: Tony Clancy
: The Rain Circle
: Vivid Publishing
: 9781925952780
: 1
: CHF 10.50
:
: Science Fiction
: English
: 200
: DRM
: PC/MAC/eReader/Tablet
: ePUB
It is 2036, and global warming is affecting everyone in different ways. Finnish scientist Christian Laakkonen begins the year without a job when his partner, Inka, finds work in Australia. Together they struggle with the intense heat and witness a changing landscape: farms that were once productive carry 'For Sale' signs on rusty gates, and no one wants to buy. Farmer Brian Ellson, who has an interest in technology that makes a difference, is more positive than most about the future. By year's end, he, and others like tuna fisherman Kris Pavic, will wield a difference that shocks the world with the power of science. Actions on such a scale, however, have a human dimension. It is people, not technology alone, who will make things happen in 2036, or at any time. Relationships, contrasting views and the make-up of individuals all come into play. Enter the families of Inka, Christian, Brian and Brian's friend Bernadette. Brian's son, the thoughtful Patrick, and Bernadette's teenage daughter, May, carry our conscience through this story. Behind them all is the power and single-mindedness of a woman dedicated to seeing things through, Hanni Neimenen. Yes, it is climate fiction, but no story can be told without people.

2
Sydney February 2036


The stopover in Singapore provides an amazing colourful experience of Asia. While it is enjoyable it is also tiring due to the humidity. Between Singapore and Sydney, Inka and Christian manage a refreshing three or four hours sleep before being woken to fill in cards declaring what they are or are not bringing into Australia. They smile at each other and exchange excited kisses, knowing their adventure is now very real.

As aircraft wings slice through Sydney’s bright blue clear sky they peek across a row of passengers to catch a glimpse of the famous harbour bridge.

Inka’s eyes return to look into the face of the man she loves and is asked what she is thinking. She waits a few seconds before saying he looks so much like Maria. It is not an unwelcome remark but Christian pretends he is offended and reminds Inka she once told him he looked very much like a particular Hollywood actor.

‘That must have been a long, long time ago!’ Inka reacts, tracing a finger down his profile. ‘But at least you have looks that’ll make it easy for you to fit into the crowd down here, not like me with my white hair, milky skin and pale blue eyes. Even my eyebrows and eyelashes are white.’

‘Fair in body and fair in mind my love,’ Christian responds charmingly.

Both have studied English and it is perfectly spoken. They have, however, been working on pronunciation. As the aircraft approaches the runway there is some playful teasing about the first words they may say to someone on Australian soil. Inka says she’ll say ‘hell-oo’ then practices ‘hullo’ over and over again until Christian puts a finger over his lips and whispers that it is not a good idea if Aussie passengers feel they are being mocked.

‘No mocking. Aay vood not vant to do dat you know,’ says Inka, mischievously covering her face in a cushion as she leans forward.

‘Shh, don’t be silly.’

Their hotel is in a side street, not modern but comfortable enough and conveniently close to the harbour. Plans to wander through the city in the afternoon are aborted when a touch of jet lag sets in. Although Christian has spread himself out on the king size bed to loudly proclaim ‘We’re here!’ and suggests they go out after they shower, he is asleep by the time Inka returns from the bathroom, clean and fresh. She lifts one of her partner’s arms and cradles under it, closing her eyes and thinking about how wonderful life can be.

As close as she is to family, and as much as she loves Lahti, there is a feeling that the separation and a new environment will help her understand more about herself. A lot of time has been spent at home but she is not a homebody in the anti-social sense. She h