An Australian classic in the making, A Race Across Burning Soil is the story of Patrick and Sheila, inhabitants of Violet Town, a bush settlement. We follow these two, in their own voices, through the decades of their lives. From Patrick's first youthful affection for his fellow student and tutor, Sheila, and her complete antagonism towards him, through their respective separate adult lives. Patrick grows from the gawky, love-addled adolescent into a fine young man. Sheila moves to Melbourne and becomes a great success story. During her adulthood, Sheila comes, finally, to rely on Patrick and to realise the love he has for her. She tries to reciprocate but cannot, trapped within her growing madness. HarperCollins Media Release
