The quiet, understated prose of The Deed crescendos into moments of profound sadness, making it a story that lingers long after the final page. With a vivid rural setting near Albury, unforgettable characters, and a gripping mix of greed and need, it’s no wonder this novel feels destined for the big screen.

What’s not to like?

The Deed by Susannah Begbie is a poignant and humorous exploration of family wounds and reconciliation. The story deftly prods the scars left by ungrateful children and unfeeling parents, balanced by moments of affection, hope, and humor. Readers will appreciate the realistic frustrations of managing family dynamics in a high-stakes situation.

Funny and heart-breaking in turn, The Deed is a compelling read that captures the essence of family life.

The Deed starts as a black comedy with cartoonish characters but quickly evolves into a feel-good novel with genuine charm. Despite the initial caricatures, Begbie's skillful writing brings depth and relatability to the characters. The novel’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments, along with its vivid rural setting, makes it a compelling read. Echoing classic themes of family and legacy, it’s a highly enjoyable and well-crafted book, with a standout cover by Christabella Designs.

Curious about The Deed? You’re not alone! Readers have been raving about this debut novel for its mix of humor and heartfelt moments, all set in a uniquely Australian backdrop. The quirky family dynamics and the book’s intriguing plot twist have really captured people’s attention. Want to know more about what everyone’s saying? Check out the full range of reviews here to see why The Deed is making such an impression!

The Deed is a compelling family drama that shocks, delights, and intrigues with its portrayal of the Edwards siblings and their father, Tom. Told from their varying perspectives, the novel explores the complex dynamics and emotional struggles surrounding a contentious will and the task of building a coffin. Begbie’s vivid depiction of their journey offers an engaging glimpse into Australian life, making for a thoroughly enjoyable read.

The Deed by Richell Prize winner Susannah Begbie unfolds in digestible, short chapters from each sibling’s perspective. Reminiscent of family sagas like Barbara Kingsolver’s The Poisonwood Bible and William Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying, this debut novel infuses the genre with a distinctively rural Australian flavor.

In The Deed by Susannah Begbie, a group of siblings must build their father’s coffin or lose their inheritance. What begins as an absurd task quickly unravels into a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and buried tensions.

Funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable, The Deed captures the complicated emotions around legacy and love, making it a deeply rewarding read.

Tom Edwards isn’t thrilled about dying, and he’s certainly not expecting any emotional outpouring from his kids. In fact, he figures they’re more likely to struggle with building his coffin than with mourning him. So, he sets a challenge in his will: if his children can’t build his coffin in four days, they lose their inheritance.

The Deed is a perceptive and memorable debut that captures the complex, often messy dynamics of family life. It’s a story where even the most unexpected circumstances can reveal something surprising about greed and relationships.