Intrigue Amid Tall Ships (Press, 3 June 1989)

In the book "Dragons at the Party" by Jon Cleary, published in 1989, the author crafts an engaging political thriller set against the backdrop of Sydney during the Australia Day weekend in 1988. Cleary, known for his storytelling rather than introspective writing or societal criticism, successfully blends intrigue with the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The narrative revolves around the complex interactions of state and federal politicians, police forces, and an exiled dictator from a small Pacific island nation, highlighting a web of political machinations and double-crossings. The picturesque Sydney Harbour and the tall ships participating in the Australia Day festivities serve as a continuous setting that enhances the storyline. Notably, Cleary introduces a fictional lesbian Prime Minister from New Zealand, adding another layer to the political landscape within the narrative. The story does not shy away from incorporating local elements, such as the devastating bushfires that surrounded Sydney during the summer of 1988, showcasing the city's character as central to the unfolding drama. Overall, "Dragons at the Party" stands out as a fast-paced thriller that combines entertainment with a keen depiction of the political environment of Sydney in the late 1980s, ensuring that readers are both engaged and immersed in the unfolding events.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand