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The Chocolate Factory
Love, friendship and dangerous secrets in the early years of Cadbury's Tasmanian factory.
It's 1921, and after years of working for Cadbury's at Bournville, Dorothy Adwell is on her way to a new adventure in the colonies, helping to establish the Firm's new Australian factory. A promotion and a fresh start are just what she needs after the horrors of the Great War and the loss of her beloved husband.
During the long sea voyage, she meets Thomas and is immediately drawn to him. The war has left Thomas damaged, both mentally and emotionally, and Dorothy vows to help him - if only he will let her.
Maisie Greenwood is the oldest daughter of a war widow, living on a pittance in the Hobart suburb of Glebe. Her mother's health is failing, and with two younger siblings depending on her, the security of a job at the brand-new Cadbury's factory is a godsend. With Dorothy's mentorship and her budding romance with fellow worker Frank, life begins to look a little sweeter.
Cadbury's competitors have one goal: to steal the recipe for Dairy Milk, the most popular chocolate in the world. But the recipe is kept in a vault and the few who know it are legally bound to never divulge its secret. When chocolate spies target the new factory, Dorothy and Maisie become caught up in their plot. Can they protect the recipe, help those they love and fulfil their own dreams?
A tangled web of ambition and intrigue melts into a tale as delicious and rich as chocolate.
It's 1921, and after years of working for Cadbury's at Bournville, Dorothy Adwell is on her way to a new adventure in the colonies, helping to establish the Firm's new Australian factory. A promotion and a fresh start are just what she needs after the horrors of the Great War and the loss of her beloved husband.
During the long sea voyage, she meets Thomas and is immediately drawn to him. The war has left Thomas damaged, both mentally and emotionally, and Dorothy vows to help him - if only he will let her.
Maisie Greenwood is the oldest daughter of a war widow, living on a pittance in the Hobart suburb of Glebe. Her mother's health is failing, and with two younger siblings depending on her, the security of a job at the brand-new Cadbury's factory is a godsend. With Dorothy's mentorship and her budding romance with fellow worker Frank, life begins to look a little sweeter.
Cadbury's competitors have one goal: to steal the recipe for Dairy Milk, the most popular chocolate in the world. But the recipe is kept in a vault and the few who know it are legally bound to never divulge its secret. When chocolate spies target the new factory, Dorothy and Maisie become caught up in their plot. Can they protect the recipe, help those they love and fulfil their own dreams?
A tangled web of ambition and intrigue melts into a tale as delicious and rich as chocolate.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
121 people are currently reading
958 people want to read
About the author
Mary-Lou Stephens
7 books132 followersMary-Lou Stephens was born in Tasmania, studied acting at The Victorian College of the Arts and played in bands in Melbourne, Hobart and Sydney. Eventually she got a proper job - in radio, where she was a presenter and music director, first with commercial radio and then with the ABC.
She received rave reviews for her memoir Sex, Drugs and Meditation (2013), the true story of how meditation changed her life, saved her job and helped her find a husband.
Mary-Lou has worked and played all over Australia and now travels the world slowly and writes, mostly.
Her debut novel The Last of the Apple Blossom was published by HarperCollins (HQ) in 2021.
The Chocolate Factory (HarperCollins HQ) 2024.
The Jam Maker (HarperCollins HQ) 2025
Praise for The Chocolate Factory
"I devoured it in one sitting. It's an absolute treat - totally enthralling and completely and utterly satisfying. It's another triumph for Mary-Lou Stephens. " – Karen Brooks, best selling author of The Good Wife of Bath
"Sweet and bitter, and a story that’s brightly compelling and thought-provoking at once. With Stephen’s fine eye for historical detail and ear for dialogue that’s just right, this novel is a lovely leap into the past." – Kim Kelly winner of the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize
Praise for The Last of the Apple Blossom
‘What a cracker of a debut! A beautiful story of family and orchards, of secrets and love and forgiveness.' – Victoria Purman, author of The Women’s Pages
‘The crisp prose sparkles and the characters stay with you long after the story ends.' – Lauren Chater, author of Gulliver’s Wife
‘Timeless yet also telling an achingly familiar story to us here and now, this is an unforgettable tale of love and loss, triumph and tragedy.
– Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath
'Mary-Lou Stephens writes evocatively about family secrets, love, sacrifice, and finding the courage to rise again after devastating loss. An engrossing and poignant story, beautifully told.'
— Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance
'I have long been a fan of Mary-Lou's writing, which is always evocative and compelling. What a wonderful story this is, set at such a poignant moment in Tasmania's history. I loved it.'
— Josephine Moon, author of The Tea Chest and The Jam Queens
Praise for Sex, Drugs and Meditation
"Bracingly honest, funny and rewarding, this is a book you can't put down." Sydney Morning Herald.
"Perfection. Sex, Drugs and Meditation is one of the best memoirs I have read in years. Humble, witty and so very, very true. All I wanted was for this book never to end." --Walter Mason, The Universal Heart Book Club.
"A bad girl antidote to Eat, Pray, Love." Courier Mail.
She received rave reviews for her memoir Sex, Drugs and Meditation (2013), the true story of how meditation changed her life, saved her job and helped her find a husband.
Mary-Lou has worked and played all over Australia and now travels the world slowly and writes, mostly.
Her debut novel The Last of the Apple Blossom was published by HarperCollins (HQ) in 2021.
The Chocolate Factory (HarperCollins HQ) 2024.
The Jam Maker (HarperCollins HQ) 2025
Praise for The Chocolate Factory
"I devoured it in one sitting. It's an absolute treat - totally enthralling and completely and utterly satisfying. It's another triumph for Mary-Lou Stephens. " – Karen Brooks, best selling author of The Good Wife of Bath
"Sweet and bitter, and a story that’s brightly compelling and thought-provoking at once. With Stephen’s fine eye for historical detail and ear for dialogue that’s just right, this novel is a lovely leap into the past." – Kim Kelly winner of the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize
Praise for The Last of the Apple Blossom
‘What a cracker of a debut! A beautiful story of family and orchards, of secrets and love and forgiveness.' – Victoria Purman, author of The Women’s Pages
‘The crisp prose sparkles and the characters stay with you long after the story ends.' – Lauren Chater, author of Gulliver’s Wife
‘Timeless yet also telling an achingly familiar story to us here and now, this is an unforgettable tale of love and loss, triumph and tragedy.
– Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath
'Mary-Lou Stephens writes evocatively about family secrets, love, sacrifice, and finding the courage to rise again after devastating loss. An engrossing and poignant story, beautifully told.'
— Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance
'I have long been a fan of Mary-Lou's writing, which is always evocative and compelling. What a wonderful story this is, set at such a poignant moment in Tasmania's history. I loved it.'
— Josephine Moon, author of The Tea Chest and The Jam Queens
Praise for Sex, Drugs and Meditation
"Bracingly honest, funny and rewarding, this is a book you can't put down." Sydney Morning Herald.
"Perfection. Sex, Drugs and Meditation is one of the best memoirs I have read in years. Humble, witty and so very, very true. All I wanted was for this book never to end." --Walter Mason, The Universal Heart Book Club.
"A bad girl antidote to Eat, Pray, Love." Courier Mail.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
January 25, 2024
It's a very tempting title and a beautiful cover and the book begins really well with the introduction of the main character, Dorothy Adwell. She is a war widow working at the Cadbury factory in England who is sent to Tasmania to help start up a new factory there.
All good so far. I enjoyed the history about chocolate manufacture, the facts about the war and interesting details about women's rights and the problems they endured in the workforce. Crossing the ocean with Dorothy was interesting as was the prospective love interest who luckily turns out to be heading for Hobart too.
I had some difficulties after that with too many one dimensional characters and odd coincidences.
I wondered why a book which is so well researched and historically factual had to be let down by an unlikely fairytale ending. I am on the fence with this one but it has enough writing goodness in it for three stars.
All good so far. I enjoyed the history about chocolate manufacture, the facts about the war and interesting details about women's rights and the problems they endured in the workforce. Crossing the ocean with Dorothy was interesting as was the prospective love interest who luckily turns out to be heading for Hobart too.
I had some difficulties after that with too many one dimensional characters and odd coincidences.
I wondered why a book which is so well researched and historically factual had to be let down by an unlikely fairytale ending. I am on the fence with this one but it has enough writing goodness in it for three stars.
December 9, 2023
In 1921, Dorothy Adwell a war widow works for Cadbury’s at Bournville, England, when she’s given the opportunity to travel to Tasmania and help establish the firm’s new factory being built at Claremont. A fresh start might be just what Dorothy needs, she misses her husband Freddie and like so many women of her generation all she has left with are her memories of the man she loved. During the sea voyage Dot meets Thomas Moreland, she recognizes the signs of a veteran, he has the haunted and tried look, the war took a toll on men physically and mentally and Dorothy would like to help him and ease his symptoms.
Maisie Greenwood is the eldest of three children, she lives in a weatherboard cottage in Glebe, Hobart and her father died in the war. Maisie and her brother both work, their mother takes in mending and Maisie wants her younger sister Lily to finish school and further her education. Getting a job at Cadbury's Factory would take the pressure off her mother and her failing health, Maisie's very anxious when Mrs. Adwell visits their house for her interview and the company likes to see where the potential employees live (no judgement) and get to know their families.
Maisie’s a nervous wreck on her first day of work, the new girls catch the Cadbury’s train, have a guided tour of the unfinished factory, and Mrs. Adwell explains the process of making chocolate, it’s complicated and hard to believe the bitter tasting beans become the creamy sweet treat people can't resist. Maisie enjoys her job, she's mature for her age, Mrs. Adwell notices and makes her a supervisor in her section. Maisie is chuffed with her promotion and she quite likes Frank Sutton, he repairs the machines and she develops feelings for him.
Dorothy and Maisie are both unknowingly caught up in a plot to uncover the recipe for the most popular chocolate in the world Cadbury’s Dairy Milk, spies posing as employees, plant seeds of doubt in people’s minds about their co-workers, use blackmail as a tactic and acts of sabotage.
I received a copy of The Chocolate Factory by Mary-Lou Stephens from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Wow what an amazing story, full of wonderful and interesting characters like Dorothy, Maisie, Frank, Thomas, Gertie and Lily and each one adds a different outlook and perspective to the narrative.
This is more than a novel about building the Cadbury's Chocolate Factory in Claremont, Tasmania, Ms. Stephens explores so many important issues and topics such as, shell shock, Quaker values of social justice, being stewards of the earth, Cadbury's provided health and dental care to their employees, housing, sporting facilities, park-lands, schools and paid night classes for adults to further their education and used Tasmania's milk to make their delicious chocolate.
It's also a story about friendship, being loyal, brave, humble and putting others first, this is one of the best books I have read this year, absolutely outstanding historical fiction and five stars from me. I highly recommend and the author's previous book The Last of the Apple Blossom.
Maisie Greenwood is the eldest of three children, she lives in a weatherboard cottage in Glebe, Hobart and her father died in the war. Maisie and her brother both work, their mother takes in mending and Maisie wants her younger sister Lily to finish school and further her education. Getting a job at Cadbury's Factory would take the pressure off her mother and her failing health, Maisie's very anxious when Mrs. Adwell visits their house for her interview and the company likes to see where the potential employees live (no judgement) and get to know their families.
Maisie’s a nervous wreck on her first day of work, the new girls catch the Cadbury’s train, have a guided tour of the unfinished factory, and Mrs. Adwell explains the process of making chocolate, it’s complicated and hard to believe the bitter tasting beans become the creamy sweet treat people can't resist. Maisie enjoys her job, she's mature for her age, Mrs. Adwell notices and makes her a supervisor in her section. Maisie is chuffed with her promotion and she quite likes Frank Sutton, he repairs the machines and she develops feelings for him.
Dorothy and Maisie are both unknowingly caught up in a plot to uncover the recipe for the most popular chocolate in the world Cadbury’s Dairy Milk, spies posing as employees, plant seeds of doubt in people’s minds about their co-workers, use blackmail as a tactic and acts of sabotage.
I received a copy of The Chocolate Factory by Mary-Lou Stephens from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Wow what an amazing story, full of wonderful and interesting characters like Dorothy, Maisie, Frank, Thomas, Gertie and Lily and each one adds a different outlook and perspective to the narrative.
This is more than a novel about building the Cadbury's Chocolate Factory in Claremont, Tasmania, Ms. Stephens explores so many important issues and topics such as, shell shock, Quaker values of social justice, being stewards of the earth, Cadbury's provided health and dental care to their employees, housing, sporting facilities, park-lands, schools and paid night classes for adults to further their education and used Tasmania's milk to make their delicious chocolate.
It's also a story about friendship, being loyal, brave, humble and putting others first, this is one of the best books I have read this year, absolutely outstanding historical fiction and five stars from me. I highly recommend and the author's previous book The Last of the Apple Blossom.
January 23, 2024
It was 1921 when Dorothy Adwell boarded the ship from London, bound for Tasmanian shores. Dorothy had worked at Cadbury's in Bournville since she was young. Now an experienced Cadbury's worker, she was heading to the new Australian Cadbury's factory being built in Tasmania, to train young locals in the art of chocolate making. Her best friend Ida had gone on an earlier ship, and when Dorothy arrived at the boarding house for Cadbury's workers, she was dismayed to find Ida in the hands of another worker - Esme - someone who disliked Dorothy, and made it known as often as she could. Dorothy shared a room with Sarah, secretary to the boss, and she was a good friend.
Maisie was a young woman with worries on her shoulders. Her father had been killed in the Great War and her mother was trying desperately to keep her family together. Maisie's job drew a pittance, while her brother Andrew was the same. Lily, their younger sister was a bright girl, going far in school. Maisie wanted her to continue in school but they couldn't see how she could, as they needed the money Lily's small pay would bring. Therefore, Maisie getting a job with Cadbury's was exciting - the extra money would help a lot. But there was trouble on the wind. The spies who wanted the recipe of Cadbury's Dairy Milk (yum!) would stop at nothing to achieve their goals, and both Maisie and Dorothy were drawn into their web. What would be the outcome for Maisie, a young, naïve and gullible woman; and Dorothy, a strong, determined and courageous woman?
The Chocolate Factory is a fascinating look at the origins of Cadbury chocolate in Australia from the pen of talented Aussie author Mary-Lou Stephens. I was completely drawn in to the fictional (though based on fact) account from the very first page, learning about the shell-shock suffered by soldiers returned from the Great War; as well as the way competitors of Cadbury's did all they could to stop the production of the delicious chocolate from going ahead. A thoroughly enjoyable historical read, The Chocolate Factory is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Maisie was a young woman with worries on her shoulders. Her father had been killed in the Great War and her mother was trying desperately to keep her family together. Maisie's job drew a pittance, while her brother Andrew was the same. Lily, their younger sister was a bright girl, going far in school. Maisie wanted her to continue in school but they couldn't see how she could, as they needed the money Lily's small pay would bring. Therefore, Maisie getting a job with Cadbury's was exciting - the extra money would help a lot. But there was trouble on the wind. The spies who wanted the recipe of Cadbury's Dairy Milk (yum!) would stop at nothing to achieve their goals, and both Maisie and Dorothy were drawn into their web. What would be the outcome for Maisie, a young, naïve and gullible woman; and Dorothy, a strong, determined and courageous woman?
The Chocolate Factory is a fascinating look at the origins of Cadbury chocolate in Australia from the pen of talented Aussie author Mary-Lou Stephens. I was completely drawn in to the fictional (though based on fact) account from the very first page, learning about the shell-shock suffered by soldiers returned from the Great War; as well as the way competitors of Cadbury's did all they could to stop the production of the delicious chocolate from going ahead. A thoroughly enjoyable historical read, The Chocolate Factory is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2024
An authentic portrayal of times gone by that I would never have the pleasure to read until now. Capturing sense of time and place flawlessly, this meticulously researched story of the times of Cadbury, Bournville and Pascal was like drawing a breath of fresh air. The young women working tirelessly with their maturity and hard work in male dominated times made me feel proud for these characters, who were strong, fearless, and hearty. Dorothy an industrious worker from age 8 who is fascinated by machinery and equally capable of running and maintaining the fixtures she so loves, and the lovely Maisie, a trooper doing her best for her family. Her clever and feisty sister Lily was a spirited female character, rounding up a cast of characters of all ages. An insightful, sensitive, and entertaining glimpse into women workers of the time, a fictional exploration of a time in history none of us would otherwise been a party to. The friendships real, the narrative in equal measures educational, genuine, and clever. The author has authored a poignant story that is easy to read, thoughtful and credible.
My only issue is it dragged at times, though I am very aware of my penchant for faster genres, psychological thrillers etc, so this I am very aware, is a reader issue. I wasn’t able to fully grasp onto the characters; they were at more of a surface level for me.
The author’s note explains the deep dive into this part of Australia’s history she undertook, in which I learned a great deal. This is an especially important part of my love of reading.
With thanks to @betterreadingau for my uncorrected advanced reading copy to read and review.
My only issue is it dragged at times, though I am very aware of my penchant for faster genres, psychological thrillers etc, so this I am very aware, is a reader issue. I wasn’t able to fully grasp onto the characters; they were at more of a surface level for me.
The author’s note explains the deep dive into this part of Australia’s history she undertook, in which I learned a great deal. This is an especially important part of my love of reading.
With thanks to @betterreadingau for my uncorrected advanced reading copy to read and review.
February 21, 2024
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 31 January 2024**
I really enjoyed this historical fiction story centred around the opening of a Cadbury's chocolate factory in Tasmania. The two lead characters of Dorothy and Maisie were very likeable which made for pleasant reading where you are hoping life works out for the both of them. The storyline includes not only a bit of real history but also some mystery, drama and light romance. I genuinely did not know chocolate spies were a thing, but makes perfect sense to me haha. As a sidenote, it was very hard to read this when I'm trying to eat healthier because the author has very excellently described the chocolates throughout the story to the point where I could almost smell and taste it.
Overall: I found this a very enjoyable and well-written historical fiction.
I really enjoyed this historical fiction story centred around the opening of a Cadbury's chocolate factory in Tasmania. The two lead characters of Dorothy and Maisie were very likeable which made for pleasant reading where you are hoping life works out for the both of them. The storyline includes not only a bit of real history but also some mystery, drama and light romance. I genuinely did not know chocolate spies were a thing, but makes perfect sense to me haha. As a sidenote, it was very hard to read this when I'm trying to eat healthier because the author has very excellently described the chocolates throughout the story to the point where I could almost smell and taste it.
Overall: I found this a very enjoyable and well-written historical fiction.
December 29, 2023
A beautiful story, it tells the story of the people involved in the start-up of the Cadbury’s Chocolate factory in Claremont, Tasmania, (known as The Firm) we get to know Dorothy, Maisie, Sarah, Frank, Gertie and Thomas to name a few, we learn of their friendships, their loves and the secrets that are coveted by many and that must be kept, come along and take a journey back to 1921, this one is sure to keep you turning the pages, and maybe eating your favourite chocolate while doing so.
Dorothy Adwell has worked for Cadbury’s Bournville since she was a very young girl she is now a widow, thanks to the Great War and missing her husband Freddie very much, when she is offered the chance to come to Australia and be there for the set-up of the new factory she jumps at the chance to put the past behind her and it is a promotion, during the long voyage she meets a man Thomas Mooreland who reminds her so much of her Freddie and she can see that the is suffering the same as Freddie did and she is determined to help him.
Maisie Greenwood is eighteen, she lives with her widowed mother and younger brother and sister and life is a struggle but she is thrilled to apply for a job at the Cadbury’s Factory, Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate is her favourite and very much missed, she is interviewed at home by Mrs. Dorothy Adwell and is accepted and with the help of Mrs. Adwell is soon a supervisor and she is also getting along very well with Mr. Frank Sutton, life is very good, that is until Percy enters her life at the factory.
The recipe for the famous Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate is on that is coveted by many especially the Australian confectionary companies and there are many spies in this industry and when Dorothy and Maisie get caught up in a blackmailing plot to uncover said recipe, reputations are on the line. How far will they go to save their reputations and their jobs and who can they trust? Will they find happiness and fulfill their wishes for their own lives?
I loved this one from cover to cover, MS. Stephens has researched this so well, I loved learning about The Cadbury family and what they did for their staff and their beliefs. The characters are fabulous and so easy to get to know the setting beautiful and the mystery and plot intriguing, obviously that recipe is worth a lot. I highly recommend this one, it is wonderful story, and I loved learning about the making of my favourite chocolate.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Dorothy Adwell has worked for Cadbury’s Bournville since she was a very young girl she is now a widow, thanks to the Great War and missing her husband Freddie very much, when she is offered the chance to come to Australia and be there for the set-up of the new factory she jumps at the chance to put the past behind her and it is a promotion, during the long voyage she meets a man Thomas Mooreland who reminds her so much of her Freddie and she can see that the is suffering the same as Freddie did and she is determined to help him.
Maisie Greenwood is eighteen, she lives with her widowed mother and younger brother and sister and life is a struggle but she is thrilled to apply for a job at the Cadbury’s Factory, Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate is her favourite and very much missed, she is interviewed at home by Mrs. Dorothy Adwell and is accepted and with the help of Mrs. Adwell is soon a supervisor and she is also getting along very well with Mr. Frank Sutton, life is very good, that is until Percy enters her life at the factory.
The recipe for the famous Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate is on that is coveted by many especially the Australian confectionary companies and there are many spies in this industry and when Dorothy and Maisie get caught up in a blackmailing plot to uncover said recipe, reputations are on the line. How far will they go to save their reputations and their jobs and who can they trust? Will they find happiness and fulfill their wishes for their own lives?
I loved this one from cover to cover, MS. Stephens has researched this so well, I loved learning about The Cadbury family and what they did for their staff and their beliefs. The characters are fabulous and so easy to get to know the setting beautiful and the mystery and plot intriguing, obviously that recipe is worth a lot. I highly recommend this one, it is wonderful story, and I loved learning about the making of my favourite chocolate.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
January 4, 2024
Absolutely absorbing fictional story about the origins of Cadbury in Australia, meticulously researched with the interesting historical facts woven seamlessly into the story. We have wonderful strong female characters, pioneers of their time doing extraordinary things who we cheer on. Loved the setting, and yes, I confess to having munched on chocolate as I read. Highly recommend
March 23, 2025
A deliciously compelling fictional story about the establishment of the Cadbury chocolate factory in Tasmania, Australia.
Cadbury Dairy Milk is the most popular chocolate in the world, of course the competitors want to steal the recipe, which is kept in a vault and the few who know it are sworn to secrecy. In the 1920's when chocolate spies target the new factory in Tasmania, who will become caught up in the tangled web of ambition, intrigue, or romance?
The narration for the audiobook by Casey Withoos works beautifully with this story and characters.
This is a well-researched story, and Australian author Mary-Lou Stephens has beautifully captured the atmosphere of the time, including the post-war trauma and the changing societal roles for women.
Format: Audiobook, thanks to Libby
Audio time: 12 hours,
Cadbury Dairy Milk is the most popular chocolate in the world, of course the competitors want to steal the recipe, which is kept in a vault and the few who know it are sworn to secrecy. In the 1920's when chocolate spies target the new factory in Tasmania, who will become caught up in the tangled web of ambition, intrigue, or romance?
The narration for the audiobook by Casey Withoos works beautifully with this story and characters.
This is a well-researched story, and Australian author Mary-Lou Stephens has beautifully captured the atmosphere of the time, including the post-war trauma and the changing societal roles for women.
Format: Audiobook, thanks to Libby
Audio time: 12 hours,
February 6, 2024
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
When you think chocolate, you think sweet, rich, earthy and delicious and The Chocolate Factory is that and then some.
A wonderfully, delightful and rewarding read that every time you turn the page you smell and breathe chocolate as though it’s dripping from the pages.
Be transported back to 1921.
Widower Dorothy Adwell is on her way to Tasmania to help with originating the first Cadbury factory outside of the UK.
With a new job and a distraction from sadness, Dorothy is excited for her new adventure.
Maisie Greenwood, is about to start work in the factory and it comes at the right time.
She needs the funds to help with the survival of her family.
Chocolate competitors will do anything to cause chaos and havoc and even try to steal the recipe behind the world’s most famous sweet treat.
Both women come together to help for the greater good even if it means getting among the drama.
A delectable and alluring saga with a glimpse inside the making of our first home grown Cadbury factory.
Mixing fact with fiction and adding romance, deceit, family, secrets, betrayal and friendship set against the beautiful Tasmanian landscape.
Mary Lou has created a compelling story that’s meticulously researched and carefully crafted to entice the reader with words and chocolate.
I loved everything about this enchanting book.
When you think chocolate, you think sweet, rich, earthy and delicious and The Chocolate Factory is that and then some.
A wonderfully, delightful and rewarding read that every time you turn the page you smell and breathe chocolate as though it’s dripping from the pages.
Be transported back to 1921.
Widower Dorothy Adwell is on her way to Tasmania to help with originating the first Cadbury factory outside of the UK.
With a new job and a distraction from sadness, Dorothy is excited for her new adventure.
Maisie Greenwood, is about to start work in the factory and it comes at the right time.
She needs the funds to help with the survival of her family.
Chocolate competitors will do anything to cause chaos and havoc and even try to steal the recipe behind the world’s most famous sweet treat.
Both women come together to help for the greater good even if it means getting among the drama.
A delectable and alluring saga with a glimpse inside the making of our first home grown Cadbury factory.
Mixing fact with fiction and adding romance, deceit, family, secrets, betrayal and friendship set against the beautiful Tasmanian landscape.
Mary Lou has created a compelling story that’s meticulously researched and carefully crafted to entice the reader with words and chocolate.
I loved everything about this enchanting book.
October 15, 2023
More than a glass and a half of fascination and brilliance in every chapter. Like savouring the most delicious block of chocolate, I was very sad to come to the end. (Thank you HQ Fiction for my ARC.)
July 6, 2024
It's 1921, and with the success that Cadbury's had in England, a new factory is set to be established in Tasmania, Australia. A batch of local workers are being sent across the seas to assist in the opening process and to train local workers.
Among the delegates is 24 year old Dorothy Adwell, a war widow and valued long-term employee of 'The Firm'. With her husband Freddie gone and Bournville full of haunting memories, the opportunity of going on a brand new adventure is too big to pass on.
Whilst sailing, Dorothy makes acquaintance with Thomas, a returned soldier. She's immediately struck by how much he reminds her of Freddie, recognising the mental and emotional anguish only a war survivor can carry. So Dorothy makes a vow to herself to help Thomas as much as she can - only if he allows her to do so.
Eighteen year old Maisie Greenwood is the eldest of three and lives in the Hobart suburb of Glebe. Maisie, her mother, and two siblings live in poverty since her father became another war casualty. To make ends meet, her ailing mum takes in sewing and mending, whilst Maisie and brother Andrew work for pittance in dead-end jobs. When Maisie is given a position at the new factory, it's a dream come true. Suddenly, doors are being open, and the hope of her younger sister, Lily, escaping the fate set by her siblings, becomes brighter each and every day. There's even love on the horizon for Maisie, smitten with the affable jack of all trades, Frank.
Still, there's deception within the ranks. Spies from Australian owned confectioners are being strategically placed, all in the hope of stealing the coveted Dairy Milk chocolate recipe - something that hadn't been available in Australia in recent times. When Dorothy and Maisie unwillingly become part of an extravagant plot, both women will have to think carefully about what they're willing to sacrifice in order to protect not only the recipe, but also their own hopes and dreams.
Ms.Stephens previous novel, The Last of the Apple Blossom, was an absolute delight, so I had high hopes for The Chocolate Factory. After spending the past four days in the company of Dorothy, Sarah, Thomas and Maisie, Gertie, and Frank, I've come to the conclusion that this book about chocolate was a real treat.
Whilst the majority of the cast of characters are endearing, others really aren't. Some are absolutely callous, jealous, and just set out to cause trouble. Esme and Percy immediately come to mind in this instance. Keep an eye out, as there's one who's hiding their true colours and will eventually ruffle some feathers.
The Cadbury factory on the Derwent has always been a fascination of mine, and I was devastated when news came of its closure to the public. Still, thanks to this book, I was able to learn of its origins and rich, sweet history here in Australia. I absolutely had no idea about the spies, which reminded me of the same conspiracy in Willie Wonka's factory. Did they draw inspiration from Cadbury's or not? Who knows.
4.75 🌟
Among the delegates is 24 year old Dorothy Adwell, a war widow and valued long-term employee of 'The Firm'. With her husband Freddie gone and Bournville full of haunting memories, the opportunity of going on a brand new adventure is too big to pass on.
Whilst sailing, Dorothy makes acquaintance with Thomas, a returned soldier. She's immediately struck by how much he reminds her of Freddie, recognising the mental and emotional anguish only a war survivor can carry. So Dorothy makes a vow to herself to help Thomas as much as she can - only if he allows her to do so.
Eighteen year old Maisie Greenwood is the eldest of three and lives in the Hobart suburb of Glebe. Maisie, her mother, and two siblings live in poverty since her father became another war casualty. To make ends meet, her ailing mum takes in sewing and mending, whilst Maisie and brother Andrew work for pittance in dead-end jobs. When Maisie is given a position at the new factory, it's a dream come true. Suddenly, doors are being open, and the hope of her younger sister, Lily, escaping the fate set by her siblings, becomes brighter each and every day. There's even love on the horizon for Maisie, smitten with the affable jack of all trades, Frank.
Still, there's deception within the ranks. Spies from Australian owned confectioners are being strategically placed, all in the hope of stealing the coveted Dairy Milk chocolate recipe - something that hadn't been available in Australia in recent times. When Dorothy and Maisie unwillingly become part of an extravagant plot, both women will have to think carefully about what they're willing to sacrifice in order to protect not only the recipe, but also their own hopes and dreams.
Ms.Stephens previous novel, The Last of the Apple Blossom, was an absolute delight, so I had high hopes for The Chocolate Factory. After spending the past four days in the company of Dorothy, Sarah, Thomas and Maisie, Gertie, and Frank, I've come to the conclusion that this book about chocolate was a real treat.
Whilst the majority of the cast of characters are endearing, others really aren't. Some are absolutely callous, jealous, and just set out to cause trouble. Esme and Percy immediately come to mind in this instance. Keep an eye out, as there's one who's hiding their true colours and will eventually ruffle some feathers.
The Cadbury factory on the Derwent has always been a fascination of mine, and I was devastated when news came of its closure to the public. Still, thanks to this book, I was able to learn of its origins and rich, sweet history here in Australia. I absolutely had no idea about the spies, which reminded me of the same conspiracy in Willie Wonka's factory. Did they draw inspiration from Cadbury's or not? Who knows.
4.75 🌟
January 29, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Australia for my ARC.
I enjoyed this book. It is a novel based on the establishment of the Cadbury's Chocolate factory in Tasmania, just after World War 1. The company relocated staff from their Birmingham factory to establish the factory in Tasmania, and also to pass on their skills to the local employees. I learnt a lot about the Cadbury company. I did not know that the founders were Quakers and that industrial espionage was rife in those days.
The main character, Dorothy, from Birmingham, is a strong woman, however she did have her enemies because of this. Masie, a local, also figures prominently. She is also a strong woman but because of her home and economic circumstances she does get taken advantage of. But only for a short while!
This book is well written and the characters are well developed.
The only drawback, and this is my opinion only, is that the book could have been written 50 or more years ago. It did not have the "feel" of a modern novel
The ending also felt a bit contrived, but that is only how I felt about it. Overall it was a good read. I have no complaints at all about the hours of research that obviously went into it.
I enjoyed this book. It is a novel based on the establishment of the Cadbury's Chocolate factory in Tasmania, just after World War 1. The company relocated staff from their Birmingham factory to establish the factory in Tasmania, and also to pass on their skills to the local employees. I learnt a lot about the Cadbury company. I did not know that the founders were Quakers and that industrial espionage was rife in those days.
The main character, Dorothy, from Birmingham, is a strong woman, however she did have her enemies because of this. Masie, a local, also figures prominently. She is also a strong woman but because of her home and economic circumstances she does get taken advantage of. But only for a short while!
This book is well written and the characters are well developed.
The only drawback, and this is my opinion only, is that the book could have been written 50 or more years ago. It did not have the "feel" of a modern novel
The ending also felt a bit contrived, but that is only how I felt about it. Overall it was a good read. I have no complaints at all about the hours of research that obviously went into it.
December 29, 2023
Beautifully written with robust, likeable and some unlikeable characters that ushered the story onwards. A truly magnificant celebration of Cadbury's establishment into Australian history. I loved venturing the far reaches of Tasmania with such strong, vibrant and formidable women; some of whom crossed the earth from England to help establish this now very iconic Australian label. Their trials and tribulations in a post WW1 landscape, their loves, hopes and errors. The world of the story had a very Downton Abbey feel; compelling and page-turning, with the story coming full circle leading to a tear or two. Five stars.
#BRPreview
Thank you to @betterreadingau for this advanced readers copy.
#BRPreview
Thank you to @betterreadingau for this advanced readers copy.
May 27, 2024
Full of historical information, emotion and strong characters, this book was set in the early 1920's in Tasmania, Australia and was both intriguing and interesting. The main character, Dorothy, was certainly a "woman before her time" with regard to her engineering knowledge in a man's world. I found the chocolate making process enlightening. The lives of women and men who had been shipped from England to set up the Cadbury Factory in Tasmania, woven into the story were believable and emotional. A lovely book.
July 28, 2024
3.5 ⭐ I thought the book was quite slow at the beginning. I wanted to give it up but I persisted. Luckily I did, as overall it was a good read. I now feel like chocolate.
January 28, 2024
The Chocolate Factory is a fantastic story of the establishment of Cadbury’s (and Fry’s Chocolate, and Pascall’s lollies) first factory outside the UK near Hobart, Tasmania. While it is fictional, it does contain a lot of detail about the establishment of the factory and how chocolate is made. The last section is particularly thrilling as chocolate spies (yes, they were a thing – the recipe for Dairy Milk chocolate was a hotly guarded secret) take over the narrative.
The story starts as widow Dorothy is en route from Bournville, the original home of Cadbury to the new factory in Tasmania. Dorothy credits Cadbury for giving her a chance to make something of her life, as well as giving her opportunities during the war and to leave bad memories behind. Initially the focus is on the setting up of the factory, getting to know the other women workers and recruiting locals. (Not all the women knew each other as some came from Fry’s and Pascall’s factories). Dorothy is also keen to help Thomas, a man she met on the voyage, to recover from shell shock as she couldn’t help her own husband. Some of the narrative is then told from Maisie’s point of view, one of the new workers who comes from a poor family and is eager to earn money so that her sister doesn’t have to leave school. The story then goes through the opening of the factory and the various jobs, but things take a subtly sinister turn as Dorothy receives anonymous notes detailing various slip-ups and that she has something of ‘great worth’. Maisie is tempted by the promise of more should she assist others with their own research. As the chocolate spies become closer, the story speeds up a lot from its original gentle pace with some sudden, unexpected twists.
I enjoyed The Chocolate Factory. I did find the first couple of chapters overly flowery, with everything described just that bit too much for me. As the story went on, it didn’t seem to jar me so much (or it just toned down). Some of the characters, such as Dorothy and Maisie are well fleshed out. I felt that Dorothy’s friend Sarah wasn’t as well detailed until towards the end, where some of her secrets are spilled. Esme, Dorothy’s sort of nemesis, doesn’t have her motivations spelled out all that well and she becomes more of a caricature and laughing stock that a threat later on. I did appreciate the amount of research done on the establishment of the factory and the various roles of the workers. I’ve visited the (now closed) New Zealand Cadbury factory multiple times and it struck me how hands on the work was then – let alone back in the 1920s! I feel that Stephens explained well the thoughts and motivations of the Cadbury family in their ‘factory within a park’ and opportunities for improvement for their workers. I wonder what they would think of the current owners, Mondelez International?
I would recommend this book to those with a keen interest in the history of the Cadbury factory in Tasmania who enjoy an interesting story.
Thank you to Harlequin for the copy of the book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
The story starts as widow Dorothy is en route from Bournville, the original home of Cadbury to the new factory in Tasmania. Dorothy credits Cadbury for giving her a chance to make something of her life, as well as giving her opportunities during the war and to leave bad memories behind. Initially the focus is on the setting up of the factory, getting to know the other women workers and recruiting locals. (Not all the women knew each other as some came from Fry’s and Pascall’s factories). Dorothy is also keen to help Thomas, a man she met on the voyage, to recover from shell shock as she couldn’t help her own husband. Some of the narrative is then told from Maisie’s point of view, one of the new workers who comes from a poor family and is eager to earn money so that her sister doesn’t have to leave school. The story then goes through the opening of the factory and the various jobs, but things take a subtly sinister turn as Dorothy receives anonymous notes detailing various slip-ups and that she has something of ‘great worth’. Maisie is tempted by the promise of more should she assist others with their own research. As the chocolate spies become closer, the story speeds up a lot from its original gentle pace with some sudden, unexpected twists.
I enjoyed The Chocolate Factory. I did find the first couple of chapters overly flowery, with everything described just that bit too much for me. As the story went on, it didn’t seem to jar me so much (or it just toned down). Some of the characters, such as Dorothy and Maisie are well fleshed out. I felt that Dorothy’s friend Sarah wasn’t as well detailed until towards the end, where some of her secrets are spilled. Esme, Dorothy’s sort of nemesis, doesn’t have her motivations spelled out all that well and she becomes more of a caricature and laughing stock that a threat later on. I did appreciate the amount of research done on the establishment of the factory and the various roles of the workers. I’ve visited the (now closed) New Zealand Cadbury factory multiple times and it struck me how hands on the work was then – let alone back in the 1920s! I feel that Stephens explained well the thoughts and motivations of the Cadbury family in their ‘factory within a park’ and opportunities for improvement for their workers. I wonder what they would think of the current owners, Mondelez International?
I would recommend this book to those with a keen interest in the history of the Cadbury factory in Tasmania who enjoy an interesting story.
Thank you to Harlequin for the copy of the book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
January 3, 2024
I received an advance copy thanks to Better Reading and Harlequin (HQ). Set in Tasmania, Australia in 1921, the story centres around the establishment of the Cadbury factory in Claremont. Dorothy Adwell has a long history with Cadbury in Bournville, England and has journeyed to Tasmania to share her expertise and follow her career ambitions in the new factory. It’s not all smooth sailing and Dorothy has some personal, emotional and professional challenges she is faced with. This story is full of rich characters that are relatable, authentic and engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the establishment of the Cadbury factory in Australia, and the story certainly had me craving Cadbury Dairy Milk while I was reading! I thoroughly enjoyed this read, as I did the author’s previous book The Last of the Apple Blossom.
February 3, 2024
I loved this novel so much! The Chocolate Factory by Mary-Lou Stephens is an absolute gem in the realm of historical fiction (or any genre) with its main topic of interest being the arrival of Cadbury’s in Tasmania after World War 1. Who doesn’t love a Cadbury chocolate bar! And how fun it was to learn the various aspects and processes of this business. But this story is about more than just the roots of this company in England and its extended branch in Australia. Yes, there’s rivalry and espionage—spies and betrayals. But it is also about friendship, loyalty, PTSD, romance, customs of the day and family ties. Plus, we get an inside view of the heart of Quakerism which is marvellously explored in such a way we can relate and understand its core values—in war, business, nature and family. These elements provide an amazing backbone for the story and portray the company in a positive light. A strong network of Quaker ideas, beliefs and motives run through The Chocolate Factory giving the plot serious motion. I never knew the Cadbury’s were a Quaker family and how it made such an impact on the ‘Firm’ (as they were known by employees) in how it was run. There’s a real sense of community among those working for them as Cadbury provided a lot of good things such as housing, healthcare and education just to name a few.
There are some intriguing characters in this novel including some nasty villains who want to get their hands on Cadbury’s intellectual property! There are a fair number of hair-raising attempts to harvest this exclusive knowledge. But wouldn’t it be under lock and key? Would the new factory in Tasmania be an easy target as some competitors think? When the parent company in Bournville, England, sends a number of their highly trained staff to Tasmania to help set up and run the new factory—all these factors are taken into consideration but it doesn’t stop the bad guys from trying. And this is where the mystery of the novel lies. When Forewoman Dorothy Adwell begins receiving threat letters, it not only unnerves her, but also sets into motion a plan to uncover this person. Through indirect means, they attempt to blackmail her to get what they want. It is well known there have always been spies after Cadbury’s recipes, so it is a believable scenario that we can accept. But why use her to get to those secrets? What information could they obtain on her that would force her to trade her job’s intel? There are plenty of twists, turns and surprises and on the edge of your seat action and reactions with this plot. I won’t say who else gets involved because I don’t want to give away the story. But I found this novel very hard to put down once I became engaged in the characters and their dramas. It is so well written, with great maturity and skill, that these exceptional ingredients make it a pure delight to read.
The novel is told by two women affected by WW1. Dorothy is a war widow and one of the British trained staff in charge at Cadbury's in Tasmania. Maisie is the local Hobart hired staff who lost her father in the Great War. We get unique perspectives from these two as it creates a wonderful balance between the old world company and the new extension.
Dorothy has a long history with the mother company and started at age thirteen. Her knowledge of chocolate making and working with Cadbury UK is invaluable to setting up the Tasmanian sector. As mentioned, she also is a young war widow and has lost the love of her life. When offered the chance to come to Australia, she accepts as she sees it as a way to escape the memories of her loss and to start again. In spite of her heartache, she is still a very strong career-minded woman who knows her own strengths and can stand her ground when questioned or when things go wrong.
The second point of view by Tasmanian born Maisie provides an interesting contrast. She is shy but her strength comes from the fact she has a goal. She is the eldest child of a family who has seen its fair share of loss. She has taken it on herself to be a major provider for her mother, brother and sister. Always battling poverty, and although her motives are sincere, her desire to escape this debilitating yoke, makes her vulnerable in some areas. Her father was killed in action so she is trying to assist her mother and keep her sister in school. Landing the Cadbury job is a big deal and she is determined to work hard to get ahead. The factory is a new experience for her, so we get a fresh perspective through her eyes.
I must add, there is a wonderful relationship between Dorothy and (her protégé) Maisie. When Maisie gets a job at Cadbury’s, she learns quickly and shows great promise of advancement. But she has a soft heart and must develop a thicker skin to be a leader once she is appointed to a higher position. Her family has struggled with financial security since her father was killed in the Great War. She is sensitive about those who may not have pulled their weight during this momentous time. She has an encounter with another Cadbury employee where the meaning of ‘coward’ is explored and defined quite well. As you’d expect, misconceptions are raised from external voices. Will these prove true or refuted?
There are lovely elements of romance in this novel and I won’t give any of that away but it adds the softer touches to the story. Yet this brings out the strengths and weaknesses of the characters, too. There are both beautiful and heart-breaking moments in this area where lovers must pause, wait and make hard decisions.
PTSD is a topic respectfully covered in The Chocolate Factory—especially with the memory of war so close at hand. Dorothy’s compassionate heart leads her to help a man she meets on the trip over from England who is suffering badly from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from his past experiences in the Great War. He reminds her of her late husband but how far will these emotions lead her?
If there is only one Australian historical fiction novel you will read this year, let it be The Chocolate Factory. I was astounded by the writing skills of Mary-Lou: the advanced development of a clever plot, a diverse range of complex characters and a just-right-balance of fascinating details. Memorable five-senses description fills this riveting power-packed human story to make it a perfect read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ fiction and Mary-Lou Stephens for a review copy.
There are some intriguing characters in this novel including some nasty villains who want to get their hands on Cadbury’s intellectual property! There are a fair number of hair-raising attempts to harvest this exclusive knowledge. But wouldn’t it be under lock and key? Would the new factory in Tasmania be an easy target as some competitors think? When the parent company in Bournville, England, sends a number of their highly trained staff to Tasmania to help set up and run the new factory—all these factors are taken into consideration but it doesn’t stop the bad guys from trying. And this is where the mystery of the novel lies. When Forewoman Dorothy Adwell begins receiving threat letters, it not only unnerves her, but also sets into motion a plan to uncover this person. Through indirect means, they attempt to blackmail her to get what they want. It is well known there have always been spies after Cadbury’s recipes, so it is a believable scenario that we can accept. But why use her to get to those secrets? What information could they obtain on her that would force her to trade her job’s intel? There are plenty of twists, turns and surprises and on the edge of your seat action and reactions with this plot. I won’t say who else gets involved because I don’t want to give away the story. But I found this novel very hard to put down once I became engaged in the characters and their dramas. It is so well written, with great maturity and skill, that these exceptional ingredients make it a pure delight to read.
The novel is told by two women affected by WW1. Dorothy is a war widow and one of the British trained staff in charge at Cadbury's in Tasmania. Maisie is the local Hobart hired staff who lost her father in the Great War. We get unique perspectives from these two as it creates a wonderful balance between the old world company and the new extension.
Dorothy has a long history with the mother company and started at age thirteen. Her knowledge of chocolate making and working with Cadbury UK is invaluable to setting up the Tasmanian sector. As mentioned, she also is a young war widow and has lost the love of her life. When offered the chance to come to Australia, she accepts as she sees it as a way to escape the memories of her loss and to start again. In spite of her heartache, she is still a very strong career-minded woman who knows her own strengths and can stand her ground when questioned or when things go wrong.
The second point of view by Tasmanian born Maisie provides an interesting contrast. She is shy but her strength comes from the fact she has a goal. She is the eldest child of a family who has seen its fair share of loss. She has taken it on herself to be a major provider for her mother, brother and sister. Always battling poverty, and although her motives are sincere, her desire to escape this debilitating yoke, makes her vulnerable in some areas. Her father was killed in action so she is trying to assist her mother and keep her sister in school. Landing the Cadbury job is a big deal and she is determined to work hard to get ahead. The factory is a new experience for her, so we get a fresh perspective through her eyes.
I must add, there is a wonderful relationship between Dorothy and (her protégé) Maisie. When Maisie gets a job at Cadbury’s, she learns quickly and shows great promise of advancement. But she has a soft heart and must develop a thicker skin to be a leader once she is appointed to a higher position. Her family has struggled with financial security since her father was killed in the Great War. She is sensitive about those who may not have pulled their weight during this momentous time. She has an encounter with another Cadbury employee where the meaning of ‘coward’ is explored and defined quite well. As you’d expect, misconceptions are raised from external voices. Will these prove true or refuted?
There are lovely elements of romance in this novel and I won’t give any of that away but it adds the softer touches to the story. Yet this brings out the strengths and weaknesses of the characters, too. There are both beautiful and heart-breaking moments in this area where lovers must pause, wait and make hard decisions.
PTSD is a topic respectfully covered in The Chocolate Factory—especially with the memory of war so close at hand. Dorothy’s compassionate heart leads her to help a man she meets on the trip over from England who is suffering badly from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from his past experiences in the Great War. He reminds her of her late husband but how far will these emotions lead her?
If there is only one Australian historical fiction novel you will read this year, let it be The Chocolate Factory. I was astounded by the writing skills of Mary-Lou: the advanced development of a clever plot, a diverse range of complex characters and a just-right-balance of fascinating details. Memorable five-senses description fills this riveting power-packed human story to make it a perfect read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ fiction and Mary-Lou Stephens for a review copy.
February 7, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! You know a book is really good when the characters stay with you long after the book is finished. This, for me is such a book. I miss the characters... and I can't start my next book until they leave me!!
Historical fiction is my jam so this is my kinda book...but this one has everything to keep the reader fully engaged from start to finish, it is full of surprises and mystery and conspiracy!
It's just so good, no need for me to outline the story it speaks for itself.
Highly recommended. Read it.
5⭐️s
November 6, 2025
Not really my bag but obviously I did love the historical Hobart / Cadbury factory stuff
April 30, 2025
l don't know what to think about this book.
August 26, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ (rounded up to a 4 on goodreads for the stunning cover and intriguing title)
This book was quite charming and easy to read.
I loved learning the history about how the Cadbury's in Tasmania came to be. This book was based entirely on fact so I found that information very interesting and was what really carried the book for me.
The plot itself was a bit slow and didn't have too much going on, a bit repetitive here and there but luckily the writing style was quite simple so I was able to read through it fairly quickly.
This was enjoyable, not too complex and I always love reading stories set in Australia by Australian authors :)
This book was quite charming and easy to read.
I loved learning the history about how the Cadbury's in Tasmania came to be. This book was based entirely on fact so I found that information very interesting and was what really carried the book for me.
The plot itself was a bit slow and didn't have too much going on, a bit repetitive here and there but luckily the writing style was quite simple so I was able to read through it fairly quickly.
This was enjoyable, not too complex and I always love reading stories set in Australia by Australian authors :)
July 12, 2024
I enjoyed The Chocolate Factory.
I did find the first couple of chapters hard to get into however as the story went on, I enjoy how the storyline includes not only a bit of real history but also some mystery, drama and light romance.
Things that I did enjoy were the history about chocolate manufacture, the facts about the war and interesting details about women's rights and the problems they endured in the workforce.
It's told from alternating viewpoints from Dorothy- a war widow who worked in the original Cadbury factory in Bournville and wants a fresh start, and Masie- a young local Tasmanian girl who needs to support her family by working at the factory.
I did love the relationship between Dorothy and Masie, and these characters with the other workers.
Overall it was an enjoyable story.
I did find the first couple of chapters hard to get into however as the story went on, I enjoy how the storyline includes not only a bit of real history but also some mystery, drama and light romance.
Things that I did enjoy were the history about chocolate manufacture, the facts about the war and interesting details about women's rights and the problems they endured in the workforce.
It's told from alternating viewpoints from Dorothy- a war widow who worked in the original Cadbury factory in Bournville and wants a fresh start, and Masie- a young local Tasmanian girl who needs to support her family by working at the factory.
I did love the relationship between Dorothy and Masie, and these characters with the other workers.
Overall it was an enjoyable story.
November 28, 2025
1.5 ⭐
The setting and breadth of research were the highlight of this book for me. It was clear the author put a lot of time and effort into the research for this book. The attention to detail regarding the development of the factory and chocolate production was quite impressive and I learnt a lot about the development of the Cadbury brand, as well as the Tasmanian factory. The details about life in the little Cadbury factory town, the company's links to Quakerism, and of course the inclusion of chocolate spies were wonderful. That being said, it was possibly the only positive of my reading experience and the reason I decided to bump it up an extra 0.5⭐.
The two POV characters, Dorothy and Maisie, were insufferable. Dorothy was a know-it-all who believed she was better than everyone else yet clearly the author's favourite and even when she was still doing wrong the book presented her to me as though she were perfect. Maisie was completely irrelevant to the plot for the first 300 pages and was also the most awful person to Frank for no real reason. Frank was literally the ONLY likable character in this book.
The romance between Dorothy and Thomas was also a little weird. I didn't hate it but
The plot was simplistic, the writing style made me feel spoken down to and as though the author thinks I’m stupid (explaining and overexplaining everything at least three times), and the obsession with Dorothy's Birmingham accent as though it were the defining hurdle in her life was the most irritating plot line through this book.
Not to mention, Dorothy is a Career Woman™ and she has goals (big respect) but the ending was so disappointing and underwhelming.
Overall, the first half of the book is overexplained and there's barely nothing happening, and then the plot kicks off and you think 'oh, yeah, this is getting good now' and then you swiftly get let down again and again until you close the back cover and wonder why you didn't DNF at page 50.
The setting and breadth of research were the highlight of this book for me. It was clear the author put a lot of time and effort into the research for this book. The attention to detail regarding the development of the factory and chocolate production was quite impressive and I learnt a lot about the development of the Cadbury brand, as well as the Tasmanian factory. The details about life in the little Cadbury factory town, the company's links to Quakerism, and of course the inclusion of chocolate spies were wonderful. That being said, it was possibly the only positive of my reading experience and the reason I decided to bump it up an extra 0.5⭐.
The two POV characters, Dorothy and Maisie, were insufferable. Dorothy was a know-it-all who believed she was better than everyone else yet clearly the author's favourite and even when she was still doing wrong the book presented her to me as though she were perfect. Maisie was completely irrelevant to the plot for the first 300 pages and was also the most awful person to Frank for no real reason. Frank was literally the ONLY likable character in this book.
The romance between Dorothy and Thomas was also a little weird. I didn't hate it but
The plot was simplistic, the writing style made me feel spoken down to and as though the author thinks I’m stupid (explaining and overexplaining everything at least three times), and the obsession with Dorothy's Birmingham accent as though it were the defining hurdle in her life was the most irritating plot line through this book.
Not to mention, Dorothy is a Career Woman™ and she has goals (big respect) but the ending was so disappointing and underwhelming.
Overall, the first half of the book is overexplained and there's barely nothing happening, and then the plot kicks off and you think 'oh, yeah, this is getting good now' and then you swiftly get let down again and again until you close the back cover and wonder why you didn't DNF at page 50.
July 7, 2024
Grab yourself a block of dairy milk or a hot chocolate (or both) and dive on in.
Historical fiction, when accurate is one of my favourite genres. This was certainly enlightening, and who doesn’t want to hear about the history and manufacturing of chocolate? As an Australian, history of what life was like 100 years ago in this country is equally fascinating.
The let down was that we didn’t get to see the character romantic relationships grow, rather we were told that they had - so felt a bit flat. But nonetheless, it was solid… unlike my chocolate bar that ended up next to my hot choc 🙊
Historical fiction, when accurate is one of my favourite genres. This was certainly enlightening, and who doesn’t want to hear about the history and manufacturing of chocolate? As an Australian, history of what life was like 100 years ago in this country is equally fascinating.
The let down was that we didn’t get to see the character romantic relationships grow, rather we were told that they had - so felt a bit flat. But nonetheless, it was solid… unlike my chocolate bar that ended up next to my hot choc 🙊
December 20, 2023
The Chocolate Factory is a unique historical fiction written in Tasmania, Australia. This story talks about how the Cadbury factory came about, and extreme measures people would do to steal the famous chocolate recipe.
Dorothy, the main character, oversees everything at the factory. I really like how she is portrayed as a strong woman and she is interested in the mechanics of how the machines work and how the factory was being built.
As the threats become worse throughout the story, my heart goes out to Dorothy and newcomer Maise. With their own secrets and protecting the ones they love can they multitask as the suspension comes to a fine line.
Stephens included a lot of research into this book, it was full of facts and the story came together nicely in the end. My favourite fact was that chocolate was originally only used for drinking as it was a healthier alternative to drinking alcohol. ❤️
And of course reading this book made me crave a lot of chocolate.
I love how this book covers dips into other genres other than HF, it has a bit of romance and a sleuthing mystery genre to it.
Dorothy, the main character, oversees everything at the factory. I really like how she is portrayed as a strong woman and she is interested in the mechanics of how the machines work and how the factory was being built.
As the threats become worse throughout the story, my heart goes out to Dorothy and newcomer Maise. With their own secrets and protecting the ones they love can they multitask as the suspension comes to a fine line.
Stephens included a lot of research into this book, it was full of facts and the story came together nicely in the end. My favourite fact was that chocolate was originally only used for drinking as it was a healthier alternative to drinking alcohol. ❤️
And of course reading this book made me crave a lot of chocolate.
I love how this book covers dips into other genres other than HF, it has a bit of romance and a sleuthing mystery genre to it.
January 28, 2024
The Chocolate Factory was a great historical fiction about the setting up of the Cadbuy's chocolate factory in Tasmania. Having visited the factory and had taste tests when I was a kid I was really interested in reading this one. It's told from alternating viewpoints from Dorothy- a war widow who worked in the original Cadbury factory in Bournville and wants a fresh start, and Masie- a young local Tasmanian girl who needs to support her family by working at the factory.
I enjoyed the relationship between Dorothy and Masie, and these characters with the other workers, both the British and the locals. I also enjoyed the information about chocolate making and the rivalries with the local chocolate makers. There was a little mystery which added a nice touch. Overall it was an enjoyable story.
I enjoyed the relationship between Dorothy and Masie, and these characters with the other workers, both the British and the locals. I also enjoyed the information about chocolate making and the rivalries with the local chocolate makers. There was a little mystery which added a nice touch. Overall it was an enjoyable story.
February 29, 2024
Set in Claremont a suburb of Hobart in Tasmania, the main character, Dorothy who has just sailed from Bournville in England arrives in Australia to take up a new role and life surrounded by chocolate! 🍫
My favourite part was learning about the history of Cadbury's and the link to the Quakers. I also loved hearing about the workers cottages and train line around Claremont.
There's a glass and a half of Dairy Milk 🥛 in every chapter ... but ... there's also a dose of industrial espionage and blackmail to contend with as the spies try to steal the original Dairy Milk recipe.
Romantic picnics and chocolate tarts to entice you.
This book 📖 corresponds with Cadbury's 200th Anniversary.
My favourite part was learning about the history of Cadbury's and the link to the Quakers. I also loved hearing about the workers cottages and train line around Claremont.
There's a glass and a half of Dairy Milk 🥛 in every chapter ... but ... there's also a dose of industrial espionage and blackmail to contend with as the spies try to steal the original Dairy Milk recipe.
Romantic picnics and chocolate tarts to entice you.
This book 📖 corresponds with Cadbury's 200th Anniversary.
February 18, 2024
A beautifully written and fascinating story.
April 17, 2025
The Chocolate Factory follows war-widowed Cadbury’s employee Dorothy Adwell from midway through her journey from Bournville to Hobart in 1921 and her young Tasmanian protégé, the oldest daughter of a war casualty, Maisie Greenwood, as the Cadbury Factory at Claremont gets up and running. It’s these women and their friends finding their roles in the new factory and in society. In Maisie’s situation, there is a focus on her family dynamic, her trying to keep her 13-year-old sister in school after she turns 14 and finding a way to be more than just scraping by. In Dorothy’s case, there is more focus on corporate espionage and stalking.
Personally, I found it to be a very strong story. It has so many layers and a variety of characters so it is always that it is always engaging. The romance is a subplot. The focus is on family, friends and career. Life and romance are further down. The women aren’t all friendly or b*tchy they everyone is a bit of both and everyone has masks, some of which we see slip. It’s well researched, even down to something as simple as using both shell shock and war trauma for what is now known as PTSD. I liked the writing style that Mary-Lou Stephens uses. I like the choice to use two narrators who know the same person. I do feel like this could have been shorter, like it would have made more sense to be shorter. The ending kind of ruins the books for me a little. The epilogue, so to speak, completely ignores Maisie, an equal character in the book, and potentially does damage to Dorothy’s character. It was not a needless inclusion, perhaps, but the wrong approach.
There are a lot of strong women in this, it is absolutely a female-driven story. The men are more there to drive their plot lines on. Each of the main women has their own love interest. Dorothy has shell shocked Thomas, a teacher and former soldier, whom she meets on the way from England to Tasmania. Maisie has Frank, an English mechanic, Cadbury employee but importantly Quaker. As the women are at different points in their lives with different aims and wants their men are equally different. But both always keep the societal well-being of their women in mind. It’s important given the time period and a constant reminder than these are good men.
Casey Withoos is the narrator of the audiobook for The Chocolate Factory. Her voice brings the characters and the world to life in a brilliant way. There are multiple accents, Dorothy alone has two, not all the British accents are the same and there are multiple Australians. Only an Australian narrator could recognise the necessity of the subtlety of the differences needed between a Tasmanian and a Victorian. Her portrayal of the traumatised Thomas, while playing on a few bad stereotypes, is effective and adds drama. I really enjoyed her style, she made it very listenable. I’ve looked up what other audiobooks she has narrated because I want to hear more, especially any Australian ones. She has an amazing singing voice, too. I looked up her version of Samson, it is breathtaking.
I do highly recommend this, especially to Australians. We so rarely get well-written, non-romance-driven, historical fiction written by one of our own with skill.
Personally, I found it to be a very strong story. It has so many layers and a variety of characters so it is always that it is always engaging. The romance is a subplot. The focus is on family, friends and career. Life and romance are further down. The women aren’t all friendly or b*tchy they everyone is a bit of both and everyone has masks, some of which we see slip. It’s well researched, even down to something as simple as using both shell shock and war trauma for what is now known as PTSD. I liked the writing style that Mary-Lou Stephens uses. I like the choice to use two narrators who know the same person. I do feel like this could have been shorter, like it would have made more sense to be shorter. The ending kind of ruins the books for me a little. The epilogue, so to speak, completely ignores Maisie, an equal character in the book, and potentially does damage to Dorothy’s character. It was not a needless inclusion, perhaps, but the wrong approach.
There are a lot of strong women in this, it is absolutely a female-driven story. The men are more there to drive their plot lines on. Each of the main women has their own love interest. Dorothy has shell shocked Thomas, a teacher and former soldier, whom she meets on the way from England to Tasmania. Maisie has Frank, an English mechanic, Cadbury employee but importantly Quaker. As the women are at different points in their lives with different aims and wants their men are equally different. But both always keep the societal well-being of their women in mind. It’s important given the time period and a constant reminder than these are good men.
Casey Withoos is the narrator of the audiobook for The Chocolate Factory. Her voice brings the characters and the world to life in a brilliant way. There are multiple accents, Dorothy alone has two, not all the British accents are the same and there are multiple Australians. Only an Australian narrator could recognise the necessity of the subtlety of the differences needed between a Tasmanian and a Victorian. Her portrayal of the traumatised Thomas, while playing on a few bad stereotypes, is effective and adds drama. I really enjoyed her style, she made it very listenable. I’ve looked up what other audiobooks she has narrated because I want to hear more, especially any Australian ones. She has an amazing singing voice, too. I looked up her version of Samson, it is breathtaking.
I do highly recommend this, especially to Australians. We so rarely get well-written, non-romance-driven, historical fiction written by one of our own with skill.
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