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The Naturalist's Daughter
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW
Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart, but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rosie must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers there will change the lives of future generations.
1908 Sydney, NSW
Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book – and Tamsin. In an attempt to discover the book's true provenance Tamsin decides to work with him.
The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries rise up from the past and reach into the future, with irrevocable consequences...
Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart, but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rosie must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers there will change the lives of future generations.
1908 Sydney, NSW
Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book – and Tamsin. In an attempt to discover the book's true provenance Tamsin decides to work with him.
The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries rise up from the past and reach into the future, with irrevocable consequences...
368 pages, Paperback
First published December 18, 2017
219 people are currently reading
8032 people want to read
About the author
Tea Cooper
28 books947 followersTea Cooper writes Australian contemporary and historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
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December 7, 2017
As a young Rose Winton followed her Pa down to the river’s edge to continue the drawings of the mallangong and its young, her delight in all she was learning heightened. Her pa was a naturalist and his mentor was Sir Joseph Banks of London. Charles Winton’s research was well before its time; his discoveries fascinated Rose. It was 1808 and their little community of Agnes Banks in NSW, inland from Sydney was a breeding ground for the mammals. Rose lived in the tiny cottage with her mother and father – she was also friends with the local Aboriginals, especially Yukri and Bunji.
With passage booked on a ship to London, Charles unexpectedly became ill prior to departure. Unable to travel, and unwilling to let the opportunity to present his findings to Sir Joseph go, he sent Rose in his place. The sea journey was long, but Rose enjoyed it; the fresh salt air, the interest in what she had never imagined she’d see in her life – all delighted her. But when she arrived in London she received a shock. Was all she had known a lie?
One hundred years later and Tamsin Alleyn was working in the Public Library of NSW, Sydney; her love of Australian history and books deep in her soul. When she was sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to collect a sketchbook which was being donated to the Library she wasn’t sure what she’d find. Tamsin’s keen interest in the sketchbook and her interest in the surrounding countryside felt right. But the news she received on arrival wasn’t promising. What would happen? And why was there a lawyer at the home?
The depth of mystery surrounding the sketchbook astounded Tamsin – could she find the answers she needed? As she investigated the past, she knew time was of the essence…
The Naturalist’s Daughter by Aussie author Tea Cooper is outstanding in its breathtaking beauty. The heartfelt story of the platypus and the events one hundred years apart which had an impact on future generations. Rose’s story, especially that set in London, is utterly fascinating. And the story of Tamsin and her research into the past, mysterious and intriguing. I’ve loved all this author’s historical fiction novels, but must say this one is her best in my opinion. And the cover is divine! Highly recommended.
With thanks to Harlequin Enterprises Australia for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review.
With passage booked on a ship to London, Charles unexpectedly became ill prior to departure. Unable to travel, and unwilling to let the opportunity to present his findings to Sir Joseph go, he sent Rose in his place. The sea journey was long, but Rose enjoyed it; the fresh salt air, the interest in what she had never imagined she’d see in her life – all delighted her. But when she arrived in London she received a shock. Was all she had known a lie?
One hundred years later and Tamsin Alleyn was working in the Public Library of NSW, Sydney; her love of Australian history and books deep in her soul. When she was sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to collect a sketchbook which was being donated to the Library she wasn’t sure what she’d find. Tamsin’s keen interest in the sketchbook and her interest in the surrounding countryside felt right. But the news she received on arrival wasn’t promising. What would happen? And why was there a lawyer at the home?
The depth of mystery surrounding the sketchbook astounded Tamsin – could she find the answers she needed? As she investigated the past, she knew time was of the essence…
The Naturalist’s Daughter by Aussie author Tea Cooper is outstanding in its breathtaking beauty. The heartfelt story of the platypus and the events one hundred years apart which had an impact on future generations. Rose’s story, especially that set in London, is utterly fascinating. And the story of Tamsin and her research into the past, mysterious and intriguing. I’ve loved all this author’s historical fiction novels, but must say this one is her best in my opinion. And the cover is divine! Highly recommended.
With thanks to Harlequin Enterprises Australia for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review.
April 23, 2024
The Naturalist's Daughter by Tea Cooper
Synopsis /
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW
Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rose must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers will forever alter the course of scientific history.
1908 Sydney, NSW
Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer, seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book. Determined to uncover the book's true origin, Tamsin agrees to join forces with him.
The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery of the book's authorship becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries emerge from the past with far-reaching consequences in this riveting tale of courage and discovery.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, publisher Harper Muse, and author Tea Cooper, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for August 20, 2024.
It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.
— Sir David Attenborough
One of my favourite authors to read is Australian author, Tea Cooper. A juggernaut in the Australian historical fiction genre. Cooper's ability to weave a compelling fictional narrative around highly interesting, yet not well-known aspects of Australian historical events is outstanding. With The Naturalist's Daughter, Cooper has managed to rocket one of Australia's most intriguing animals right into the spotlight.
Cooper combines the history of science and scientific facts together with her fictional characters to create a plot that was interesting from beginning to end. Honestly, at this point, if the author wrote a novel about the history of growing grass, I'd read it, because she would make it interesting and worth my time reading.
This is a story of science, of scientific discoveries, of family and family secrets, and lastly, it is a wonderful tribute to one of the most unusual creatures in the animal kingdom. Nature truly is wonderful.
Two timelines. Two young, independent, strong-minded women who are both battling a patriarchal society in their quest to uncover the truth.
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW - Naturalist, Charles Winton has spent his life studying the life cycle and habitat of a uniquely reclusive little creature, which the people indigenous to the area called the 'watermole' or 'mallangong'. This little creature was described as duck-billed, beaver-tailed, and otter-footed. Naturally, many early European naturalists were baffled by this description and as such considered it a hoax, claiming that it was made from several animals which were then sewn together.
Rose Winton loved nothing more than to accompany her father on his trips to the water hole, where she would watch her father sketch and document the mallangong. Every year her father would collate his research and send a copy of the more meaningful parts to his mentor in London, scientist, explorer and botanist, Sir Joseph Banks.
So impressed by his research, Banks writes to Rose's father, issuing an invitation, inviting him to speak to the members of the prestigious Royal Society in England and present his findings on the mallangong. But in a cruel blow, Charles became too ill to travel, after being spurred by the little creature he spent his life studying. Not able to present his findings to the Society in person, Charles urged his daughter to present their findings on his behalf.
1908 Sydney, NSW - Tamsin Alleyn is travelling to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook which was gifted to the Mitchell Public Library by an unknown benefactor. It's her job to authenticate the book as genuine or fake and, if the former, to speculate on its worth. The sketchbook contained drawings and research notes on the platypus as far back as the early 1800s. If this proved to be authentic, it would change the course of history.
Retrieving the original sketchbook and then researching its history, Tamsin discovers that she has a familial connection to Rose Winton. It's now that two seemingly separate personal histories merge into one.
A compelling and well researched storyline and a beautiful tribute to one of our much loved and unique species.
If you would like to read a book that has a good dose of Australiana and its early history, sprinkled with a goodly amount of mystery and maybe a little smidge of romance thrown in, I can highly recommend this book (and others) by Tea Cooper.
The Butterfly Collector
The Fossil Hunter
The Woman in the Green Dress
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheNaturalistsDaughter #NetGalley
Synopsis /
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW
Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rose must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers will forever alter the course of scientific history.
1908 Sydney, NSW
Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer, seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book. Determined to uncover the book's true origin, Tamsin agrees to join forces with him.
The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery of the book's authorship becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries emerge from the past with far-reaching consequences in this riveting tale of courage and discovery.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, publisher Harper Muse, and author Tea Cooper, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for August 20, 2024.
It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.
— Sir David Attenborough
One of my favourite authors to read is Australian author, Tea Cooper. A juggernaut in the Australian historical fiction genre. Cooper's ability to weave a compelling fictional narrative around highly interesting, yet not well-known aspects of Australian historical events is outstanding. With The Naturalist's Daughter, Cooper has managed to rocket one of Australia's most intriguing animals right into the spotlight.
Cooper combines the history of science and scientific facts together with her fictional characters to create a plot that was interesting from beginning to end. Honestly, at this point, if the author wrote a novel about the history of growing grass, I'd read it, because she would make it interesting and worth my time reading.
This is a story of science, of scientific discoveries, of family and family secrets, and lastly, it is a wonderful tribute to one of the most unusual creatures in the animal kingdom. Nature truly is wonderful.
Two timelines. Two young, independent, strong-minded women who are both battling a patriarchal society in their quest to uncover the truth.
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW - Naturalist, Charles Winton has spent his life studying the life cycle and habitat of a uniquely reclusive little creature, which the people indigenous to the area called the 'watermole' or 'mallangong'. This little creature was described as duck-billed, beaver-tailed, and otter-footed. Naturally, many early European naturalists were baffled by this description and as such considered it a hoax, claiming that it was made from several animals which were then sewn together.
Rose Winton loved nothing more than to accompany her father on his trips to the water hole, where she would watch her father sketch and document the mallangong. Every year her father would collate his research and send a copy of the more meaningful parts to his mentor in London, scientist, explorer and botanist, Sir Joseph Banks.
So impressed by his research, Banks writes to Rose's father, issuing an invitation, inviting him to speak to the members of the prestigious Royal Society in England and present his findings on the mallangong. But in a cruel blow, Charles became too ill to travel, after being spurred by the little creature he spent his life studying. Not able to present his findings to the Society in person, Charles urged his daughter to present their findings on his behalf.
1908 Sydney, NSW - Tamsin Alleyn is travelling to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook which was gifted to the Mitchell Public Library by an unknown benefactor. It's her job to authenticate the book as genuine or fake and, if the former, to speculate on its worth. The sketchbook contained drawings and research notes on the platypus as far back as the early 1800s. If this proved to be authentic, it would change the course of history.
Retrieving the original sketchbook and then researching its history, Tamsin discovers that she has a familial connection to Rose Winton. It's now that two seemingly separate personal histories merge into one.
A compelling and well researched storyline and a beautiful tribute to one of our much loved and unique species.
If you would like to read a book that has a good dose of Australiana and its early history, sprinkled with a goodly amount of mystery and maybe a little smidge of romance thrown in, I can highly recommend this book (and others) by Tea Cooper.
The Butterfly Collector
The Fossil Hunter
The Woman in the Green Dress
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheNaturalistsDaughter #NetGalley
November 8, 2021
Wonderful dual timeline historical fiction that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
The first timeline begins in 1808 with Charles Winton, a naturalist and his young daughter, Rose studying the platypus in the very young colony of New South Wales. At this time the platypus is an enigma, and many back in England believe it to be a hoax. About ten years later, Charles is invited by Joseph Banks to present his research at the Royal Society but is unable to go and Rose sets sail instead.
The second timeline is a century later. Tamsin Alleyn who works at the state library is sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to assess a sketch book that perhaps belonged to Charles Winton. In this timeline proving ownership of the sketchbook is the mystery and how it got to the Hunter when Winton was based in a place called Agnes Banks near Parramatta.
I found all the platypus stuff fascinating and enjoyed the female characters in both timelines. As the mystery unfolds there are coincidences of course, and nice bits of romance, and everything falls into place making it such a pleasure to read.
The first timeline begins in 1808 with Charles Winton, a naturalist and his young daughter, Rose studying the platypus in the very young colony of New South Wales. At this time the platypus is an enigma, and many back in England believe it to be a hoax. About ten years later, Charles is invited by Joseph Banks to present his research at the Royal Society but is unable to go and Rose sets sail instead.
The second timeline is a century later. Tamsin Alleyn who works at the state library is sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to assess a sketch book that perhaps belonged to Charles Winton. In this timeline proving ownership of the sketchbook is the mystery and how it got to the Hunter when Winton was based in a place called Agnes Banks near Parramatta.
I found all the platypus stuff fascinating and enjoyed the female characters in both timelines. As the mystery unfolds there are coincidences of course, and nice bits of romance, and everything falls into place making it such a pleasure to read.
January 9, 2018
* https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Tea Cooper is a favourite and much treasured author of mine. Cooper’s ability to bring little known aspects of Australian history to life through her novels is an impressive feat. In her latest Australian historical fiction treat, Cooper highlights the discovery and controversial classification of a quintessential Australian mammal, the platypus, in The Naturalist’s Daughter.
Tea Cooper’s latest, The Naturalist’s Daughter, begins in the era of the early 1800’s, in New South Wales. Rose Winton is her father Charles’ apprentice. Charles is a naturalist, specifically working on a pioneering study of the platypus. At the time, an egg laying creature that feeds milk to its young was unheard of. The platypus was classed as a scientific conundrum. When Charles falls ill, it is up to Rose to step up her duties and cross the other side of the world, to London. In London, Rose must present her father’s work to the Royal Society, revealing revolutionary scientific information on the platypus. However, it will take Rose all the strength she can summon to honour her father’s prestigious work. The impact of the journey Rose takes has a lasting impact on future generations. Nearly 100 years later, public library worker Tamsin Alleyn makes the journey to the Hunter Valley to collect a precious sketchbook, provided by an unknown figure to the Mitchell Library. When Tamsin arrives, the old sketchbook delivers much more than expected. It has also caught the eye of an antiquarian bookseller, by the name of Shaw Everdene. Although suspicious of Shaw’s agenda, Tamsin decides to work with him to uncover the true scientific value of this sketchbook. The Naturalist’s Daughter merges the personal histories of two very colourful female figures and in this process, paints a fascinating portrait of a much loved Australian creature, the platypus.
What an intriguing main topic for a narrative and a highly original slice of Australian history writer Tea Cooper has selected to cover in her latest novel, The Naturalist’s Daughter. I greatly admire the skill, thought and care that goes into the production of Cooper’s Australian historical fiction novels. The Naturalist’s Daughter is another fine example of Cooper’s talent. From the beginning to the end of the novel, I was completely enthralled by the rich and textured history I was presented with by Tea Cooper.
The central topic of the novel, the platypus, is utterly enthralling and never before have I read such an informative piece of literature on this Australian creature. The beauty of this novel is that all the interesting facts, observations and key features about the platypus are combined within an engaging narrative. By the time The Naturalist’s Daughter came to a close, not only did I feel better educated about the platypus, I couldn’t wait to make plans to view a platypus with the new set of information I gleaned from Tea Cooper.
The Naturalist’s Daughter isn’t just about the platypus, it also follows the story of two very determined women, ahead of their time, performing acts that were outside the box for women of their respective eras. Cooper highlights the difficulty women of both her 1800 and 1900 based narratives faced, by existing in a male dominated world, especially in the area of scientific knowledge and discovery. I greatly admired Rose’s decision to firstly travel to England without her father. Secondly, I thought Rose was extremely fearless in her attempts to present her father’s findings to the Royal Society, especially in her pursuit of winning figurehead Joseph Banks over. The controversy and fierce debate of awarding classification of the platypus was covered very well by Cooper. I also loved Rose’s interactions back home with her father, she clearly had plenty to contribute to the field of research into the platypus. The other protagonist of the novel, in the 1908 narrative, Tamsin Alleyn, is just as powerful in her own right. Despite the fact that these two strong and female protagonists lived 100 years part, Cooper ties their stories together in a harmonious way. Equally interesting are the male characters that flesh out the pages of this story. They are wonderfully complex, such as Rose’s father Charles in the earlier narrative and Shaw in the 1908 based storyline. All the characters featured in The Naturalist’s Daughter are portrayed with a sense of intimacy, which I appreciated very much.
Tea Cooper’s latest novel offers the reader a great combination of genres. Readers who make the wise choice and select The Naturalist’s Daughter to read can expect a touch of unusual natural history, romance and drama. The use of the sketchbook containing early illustrations of the platypus provided a beautiful air of mystery and intrigue to the novel. I will admit that this object completely drew me in to the unfolding story. I loved how Tea Cooper carefully connected this sketchbook to her leading characters, across the two different timelines.
The Naturalist’s Daughter is an outstanding, as well as ardent tribute to one of Australia’s icons from the natural world, the platypus. It is a smoothly written novel, with plenty of history, especially of Australia’s heritage and the scientific world, interspersed throughout an arresting narrative. Tea Cooper has outdone herself with her latest and greatest novel to date, The Naturalist’s Daughter.
*I wish to thank the publisher, Harlequin Books Australia, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tea Cooper is a favourite and much treasured author of mine. Cooper’s ability to bring little known aspects of Australian history to life through her novels is an impressive feat. In her latest Australian historical fiction treat, Cooper highlights the discovery and controversial classification of a quintessential Australian mammal, the platypus, in The Naturalist’s Daughter.
Tea Cooper’s latest, The Naturalist’s Daughter, begins in the era of the early 1800’s, in New South Wales. Rose Winton is her father Charles’ apprentice. Charles is a naturalist, specifically working on a pioneering study of the platypus. At the time, an egg laying creature that feeds milk to its young was unheard of. The platypus was classed as a scientific conundrum. When Charles falls ill, it is up to Rose to step up her duties and cross the other side of the world, to London. In London, Rose must present her father’s work to the Royal Society, revealing revolutionary scientific information on the platypus. However, it will take Rose all the strength she can summon to honour her father’s prestigious work. The impact of the journey Rose takes has a lasting impact on future generations. Nearly 100 years later, public library worker Tamsin Alleyn makes the journey to the Hunter Valley to collect a precious sketchbook, provided by an unknown figure to the Mitchell Library. When Tamsin arrives, the old sketchbook delivers much more than expected. It has also caught the eye of an antiquarian bookseller, by the name of Shaw Everdene. Although suspicious of Shaw’s agenda, Tamsin decides to work with him to uncover the true scientific value of this sketchbook. The Naturalist’s Daughter merges the personal histories of two very colourful female figures and in this process, paints a fascinating portrait of a much loved Australian creature, the platypus.
What an intriguing main topic for a narrative and a highly original slice of Australian history writer Tea Cooper has selected to cover in her latest novel, The Naturalist’s Daughter. I greatly admire the skill, thought and care that goes into the production of Cooper’s Australian historical fiction novels. The Naturalist’s Daughter is another fine example of Cooper’s talent. From the beginning to the end of the novel, I was completely enthralled by the rich and textured history I was presented with by Tea Cooper.
The central topic of the novel, the platypus, is utterly enthralling and never before have I read such an informative piece of literature on this Australian creature. The beauty of this novel is that all the interesting facts, observations and key features about the platypus are combined within an engaging narrative. By the time The Naturalist’s Daughter came to a close, not only did I feel better educated about the platypus, I couldn’t wait to make plans to view a platypus with the new set of information I gleaned from Tea Cooper.
The Naturalist’s Daughter isn’t just about the platypus, it also follows the story of two very determined women, ahead of their time, performing acts that were outside the box for women of their respective eras. Cooper highlights the difficulty women of both her 1800 and 1900 based narratives faced, by existing in a male dominated world, especially in the area of scientific knowledge and discovery. I greatly admired Rose’s decision to firstly travel to England without her father. Secondly, I thought Rose was extremely fearless in her attempts to present her father’s findings to the Royal Society, especially in her pursuit of winning figurehead Joseph Banks over. The controversy and fierce debate of awarding classification of the platypus was covered very well by Cooper. I also loved Rose’s interactions back home with her father, she clearly had plenty to contribute to the field of research into the platypus. The other protagonist of the novel, in the 1908 narrative, Tamsin Alleyn, is just as powerful in her own right. Despite the fact that these two strong and female protagonists lived 100 years part, Cooper ties their stories together in a harmonious way. Equally interesting are the male characters that flesh out the pages of this story. They are wonderfully complex, such as Rose’s father Charles in the earlier narrative and Shaw in the 1908 based storyline. All the characters featured in The Naturalist’s Daughter are portrayed with a sense of intimacy, which I appreciated very much.
Tea Cooper’s latest novel offers the reader a great combination of genres. Readers who make the wise choice and select The Naturalist’s Daughter to read can expect a touch of unusual natural history, romance and drama. The use of the sketchbook containing early illustrations of the platypus provided a beautiful air of mystery and intrigue to the novel. I will admit that this object completely drew me in to the unfolding story. I loved how Tea Cooper carefully connected this sketchbook to her leading characters, across the two different timelines.
The Naturalist’s Daughter is an outstanding, as well as ardent tribute to one of Australia’s icons from the natural world, the platypus. It is a smoothly written novel, with plenty of history, especially of Australia’s heritage and the scientific world, interspersed throughout an arresting narrative. Tea Cooper has outdone herself with her latest and greatest novel to date, The Naturalist’s Daughter.
*I wish to thank the publisher, Harlequin Books Australia, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
The Naturalist's Daughter is a captivating historical fiction story set in colonial Australia where the past and present come together. It’s a tale of two inspirational young women who lived a hundred years apart.
I think Tea Cooper has become one of my favourite historical fiction authors. I love the way Tea uses the essence of little known aspects of Australian history and bring them to life in her novels.
1808 - Location Agnes Banks, NSW Australia - Young Rose Winton adores her father Charles Winton who is a naturalist and she loves to assist him with his scientific observations of the platypus. In 1820 we follow Rose when she travels to London to present her father's findings to Sir Joseph Banks when her father is unable to travel but she is not given a favourable reception and is humiliated.
1908 - Location, Sydney Australia - Tamsin Alleyn is a librarian and tasked to retrieve a sketchbook with detailed anatomical line drawings and watercolours believed to have belonged to Charles Winton one of the first naturalists to send Sir Joseph Banks groundbreaking and detailed info about the Platypus. The sketchbook if genuine is highly valuable and has been promised to the library as a donation. Tamsin sets off on a mission to retrieve it from it’s current owner and have it’s authenticity checked.
On Tasmin's journey she encounters a solicitor who has a passion for antiquarian books and as they work together in the quest for the book they encounter some unexpected twists and turns.
A compelling storyline of scientific discovery and family secrets and a wonderfully beautiful tribute to one of Australia’s much loved and unique species the platypus.
I wish to thank Harlequin Books Australia for the opportunity to win a copy of this book in a competition
The Naturalist's Daughter is a captivating historical fiction story set in colonial Australia where the past and present come together. It’s a tale of two inspirational young women who lived a hundred years apart.
I think Tea Cooper has become one of my favourite historical fiction authors. I love the way Tea uses the essence of little known aspects of Australian history and bring them to life in her novels.
1808 - Location Agnes Banks, NSW Australia - Young Rose Winton adores her father Charles Winton who is a naturalist and she loves to assist him with his scientific observations of the platypus. In 1820 we follow Rose when she travels to London to present her father's findings to Sir Joseph Banks when her father is unable to travel but she is not given a favourable reception and is humiliated.
1908 - Location, Sydney Australia - Tamsin Alleyn is a librarian and tasked to retrieve a sketchbook with detailed anatomical line drawings and watercolours believed to have belonged to Charles Winton one of the first naturalists to send Sir Joseph Banks groundbreaking and detailed info about the Platypus. The sketchbook if genuine is highly valuable and has been promised to the library as a donation. Tamsin sets off on a mission to retrieve it from it’s current owner and have it’s authenticity checked.
On Tasmin's journey she encounters a solicitor who has a passion for antiquarian books and as they work together in the quest for the book they encounter some unexpected twists and turns.
A compelling storyline of scientific discovery and family secrets and a wonderfully beautiful tribute to one of Australia’s much loved and unique species the platypus.
I wish to thank Harlequin Books Australia for the opportunity to win a copy of this book in a competition
June 7, 2018
It took me quite a while to settle into this book, which I was keen to read, given a number of positive reviews from fellow Aussie Readers. The first 20-30 pages seemed patchy to me and I felt unclear whether I was reading a romance, an historical fiction or...? Feeling the need to persist, I kept reading and found that it eventually settled down into an engaging piece of historical story-telling, which contained a great mystery.
Having read many historical novels with two time periods, I was intrigued that this book presented times in the early 1800s and early 1900s, whereas most novels using this narrative device offer a modern day perspective along with the historical. It worked for me to some degree, and I liked the 20th century protagonist Tamsin. My heart belonged, though, to Rose, the strong-willed, brainy, determined young woman whose commitment to the scientific truth brought her up against the British Establishment in 1810.
Rose's mission was to promote her ailing father's life-long investigation into the nature and habits of the Australian platypus, a creature so unfamiliar to the scientific Establishment in England that the pundits refused to believe it existed. They called the specimens and drawings a grand hoax. The parts of the book that followed this thread really appealed to me.
The mystery surrounding the origins of the sketchbook which contained all those significant scientific observations was intriguing, and some of the minor narrative elements held my attention. However I found some aspects of the story tipped over into melodrama. That style may appeal to some readers, but I found it rather cheesy. And the putative link between Rose and Tamsin a century apart struck me as a bit contrived.
I was not entranced by Tea Cooper's writing style. It seemed a bit patchy, with some well-written, almost lyrical passages, interspersed with some incredibly clunky paragraphs. Lots of poorly constructed phrases, such as an elegantly 'clad' foot, which surely should have been elegantly 'shod'? I don't want to be too picky but the misuses jarred.
Having said that, I did enjoy the book overall and think it is a pleasant mystery, one that does not tax the brain too much. A solid 3.5 stars.
Having read many historical novels with two time periods, I was intrigued that this book presented times in the early 1800s and early 1900s, whereas most novels using this narrative device offer a modern day perspective along with the historical. It worked for me to some degree, and I liked the 20th century protagonist Tamsin. My heart belonged, though, to Rose, the strong-willed, brainy, determined young woman whose commitment to the scientific truth brought her up against the British Establishment in 1810.
Rose's mission was to promote her ailing father's life-long investigation into the nature and habits of the Australian platypus, a creature so unfamiliar to the scientific Establishment in England that the pundits refused to believe it existed. They called the specimens and drawings a grand hoax. The parts of the book that followed this thread really appealed to me.
The mystery surrounding the origins of the sketchbook which contained all those significant scientific observations was intriguing, and some of the minor narrative elements held my attention. However I found some aspects of the story tipped over into melodrama. That style may appeal to some readers, but I found it rather cheesy. And the putative link between Rose and Tamsin a century apart struck me as a bit contrived.
I was not entranced by Tea Cooper's writing style. It seemed a bit patchy, with some well-written, almost lyrical passages, interspersed with some incredibly clunky paragraphs. Lots of poorly constructed phrases, such as an elegantly 'clad' foot, which surely should have been elegantly 'shod'? I don't want to be too picky but the misuses jarred.
Having said that, I did enjoy the book overall and think it is a pleasant mystery, one that does not tax the brain too much. A solid 3.5 stars.
September 12, 2024
After reading Tea Cooper’s book The Butterfly Collector, I knew I had to read The Naturalist’s Daughter when I saw it!!
I really enjoy Cooper’s voice but when I realized the book what about the discovery of the platypus I laughed. But after reading about it I learned that the platypus wasn’t just a straight forward discovery of an animal. The platypus actually brought distrust and disbelief in the world of science throughout the world.
I love the opening character’s personality. She has a great love of the nature in Australia. She has a strong bond with her father, the naturalist Charles Winton. She loves to accompany him as he documents his discoveries. When he becomes ill and isn’t able to travel to England, Rose is determined to make sure his work is represented in England so she goes on his behalf. When she arrives she is disrespected and ignored. I felt bad for Rose and was angered at the way she was treated. 1808 England was definitely a man’s world.
Fast forward to 1908 Australia. Tamsin Alleyn works at a library and is ecstatic to be in charge of collecting a sketchbook that’s been donated to the library. It may be Charles Winton’s! But as she arrives she finds out that it’s not that easy. Others are hoping to collect the sketch book as well. Including a very handsome man she is drawn to named Shaw Everdene.
What started as a straightforward book about proving the attributes of the platypus slowly turns into a dark, deep mystery! I was enthralled! It gave me Jamaica Inn ( Daphne Du Maurier) mixed with Wuthering Heights ( Emily Brontë )vibes.
Many thanks to Tea Cooper and Harper Collin’s Focus/Harper Muse for the ARC via NetGalley!!
I really enjoy Cooper’s voice but when I realized the book what about the discovery of the platypus I laughed. But after reading about it I learned that the platypus wasn’t just a straight forward discovery of an animal. The platypus actually brought distrust and disbelief in the world of science throughout the world.
I love the opening character’s personality. She has a great love of the nature in Australia. She has a strong bond with her father, the naturalist Charles Winton. She loves to accompany him as he documents his discoveries. When he becomes ill and isn’t able to travel to England, Rose is determined to make sure his work is represented in England so she goes on his behalf. When she arrives she is disrespected and ignored. I felt bad for Rose and was angered at the way she was treated. 1808 England was definitely a man’s world.
Fast forward to 1908 Australia. Tamsin Alleyn works at a library and is ecstatic to be in charge of collecting a sketchbook that’s been donated to the library. It may be Charles Winton’s! But as she arrives she finds out that it’s not that easy. Others are hoping to collect the sketch book as well. Including a very handsome man she is drawn to named Shaw Everdene.
What started as a straightforward book about proving the attributes of the platypus slowly turns into a dark, deep mystery! I was enthralled! It gave me Jamaica Inn ( Daphne Du Maurier) mixed with Wuthering Heights ( Emily Brontë )vibes.
Many thanks to Tea Cooper and Harper Collin’s Focus/Harper Muse for the ARC via NetGalley!!
September 17, 2024
Tea Cooper is an author I always look forward to reading. When I saw that she had a new book coming out I was excited to read it. I enjoy that her writing always portrays an aspect of Australian history. Since I know very little about the history of Australia, I usually end up learning something new by reading her books. The Naturalist’s Daughter was no exception. I had little to no knowledge about the platypus before reading The Naturalist's Daughter nor knew that someone had actually devoted his life to studying its many unique characteristics. The Naturalist’s Daughter was written in a dual timeline that was separated by a hundred years. It took place in Agnes Banks, New South Wales and London, England in 1808 and in Sydney, New South Wales in 1908. During the 1908 setting, Hunter Valley, New South Wales was also an important location in the story. I really appreciated that Tea Cooper created two very strong and capable female protagonists in The Naturalist’s Daughter. It was well written and impressively researched. I really got a true feeling for life in New South Wales during both of those time periods, especially the challenges and struggles that women faced. I listened to the audiobook that was well narrated by Corinne Davies.
Rose Winton grew up in the early 1800’s in Agnes Banks, New South Wales. She had always been closer to her father than her mother. Rose adored her father who was a naturalist and had a world of patience for Rose’s unending questions. From a very young age, Rose was almost always spotted accompanying her father to the banks of the river where he spent hour upon hour observing and studying the unique characteristics of the platypus. Charles Winton, Rose’s brilliant and dedicated father, always encouraged Rose to sketch her observations of the platypus and whatever else she observed while working along side him. She had taken up the role as her father’s assistant on these occasions. The two had long conversations about what they thought, saw and understood about the platypus. Over the years, Rose had learned so much from her father about the platypus. One day, Charles shared his plans to go to London to present his findings to his mentor, Sir Joseph Banks and the Royal Society with Rose. She wanted desperately to go with her father but he made her promise that she would stay in Agnes Banks and look after her mother. Just before Charles’s departure, he became quite ill and was not going to be able to go to London but this opportunity could not be missed. Rose’s father entrusted her to take his place. After all, the only other person who knew as much about the platypus as Charles Winton was Rose. Once Rose arrived in London, she was constantly reminded how little a woman’s knowledge, opinion and ability was recognized. Rose also discovered secrets that had been hidden for decades.
Tamsin Alleyn was employed by the Mitchell Library in Sydney, New South Wales in 1908 when an elderly woman contacted the library. The woman, Tamsin learned, wanted to donate a very old sketch pad to the library that probably dated back to the 1800’s. Someone was needed to travel to Hunter Valley to authenticate that the sketches in the book were what the woman claimed them to be. Tamsin was more than willing and excited to travel to Hunter Valley to do this. If the sketches were what the woman claimed them to be, this could prove to be a very important acquisition for the library. When Tamsin arrived at the woman’s home, she learned that the woman had recently died. She found the woman’s estranged daughter at her mother’s home. Tasmin got the feeling that the daughter was more interested in what she could sell that would benefit her monetarily. The daughter did not seem distraught by her mother’s death in the least. Also present was an antiquarian bookseller and lawyer named Shaw Everdene. He was present to represent the deceased woman’s daughter in the sale of the home and its contents. Shaw would also be present when the daughter’s mother’s Will was read. Tasmin decided to trust Shaw and allow him to help her research and authenticate the sketches that the woman had wanted to donate to the library before her death. Was Shaw who he claimed to be or was he trying to profit from getting possession of the sketches? Would Shaw and Tasmin be able to gather enough evidence to authenticate the sketches? What would they discover?
In the end both timelines were flawlessly woven together and all the pieces of the puzzle were made to fit together. I enjoyed learning about the platypus and envisioning its natural environment and distinct characteristics. Both Rose and Tamsin were strong and determined women who were ahead of their times. I enjoyed the romance that developed slowly over time for both women. The description of the scenery was vivid and so easy to imagine. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Naturalist’s Daughter by Tea Cooper and highly recommend it.
Thank you to HarperCollins Focus for allowing me to listen to the audiobook The Naturalist’s Daughter by Tea Cooper through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Rose Winton grew up in the early 1800’s in Agnes Banks, New South Wales. She had always been closer to her father than her mother. Rose adored her father who was a naturalist and had a world of patience for Rose’s unending questions. From a very young age, Rose was almost always spotted accompanying her father to the banks of the river where he spent hour upon hour observing and studying the unique characteristics of the platypus. Charles Winton, Rose’s brilliant and dedicated father, always encouraged Rose to sketch her observations of the platypus and whatever else she observed while working along side him. She had taken up the role as her father’s assistant on these occasions. The two had long conversations about what they thought, saw and understood about the platypus. Over the years, Rose had learned so much from her father about the platypus. One day, Charles shared his plans to go to London to present his findings to his mentor, Sir Joseph Banks and the Royal Society with Rose. She wanted desperately to go with her father but he made her promise that she would stay in Agnes Banks and look after her mother. Just before Charles’s departure, he became quite ill and was not going to be able to go to London but this opportunity could not be missed. Rose’s father entrusted her to take his place. After all, the only other person who knew as much about the platypus as Charles Winton was Rose. Once Rose arrived in London, she was constantly reminded how little a woman’s knowledge, opinion and ability was recognized. Rose also discovered secrets that had been hidden for decades.
Tamsin Alleyn was employed by the Mitchell Library in Sydney, New South Wales in 1908 when an elderly woman contacted the library. The woman, Tamsin learned, wanted to donate a very old sketch pad to the library that probably dated back to the 1800’s. Someone was needed to travel to Hunter Valley to authenticate that the sketches in the book were what the woman claimed them to be. Tamsin was more than willing and excited to travel to Hunter Valley to do this. If the sketches were what the woman claimed them to be, this could prove to be a very important acquisition for the library. When Tamsin arrived at the woman’s home, she learned that the woman had recently died. She found the woman’s estranged daughter at her mother’s home. Tasmin got the feeling that the daughter was more interested in what she could sell that would benefit her monetarily. The daughter did not seem distraught by her mother’s death in the least. Also present was an antiquarian bookseller and lawyer named Shaw Everdene. He was present to represent the deceased woman’s daughter in the sale of the home and its contents. Shaw would also be present when the daughter’s mother’s Will was read. Tasmin decided to trust Shaw and allow him to help her research and authenticate the sketches that the woman had wanted to donate to the library before her death. Was Shaw who he claimed to be or was he trying to profit from getting possession of the sketches? Would Shaw and Tasmin be able to gather enough evidence to authenticate the sketches? What would they discover?
In the end both timelines were flawlessly woven together and all the pieces of the puzzle were made to fit together. I enjoyed learning about the platypus and envisioning its natural environment and distinct characteristics. Both Rose and Tamsin were strong and determined women who were ahead of their times. I enjoyed the romance that developed slowly over time for both women. The description of the scenery was vivid and so easy to imagine. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Naturalist’s Daughter by Tea Cooper and highly recommend it.
Thank you to HarperCollins Focus for allowing me to listen to the audiobook The Naturalist’s Daughter by Tea Cooper through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 18, 2017
I have read a few of MS Cooper’s books and loved them but I have to say that this is just the best so far what an amazing story set across a century here in Australia and England, the characters are strong and are alive there is a mystery that crosses the century that was amazing as it was unravelled and the two woman are fabulous they showed such courage, I had a very early morning as I finished this one.
Where do I start? Maybe with Rose Winton I loved Rose and her strength and courage she worked so hard alongside her father Charles Winton one of the colonies first naturalists studying the native platypus in its environment and this was in Agnes Banks New South Wales 1808 Rose is a young girl than but years working with her father taught her how to draw and paint and learn, she lived with her Pa and Mam a convict transported for theft but there were secrets that were kept and when they come out people’s lives are turned upside down but Rose shows such strength when it is needed.
It is now 1908 and Tamsin Alleyn is working for at the public library in Sydney and is asks to take a trip to The Hunter Valley and investigate a sketch book that is supposed to belong to Charles Winton, Tamsin meets a solicitor Shaw Everdene who is working for the family who supposedly owns the book, this starts a journey of investigation that is so intriguing when one discovery leads to another and Tamsin and Shaw get closer.
This book has left me speechless I practically gulped this one down in one sitting it is so good two woman a century apart linked like you would not believe I loved the strength that these two showed and with the help of the men who jumped in and added to the journey was amazing, of course there is the history of the platypus and the settings, MS Cooper you have knocked my socks off with this one I cannot highly recommend it enough. I loved this one.
Where do I start? Maybe with Rose Winton I loved Rose and her strength and courage she worked so hard alongside her father Charles Winton one of the colonies first naturalists studying the native platypus in its environment and this was in Agnes Banks New South Wales 1808 Rose is a young girl than but years working with her father taught her how to draw and paint and learn, she lived with her Pa and Mam a convict transported for theft but there were secrets that were kept and when they come out people’s lives are turned upside down but Rose shows such strength when it is needed.
It is now 1908 and Tamsin Alleyn is working for at the public library in Sydney and is asks to take a trip to The Hunter Valley and investigate a sketch book that is supposed to belong to Charles Winton, Tamsin meets a solicitor Shaw Everdene who is working for the family who supposedly owns the book, this starts a journey of investigation that is so intriguing when one discovery leads to another and Tamsin and Shaw get closer.
This book has left me speechless I practically gulped this one down in one sitting it is so good two woman a century apart linked like you would not believe I loved the strength that these two showed and with the help of the men who jumped in and added to the journey was amazing, of course there is the history of the platypus and the settings, MS Cooper you have knocked my socks off with this one I cannot highly recommend it enough. I loved this one.
September 14, 2024
Quite a lovely book! I love me some dual timelines, especially when both are in the past. I also thoroughly enjoyed both of the FMCs. It was intriguing to read and honestly enjoyed the parts about the platypus, I felt like I learned a few things. There's even some romance sprinkled in! It's a lovely book and quite charming! The ending was also great!
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
December 24, 2025
I was captivated by this dual-timeline historical fiction novel.
It is a well-researched, beautiful tribute to such a unique and beloved Australian species.
Cooper creatively weaves together scientific discoveries, rich Australian history, strong female protagonists and some light romance.
It is a well-researched, beautiful tribute to such a unique and beloved Australian species.
Cooper creatively weaves together scientific discoveries, rich Australian history, strong female protagonists and some light romance.
January 31, 2018
‘We must always record our evidence. It’s the only way .’
In 1808 at Agnes Banks in NSW, a young Rose Winton is fascinated by her father’s work. Charles Winton is a naturalist, studying the platypus (or mallangong, as it is known by the local indigenous people). Charles Winton has been corresponding with Sir Joseph Banks, then President of the Royal Society, about the mysterious animal. Charles Winton’s ground-breaking research, accompanied by sketches, provides much more information about the platypus than anyone else has yet documented. Charles Winton is invited to present his findings to the Royal Society but becomes ill and is unable to sail to London. He sends Rose in his place: there are family connections Rose can turn to.
‘‘Ask all the questions you can think of and remember the Royal Society motto—Nullius in Verba.’
Take no one’s word for it.’’
In 1908 in Sydney, NSW, Tamsin Alleyn is a young woman working at the Public Library. She’s sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to retrieve an old sketch book which has been gifted to the Library by an elderly woman. The journal is said to belong to Charles Winton, and if it’s genuine, it may be of great significance.
Two stories, separated by a century. Two young women, much more independent than is usual for the times. Two mysteries to be explained. While the reader will quickly understand where the sketchbook came from, the question of ownership needs to be resolved, as does how the sketchbook ended up in Wollombi. For part of the story, the reader has more information than Tamsin. I was engrossed by this stage: I wanted to know how Tamsin would trace the history of the sketchbook. I wanted to find the links between 1808 and 1908: what happened to Rose, and what about the presentation to the Royal Society?
To write more about the story could spoil it. There is more than one mystery in this novel (in both 1808 and 1908) as well as an occasional melodramatic flourish to hold the reader’s attention. I really enjoyed the characters of both Rose and Tamsin, and the way in which Ms Cooper presented this story.
This is the first of Ms Cooper’s novels I have read, but it certainly won’t be the last!
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In 1808 at Agnes Banks in NSW, a young Rose Winton is fascinated by her father’s work. Charles Winton is a naturalist, studying the platypus (or mallangong, as it is known by the local indigenous people). Charles Winton has been corresponding with Sir Joseph Banks, then President of the Royal Society, about the mysterious animal. Charles Winton’s ground-breaking research, accompanied by sketches, provides much more information about the platypus than anyone else has yet documented. Charles Winton is invited to present his findings to the Royal Society but becomes ill and is unable to sail to London. He sends Rose in his place: there are family connections Rose can turn to.
‘‘Ask all the questions you can think of and remember the Royal Society motto—Nullius in Verba.’
Take no one’s word for it.’’
In 1908 in Sydney, NSW, Tamsin Alleyn is a young woman working at the Public Library. She’s sent to Wollombi in the Hunter Valley to retrieve an old sketch book which has been gifted to the Library by an elderly woman. The journal is said to belong to Charles Winton, and if it’s genuine, it may be of great significance.
Two stories, separated by a century. Two young women, much more independent than is usual for the times. Two mysteries to be explained. While the reader will quickly understand where the sketchbook came from, the question of ownership needs to be resolved, as does how the sketchbook ended up in Wollombi. For part of the story, the reader has more information than Tamsin. I was engrossed by this stage: I wanted to know how Tamsin would trace the history of the sketchbook. I wanted to find the links between 1808 and 1908: what happened to Rose, and what about the presentation to the Royal Society?
To write more about the story could spoil it. There is more than one mystery in this novel (in both 1808 and 1908) as well as an occasional melodramatic flourish to hold the reader’s attention. I really enjoyed the characters of both Rose and Tamsin, and the way in which Ms Cooper presented this story.
This is the first of Ms Cooper’s novels I have read, but it certainly won’t be the last!
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 18, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel. I loved the dual timelines, and couldn't wait to see how they tied together. I learnt a lot about the platypus and always enjoy learning more about Australia back in the day. I highly recommend this novel.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review
November 17, 2018
What a wonderful book. My favourite kind: fiction based on fact, great characters, beautifully written, and the fiction part of the story two women a century apart built by the author into a rather fabulous story. An I thought I was not a fan if romance stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
Two compelling mysteries, two thrilling romances, & the unusual platypus all woven together to create one unputdownable read! This is my first book by Tea Cooper & I can’t wait to read more. I was immediately captivated by this historical dual timeline gothic mystery! Set one hundred years apart, two young women’s stories are connected by a notebook containing sketches of the remarkable platypus.
In 1808 Agnes Banks, NSW Australia, young Rose Winton follows her naturalist father as he documents the strange platypus. After years of correspondence with a prominent scientist, he’s invited to travel to England to share his groundbreaking scientific discovery with the Royal Society. But, when Charles is prevented from going, Rose goes in his place. Faced with shocking secrets, the mystery of her mother’s transport to Australia, & trying to convince the Royal Society to accept her father’s meticulous work, Rose finds her only ally is a handsome doctor.
In 1908 Sydney, Australia, Tamsin Alleyn enjoys working in the Public Library after the death of her parents. She’s been studying the correspondence of Charles Winton who’s believed to have been the first to document the platypus. When she’s tasked to retrieve a sketchbook rumored to belong to the naturalist, she soon finds herself embroiled in a mystery. In a race against time to prove the notebook is real, she finds herself at odds with an attractive lawyer & bibliophil who’s also interested in the notebook and trying to claim it for his client.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Part romance, part fascinating historical fiction, and part gothic mystery on the moors, this thrilling story kept me quickly turning the pages. I loved how both timelines were woven together. I’d never thought much about how controversial the platypus is & what a groundbreaking discovery it was. It was such an interesting story that I found myself googling the actual history. I enjoyed the romances in both time periods. Rose’s romance is an instant attraction & Tamlin’s is more of a rivals to lovers. The gothic mystery was surprising & I enjoyed how it fit into the story.
Highly recommend to historical fiction & mystery fans! Be advised that there are a few swearwords & a gothic mystery in the same vein as The Mysteries of Udolpho. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4.5 to 5 stars!
In 1808 Agnes Banks, NSW Australia, young Rose Winton follows her naturalist father as he documents the strange platypus. After years of correspondence with a prominent scientist, he’s invited to travel to England to share his groundbreaking scientific discovery with the Royal Society. But, when Charles is prevented from going, Rose goes in his place. Faced with shocking secrets, the mystery of her mother’s transport to Australia, & trying to convince the Royal Society to accept her father’s meticulous work, Rose finds her only ally is a handsome doctor.
In 1908 Sydney, Australia, Tamsin Alleyn enjoys working in the Public Library after the death of her parents. She’s been studying the correspondence of Charles Winton who’s believed to have been the first to document the platypus. When she’s tasked to retrieve a sketchbook rumored to belong to the naturalist, she soon finds herself embroiled in a mystery. In a race against time to prove the notebook is real, she finds herself at odds with an attractive lawyer & bibliophil who’s also interested in the notebook and trying to claim it for his client.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Part romance, part fascinating historical fiction, and part gothic mystery on the moors, this thrilling story kept me quickly turning the pages. I loved how both timelines were woven together. I’d never thought much about how controversial the platypus is & what a groundbreaking discovery it was. It was such an interesting story that I found myself googling the actual history. I enjoyed the romances in both time periods. Rose’s romance is an instant attraction & Tamlin’s is more of a rivals to lovers. The gothic mystery was surprising & I enjoyed how it fit into the story.
Highly recommend to historical fiction & mystery fans! Be advised that there are a few swearwords & a gothic mystery in the same vein as The Mysteries of Udolpho. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4.5 to 5 stars!
December 8, 2021
Tea Cooper is a lovely writer who knows how to develop intriguing plots, and most certainly doesn't hold back in that regard.
There are many moments in The Naturalist's Daughter that an Australian can identify with, and that holds true to our culture (complete with white-washing). In that way, I believe this to be a bridge between us and the rest of the world.
The women are written to be engaging and intelligent, without compromising the sentiments of the era in which they live. Not something that is easily achieved, and for which Cooper should be highly regarded.
What I didn't expect from the blurb, or enjoy in the slightest, was the interruption of men's points of views (POVs). I picked up this book to read about two women, and the world through their very important eyes. Why would care to listen to men sexualising and infantilising them? Whether this was Cooper's own doing, or pressure from editors/publishers I don't know. I live in hope this is one day rewritten to omit the patriarchal POVs.
A note for other writers: there is a significant difference, as a reader, having a woman's POV filter these attitudes (particularly which such strong characters as these two women) and subjecting the reader to unfiltered patriarchal condescension. In this case, Cooper did a beautiful job of characterizing the patriarchy through the women's eyes, making the men's perspectives intrusive rather than necessary.
Harlequin also needs to lift their game on proofreading, given the typos and unintended ambiguities in dialogue and pronoun ownerships (some passages I had to read three times before I understood who was doing what). These are not, however, a reflection on the author, as independent eyes are needed to identify these things. Given how much money publishers take from authors, I think there is an onus to deliver a polished manuscript.
Mostly though, the white-washed ending failed to celebrate/recognise Indigenous Australian contribution to white-Australian scientific studies, marking the book a disappointing and failed attempt at inclusion bordering on cultural misappropriation.
There are many moments in The Naturalist's Daughter that an Australian can identify with, and that holds true to our culture (complete with white-washing). In that way, I believe this to be a bridge between us and the rest of the world.
The women are written to be engaging and intelligent, without compromising the sentiments of the era in which they live. Not something that is easily achieved, and for which Cooper should be highly regarded.
What I didn't expect from the blurb, or enjoy in the slightest, was the interruption of men's points of views (POVs). I picked up this book to read about two women, and the world through their very important eyes. Why would care to listen to men sexualising and infantilising them? Whether this was Cooper's own doing, or pressure from editors/publishers I don't know. I live in hope this is one day rewritten to omit the patriarchal POVs.
A note for other writers: there is a significant difference, as a reader, having a woman's POV filter these attitudes (particularly which such strong characters as these two women) and subjecting the reader to unfiltered patriarchal condescension. In this case, Cooper did a beautiful job of characterizing the patriarchy through the women's eyes, making the men's perspectives intrusive rather than necessary.
Harlequin also needs to lift their game on proofreading, given the typos and unintended ambiguities in dialogue and pronoun ownerships (some passages I had to read three times before I understood who was doing what). These are not, however, a reflection on the author, as independent eyes are needed to identify these things. Given how much money publishers take from authors, I think there is an onus to deliver a polished manuscript.
Mostly though, the white-washed ending failed to celebrate/recognise Indigenous Australian contribution to white-Australian scientific studies, marking the book a disappointing and failed attempt at inclusion bordering on cultural misappropriation.
October 17, 2024
Forget the bits about the platypus and the scientific search for answers. They are only a backdrop to a story filled with juicy secrets and mind-blowing revelations about a young woman’s past. Told in a dual timeline fashion so synonymous with Tea Cooper, we have a riveting story set once more in Australia and England, of two women, Rose Winton and Tamsin Alleyn, and the hundred year history spanning the gap between them.
When a journal of notes and drawings of the platypus is discovered, dating from years before its official recognition, and reputably written by the famed naturalist Charles Winton, it sets in motion of a series of events that would rock the scientific world if it was to see the light of day. Instead, it turns the life of one woman completely upside down with dark, terrible secrets of the past… and present.
The Naturalist’s Daughter is a wonderful creation by Tea Cooper she has spun out of faerie dust and the little known history of the famed platypus, a creature as elusive and mysterious as the dark tale in this novel.
When a journal of notes and drawings of the platypus is discovered, dating from years before its official recognition, and reputably written by the famed naturalist Charles Winton, it sets in motion of a series of events that would rock the scientific world if it was to see the light of day. Instead, it turns the life of one woman completely upside down with dark, terrible secrets of the past… and present.
The Naturalist’s Daughter is a wonderful creation by Tea Cooper she has spun out of faerie dust and the little known history of the famed platypus, a creature as elusive and mysterious as the dark tale in this novel.
September 4, 2024
A dual timeline historical set against two time periods in Australian history featuring the fascinating platypus and an intrepid pair of women at the heart of the story. I read my first Tea Cooper when I reveled in her The Fossil Hunter. I saw something along much the same lines in The Naturalist’s Daughter and my instincts were bang on.
The Naturalist’s Daughter had split times a century apart both in a historical setting. I love how the author full immersed me in the historical setting and main character backgrounds of both timelines, Regency and Edwardian. I was more into the older story with Rose, but I also enjoyed Tamsin’s search. For me the true main character was the amazing platypus or Mallalong, as the Aboriginal people called it. I felt drawn to Rose and her need to fulfill her father’s dream of presenting to the Royal Society, but she was a woman in Regency London and the platypus defied animal classification so she was climbing uphill on that one because the creature was considered a hoax and some stitched together and stuffed specimen to fool the credulous. She is determined, but out of her element. Rose’s story dropped off at the good part, of course, so I had to wait and see what Tamsin uncovered when sketches appear once again and are at the heart of the mystery researcher Tamsin is determined to uncover when she comes to the Hunter Valley.
There was a lovely slow burn sweet romance and I enjoyed Tamsin’s rivalry with the lawyer also interested in the sketches and their provenance. I had my suspicions about what happened in the end and I was mostly right as there were some good hints along the way.
Again, I was thrilled to delve into Australian history and the natural history relating to the platypus. I really do need to get to Tea Cooper’s backlist at some point. Those who enjoy historical fiction with a strong slow burn romance motif are the target crowd.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy from Bethany House to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Aug 28th for the Austenprose Tour.
The Naturalist’s Daughter had split times a century apart both in a historical setting. I love how the author full immersed me in the historical setting and main character backgrounds of both timelines, Regency and Edwardian. I was more into the older story with Rose, but I also enjoyed Tamsin’s search. For me the true main character was the amazing platypus or Mallalong, as the Aboriginal people called it. I felt drawn to Rose and her need to fulfill her father’s dream of presenting to the Royal Society, but she was a woman in Regency London and the platypus defied animal classification so she was climbing uphill on that one because the creature was considered a hoax and some stitched together and stuffed specimen to fool the credulous. She is determined, but out of her element. Rose’s story dropped off at the good part, of course, so I had to wait and see what Tamsin uncovered when sketches appear once again and are at the heart of the mystery researcher Tamsin is determined to uncover when she comes to the Hunter Valley.
There was a lovely slow burn sweet romance and I enjoyed Tamsin’s rivalry with the lawyer also interested in the sketches and their provenance. I had my suspicions about what happened in the end and I was mostly right as there were some good hints along the way.
Again, I was thrilled to delve into Australian history and the natural history relating to the platypus. I really do need to get to Tea Cooper’s backlist at some point. Those who enjoy historical fiction with a strong slow burn romance motif are the target crowd.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy from Bethany House to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Aug 28th for the Austenprose Tour.
August 20, 2024
Fascinating dual time story about a Naturalist and his daughter studying the platypus in Australia in 1801. Their sketchbook documents the discovery and habits of the odd animal and this becomes the object of controversy 100 years later. There are gothic overtones in the 1900 part of the story and a mystery to be solved about the rightful owner of the historic book.
I liked the descriptions of the life of the naturalist and his family. The more recent time period was interesting because of the elements of tracking down the history of the sketchbook and the people who played a part in keeping it safe for 100 years. The way all the pieces came together was tense and exciting. The romance was sweet and the hero was trying to respect the heroine while attempting to fulfill his commitment to his employer.
Be aware this is a general market publication and has a few swear words. The writing was enjoyable and the setting was unique. The author captured the flavor of the times. It was also enjoyable because it was a story about antique books with a mystery to solve.
*I received a complimentary e copy of this title from Harper Muse via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
I liked the descriptions of the life of the naturalist and his family. The more recent time period was interesting because of the elements of tracking down the history of the sketchbook and the people who played a part in keeping it safe for 100 years. The way all the pieces came together was tense and exciting. The romance was sweet and the hero was trying to respect the heroine while attempting to fulfill his commitment to his employer.
Be aware this is a general market publication and has a few swear words. The writing was enjoyable and the setting was unique. The author captured the flavor of the times. It was also enjoyable because it was a story about antique books with a mystery to solve.
*I received a complimentary e copy of this title from Harper Muse via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
May 1, 2018
I read some of it and didn't like it. I have left it. I didn't like the style of writing.
July 10, 2022
I struggled with this book initially as the constant blushing annoyed me. Once I reminded myself that the setting is a time when women were viewed as 'less than' and the behaviour was quite appropriate, I was able to actually enjoy the story. Ultimately it was a great read. A good flow between the two timelines, some intrigue, some romance, a particularly annoying character that only added to the story.
August 23, 2024
This story is told in dual timelines in 1808 Agnes Banks and 1908 Sydney, Australia. The former timeline follows Rose, the daughter of naturalist Charles Winton, as she assists her father with his local studies of the platypus. After a platypus incident, Charles sends Rose in his stead to present his scientific research in London. The latter storyline follows Tamsin who is sent on a mission to retrieve a donation to the library where she works. Unfortunately, the heir to the estate disputes that the book was donated and wants to sell it. Tamsin must team up with her lawyer to divine the provenance and worth of the book. I switched between the eBook and the audio for this one. The audio is narrated by Corinne Davies, and she does a fantastic job with both timelines.
I found the study of the platypus in this story to be fascinating. I’m a science and nature geek. There was quite the historical controversy over the classification of the platypus, not to mention those that believed the creature was a myth and that the so-called scientists living in a “land of criminals and uneducated natives” had amalgamated various animals into one to pull off an unbelievable hoax. I’ll admit that the mobs of angry men coming after Rose in London after Winton’s presentation seemed a little melodramatic for a science convention to me.
Nevertheless, I was affronted on the part of Rose as a woman being unable to present her father’s research. There is also a whole host of issues going on with this family, since Rose finds out that her origins aren’t what she believed growing up and I really enjoyed her family storyline. She meets Julian, the brother she didn’t know she had in England, as well as falls in love with the Finneas, who was raised alongside him. Julian annoyed me from the beginning. I found Finneas a little too timid or maybe too gentlemanly. I felt like he needed to stand up to Julian more, but he eventually does the right thing, maybe. I was a little disappointed in the abrupt end to this storyline.
Alternating with the former timeline, Tamsin is researching the alleged book donated to the Public Library alongside Shaw. Shaw is working on the case at his father’s behest though he would rather pursue his own dreams of becoming an antiquarian bookseller. His father is adamant that the book be sold, not donated, and that Shaw do everything in his power to make that happen, regardless of the legality. Tamsin and Shaw uncover the truth about the book and what happened to Rose Winton after the events in London a century earlier, as well as a personal connection to the story.
I really enjoyed both timelines in this book and recommend it to historical fiction lovers with an affinity for Australia. Or the platypus. LOL
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Muse for a copy provided for an honest review.
I found the study of the platypus in this story to be fascinating. I’m a science and nature geek. There was quite the historical controversy over the classification of the platypus, not to mention those that believed the creature was a myth and that the so-called scientists living in a “land of criminals and uneducated natives” had amalgamated various animals into one to pull off an unbelievable hoax. I’ll admit that the mobs of angry men coming after Rose in London after Winton’s presentation seemed a little melodramatic for a science convention to me.
Nevertheless, I was affronted on the part of Rose as a woman being unable to present her father’s research. There is also a whole host of issues going on with this family, since Rose finds out that her origins aren’t what she believed growing up and I really enjoyed her family storyline. She meets Julian, the brother she didn’t know she had in England, as well as falls in love with the Finneas, who was raised alongside him. Julian annoyed me from the beginning. I found Finneas a little too timid or maybe too gentlemanly. I felt like he needed to stand up to Julian more, but he eventually does the right thing, maybe. I was a little disappointed in the abrupt end to this storyline.
Alternating with the former timeline, Tamsin is researching the alleged book donated to the Public Library alongside Shaw. Shaw is working on the case at his father’s behest though he would rather pursue his own dreams of becoming an antiquarian bookseller. His father is adamant that the book be sold, not donated, and that Shaw do everything in his power to make that happen, regardless of the legality. Tamsin and Shaw uncover the truth about the book and what happened to Rose Winton after the events in London a century earlier, as well as a personal connection to the story.
I really enjoyed both timelines in this book and recommend it to historical fiction lovers with an affinity for Australia. Or the platypus. LOL
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Muse for a copy provided for an honest review.
September 18, 2019
This is a wonderful novel, set in Australia and England, about two extraordinary young women, a century apart, who are embroiled in the great scientific mystery of the Antipodes that was the platypus.
In 1808, young Rose Winton adores working with her father, Charles, studying and creating detailed drawings of the platypus in its natural environment. Clever, quick-witted and resourceful, Rose is a wonderful foil and encouragement to her kind, studious father who is supported in his research, in part, by a meagre sum of money from none other than the great botanist and scientist, Joseph Banks in England. When an opportunity to present his findings to the Royal Society in London arrives, Charles Winton is thrilled – at last, all his hard work and dedication will reap the rewards and recognition he deserves. But when something happens that prevents him going, he sends Rose, equipped with his glorious and detailed sketchbook and findings, in his stead. Filled with equal parts excitement and trepidation, little does Rose know that her journey to the “mother-country” will be just that – a dangerous journey into a past that she had no knowledge of and which her mother, transported to the colonies years earlier, has tried hard to forget.
At the newly established Mitchell library in Sydney 1908, Tamsin Alleyn has been tasked with proving the provenance of an old sketchbook that is going to be donated by a reclusive woman living in the Hunter Valley. Sent to see the old woman, Tamsin is thrown into the company of lawyer and wanna-be antiquarian book dealer, Shaw Everdene, and his clients, people with a vested interest in not only the sketch-book but discovering the origins and real owner as well. What Tamsin learns – about the book, but also about Shaw, herself and her past, simply deepens the mystery of not only the sketchbook, but those who filled it with their studies and what happened to them so long ago...
Once I started this book, I found it hard to put down. The settings are wonderfully created, whether it’s the Hunter Valley, early 1900s Sydney or London and Cornwall in the 1800s. The characters are as vividly drawn as the sketches of the platypus and the small but rich details of life on the land and in the city and the spaces between captivatingly rendered. History is brought to life in this cleverly plotted book, as is early Australia and the relationships between the Indigenous population, the land and the white settlers, but never at the expense of a rollicking good story. I stayed up till the wee hours to finish this marvellous novel and it was worth the thick head and bleary-eyes today. I look forward to reading more of Cooper’s books.
In 1808, young Rose Winton adores working with her father, Charles, studying and creating detailed drawings of the platypus in its natural environment. Clever, quick-witted and resourceful, Rose is a wonderful foil and encouragement to her kind, studious father who is supported in his research, in part, by a meagre sum of money from none other than the great botanist and scientist, Joseph Banks in England. When an opportunity to present his findings to the Royal Society in London arrives, Charles Winton is thrilled – at last, all his hard work and dedication will reap the rewards and recognition he deserves. But when something happens that prevents him going, he sends Rose, equipped with his glorious and detailed sketchbook and findings, in his stead. Filled with equal parts excitement and trepidation, little does Rose know that her journey to the “mother-country” will be just that – a dangerous journey into a past that she had no knowledge of and which her mother, transported to the colonies years earlier, has tried hard to forget.
At the newly established Mitchell library in Sydney 1908, Tamsin Alleyn has been tasked with proving the provenance of an old sketchbook that is going to be donated by a reclusive woman living in the Hunter Valley. Sent to see the old woman, Tamsin is thrown into the company of lawyer and wanna-be antiquarian book dealer, Shaw Everdene, and his clients, people with a vested interest in not only the sketch-book but discovering the origins and real owner as well. What Tamsin learns – about the book, but also about Shaw, herself and her past, simply deepens the mystery of not only the sketchbook, but those who filled it with their studies and what happened to them so long ago...
Once I started this book, I found it hard to put down. The settings are wonderfully created, whether it’s the Hunter Valley, early 1900s Sydney or London and Cornwall in the 1800s. The characters are as vividly drawn as the sketches of the platypus and the small but rich details of life on the land and in the city and the spaces between captivatingly rendered. History is brought to life in this cleverly plotted book, as is early Australia and the relationships between the Indigenous population, the land and the white settlers, but never at the expense of a rollicking good story. I stayed up till the wee hours to finish this marvellous novel and it was worth the thick head and bleary-eyes today. I look forward to reading more of Cooper’s books.
January 7, 2018
5* http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
Having been impressed with Tea’s, ‘Currency Lass’, I was happy to see her new tale, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’, tackling strong female historical figures once again. This truly is such a heartfelt story and I thoroughly enjoyed both dual time narratives that were so very cleverly linked.
Set one hundred years apart, both Rose in 1808 and Tasmin in 1908 have much to offer the reader with their courage and tenacity. Rose’s story is heart wrenching as she travels to England to represent her father and not only face humiliation but also conflicting familial connections (the secondary story is in itself is quite fascinating - Tea gives us a little gothic mystery on the English moors - I mean truly - this tale has it all!) Tasmin in 1908 and her pursuit of discovering the truth, is both admirable for a woman of that age and the intrigue and mystery will grip you to the very end.
Then there is the historical story behind the platypus - I learnt so much, it was fascinating to read about this unusual Australian mammal. The way Tea interweaved fact and captivating fiction with both the historical debate over its existence right down to its extraordinary habits and characteristics is highly commendable. Rich in both intriguing historical and scientific facts, you will cheer for both the discoveries and lament the setbacks.
This is really a clever story that will have you piecing together all the puzzle pieces that have been masterfully crafted by Tea. I was captivated by not only the strength and determination of the two women, but the cast of secondary characters that range from their respective beau’s, to the parentage and familial relationships - both being deep and meaningfully conveyed.
Congratulations Tea on once again producing such a spellbinding and masterfully crafted tale of mystery and intrigue that will see the reader journeying side by side with Rose and Tasmin to firstly uncover and then piece together the puzzle that is, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
Having been impressed with Tea’s, ‘Currency Lass’, I was happy to see her new tale, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’, tackling strong female historical figures once again. This truly is such a heartfelt story and I thoroughly enjoyed both dual time narratives that were so very cleverly linked.
Set one hundred years apart, both Rose in 1808 and Tasmin in 1908 have much to offer the reader with their courage and tenacity. Rose’s story is heart wrenching as she travels to England to represent her father and not only face humiliation but also conflicting familial connections (the secondary story is in itself is quite fascinating - Tea gives us a little gothic mystery on the English moors - I mean truly - this tale has it all!) Tasmin in 1908 and her pursuit of discovering the truth, is both admirable for a woman of that age and the intrigue and mystery will grip you to the very end.
Then there is the historical story behind the platypus - I learnt so much, it was fascinating to read about this unusual Australian mammal. The way Tea interweaved fact and captivating fiction with both the historical debate over its existence right down to its extraordinary habits and characteristics is highly commendable. Rich in both intriguing historical and scientific facts, you will cheer for both the discoveries and lament the setbacks.
This is really a clever story that will have you piecing together all the puzzle pieces that have been masterfully crafted by Tea. I was captivated by not only the strength and determination of the two women, but the cast of secondary characters that range from their respective beau’s, to the parentage and familial relationships - both being deep and meaningfully conveyed.
Congratulations Tea on once again producing such a spellbinding and masterfully crafted tale of mystery and intrigue that will see the reader journeying side by side with Rose and Tasmin to firstly uncover and then piece together the puzzle that is, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
January 2, 2018
A fabulous journey into the nineteenth century world of scientific and naturalist discoveries, a time when The Royal society in London, headed by Sir Joseph Banks, was at its most powerful. It was men who understood the complexities of science, not women, but Tea Cooper has challenged this erroneous belief with her story of Rose Winton and Tamsin Alleyn. At first it was difficult to know whether this was a love story, or a story of two unconventional, determined women fighting for recognition in the midst of prejudice and sexism. On finishing the book I decided it was both and that’s what I so loved about it.
It begins in Australia in 1808 with Charles Winton’s obsession with studying the ornithorhynchus animus, also known as the platypus. His daughter, Rose shares his obsession and together they study and record in words and pictures the movement and habits of this strange animal. One hundred years later a young woman researcher, Tamsin Alleyn, receives documents from The Royal Society in London which hint at journals and records kept by Charles Winton which she believes hold answers to one of the great natural mysteries of the time.
When a message is received at the Mitchell Library bequeathing them a journal belonging to Charles Winton, Tamsin is sent to a small country town to retrieve it. A continuous series of events prevent her taking possession of the journal, which increases her determination to uncover the mystery surrounding this book. The story swings between two centuries and two women, Rose and Tamsin, as each follow their passions – Rose’s to convince the Royal Society her father has not fabricated a hoax and Tamsin’s to pursue possession of the valuable journal and unearth Rose’s story.
This is a book rich with history, intriguing scientific facts, twists and turns and a satisfying ending. The characters are complex and well developed and the surroundings intimately portrayed. I felt as if I was on a quest with the characters to discover all the half-hidden, long forgotten pieces of an enthralling puzzle and couldn’t stop reading until they were all in place. A definite must-read.
It begins in Australia in 1808 with Charles Winton’s obsession with studying the ornithorhynchus animus, also known as the platypus. His daughter, Rose shares his obsession and together they study and record in words and pictures the movement and habits of this strange animal. One hundred years later a young woman researcher, Tamsin Alleyn, receives documents from The Royal Society in London which hint at journals and records kept by Charles Winton which she believes hold answers to one of the great natural mysteries of the time.
When a message is received at the Mitchell Library bequeathing them a journal belonging to Charles Winton, Tamsin is sent to a small country town to retrieve it. A continuous series of events prevent her taking possession of the journal, which increases her determination to uncover the mystery surrounding this book. The story swings between two centuries and two women, Rose and Tamsin, as each follow their passions – Rose’s to convince the Royal Society her father has not fabricated a hoax and Tamsin’s to pursue possession of the valuable journal and unearth Rose’s story.
This is a book rich with history, intriguing scientific facts, twists and turns and a satisfying ending. The characters are complex and well developed and the surroundings intimately portrayed. I felt as if I was on a quest with the characters to discover all the half-hidden, long forgotten pieces of an enthralling puzzle and couldn’t stop reading until they were all in place. A definite must-read.
August 21, 2023
I am very sorry to have rated this book so poorly, really I was expecting a very fascinating unique read but was wholly disappointed with it by the end.
Being an Australian currently residing in the Hunter Valley I did feel certain kin with many parts of the book, especially while Tamsin is in Wollombi, a town not 30km from where I sit at this moment. However, that does not excuse the rather poor quality of writing this novel holds. The storyline could have turned into an absolutely brilliant novel yet I found myself getting lost and confused while reading, having to backtrack several times to find who was talking at what time and what was actually occurring.
I did enjoy the multiple perspectives but I found it much more satisfactory when only Tamsin and Rose were narrating, the addition of the male characters added too much backstory and trying to keep track of who thought what of what situation became tiring (especially when the characters' perspectives changed so much throughout the novel).
I also found the inclusion of long descriptions in the form of Shaw's work, or Rose's beliefs slightly boring, it left the viewer suspended a bit too long.
As a finished product, I was much happier with the beginning than the end and was rather tired of the story by the finale, all my questions were also not answered by the end and I was forced to be content with it.
All in all, with a bit of work this novel could be amazing, it was not however and although I find some use of perspective, the time, historical truth and others very interesting, the writing itself was poor and I was not at all impressed.
P.S. I was very disappointed with the end result showing that the tale itself was barely at all linked with historical events and facts, but that was just my own belief and has not impacted my overall rating at all.
Being an Australian currently residing in the Hunter Valley I did feel certain kin with many parts of the book, especially while Tamsin is in Wollombi, a town not 30km from where I sit at this moment. However, that does not excuse the rather poor quality of writing this novel holds. The storyline could have turned into an absolutely brilliant novel yet I found myself getting lost and confused while reading, having to backtrack several times to find who was talking at what time and what was actually occurring.
I did enjoy the multiple perspectives but I found it much more satisfactory when only Tamsin and Rose were narrating, the addition of the male characters added too much backstory and trying to keep track of who thought what of what situation became tiring (especially when the characters' perspectives changed so much throughout the novel).
I also found the inclusion of long descriptions in the form of Shaw's work, or Rose's beliefs slightly boring, it left the viewer suspended a bit too long.
As a finished product, I was much happier with the beginning than the end and was rather tired of the story by the finale, all my questions were also not answered by the end and I was forced to be content with it.
All in all, with a bit of work this novel could be amazing, it was not however and although I find some use of perspective, the time, historical truth and others very interesting, the writing itself was poor and I was not at all impressed.
P.S. I was very disappointed with the end result showing that the tale itself was barely at all linked with historical events and facts, but that was just my own belief and has not impacted my overall rating at all.
November 30, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this Australian historical novel which centres around the western world’s discovery and scientific documentation of the rare and elusive platypus. Early reports of which were received with disbelief and scorn by members of London’s Royal Society, headed by a supportive, but ailing, Sir Joseph Banks. Intertwined storylines, a century apart, feature two strong female characters who are both ahead of their times. Rose Winton, in the early 1800s shares her father’s passion for this mysterious creature, unique in the animal world. She helps him to create a comprehensive record of the platypus’s appearance, behaviours and characteristics. 100 years later, librarian Tamsin Alleyn is assigned the task of authenticating Winton’s sketchbook, a task that throws up more riddles than answers. All aspects of this book are well done - the history, the scientific endeavour, the landscapes in both Australia and England, the characters are well-developed and everything ties together with a satisfying conclusion.
August 26, 2024
I found this book to be absolutely captivating, with its skillfully crafted characters, dual timelines, and historical aspects that all came together in a satisfying conclusion. The mysteries were resolved in unexpected ways, and I was kept on the edge of my seat until the very end. A truly engaging read!
I highly recommend it to historical fiction lovers, those with an interest in women and science, and Australian history.
I received a copy from Harper Muse, Austenprose PR, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
I highly recommend it to historical fiction lovers, those with an interest in women and science, and Australian history.
I received a copy from Harper Muse, Austenprose PR, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
April 2, 2025
This is my first Tea Cooper book I have read, and certainly won't be the last! I have been wanting to read her books for awhile, since I have always been fascinated by Australia. This had such a unique storyline. A mix of history, romance and intrigue. I was thoroughly invested in the story from page one and I just couldn't stop. It was so close to a five star read but the ending was a little hard to follow for me. Other than that I loved it! The characters, setting and romance were great!
4.5⭐
*Thank you to #netgalley for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
4.5⭐
*Thank you to #netgalley for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
October 7, 2024
Tea Cooper is an exquisite historical fiction writer. Set in Australia and consisting of duel time periods, two extraordinary woman take center stage. The characters are well-drawn and the plot moves quickly with a few nice twists at the end. I loved learning about the platypus. For fans of Kristin Hannah and Martha Hall Kelly.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Harper Muse and Tea Cooper for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Harper Muse and Tea Cooper for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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