The Occupation

It’s hard to believe that this is a debut, the voice is so assured, the themes handled with such deftness and sophistication. Chloe Adams is the real deal! I loved this novel, and will eagerly await whatever she writes next.

Emily Bitto

Breathtaking. Chloe Adams is an author to watch for sure.

Sally Hepworth

A work that explores both world-shaking historical events and the most intimate of moments, weaving together historical facts and imaginative excursions. It might seem a big call to follow up the panoramic drama of post-war Japan with a close-up image of life in suburban Australia, but it’s astonishing how Adams manages to make this latter half of her tale even more emotionally gripping than the first.

John Bailey, The Age

Full of heart and full of historical and full of historical relevance to life at the time and no less today. An absolute gem.

Samuel Bernard, The Australian

Adams’ writing is assured and absorbing as she conjures this new world through Mary’s eyes, and her interior life as illusions are eroded.

Dee Jefferson, Guardian

An elegant and assured novel.

Liz Evans, The Conversation

A compelling, deftly textured narrative of empathy and independence.

Joe Murray, Readings

This year's winner of the Penguin Literary Prize, Chloe Adams with The Occupation, is absolutely deserving of the accolade. I always enjoy a story rooted in true events and Chloe brings that narrative to life with authentic and atmospheric prose. I can't wait to see it on bookstore shelves everywhere.

James Gatherum Goss, Dymocks

My new favourite book this year is The Occupation. Chloe was inspired by the true events of her grandmother’s life to write this novel about a lesser-known chapter in Australian post World War II history. The Occupation is an extraordinary story, a clear eyed piece of Australian military and social historical fiction. It is an exploration of the societal expectations of respectability and economic disadvantages carried by women of the time. The depictions of Japan are raw and beautiful. Mary is courageous and strong and resilient in the face of all this. I am so excited for other readers to experience this remarkable story of courage and transformation.'

Jane Parkhill, WA account manager

There’s a reason The Occupation claimed the prestigious Penguin Literary Prize. Just released, this powerful debut from Chloe Adams doesn’t just tell you about post-war Japan — it makes you feel the weight of impossible choices. Experience the moral complexity that turns distant history into deeply personal revelation. This is storytelling that shifts your perspective.

The Nile