"The Secret River" is a historical novel by Kate Grenville that explores the life of William Thornhill, a convict sent to Australia in the early 19th century. The story follows his struggles to build a new life along the Hawkesbury River while grappling with his past and the harsh realities of colonial life. As Thornhill attempts to claim land for himself, he encounters the Darug people, the Indigenous inhabitants of the area. The novel delves into themes of colonization, conflict, and the impact of European settlement on Indigenous cultures, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.