A murder mystery and comedy of manners that is never what it seems.
When brothers Arcadia and Otto Cirque arrive in a fading gold-mining town with their travelling circus, Saturnalia, the town and the life of young Mary Ann Ward will never be the same. Months later, the flamboyant Arcadia Cirque is found dead, a pregnant Marianne Ward goes missing and Otto Cirque sets off in pursuit of her.
These dramatic events echo down the decades to Mrs Ivorie Hammer, who is dealing with her own problems. Pregnant and vexed by recent catastrophic events in her home town, she discovers that her own origins are not as she thought. As the small community of Pitch is scandalized by several mysterious deaths and disappearances, it is Ivorie’s secret history that holds the key to the truth.
The Inheritance of Ivorie Hammer is an imaginative epic that weaves together a Dickensian sense of mystery, colourful characters and a township at social war with itself. It is a unique and playful literary novel that announces the arrival of a dynamic new Australian writing talent.
‘A truly stunning novel, brimming with charm, droll wit and memorable characters.’ Chris Womersley, award-winning author of Bereft
‘A remarkably well-structured debut. As an entertainment, Ivorie Hammer is a qualified success. It is best regarded as a clever and satisfying work of escapism.’ Overland
‘A loving tribute to the styles of centuries past. Amusing and entertaining … this book is an intricate, elaborate thing from a previous era.’ Weekend Australian
‘Her first novel is a visual feast, cinematic in scope and style.’ Canberra Times
'Rich in language, detailed characterisation and dialogue, playful while dealing with the big issues – fate, identity, belonging, otherness – it’s a strange simmering world that Preston creates, and one that lingers long after the dust has settled.’ Saturday Age
‘A challenging and compelling first novel.’ Sydney Morning Herald
‘A refreshingly different and engaging novel that will captivate and charm its readers.’ Femail
‘The story captivates from the very beginning. Its unique narration, stunning characters, and increasing suspense will maintain your interest from cover to cover.’ artsHub
‘Seriously good fun. A lively mystery with a social heart. I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended!’ ANZ LitLovers LitBlog
‘The controlled exuberance of the language is the chief pleasure of this novel. You will be beguiled.’ Australian Book Review
‘Verdict: fantastic.’ Townsville Bulletin
‘This assured debut grips from the moment it opens’ Sunday Mail (Adelaide)
‘Fresh and whimsy … [an] accomplished first novel.’ Good Reading ‘4. 5 star review’
‘Readers who enjoy fresh takes on Dickens will appreciate this innovative novel.’ Library Journal (Chicago)
‘It is Preston’s gentle, playful omniscient voice that guides us through the maze of characters and subplots, through the lights and darks, intruding here and there with humour and observation. And so we read on and on, and are delighted and rewarded.’ M/C Reviews ‘words’ Blog
