Khaki Town

Khaki Town was a good read, transporting me to far north Queensland during the height of WWII, which is my favourite period for historical fiction. I was fascinated to discover the political and military machinations in play between the US and Australian authorities during this time. The characters didn't quite grab me as much as I would have hoped, but nevertheless, it was a good, solid read that brought the time to life.

This novel is based on a true wartime story kept secret for more than seventy years. The story is set in March 1942, Townsville, Australia, after Singapore has fallen and Darwin has been bombed. The small town is transformed into a hub for 70,000 soldiers. But Australian troops begrudge the confident American soldiers, and there is growing conflict within the American ranks, and racial tensions are exposed. This compelling read is made even more poignant when you discover that it’s based on a mutiny that was covered up by the military. Khaki Town is a thought-provoking novel that will… show more.