Flames

by Robbie Arnott
Flames cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Magical Realism
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Technical
  • ID: 3036
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781786496270
  • Publisher: Atlantic Books
  • Published: 2018-11-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Flames is a captivating debut novel by Robbie Arnott, praised for its originality and lyrical prose. Set in the wilds of Tasmania, the story unfolds with a blend of folkloric magic and raw emotion, following a young man's quest to build a coffin for his sister, who flees instead. The narrative is rich with eccentric characters and surreal elements, such as a water rat seeking a cloud god and a fisherman partnered with a seal. The novel explores themes of grief, love, and the unbreakable ties of family, all while celebrating the power of language and the beauty of nature. /n/n The book has been shortlisted for the Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction and is compared to the works of Jennifer Egan and Evie Wyld. It is a spellbinding tale that sings with joy and sadness, offering a unique and unforgettable reading experience.

Reviews
Jeroen's Thoughts · 2024-05-28
Thrilling 4.50

The novel is a thrilling and imaginative journey through a magical realist world. The descriptive language is astonishing and reflects the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness.

This reviewer is captivated by the thrilling and imaginative world created by Robbie Arnott in Flames. They praise the author's use of magical realism and the vivid descriptions of the Tasmanian wilderness, which add a layer of depth to the story. The reviewer also appreciates the shifting perspectives and forms in each chapter, which keep the narrative fresh and engaging. They find the book to be an excellent read, with a unique blend of fantasy and reality that makes it stand out. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is clear, making it a highly recommended read.

Quick quotes

    Flames (2018) is an Australian magical realist/fantasy novel by Tasmanian author Robbie Arnott.

    The descriptive language is astonishing, reflecting the Tasmanian wilderness areas so well.

    Arnott's work is—above all else—beautifully surprising, with elements of magical realism and each chapter shifting perspective and form in delightful ways.

The Guardian · 2019-08-19
Intriguing 4.00

The novel's magical elements are executed well, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The setting and characters are vividly brought to life.

This reviewer appreciates how the magical elements in the novel are seamlessly integrated, making the story both unique and captivating. The Tasmanian wilderness is beautifully depicted, and the characters are richly developed, adding depth to the narrative. They find the blend of magic and realism refreshing, making the book a standout read. The reviewer also highlights the author's skill in balancing whimsy with serious themes, creating a compelling and memorable story.

Quick quotes

    A novel where special coffins are required to keep the dead from rising, and river gods vandalise jetskis could be irritating. But here the tricks pay off.

    The magic works in a wild Tasmania, where the natural world is as much a character as any of the humans.

    Arnott’s imagination is as boundless as the Tasmanian landscape he so vividly describes.

Michelle Scott Tucker · Michelle Scott Tucker · 2019-01-01
Wonderful 4.50

The novel is evocative and compelling, showcasing Arnott's talent as a new voice in Australian fiction. The storytelling is assured and captivating.

Michelle Scott Tucker finds Flames to be a beautifully written and evocative novel that highlights Robbie Arnott's talent as a storyteller. She praises the book's compelling narrative and the author's ability to create a rich, immersive world. Tucker also appreciates the blend of fantasy and folklore, which adds a unique layer to the story. She believes Arnott's debut is a strong one, and she looks forward to more from this promising author. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident, making it a must-read for fans of imaginative fiction.

Quick quotes

    Evocative. Intriguing. Compelling. Flames is a wonderful novel, and Arnott is a terrific new young voice in Australian fiction.

    In this assured debut, Arnott invites us into a world that is both familiar and fantastical.

    The prose is lush and lyrical, making the Tasmanian landscape come alive.

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