5 DECEMBER 1908, Page 10

The Hills of Hauraki. By Susie Mactier. (S S.U. 20—There.

is some skill in character-drawing, and the triels and trOnbles of workaday households are realised with force ad directness, but the_atmosphere of the book is gloomy, and the tone of the picture generally somewhat drab-coloured. Doubtless things are as Miss Susie Mactier sees them, but most of Us like to have them more hopefully treated. We recommend our i..-.thoress to take a more cheerful view of life, for her undoubted vigour and capacity for painting its domestic aspect will become u..ueli more effective. The scene is laid in New Zealand, and the accessories vary a little, but not much, from those surrounding a similar life in England.