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There is no doubting the strength of purpose with which [Joanne Lees] writes. It feels as if this is her only way of fighting back at the media and the Australian police whose handling of the case seemed at times nothing short of shambolic. That Joanne chose to be the sole author of the book is understandable, but at times the style of writing and constant repetitions suggest a ghost writer could have been usefully employed to ensure a smoother read.
[Peter Falconio], from Huddersfield, and girlfriend Joanne Lees before the tragedy
Many people may feel they know the story of Joanne Lees before reading her book.
The disappearance of her boyfriend Peter Falconio in the Australian Outback and the subsequent murder trial and conviction of Bradley Murdoch were spread across newspapers and TV screens on both side of the world.
But Joanne was always highly critical of the media coverage and her determination to tell her side of the story has resulted in No Turning Back.
In it, she invites readers to join her and Peter in the UK as they planned for a trip around the world. She shares their adventures in Nepal and South East Asia through words and pictures which show a contented couple on the trip of a life time.
The contrast between those happy tales and what happened on a lonely road in the middle of Australia is stark.
There can be few things worse than having to recount the night your partner was murdered or just how scared you were at the thought of meeting the same fate.
There is no doubting the strength of purpose with which Joanne writes. It feels as if this is her only way of fighting back at the media and the Australian police whose handling of the case seemed at times nothing short of shambolic. That Joanne chose to be the sole author of the book is understandable, but at times the style of writing and constant repetitions suggest a ghost writer could have been usefully employed to ensure a smoother read.
This is a deep and touching book that reflects as much on modern society as it does on a young couple's personal tragedy.
Caption: Peter Falconio, from Huddersfield, and girlfriend Joanne Lees before the tragedy
(Copyright 2007 Birmingham Post and Mail Ltd.)