The Claim

Evan Cadwallader comes across the almost dead body of a young woman while panning for gold at his inherited claim in the foothills of New Zealand's southern Alps. He carries her back to his cottage and as he nurses her back to health, gradually pieces together the story of her life. Evan is torn between his growing feelings for Addie and the pull of his claim, but as the gold begins to flow, they draw ever closer to each other and for a few glorious weeks they thrive.But, like the weather, all must break and what started out blissfully, soon turns sinister. Set during one claustrophobic summer, against a remote and beautiful backdrop, this is a novel about love, loss and companionship that will shimmer under the surface of your thoughts for months to come.