08/06/2026
Book review: Black Rock White City by A.S. Patric⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Winner of the prestigious Miles Franklin Award, Black Rock White City is a powerful and unforgettable literary novel that explores loss, displacement, trauma, and the search for belonging.
Set in Melbourne during the 1990s, the story follows Jovan and Suzana, refugees from the Balkan Wars who are struggling to rebuild their lives in a new country. Working night shifts in a hospital, Jovan discovers a series of disturbing graffiti messages that begin to draw him into a mystery while forcing him to confront the painful memories he has tried to leave behind.
A.S. Patric writes with remarkable sensitivity and precision, creating characters who feel deeply human and emotionally authentic. The novel balances moments of darkness with resilience and hope, offering a moving reflection on the lasting impact of war and the strength required to start again.
Thought-provoking, beautifully written, and emotionally resonant, Black Rock White City is an outstanding work of Australian literary fiction that stays with readers long after the final page.
Perfect for readers who enjoy: Christos Tsiolkas, Richard Flanagan, Helen Garner, and literary fiction that combines powerful storytelling with rich emotional depth.