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The Cuckoo's Cry
A compulsively gripping lockdown thriller by the bestselling author of The One Who Got Away On the eve of the global lockdown, Don Barlow opens the door of his old beachside cottage to find a pretty girl with pink-tipped hair, claiming to be his granddaughter. She needs help and has nowhere else to go.
He welcomes her in, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented with the virus raging outside their home, the girl cannot be asked to leave, but what does he risk by having her stay?
As Don and the girl start to forge a bond, Don's adult daughter has her own suspicions about what the newcomer is after. But, unable to travel, how can she protect Don and discover if the girl really is who she claims to be?
'You won't put The Cuckoo's Cry down. It's an addictive, read-in-one-sitting book with some surprisingly tender moments, a compelling relationship between the two main protagonists, and an unexpected twist at the end.' Better Reading
Praise for Caroline
'Deft, dramatic and psychologically astute' Saturday Age
'Overington keeps you guessing until the last' Daily Telegraph
'Caroline Overington has an ability to home in on the darker, unsettling sides of life, seizing upon topics you might see headlining the news and spinning them into gripping page-turners.' Hannah Richell, Australian Women's Weekly
He welcomes her in, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented with the virus raging outside their home, the girl cannot be asked to leave, but what does he risk by having her stay?
As Don and the girl start to forge a bond, Don's adult daughter has her own suspicions about what the newcomer is after. But, unable to travel, how can she protect Don and discover if the girl really is who she claims to be?
'You won't put The Cuckoo's Cry down. It's an addictive, read-in-one-sitting book with some surprisingly tender moments, a compelling relationship between the two main protagonists, and an unexpected twist at the end.' Better Reading
Praise for Caroline
'Deft, dramatic and psychologically astute' Saturday Age
'Overington keeps you guessing until the last' Daily Telegraph
'Caroline Overington has an ability to home in on the darker, unsettling sides of life, seizing upon topics you might see headlining the news and spinning them into gripping page-turners.' Hannah Richell, Australian Women's Weekly
Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2020
About the author
Caroline Overington
32 books520 followersCaroline Overington is an Australian author and journalist.
She has worked for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, and is is currently a staff writer for The Weekend Australian Magazine.
Caroline is a two-time winner of the Walkley Award for Investigative Journalism. She won her first Walkley for a series of articles about a literary fraud, and her second for a series about the AWB oil for food scandal.
She is also a winner of the Sir Keith Murdoch prize for excellence in Journalism; and of the Blake Dawson Prize.
Caroline has published five books. Her first, Only in New York, was about working as a foreign correspondent in Manhattan.
Her second, Kickback, was about the UN oil for food scandal. It won the Blake Dawson Prize for Business Literature.
Her first novel, Ghost Child, is about a child murdered by his parents.
Her second, I Came To Say Goodbye, takes the form of a letter from a grandfather to a Supreme Court judge. It was shortlisted for both the Fiction Book of the Year, and overall Book of the Year, in the 2011 Australian Book Industry Awards.
Her latest novel, published in October 2011, is called Matilda is Missing. It is set in the Family Court, and it is about a couple's war over custody of their two year old daughter, Matilda.
Caroline's books are proudly published by Random House Australia.
Caroline is a mother of delightful, 11-year-old twins. She lives with her kids, her husband, a blue dog, and a lizard, in Bondi.
She has worked for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, and is is currently a staff writer for The Weekend Australian Magazine.
Caroline is a two-time winner of the Walkley Award for Investigative Journalism. She won her first Walkley for a series of articles about a literary fraud, and her second for a series about the AWB oil for food scandal.
She is also a winner of the Sir Keith Murdoch prize for excellence in Journalism; and of the Blake Dawson Prize.
Caroline has published five books. Her first, Only in New York, was about working as a foreign correspondent in Manhattan.
Her second, Kickback, was about the UN oil for food scandal. It won the Blake Dawson Prize for Business Literature.
Her first novel, Ghost Child, is about a child murdered by his parents.
Her second, I Came To Say Goodbye, takes the form of a letter from a grandfather to a Supreme Court judge. It was shortlisted for both the Fiction Book of the Year, and overall Book of the Year, in the 2011 Australian Book Industry Awards.
Her latest novel, published in October 2011, is called Matilda is Missing. It is set in the Family Court, and it is about a couple's war over custody of their two year old daughter, Matilda.
Caroline's books are proudly published by Random House Australia.
Caroline is a mother of delightful, 11-year-old twins. She lives with her kids, her husband, a blue dog, and a lizard, in Bondi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 696 reviews
May 1, 2023
3.5 stars: I listened to the audible original “The Cuckoo’s Cry” by Caroline Overington narrated by Aimee Horne and enjoyed the timeliness of the story taking place during the Covid-19 pandemic. I have been under the impression that stories take ages to write, so one that involves a pandemic that is less than 6 months old, well, I am impressed.
The story is about a lonely retired man, who we discover had a baby as a teen, and that baby was given up for adoption. A young girl arrives at his doorstep claiming to be his granddaughter. Intrigued, and motivated mostly by loneliness, he allows her in to hear her story. She has details that make him feel she is legit. Shortly after, the pandemic hits and all people are forced into lockdown. She becomes a permanent visitor.
This elderly man, Don, has a daughter who is suspect of this girl and her motivations. But given the lockdown restrictions, the girl must stay with Don. There are twists and turns which made the listen enjoyable. If it had ended earlier, I would have been more pleased. I don’t understand why Overington needed to draw it out at the end. However, the story was clever and definitely worthy of a listen.
The story is about a lonely retired man, who we discover had a baby as a teen, and that baby was given up for adoption. A young girl arrives at his doorstep claiming to be his granddaughter. Intrigued, and motivated mostly by loneliness, he allows her in to hear her story. She has details that make him feel she is legit. Shortly after, the pandemic hits and all people are forced into lockdown. She becomes a permanent visitor.
This elderly man, Don, has a daughter who is suspect of this girl and her motivations. But given the lockdown restrictions, the girl must stay with Don. There are twists and turns which made the listen enjoyable. If it had ended earlier, I would have been more pleased. I don’t understand why Overington needed to draw it out at the end. However, the story was clever and definitely worthy of a listen.
April 14, 2022
I love audiobooks but often don’t have the patience or the time to listen to a 12 or 14 hour book. I found this little gem on Audible’s Plus catalog and thought I’d give it a try – I really enjoyed it.
This novel is set in Australia, in a beach town, just when the pandemic is being talked about.
Don Barlow has been living alone since his wife passed away. He has a large home with 4 bedrooms and it has felt empty since his wife has been gone. His daughter lives about 4 hours away and is very busy running a restaurant and raising two kids.
He has his routine – he wakes up early, swims in the sea, purchases the newspaper and returns home to relax and read the paper. He knows a few neighbors to say hello but isn’t really friends with them.
His evenings are spent watching soccer and perhaps a gardening show. One evening there’s a knock on the door and he answers it, although he feels 8 p.m. is a little late for visitors.
Enter Morgan, a 19 y/o woman, down on her luck, with no place to stay. Don invites her in, he is a trusting soul and they begin to get to know each other. Turns out that she is claiming to be his granddaughter, from a son that he gave up for adoption when he was only 19.
After she is there for an evening he tells his grown daughter, Danielle, what has transpired. She is in no way happy that he has let this woman into his home without knowing who she is.
This was a great listen, with lots of issues addressed. How safe are we in our own homes? Are some older folks living alone a target for a multitude of scams?
We go through days and days of the pandemic and watch as the relationship between Don and Morgan grows, he likes having her around, she fills his day and seems genuinely interested in becoming part of Don’s family. She throws him a pandemic birthday, with the neighbors all outside singing happy birthday and a zoom call to his daughter and her family! Danielle is becoming increasingly concerned with her father’s safety.
The ensuing story goes in several directions that I didn’t see coming. There is more of a mystery than I thought to this story.
This is a quick listen which does revisit the early days of the pandemic. It was interesting to me as a US citizen, to see how the Australian government was handling the crisis.
The narration was great and I had no problem with the Australian accent of the narrator. It was an enjoyable, interesting listen and free to Audible members.
This novel is set in Australia, in a beach town, just when the pandemic is being talked about.
Don Barlow has been living alone since his wife passed away. He has a large home with 4 bedrooms and it has felt empty since his wife has been gone. His daughter lives about 4 hours away and is very busy running a restaurant and raising two kids.
He has his routine – he wakes up early, swims in the sea, purchases the newspaper and returns home to relax and read the paper. He knows a few neighbors to say hello but isn’t really friends with them.
His evenings are spent watching soccer and perhaps a gardening show. One evening there’s a knock on the door and he answers it, although he feels 8 p.m. is a little late for visitors.
Enter Morgan, a 19 y/o woman, down on her luck, with no place to stay. Don invites her in, he is a trusting soul and they begin to get to know each other. Turns out that she is claiming to be his granddaughter, from a son that he gave up for adoption when he was only 19.
After she is there for an evening he tells his grown daughter, Danielle, what has transpired. She is in no way happy that he has let this woman into his home without knowing who she is.
This was a great listen, with lots of issues addressed. How safe are we in our own homes? Are some older folks living alone a target for a multitude of scams?
We go through days and days of the pandemic and watch as the relationship between Don and Morgan grows, he likes having her around, she fills his day and seems genuinely interested in becoming part of Don’s family. She throws him a pandemic birthday, with the neighbors all outside singing happy birthday and a zoom call to his daughter and her family! Danielle is becoming increasingly concerned with her father’s safety.
The ensuing story goes in several directions that I didn’t see coming. There is more of a mystery than I thought to this story.
This is a quick listen which does revisit the early days of the pandemic. It was interesting to me as a US citizen, to see how the Australian government was handling the crisis.
The narration was great and I had no problem with the Australian accent of the narrator. It was an enjoyable, interesting listen and free to Audible members.
July 10, 2020
I really enjoyed listening to this. I remember thinking to myself, 'I wonder when people'll start writing books that take place during COVID-19, and it's crazy that it's been so long that someone's already written, published, and had it recorded. In a way, the story felt so real and relatable.
While at the beginning, I thought that this was going to be a really simple story about found families, this was definitely not just that. The story contains quite a bit of mystery set in such a real and confusing time. I definitely was not expecting most of what happened. My jaw dropped while listening a couple times (something that I noticed I only do with Audiobooks and not print books).
The characters were endearing and relatable. I enjoyed learning each of their stories and watching them interact with each other. I really just felt like someone was narrating a story that actually happened because of how current and realistic it was.
My favourite part about this was honestly the performance of the narrator. I thought she was amazing. I was excited enough when I found out that this was an Australian book, but the narrator really did character voices so well. I usually find it funny when I hear a girl try to do a male voice and vice versa, but I quite liked how she voiced everyone in the book. The acting was so on point, too. She nailed all the expressions and tiny details that made the conversations sound like they were happening right in front of me.
I probably will be reading more from this author and listening to books narrated by this narrator :D
While at the beginning, I thought that this was going to be a really simple story about found families, this was definitely not just that. The story contains quite a bit of mystery set in such a real and confusing time. I definitely was not expecting most of what happened. My jaw dropped while listening a couple times (something that I noticed I only do with Audiobooks and not print books).
The characters were endearing and relatable. I enjoyed learning each of their stories and watching them interact with each other. I really just felt like someone was narrating a story that actually happened because of how current and realistic it was.
My favourite part about this was honestly the performance of the narrator. I thought she was amazing. I was excited enough when I found out that this was an Australian book, but the narrator really did character voices so well. I usually find it funny when I hear a girl try to do a male voice and vice versa, but I quite liked how she voiced everyone in the book. The acting was so on point, too. She nailed all the expressions and tiny details that made the conversations sound like they were happening right in front of me.
I probably will be reading more from this author and listening to books narrated by this narrator :D
April 6, 2022
I picked this novella up in my library just because I remembered having read and enjoyed a previous book by this author in the past. I was not disappointed.
The Cuckoo's Cry is set in Bondi in Sydney, during the early stages of Covid 19 when the city went into lockdown. This is the perfect setting for a mystery because when Morgan turns up on Don's doorstep claiming to be his granddaughter and homeless, he has to take her in. She has nowhere to go and needs to shelter in place. His family who worry it may be a scam are unable to investigate fully because restrictions make it hard for them to visit.
Like Don's family I was sure it was going to turn out to be a scam but at least it was doing Don some good. He flourished in Morgan's company and was saved from suffering the lockdown in the way that many single old people did in real life. I enjoyed all the characters and the way they interacted.
The ending was exciting and contained a few surprises. I hope that one result of the whole situation would be more contact for Don in future from his regular family. There were a few lessons to be learned about how we treat our elderly relations and the book was also a very effective commentary on the Covid situation at the beginning of the pandemic. Well worth reading.
The Cuckoo's Cry is set in Bondi in Sydney, during the early stages of Covid 19 when the city went into lockdown. This is the perfect setting for a mystery because when Morgan turns up on Don's doorstep claiming to be his granddaughter and homeless, he has to take her in. She has nowhere to go and needs to shelter in place. His family who worry it may be a scam are unable to investigate fully because restrictions make it hard for them to visit.
Like Don's family I was sure it was going to turn out to be a scam but at least it was doing Don some good. He flourished in Morgan's company and was saved from suffering the lockdown in the way that many single old people did in real life. I enjoyed all the characters and the way they interacted.
The ending was exciting and contained a few surprises. I hope that one result of the whole situation would be more contact for Don in future from his regular family. There were a few lessons to be learned about how we treat our elderly relations and the book was also a very effective commentary on the Covid situation at the beginning of the pandemic. Well worth reading.
January 26, 2022
Aussie author Caroline Overington has published multiple books, including this novella The Cuckoo's Cry. An elderly gentleman is watching television in his Bondi home when a late-night knock brings an unexpected visitor. Set early in the current pandemic, he discovers it’s his unknown grandchild. Yet his only daughter is suspicious of the intruder and has concerns about her new cousin, despite her father’s enamoured relationship. A slow burning narrative that captures the feel of the early COVID-19 period and builds into a dramatic finale. An enjoyable domestic noir with plenty of surprising twists that makes for a three-and-a-half-star rating.
April 26, 2022
The Cuckoo’s Cry is the thirteenth novel by Australian journalist and author, Caroline Overington. When Morgan turns up on his doorstep with her request for help, Don Barlow has no reason not to trust her: she knows all about the boy he fathered back before he married Pam (not that this was ever a big secret), so her claim to be his granddaughter is convincing.
It’s just before Australia locks down for COVID, she has lost her nannying job and is estranged from her dad, his son Paul, so she needs a place to stay. Don has a house in Bondi with plenty of room and has been missing Pam since she died, so welcomes the company.
When Don’s daughter, Danielle learns of Morgan’s presence, she’s aghast that he could so easily admit a stranger into his life. And yes, Morgan does seem to be doing all the right things with her father, and yes, Danielle allows that she might be who she says, but her suspicion that Morgan is intent on scamming Don out of house and home won’t abate.
Even more annoying is how much everyone: Don, his neighbours, and even Danielle’s husband and their daughters (via Skype), like the young woman. But perhaps her chagrin has an element of guilt? The last few years have been so busy with their boutique hotel and restaurant up in Scone, and it’s true that they have neglected visiting a dad and grandpa who is understandably lonely since being widowed.
Like any nineteen-year-old, Morgan seems glued to her phone. But who is this Bayley she’s regularly texting?
Overington’s story premise is completely credible and it’s interesting to see where she takes it. The high index of suspicion that the reader will have about Morgan is confused a little by her benign, even caring, behaviour towards Don. Is she just a very good actress? There’s an unexpectedly exciting climax that involves a gun and a rooftop, and the ironic twist that precedes the wholly realistic conclusion is quite satisfying. Excellent Aussie fiction.
It’s just before Australia locks down for COVID, she has lost her nannying job and is estranged from her dad, his son Paul, so she needs a place to stay. Don has a house in Bondi with plenty of room and has been missing Pam since she died, so welcomes the company.
When Don’s daughter, Danielle learns of Morgan’s presence, she’s aghast that he could so easily admit a stranger into his life. And yes, Morgan does seem to be doing all the right things with her father, and yes, Danielle allows that she might be who she says, but her suspicion that Morgan is intent on scamming Don out of house and home won’t abate.
Even more annoying is how much everyone: Don, his neighbours, and even Danielle’s husband and their daughters (via Skype), like the young woman. But perhaps her chagrin has an element of guilt? The last few years have been so busy with their boutique hotel and restaurant up in Scone, and it’s true that they have neglected visiting a dad and grandpa who is understandably lonely since being widowed.
Like any nineteen-year-old, Morgan seems glued to her phone. But who is this Bayley she’s regularly texting?
Overington’s story premise is completely credible and it’s interesting to see where she takes it. The high index of suspicion that the reader will have about Morgan is confused a little by her benign, even caring, behaviour towards Don. Is she just a very good actress? There’s an unexpectedly exciting climax that involves a gun and a rooftop, and the ironic twist that precedes the wholly realistic conclusion is quite satisfying. Excellent Aussie fiction.
August 8, 2020
Audible Original performance by Aimee Horne 4hrs 43 minutes.
The first COVID-19 era story. For Australiaian widower, Don Barlow his days are fairly routine. His beloved wife, Pam has succumbed to cancer and their grown daughter, Danielle is busy running a business with her husband and raising her two daughters. Don feels a sense of loss and that he's not as useful as he once was. Now the news is talking about a shutdown as the global pandemic hits Australian shores and 70 year olds like Don need to be kept away. Then as fate would have it, Don opens the door discovers a 19 year old girl on his doorstep. She introduces herself as Morgan and claims she is the daughter of the son Don and his girlfriend gave up in their youth. But as happy as Don is, his daughter Danielle is uneasy and she doesn't just believe it's jealousy. What exactly does Morgan want?
So the vulnerability of the elders of our community are very much a conversation and it had certainly intensified when many long term care facilities were closed to relatives. So I found this story to play on my worst fears because I am in a different province than my parents and as soon as I was finished this story I texted my brother and told him to check on our parents. Also I gave him full support to be uneasy around any people being friendly towards our parents. Unsurprisingly, he thinks I am losing my mind. I then shared this Audiobook with him and he replied,"I will wait until the movie." Moral of the story: Younger siblings are so stubborn."
So I enjoyed it and I invite you to listen to this horror too. If I had one criticism is that last 4 or 5 chapters made it a little drawn out but the ending redeemed it.
Goodreads review published 07/08/20
The first COVID-19 era story. For Australiaian widower, Don Barlow his days are fairly routine. His beloved wife, Pam has succumbed to cancer and their grown daughter, Danielle is busy running a business with her husband and raising her two daughters. Don feels a sense of loss and that he's not as useful as he once was. Now the news is talking about a shutdown as the global pandemic hits Australian shores and 70 year olds like Don need to be kept away. Then as fate would have it, Don opens the door discovers a 19 year old girl on his doorstep. She introduces herself as Morgan and claims she is the daughter of the son Don and his girlfriend gave up in their youth. But as happy as Don is, his daughter Danielle is uneasy and she doesn't just believe it's jealousy. What exactly does Morgan want?
So the vulnerability of the elders of our community are very much a conversation and it had certainly intensified when many long term care facilities were closed to relatives. So I found this story to play on my worst fears because I am in a different province than my parents and as soon as I was finished this story I texted my brother and told him to check on our parents. Also I gave him full support to be uneasy around any people being friendly towards our parents. Unsurprisingly, he thinks I am losing my mind. I then shared this Audiobook with him and he replied,"I will wait until the movie." Moral of the story: Younger siblings are so stubborn."
So I enjoyed it and I invite you to listen to this horror too. If I had one criticism is that last 4 or 5 chapters made it a little drawn out but the ending redeemed it.
Goodreads review published 07/08/20
April 21, 2023
Oh Caroline Overington, you've done it again! 👏
"He still thinks there's good in her! said Danielle. There's good in everyone. said Don"
On the eve of the global lockdown, Don Barlow opens the door of his old beachside cottage to find a pretty girl named Morgan, who claims to be his long-lost granddaughter.
He allows her entry, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented times: with the virus raging outside their home. Morgan claims that she has nowhere else to go, so Don allows her to stay, but at what cost?
**I absolutely adore this book. I fell in love with Don Barlow. There needs to be more Don's in the world❣️
This book reminds me of Liane Moriarty' novel, Apples Never Fall. For those who have read and loved that novel, I recommend this audiobook. It's really good!
"He still thinks there's good in her! said Danielle. There's good in everyone. said Don"
On the eve of the global lockdown, Don Barlow opens the door of his old beachside cottage to find a pretty girl named Morgan, who claims to be his long-lost granddaughter.
He allows her entry, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented times: with the virus raging outside their home. Morgan claims that she has nowhere else to go, so Don allows her to stay, but at what cost?
**I absolutely adore this book. I fell in love with Don Barlow. There needs to be more Don's in the world❣️
This book reminds me of Liane Moriarty' novel, Apples Never Fall. For those who have read and loved that novel, I recommend this audiobook. It's really good!
June 8, 2022
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The Cuckoo's Cry by Caroline Overington. (2021).
On the eve of the global lockdown, Don opens his door to find a pretty girl with pink-tipped hair claiming to be his granddaughter. Morgan needs help and has nowhere else to go. He welcomes her in, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented times: with the virus raging outside, she can't leave, but what does he risk by having her stay? As Don and Morgan start to forge a bond, his adult daughter, Danielle, has suspicions about what Morgan is after. But she is unable to travel so how can she protect Don and discover if Morgan really is who she claims to be?
At just over 200 pages, this is a super quick and easy read to be enjoyed. In unique circumstances indeed, Morgan ends up staying with Don during the first big Covid lockdown in Australia. To be honest I'm not sure how many people would have reacted like Don and opened their homes to a stranger even if they were claiming to be a relative but perhaps I'm a bit cynical. I felt that Danielle's reaction was realistic; worried for her dad and also coming to the realisation that she hasn't been spending much time with her dad due to general life busyness so she is feeling a bit guilty and maybe slightly jealous of Morgan. I thought the storyline was clever in combining a mystery with the confusing initial times of the Covid pandemic. The book is fast-paced and gripping - readers will be totally absorbed wondering what the deal is with Morgan.
Overall: happily recommend this short modern mystery for anyone looking for something quick and interesting to read.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Cuckoo's Cry by Caroline Overington. (2021).
On the eve of the global lockdown, Don opens his door to find a pretty girl with pink-tipped hair claiming to be his granddaughter. Morgan needs help and has nowhere else to go. He welcomes her in, and so begins a mystery set in unprecedented times: with the virus raging outside, she can't leave, but what does he risk by having her stay? As Don and Morgan start to forge a bond, his adult daughter, Danielle, has suspicions about what Morgan is after. But she is unable to travel so how can she protect Don and discover if Morgan really is who she claims to be?
At just over 200 pages, this is a super quick and easy read to be enjoyed. In unique circumstances indeed, Morgan ends up staying with Don during the first big Covid lockdown in Australia. To be honest I'm not sure how many people would have reacted like Don and opened their homes to a stranger even if they were claiming to be a relative but perhaps I'm a bit cynical. I felt that Danielle's reaction was realistic; worried for her dad and also coming to the realisation that she hasn't been spending much time with her dad due to general life busyness so she is feeling a bit guilty and maybe slightly jealous of Morgan. I thought the storyline was clever in combining a mystery with the confusing initial times of the Covid pandemic. The book is fast-paced and gripping - readers will be totally absorbed wondering what the deal is with Morgan.
Overall: happily recommend this short modern mystery for anyone looking for something quick and interesting to read.
September 25, 2020
An enjoyable listen today, a story set during the Covid-19 lockdown in Sydney.
July 21, 2020
The Cuckoo’s Cry is a free audiobook novella available this month from Audible, by an Australian author who is new to me. It’s the first book I’ve come across to be explicitly set during the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s about four hours long and we listened to it in the car while away for the weekend - my first audiobook to feature an Australian narrator.
Just before the beginning of Lockdown in Australia, Don Barlow is a widower approaching his 70th birthday alone in his large house at Bondi Beach. He’s set in his ways and resigned to his lonely life with his daughter living several hours away, too busy with her own family and business to visit very often. One night, there’s a knock at the door and a young woman shocks him with the news that she is the only daughter of Paul, the son his sixteen-year-old girlfriend gave up for adoption when he was a teenager. Estranged from her father, and having lost her nannying job due to covid, Morgan tells him she needs help as she has nowhere else to go, and kindly Don welcomes her into his home - but is she really the friendly granddaughter she claims to be?
I’ve heard or read many authors say they wouldn’t want to write about Coronavirus, either because they don’t want to seem to be profiting from the global disaster, or because people have had enough of it and don’t want to read about it. I personally have no problem with stories set in this unique time and don’t mind reading about it - but of course we’ve gotten off very lightly here in NZ, and so had Australia until very recently - they might feel differently now. Lockdown offers a backdrop for characters to face a totally new kind of stress, and this plot takes full advantage of this. As something we’ve all gone through, it felt very relatable - from the anxiety about older relatives living alone, to toilet paper hoarding and teddy bear hunts.
I thought this was well done until the end, which took an unexpected and to me unnecessary turn with the introduction of Robin the ex-girlfriend. The suspense about exactly what Morgan was up to worked well, and I could relate to Danielle’s suspicions and paranoia as my own father is in a similar situation as Don. Hopefully I don’t have any dubious half-nieces out there?!
For a novella this had a few too many extraneous details padding out the narrative, making it longer than it needed to be.
The female narrator did a good job with the various characters’ voices, although I found I had to slow it down from my usual 1.2-1.3x speed as it was too painful to listen to otherwise. There wasn’t too much Aussie slang and the story could actually have been set anywhere - although there’s only really one country where an old man can go swimming in just his budgie-smugglers!
Overall, a good listen if you’re not avoiding hearing about Covid 19.
Just before the beginning of Lockdown in Australia, Don Barlow is a widower approaching his 70th birthday alone in his large house at Bondi Beach. He’s set in his ways and resigned to his lonely life with his daughter living several hours away, too busy with her own family and business to visit very often. One night, there’s a knock at the door and a young woman shocks him with the news that she is the only daughter of Paul, the son his sixteen-year-old girlfriend gave up for adoption when he was a teenager. Estranged from her father, and having lost her nannying job due to covid, Morgan tells him she needs help as she has nowhere else to go, and kindly Don welcomes her into his home - but is she really the friendly granddaughter she claims to be?
I’ve heard or read many authors say they wouldn’t want to write about Coronavirus, either because they don’t want to seem to be profiting from the global disaster, or because people have had enough of it and don’t want to read about it. I personally have no problem with stories set in this unique time and don’t mind reading about it - but of course we’ve gotten off very lightly here in NZ, and so had Australia until very recently - they might feel differently now. Lockdown offers a backdrop for characters to face a totally new kind of stress, and this plot takes full advantage of this. As something we’ve all gone through, it felt very relatable - from the anxiety about older relatives living alone, to toilet paper hoarding and teddy bear hunts.
I thought this was well done until the end, which took an unexpected and to me unnecessary turn with the introduction of Robin the ex-girlfriend. The suspense about exactly what Morgan was up to worked well, and I could relate to Danielle’s suspicions and paranoia as my own father is in a similar situation as Don. Hopefully I don’t have any dubious half-nieces out there?!
For a novella this had a few too many extraneous details padding out the narrative, making it longer than it needed to be.
The female narrator did a good job with the various characters’ voices, although I found I had to slow it down from my usual 1.2-1.3x speed as it was too painful to listen to otherwise. There wasn’t too much Aussie slang and the story could actually have been set anywhere - although there’s only really one country where an old man can go swimming in just his budgie-smugglers!
Overall, a good listen if you’re not avoiding hearing about Covid 19.
July 11, 2020
Absolutely sucked BUT I had to finish it once I was so far in.
July 9, 2020
It was an interesting take on someone surviving a global pandemic.
The Cuckoo's Cry was a weird one if I'm going to be honest. Yes, we have all been through a pandemic and are still going through one. Not sure if anyone really took in strangers into their home.. unless you dive into the people who were protesting and couldn't find a way back home safely. Other than that, I have no idea what anyone did during the pandemic. Me? I worked from home and ate so much food. I'm going to die whenever I get off the couch and find my way to the gym again.
Back to the book, I'm just going to say it was an interesting book to read about. Some things kind of confused me or just seemed weird but I was there for the ride.
The Cuckoo's Cry was a weird one if I'm going to be honest. Yes, we have all been through a pandemic and are still going through one. Not sure if anyone really took in strangers into their home.. unless you dive into the people who were protesting and couldn't find a way back home safely. Other than that, I have no idea what anyone did during the pandemic. Me? I worked from home and ate so much food. I'm going to die whenever I get off the couch and find my way to the gym again.
Back to the book, I'm just going to say it was an interesting book to read about. Some things kind of confused me or just seemed weird but I was there for the ride.
October 14, 2021
This book is a short book, but packed with a good story inside. As we are experiencing covid at this time Im sure everyone could relate to the story. It was fast paced and really didnt waffle on and got straight to the point. It made you realise how vunerable our elderly relatives living on their own during this time could easily fall for scams. I felt connected to the characters and liked how it ended.
July 22, 2020
Currently living in COVID-19 conditions, the last thing I really wanted to read was something about it. But, this story turned out to be better than I expected. There is an interesting twist in the story I didn't see coming and that's a nice change. It's a story about family and living with some of the choices made in life, especially in our younger years. Worth the read.
July 12, 2020
Entertaining COVID 19 timed thriller about family and loneliness of the older population, it was interesting but the story felt to rushed and Morgan’s character showed no real development that I usually look for !
September 13, 2020
A story that happens during the Covid-19 pandemic we are currently experiencing. Crazy! This was captivating and a very easy listen. It’s just over 4hrs.
Excellent narrator, relatable characters, interesting story & twisty ending.
(Free audible original)
Excellent narrator, relatable characters, interesting story & twisty ending.
(Free audible original)
October 27, 2021
With The Cuckoo's Cry, Overington delivers a unique narrative in an accessible fashion. The characters are simple, each conversation is plausible and the plot is formulaic. The protagonists would have benefited from deeper backstories, and the side-characters could have been conveyed in an agreeable way. Fortunately, Horne makes up for many shortcomings and keeps the plot progressing with her consistent, sincere narration. Fans of fiction will likely find a worthwhile distraction here, although thriller enthusiasts should look elsewhere.
November 27, 2020
A novel about the vulnerability and isolation that older people often feel. Set right in the middle of the Corona virus pandemic so it current and extremely relevant.
I found some aspects of the book really implausible so that is the reason for only three starts. It is well written and has a decent enough story I just don't believe it would have unfolded in the way it did.
I found some aspects of the book really implausible so that is the reason for only three starts. It is well written and has a decent enough story I just don't believe it would have unfolded in the way it did.
July 5, 2020
I have no interest in stories about people who take in strangers, or people who are easily manipulated.
July 19, 2020
Enjoyable read. Not sure why that title though--has nothing to do with the book. I liked it.
July 20, 2020
Listened to this in my way to Miami
October 30, 2021
Beautifully read by the narrator/s. Convincing and enjoyable drama based on early COVID days set in Australia - with a bit of a mystery involving a family. Short and sweet. Well worth it.
July 13, 2020
This may be the first of what is no doubt a rush of "Coronavirus stories" rushed to market. While obviously seizing on the moment, and the plot contrivance that makes it feasible for a long-lost granddaughter showing up on someone's doorstep to move in and stay there and be able to keep other family from investigating too closely, it worked well enough.
An Australian widower/retiree is living a comfortable, dull life as COVID lockdowns are going into place when a 19-year-old girl shows up on his doorstep with a compelling sob story: she is his long-lost granddaughter, she's just had a row with her abusive boyfriend, and she has nowhere to go.
While you can fault "Pop" for being credulous and overly charitable, she does have all her facts straight. He did long ago get his high school girlfriend pregnant, lose touch with her and the baby she put up for adoption, and recently applied through social services to be reconnected with his son, if the son had also happened to put in a request for information about his biological father. The girl on his doorstep knows all this, because she saw the letter her father wrote to him but never sent.
We know early on that it's a con, but as the details unfold, there are a couple of twists, though none terribly surprising.
A decent story for being an Audible freebie, though very much the sort an author rushes out quickly to catch a timely audience.
An Australian widower/retiree is living a comfortable, dull life as COVID lockdowns are going into place when a 19-year-old girl shows up on his doorstep with a compelling sob story: she is his long-lost granddaughter, she's just had a row with her abusive boyfriend, and she has nowhere to go.
While you can fault "Pop" for being credulous and overly charitable, she does have all her facts straight. He did long ago get his high school girlfriend pregnant, lose touch with her and the baby she put up for adoption, and recently applied through social services to be reconnected with his son, if the son had also happened to put in a request for information about his biological father. The girl on his doorstep knows all this, because she saw the letter her father wrote to him but never sent.
We know early on that it's a con, but as the details unfold, there are a couple of twists, though none terribly surprising.
A decent story for being an Audible freebie, though very much the sort an author rushes out quickly to catch a timely audience.
November 24, 2021
1.5 rounded up
Set during the recent long lockdown in Sydney I had mixed feelings about this short novel/novella. A lot of the plot was predictable and it certainly was an easy quick read. I have not read this author before and if I do look at her other books, some of which are popular, I will look for something with a bit more substance. I guess the other question that this book asked of me is, am I/are we ready for Covid books? I'm not sure I am but having said that I have another on my to read pile! It will be interesting to see where authors take us and how it is written about, and into storylines in the future.
Set during the recent long lockdown in Sydney I had mixed feelings about this short novel/novella. A lot of the plot was predictable and it certainly was an easy quick read. I have not read this author before and if I do look at her other books, some of which are popular, I will look for something with a bit more substance. I guess the other question that this book asked of me is, am I/are we ready for Covid books? I'm not sure I am but having said that I have another on my to read pile! It will be interesting to see where authors take us and how it is written about, and into storylines in the future.
May 29, 2022
This very relatable story was my introduction to the writing of Caroline Overington, and it was a good one. At just under 5 hours, and with perfectly maintained tension, it was easy to listen to in just 2-3 sessions. Aimee Horne's narration is well-suited, and as pleasing as ever.
Widower Don is sitting on a goldmine in the popular suburb of Bondi. The house on a corner block that he'd bought in the early years of his marriage was now worth a fortune, not that he was looking to offload it at all. After all, it was his home - the place he'd spent a happy marriage, raising his children and returning to each night after an honest day's work with the local council throughout his career. Far too big for him now that he's on his own though.
Then along comes Morgan, with her pink hair and convincing tale, knocking on his door on the eve of the first Covid lockdown. Claiming to be the daughter to Don's first child, Paul (adopted out at birth), she's the granddaughter Don literally didn't know he had. But he'd always regretted what happened with Paul, so Don opens the door and invites her in...
Whether it's our own parents, or other close seniors in our lives, this is the kind of situation we've learned to dread in modern society, where the unscrupulous few could take advantage of these elders. Overington keeps us guessing with twists and turns, and then another twist or two that might not be anticipated. It all adds up to a very satisfying, topical and contemporary tale.
Free on Audible.
Widower Don is sitting on a goldmine in the popular suburb of Bondi. The house on a corner block that he'd bought in the early years of his marriage was now worth a fortune, not that he was looking to offload it at all. After all, it was his home - the place he'd spent a happy marriage, raising his children and returning to each night after an honest day's work with the local council throughout his career. Far too big for him now that he's on his own though.
Then along comes Morgan, with her pink hair and convincing tale, knocking on his door on the eve of the first Covid lockdown. Claiming to be the daughter to Don's first child, Paul (adopted out at birth), she's the granddaughter Don literally didn't know he had. But he'd always regretted what happened with Paul, so Don opens the door and invites her in...
Whether it's our own parents, or other close seniors in our lives, this is the kind of situation we've learned to dread in modern society, where the unscrupulous few could take advantage of these elders. Overington keeps us guessing with twists and turns, and then another twist or two that might not be anticipated. It all adds up to a very satisfying, topical and contemporary tale.
Free on Audible.
October 8, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Award winning author Caroline Overington is an innovative and diverse storyteller who treads new ground with her COVID-19 set psychological mystery title, The Cuckoo’s Cry. Compulsive, puzzling, surprising, twisty and binge-worthy, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a great one sitting style read.
Set in the early days of the global coronavirus pandemic, The Cuckoo’s Cry sees an elderly man named Don welcome a complete stranger into his home, after this young woman claims that she is his granddaughter. This stranded girl places her faith in Don, revealing that is she is without a home or employment. Don decides to give this stranger a chance, believing that he has no other option due to the pandemic. Don knows that he is taking a big risk, but his heart tells him he needs to do the right thing and accept this girl who claims to be his granddaughter. It does not take long before this lonely old man connects with the bright young woman in his home. However, Don’s daughter Danielle is on high alert as soon as the girl arrives on the scene. Unfortunately, lockdown restrictions prevent Danielle from taking any action. The question remains, who is this girl and does she really have a family connection to Don?
Carving out a niche for herself in the contemporary fiction world, Caroline Overington returns with her new novel, which represents the talented Australian author’s step into the niche genre of COVID-19 inspired fiction. I am sure that The Cuckoo’s Cry is just the start of many stories to come that will feature this unprecedented time period. Current, relevant, modern and in touch with today’s evolving world events, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a short burst style novel that I devoured in just one evening.
I really loved the Australian flavour and local taste prevalent in this new tale from Caroline Overington. The scene is set very well from the opening of The Cuckoo’s Cry and it is carried right through to the close. Every country around the world has had their own unique and trying set of experiences of the global pandemic and I appreciated how Overington was able to present the impact of coronavirus in this novel from a local perspective. For those currently in the process of lockdowns and restrictions, this novel may do one of two things. It may heighten the experience and feel too close for comfort. On the other hand, it may offer a sense of reassurance and understanding in the face of a very trying time in our current day living. Overington does some great world building with this novel, centering the experience of the global crisis engulfing the world at the ground level. I appreciated this component of the story and I feel that it was a core strength of The Cuckoo’s Cry.
Onto the characters. We have a fairly small cast set to contend with in The Cuckoo’s Cry. I immediately warmed to Don, the central figure of this tale. Overington uses Don’s character to highlight issues around the elderly, ageing, care, support, loneliness, isolation and vulnerability. These are all important areas of concern that should be brought to our attention and it works in this fictional format. The role of Morgan in this story is an interesting one. I was highly suspicious of Morgan from the onset of this story and I don’t think I let my guard down the whole time I was immersed in Overington’s novel. Morgan’s influence in this story allows Overington to capitalise on her mystery and psychological moments. This pivotal character also helps the reader to see the bigger picture in terms of the behaviour, decisions, poor actions and movements of those placed under stress. Don’s daughter Danielle was a figure I was able to sympathise with and connect to on many levels. I was in tune to Danielle’s suspicions and concerns. Overall, we are presented with a great set of characters in The Cuckoo’s Cry.
My only slight criticism of The Cuckoo’s Cry would be its condensed size. It is printed in a larger spaced-out format and it is a concise read, notching up a page count of just over two hundred pages. However, I was going through a slight reading slump when I picked this one up and it gave me the kick start I needed to fast track my reading. Despite it’s length, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a very compelling mystery, filled with short and unexpected surprises, that will keep you engrossed until the final paragraph.
Thought provoking, up-to date, fast paced and enjoyable, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a great page turner.
*Thanks extended to HarperCollins Books Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Cuckoo’s Cry is book #89 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
Award winning author Caroline Overington is an innovative and diverse storyteller who treads new ground with her COVID-19 set psychological mystery title, The Cuckoo’s Cry. Compulsive, puzzling, surprising, twisty and binge-worthy, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a great one sitting style read.
Set in the early days of the global coronavirus pandemic, The Cuckoo’s Cry sees an elderly man named Don welcome a complete stranger into his home, after this young woman claims that she is his granddaughter. This stranded girl places her faith in Don, revealing that is she is without a home or employment. Don decides to give this stranger a chance, believing that he has no other option due to the pandemic. Don knows that he is taking a big risk, but his heart tells him he needs to do the right thing and accept this girl who claims to be his granddaughter. It does not take long before this lonely old man connects with the bright young woman in his home. However, Don’s daughter Danielle is on high alert as soon as the girl arrives on the scene. Unfortunately, lockdown restrictions prevent Danielle from taking any action. The question remains, who is this girl and does she really have a family connection to Don?
Carving out a niche for herself in the contemporary fiction world, Caroline Overington returns with her new novel, which represents the talented Australian author’s step into the niche genre of COVID-19 inspired fiction. I am sure that The Cuckoo’s Cry is just the start of many stories to come that will feature this unprecedented time period. Current, relevant, modern and in touch with today’s evolving world events, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a short burst style novel that I devoured in just one evening.
I really loved the Australian flavour and local taste prevalent in this new tale from Caroline Overington. The scene is set very well from the opening of The Cuckoo’s Cry and it is carried right through to the close. Every country around the world has had their own unique and trying set of experiences of the global pandemic and I appreciated how Overington was able to present the impact of coronavirus in this novel from a local perspective. For those currently in the process of lockdowns and restrictions, this novel may do one of two things. It may heighten the experience and feel too close for comfort. On the other hand, it may offer a sense of reassurance and understanding in the face of a very trying time in our current day living. Overington does some great world building with this novel, centering the experience of the global crisis engulfing the world at the ground level. I appreciated this component of the story and I feel that it was a core strength of The Cuckoo’s Cry.
Onto the characters. We have a fairly small cast set to contend with in The Cuckoo’s Cry. I immediately warmed to Don, the central figure of this tale. Overington uses Don’s character to highlight issues around the elderly, ageing, care, support, loneliness, isolation and vulnerability. These are all important areas of concern that should be brought to our attention and it works in this fictional format. The role of Morgan in this story is an interesting one. I was highly suspicious of Morgan from the onset of this story and I don’t think I let my guard down the whole time I was immersed in Overington’s novel. Morgan’s influence in this story allows Overington to capitalise on her mystery and psychological moments. This pivotal character also helps the reader to see the bigger picture in terms of the behaviour, decisions, poor actions and movements of those placed under stress. Don’s daughter Danielle was a figure I was able to sympathise with and connect to on many levels. I was in tune to Danielle’s suspicions and concerns. Overall, we are presented with a great set of characters in The Cuckoo’s Cry.
My only slight criticism of The Cuckoo’s Cry would be its condensed size. It is printed in a larger spaced-out format and it is a concise read, notching up a page count of just over two hundred pages. However, I was going through a slight reading slump when I picked this one up and it gave me the kick start I needed to fast track my reading. Despite it’s length, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a very compelling mystery, filled with short and unexpected surprises, that will keep you engrossed until the final paragraph.
Thought provoking, up-to date, fast paced and enjoyable, The Cuckoo’s Cry is a great page turner.
*Thanks extended to HarperCollins Books Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Cuckoo’s Cry is book #89 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
September 12, 2022
This is legit covid fan fiction.
July 16, 2020
This was an free Audible Original. It is set in the Bondi beach area of Australia just as the current Coronavirus pandemic begins to spread and lock-downs/quarantines are becoming necessary. A young girl named Morgen shows up at 70-year-old Don Barlow's home and claims to be his granddaughter. At sixteen, Don got a girl pregnant and she decided to give the baby up for adoption. Years later, after Don has married, his wife has passed, and his daughter is a grown woman with children of her own, Don has given up hope of hearing from his long-lost son. When Morgen shows up, he is eager for the opportunity to connect and, frankly, happy for the company.
But is Morgen who she says she is? Don's daughter concerns are fueled by the ease with which Morgen has ingratiated herself to Don, how Morgen seems intent on blocking communication between father and daughter. When Don's daughter finds a fake ID in Morgen's belongings and does a bit of internet investigating, her concerns grow.
This was an engaging, interesting short story. The ending left me a little disappointed, but that's just a personal preference and no criticism of the writing.
But is Morgen who she says she is? Don's daughter concerns are fueled by the ease with which Morgen has ingratiated herself to Don, how Morgen seems intent on blocking communication between father and daughter. When Don's daughter finds a fake ID in Morgen's belongings and does a bit of internet investigating, her concerns grow.
This was an engaging, interesting short story. The ending left me a little disappointed, but that's just a personal preference and no criticism of the writing.
August 14, 2020
Considering we are currently living in this bizarre, scary Covid-19 pandemic... I knew I had to listen to this book.
Caroline Overington did an excellent job at portraying the stresses of Corona Virus while weaving it into a domestic thriller about an old man living alone who finds a young girl on his doorstep claiming to be his Granddaughter with no where else to go during this time. Don invites her in and the two quickly form a close bond, but Don's daughter is skeptical about if this girl is who she says she really is.
My heart ached for Don as a character. He was like the warm and loving Grandfather you just want to squeeze. He was so charitable and had a heart of gold.
So much was packed into such a short audiobook. It was done absolutely perfectly in my opinion. It wasn't weighed down with unnecessary subplots and thickened up with filler. It's a short, bittersweet book about vulnerability in the times of the 2020 global pandemic. It's unique in that it is the first book I've come across specifically related to this virus, though I'm sure there will be more to come. In years to come this will be the sort of book our children will read to understand the crazy times we went through. It's strange to get entertainment out of our current situation but this book does take a 'fun' route incorporating what is happening in the world right now into an addictive mystery novel.
My only faults with this book was A) the ending. I didn't think it needed to take such an odd little twist in the final pages. It was suspenseful and plot-driven enough without that final punch.
B) Once again I did want to feel more of an Aussie vibe from Overington. I felt the same with her other thriller I read. If it's set in Australia, I want to feel like I'm in Australia. Immerse me in the setting.
Caroline Overington did an excellent job at portraying the stresses of Corona Virus while weaving it into a domestic thriller about an old man living alone who finds a young girl on his doorstep claiming to be his Granddaughter with no where else to go during this time. Don invites her in and the two quickly form a close bond, but Don's daughter is skeptical about if this girl is who she says she really is.
My heart ached for Don as a character. He was like the warm and loving Grandfather you just want to squeeze. He was so charitable and had a heart of gold.
So much was packed into such a short audiobook. It was done absolutely perfectly in my opinion. It wasn't weighed down with unnecessary subplots and thickened up with filler. It's a short, bittersweet book about vulnerability in the times of the 2020 global pandemic. It's unique in that it is the first book I've come across specifically related to this virus, though I'm sure there will be more to come. In years to come this will be the sort of book our children will read to understand the crazy times we went through. It's strange to get entertainment out of our current situation but this book does take a 'fun' route incorporating what is happening in the world right now into an addictive mystery novel.
My only faults with this book was A) the ending. I didn't think it needed to take such an odd little twist in the final pages. It was suspenseful and plot-driven enough without that final punch.
B) Once again I did want to feel more of an Aussie vibe from Overington. I felt the same with her other thriller I read. If it's set in Australia, I want to feel like I'm in Australia. Immerse me in the setting.
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