Pat Cooney’s Ron and the Wild Men is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores a divided Australia, where political differences have split the country into two separate nations. This gripping story takes readers on a journey of survival, cultural identity, and the struggle for justice in an increasingly fractured world.

A Nation Divided

In this dystopian vision of Australia’s future, the southern states—New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia—have formed Greater Australia , while Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia have become Northern Australia. In a controversial decision, Greater Australia grants a vast region of Western New South Wales to its Indigenous population, forcing them to survive in near-primitive conditions with little support or resources.

This act, disguised as a form of restitution, soon leads to immense suffering as the Indigenous people—now referred to as "the Wild Men"—are left to fend for themselves in a barren and unforgiving landscape.

A Dangerous Mission of Hope

Ron, a refugee from Greater Australia who has built a new life in Northern Australia with his fiancée, Gwen, is tasked with leading an expedition into this isolated territory. The mission? To assess what aid should be provided to the Indigenous inhabitants and determine how they can not only survive but thrive.

However, not everyone wants the expedition to succeed. Powerful figures in Northern Australia’s administration have ulterior motives—seeking control over the land rather than offering assistance. As sabotage looms and sinister plans threaten to wipe out the Wild Men altogether, Ron finds himself fighting not just for the success of the mission, but for justice, integrity, and the survival of an entire people.

An Epic Tale of Courage and Triumph

With political intrigue, action-packed adventure, and a deeply human story at its core, Ron and the Wild Men is a novel that challenges readers to reflect on themes of colonization, power, and resilience. Pat Cooney masterfully weaves a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply emotional, making this a must-read for fans of speculative fiction, historical allegories, and stories of triumph against the odds.

Will Ron be able to outmaneuver those seeking to destroy the Wild Men? Can the Indigenous people reclaim their dignity and build a future on their own terms? Ron and the Wild Men delivers an unforgettable journey filled with suspense, hope, and the unbreakable human spirit.