Finger

by Mary Gaunt

"The Moving Finger" by Mary Gaunt is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores the complex lives of characters in a desolate Australian landscape, centering on themes of love, loyalty, and tragedy amid the harsh realities of bush life. A key focus is on Nellie Durham, a young woman caught in an emotional tumult involving Gentleman Jim, an outlaw, and Ben Fisher, a decent man seeking her affection. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a small, rough-hewn accommodation house run by the Durhams, where Nellie sits idly, lost in thought, as the sunlight casts a warm glow. We quickly learn of her romantic entanglement with Gentleman Jim, described as charismatic yet dangerous, and how her family's reputation in a wild bush setting complicates her feelings. As the story unfolds, ghostly tales and superstitions are mingled with the realities of their lives, hinting at impending calamities. The interplay between characters sets the stage for conflicts driven by love, jealousy, and societal expectations, establishing a gripping foundation for the narrative ahead.