In the rugged Australian Outback, three generations of Clearys live through joy and sadness, bitter defeat and magnificent triumph — driven by their dreams, sustained by remarkable strength of character… and torn by dark passions, violence and a scandalous family legacy of forbidden love.
It is a poignant love story, a powerful epic of struggle and sacrifice, a celebration of individuality and … individuality and spirit. Most of all, it is the story of the Clearys’ only daughter, Meggie, who can never possess the man she so desperately adores — Ralph de Bricassart. Ralph will rise from parish priest to the inner circles of the Vatican… but his passion for Meggie will follow him all the days of his life.
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A timeless classic. The characters come to life. As a reader you feel like you are on the Australia Outback with them. Feels very true to life- not everything goes perfectly for the characters- they have both highs and lows. I read it for the first time about 20 years ago; enjoyed it even more the 2nd time.
One of the best historical novels I’ve ever read.
Great story –keeps you involved with the characters. Motions run the gambit and you want everything to work out with each character.
I read it many years ago and enjoyed reconnecting with the story.
An epic saga
I have always loved this book. I love the tragedies, the drama, and the characters.
The Thorn Birds is the favorite book of my life! Set in the first half of the twentieth century on Drogheda, one of the largest sheep ranches in Australia, it is the story of the Cleary family and their relationship with Father Ralph de Bricassart. Colleen McCollough’s descriptive language and superior storytelling literally draws the reader into …
Read this many years ago. Interesting story. Well written. I can still recall the story and places which is far more than I can say for many books
A love that can never be, spans 3 generations; never giving Meggie what she truly wants and needs- the only man she has ever truly loved.
I read this book many years ago and still love it. I have reread it at least three times and my paperback is missing it’s cover. Soon the binding will give way. A very interesting book
Wonderful story, very believable.
I was captivated from page 1 and became invested in these characters. Love this book.
It’s a great story but also very realistic. In my years I have known love stories
like this. It’s sad that priests cannot get married.
This book remains an all time favorite. I read ir every few years.
Colleen McCullough touched my heart, broke my heart and healed my heart. Lots of people have seen the movie, but reading the book is like having the whole feast rather than snacking on the appetizer. The characters are so richly fleshed out, you cannot help but love them. Meggie Cleary is of course the linchpin to the entire novel, daughter, …
I loved this story. Love on many levels.
Was an interesting read that kept my attention. Enjoyed it more than the movie.
It’s been a while, but this book made me read more books by this author. Her descriptive style is memorable. She brings Australia to life.
I read this book many years ago and could not put it down. It is a beautifully written story of family and a forbidden love.
I read this years ago loved it!