[H. F. Brinsmead's] quality shows itself particularly in her characters' response to [the crisis in Season of the Briar]. There is Fred—apparently dull and phlegmatic—whose response is practical and realistic. And there is Matt, the philosophy student—lively, intelligent and idealistic—who overestimates his physical capacities, underestimates the powers of nature, and who becomes a liability to the rescue parties.

Season of the Briar also has the flavour of the best mountaineering and polar travel accounts, because the author is especially skilful and imaginative in recording the effects on her characters of the extremes of topography and of climate.

This book is not just another adventure story written for adolescents … for the action is the outcome of character. There is no manipulation of characters in order to give the reader a superficial thrill.