'I am magpie' is a lyric novel of Australian historical fiction set in the very early colonial years in Sydney. This story references the enlightened age of the late 1700s and the Indigenous language of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. Observe Eliza’s struggle through her dreams and her daily endeavour to create a worthy social contract. In Eliza we see the vibrant innocence of the young woman, the benevolence of mother, the wild passions of lover, the determination of a pioneering spirit and the striving for wisdom echoed in her older friend and neighbour, Meg.

Eliza settles into her future. Back and forth a flow of stories loud or whispered, laughter and song. They watch the glittering constellations and Eliza gives thanks for the salve to her spirit.

Deep shadows rise into the light as Eliza aligns with her purpose and integrates loss and love. She receives her third and final talisman.

Eliza encounters black cockatoo and wedge-tailed eagle, birds of different feathers. With the notebook copying complete, Eliza can finally hear the women’s entreaties and their dark predictions.

As Eliza’s past resolves, here on the other side of time, a dangerous flashpoint ignites and we witness the end of the beginning. Alarmed birdcalls signal revenge and retribution.

Meg consoles Eliza, encouraging her to remember happier times. We learn of Meg’s own loss and shining inner strength. Eliza receives her second talisman.

Dependent and vulnerable, Eliza endures heartbreak. As her vitality returns, so does a reckless fury and her conviction to lay blame solely with Thomas. She turns her grief outwards to the violent storms.

Eliza’s mood lifts as her baby grows and they journey through warm, calmer seas. After leaving the Cape of Good Hope, Eliza senses disquiet as she prepares for birthing.

Eliza recalls a secret. Her body alive with child. She reads again of the sea journey’s rituals, and is reminded of her bewilderment. Alone. Apart. A tumble of conflicting emotions.

Stories and memories unfold. Meg encourages Eliza to read from her sea journal and to remember. Tentatively she begins to read, and then to experience her interior journey anew.