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The Rhino Keeper
Based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who traveled with an Indian rhinoceros called Clara across 18th century Europe, THE RHINO KEEPER evokes both the thrill of discovery in the archives and the wonder felt by a world in which no European had seen a living rhinoceros.
2022 – College student Andrea Clarkson uncovers a historical mystery while studying abroad in Holland. From hidden desk drawers come unusual historical documents featuring a rhinoceros. On a lichen-covered eighteenth-century grave, the same animal is carved. When an expanding river forces exhumation, what she finds buried there is life-changing. Andrea faces her nightmares to retrieve what a grave robber steals: valuable proof of a long-forgotten history.
1740 – Ship captain Douwemout van der Meer has something not seen in two hundred the only rhino in Europe, called Clara. Douwemout and Clara tour Europe, enthralling peasants and queens, hoping to change popular views that rhinos are man-eating beasts. Absolute wonder follows, but when a priest sees idol worship and becomes hell-bent on destroying her, Clara, Douwe, and the lives of her bonded caretakers are at risk.
As Douwe becomes protectively dedicated to adventuring with Clara, unexpected love finds him, and his heart starts to tear. Will he choose a life with a traveling wonder-beast forever, or can love exist in many forms for the rhino keeper?
2022 – College student Andrea Clarkson uncovers a historical mystery while studying abroad in Holland. From hidden desk drawers come unusual historical documents featuring a rhinoceros. On a lichen-covered eighteenth-century grave, the same animal is carved. When an expanding river forces exhumation, what she finds buried there is life-changing. Andrea faces her nightmares to retrieve what a grave robber steals: valuable proof of a long-forgotten history.
1740 – Ship captain Douwemout van der Meer has something not seen in two hundred the only rhino in Europe, called Clara. Douwemout and Clara tour Europe, enthralling peasants and queens, hoping to change popular views that rhinos are man-eating beasts. Absolute wonder follows, but when a priest sees idol worship and becomes hell-bent on destroying her, Clara, Douwe, and the lives of her bonded caretakers are at risk.
As Douwe becomes protectively dedicated to adventuring with Clara, unexpected love finds him, and his heart starts to tear. Will he choose a life with a traveling wonder-beast forever, or can love exist in many forms for the rhino keeper?
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2024
292 people are currently reading
11983 people want to read
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October 11, 2024
In a Nutshell: A dual-timeline novel, with the historical plot based on a rhino being taken from India to Europe in the 18th century. Great story, average character development, good research for some of the content, too much telling instead of showing. Might work better for you if you prioritise the plot more than the writing style, because the (historical) storyline is amazing. This is an outlier review.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
PSA: Don’t read the Goodreads blurb. It reveals almost the entire plot!
Bookish Yays:
🦏 The prologue. It is so refreshing to see a FMC know her mind, not accept so many red flags in a relationship, and declare a vehement ‘No’ to the question asked. (If only she had stayed this sensible throughout the book!)
🦏 The unusual historical story, which is based on actual events. A part of me was heartbroken to see an Indian rhino taken from her homeland this way, but we can’t change history, only learn from it. No use applying modern sensibilities to the 18th century, when it was common for animals to be hunted for fun or to be shipped abroad for the entertainment of white Europeans. From all accounts, it does look like Douwe took good care of Clara, so that’s that.
🦏 Clara the rhino. I hate her name (an Indian rhino named Clara – sheesh!) but love everything else about her. Through Clara’s arc, we learn several fascinating facts about rhinos and their behaviour.
🦏 Even beyond the rhino trivia, there are many historical facts and personalities integrated into the plot. This makes the story feel even more authentic.
🦏 Douwe and Zubin are interesting characters. An unusual pair because of their differing ages, nationalities, and social status, but united in their fondness for Clara.
🦏 The reference to the Dutch colonial rule in India. Almost all stories set in this country during the colonial years focus on the “British Raj”, forgetting that the Dutch, the French, and the Portuguese (who were the first to arrive) were also present in India around the same time, albeit colonising relatively smaller territories. This story doesn’t focus much on the history of the Dutch rule, but it does offer some glimpse of their time here.
🦏 The ship journey carrying Clara from Calcutta, India to Rotterdam in the Netherlands. This was in the pre-Suez canal days, so the route went around the tricky Cape of Good Hope. The voyage is captured really well, be it the navigation of the ship, the challenges of such a long travel period, and the employee and living conditions.
🦏 The ending of the historical timeline. Somewhat bittersweet but works nicely for the plot.
🦏 The author's note, which elucidates her writing choices excellently. She’s a historian, so it is not a surprise to see her get the historical aspects related to Clara and Douwe’s journey right.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🐐 As mentioned above, the research of Clara and Douwe’s story is impeccable. However, the India-related segments aren’t that accurate. Zubin’s tone of speaking isn’t as deferential to Douwe as a boy in his position would typically use. Moreover, no Indian servant boy would call Sichterman, his employer and a high-ranking naval officer, by his surname. There’s no word called ‘kanasmah’; the plot possibly wanted to use ‘khansamah’, which means ‘steward’ or ‘butler’. Indians are not vegans but vegetarians. (And this isn’t even true of all Indians. More than half the country ate/eats nonvegetarian food in some form or the other.) There is a subsequence related to an Indian statue, where all clues point at the statue being that of Goddess Kali, but the the characters confidently declare it to be that of Durga. (Technically, both are avatars of the same goddess, but their physical manifestation is quite distinct and not substitutable with each other.)
I cannot make any declarations about the accuracy of the Dutch rep, but honestly, if there were so many errors in the Indian depiction, it generates doubts about how precise the Dutch portrayal would be. But one thing I can highlight: Douwe’s practice of referring to a married woman (and a stranger to him) by her first name immediately after their introduction seems anachronous to the era.
🐐 The historical story is the main attraction, though the plot gets somewhat episodic and slightly repetitive after a point, detailing the various places and people Douwe visits with Clara and Zubin, and the local reaction to the playful and perennially hungry rhino. The contemporary story starts off well, but functions mainly as a framework to keep the past story going. It doesn’t contribute much value to the overall proceedings other than that singular purpose of filling in the gaps in the historical events.
Bookish Nays:
🦴 Let’s face it. This is an overly romanticised portrayal of colonialism. Not a single derogatory remark or corporal action against Zubin by virtue of his racial background? Every Indian being met and approached by the whites as an equal? Impossible!
🦴 Andrea’s thinking seems to be rather black and white, and she is quite judgemental as well. Something about her character rubbed me off the wrong way. I didn’t get why she had so much trauma about taxidermy as a whole, when it is only certain taxidermy practices that are ethically wrong. She also seems surprisingly naive about the historical treatment of animals, especially considering her eidetic memory and educational background.
🦴 The character development in the contemporary timeline is weak. The content reveals only the bare necessary details about their personalities, so we don’t see any depth to their speech or actions. The way they handed the historical artefacts left me cringing. Also, it is common knowledge (at least among educated historians and archaeologists) that exotic animals were carried off by traders to Europe for the entertainment of the wealthy, so I didn’t get why this team acts almost surprised to learn such details. Plus, we get just the barebones of Andrea’s backstory, which is strange considering that she is the pivotal character of this timeline. Andrea’s mom is often mentioned but we don’t even know her name or where she stays or how exactly she is disabled.
🦴 There is a lot of telling instead of showing in both timelines. The random insertions of outfit or physical trait descriptions, even in between conversations, breaks the flow of the scene. In the historical timeline, there is an overdetailing of the clothing and the architecture. Plus, emotions are highly (melo)dramatized. It is especially odd to see words like ‘blushing’, ‘trembling’ and ‘shivering’ applied to (historical) men’s reactions in perfectly ordinary situations.
🦴 There are sequences in both timelines that focus on physical attraction between characters not in a relationship. These are quite forced in and awkward to read. Imagine being in between a serious professional discussion with your new colleagues and suddenly staring at a man's "full lips" and feeling “heat rise in the belly." If a male character had been written this way, it would have been a big red flag against him. Why are women characters allowed to get away with such objectifying behaviour? Romance novels can get away with such questionable writing choices, but not serious fiction.
🦴 The final section of the contemporary timeline jumps the shark by opting for a sudden swing in genre. This was out of the blue, and didn’t make any sense overall.
Bookish Doubt:
🤔 Can a body buried in the 1770s (in a coffin) last till the 21st century? I was surprised when one of the graves exhumed by Andrea’s team revealed an almost intact skeleton with even some patches of their clothing left. Considering that this cemetery is in a flood-prone area, it was slightly unconvincing. But I’m not sure about the embalming practices of the Dutch or the sturdiness of their coffins in the 18th century, hence this is a doubt and not a nay.
All in all, this is still a commendable debut that doesn’t overload my proverbial kitchen sink with too many themes but keeps its focus (mostly) straight. In all honesty, I am wary of books set in historical India and written by Western authors because the depiction is almost always flawed and/or whitewashed. But my curiosity to learn more about Clara made me succumb this once, and in this aspect, I was well rewarded.
Mine is an outlier review. The fact is that most readers mainly look at the plot. So the areas that I found lacking might not bother many, as the rating clearly proves. Most of the issues I had with the plot could have been resolved by a round of developmental or proofing edits.
Recommended (though not with gusto) to those looking for an unusual historical story based on true events and are not too finicky about writing style.
2.5 stars, rounding up for Clara.
My thanks to History Through Fiction for providing the DRC of “The Rhino Keeper” via NetGalley and LibraryThing. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
2022. When American college student Andrea, studying abroad in Holland, discovers an old document in a secret compartment of her dorm desk, she is surprised to see it mention a rhino, which is not an animal found naturally in Europe. While working with her team exhuming some old graves because of a flood threat, she stumbles on to another unexpected rhino-related discovery. What happens next?
1740. Dutch ship captain Douwemout van der Meer (known as Douwe) has often traded Indian goods and even exotic animals from Calcutta (present-day Kolkata) to Europe. But he certainly doesn’t expect being given charge of an orphaned rhino calf called Clara. Surmounting many challenges, Douwe manages to take Clara to Europe with the help of his Indian lackey, a Bengali boy named Zubin. What happens next?
The story comes to us in the alternating third-person perspectives of Andrea and Douwe.
PSA: Don’t read the Goodreads blurb. It reveals almost the entire plot!
Bookish Yays:
🦏 The prologue. It is so refreshing to see a FMC know her mind, not accept so many red flags in a relationship, and declare a vehement ‘No’ to the question asked. (If only she had stayed this sensible throughout the book!)
🦏 The unusual historical story, which is based on actual events. A part of me was heartbroken to see an Indian rhino taken from her homeland this way, but we can’t change history, only learn from it. No use applying modern sensibilities to the 18th century, when it was common for animals to be hunted for fun or to be shipped abroad for the entertainment of white Europeans. From all accounts, it does look like Douwe took good care of Clara, so that’s that.
🦏 Clara the rhino. I hate her name (an Indian rhino named Clara – sheesh!) but love everything else about her. Through Clara’s arc, we learn several fascinating facts about rhinos and their behaviour.
🦏 Even beyond the rhino trivia, there are many historical facts and personalities integrated into the plot. This makes the story feel even more authentic.
🦏 Douwe and Zubin are interesting characters. An unusual pair because of their differing ages, nationalities, and social status, but united in their fondness for Clara.
🦏 The reference to the Dutch colonial rule in India. Almost all stories set in this country during the colonial years focus on the “British Raj”, forgetting that the Dutch, the French, and the Portuguese (who were the first to arrive) were also present in India around the same time, albeit colonising relatively smaller territories. This story doesn’t focus much on the history of the Dutch rule, but it does offer some glimpse of their time here.
🦏 The ship journey carrying Clara from Calcutta, India to Rotterdam in the Netherlands. This was in the pre-Suez canal days, so the route went around the tricky Cape of Good Hope. The voyage is captured really well, be it the navigation of the ship, the challenges of such a long travel period, and the employee and living conditions.
🦏 The ending of the historical timeline. Somewhat bittersweet but works nicely for the plot.
🦏 The author's note, which elucidates her writing choices excellently. She’s a historian, so it is not a surprise to see her get the historical aspects related to Clara and Douwe’s journey right.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🐐 As mentioned above, the research of Clara and Douwe’s story is impeccable. However, the India-related segments aren’t that accurate. Zubin’s tone of speaking isn’t as deferential to Douwe as a boy in his position would typically use. Moreover, no Indian servant boy would call Sichterman, his employer and a high-ranking naval officer, by his surname. There’s no word called ‘kanasmah’; the plot possibly wanted to use ‘khansamah’, which means ‘steward’ or ‘butler’. Indians are not vegans but vegetarians. (And this isn’t even true of all Indians. More than half the country ate/eats nonvegetarian food in some form or the other.) There is a subsequence related to an Indian statue, where all clues point at the statue being that of Goddess Kali, but the the characters confidently declare it to be that of Durga. (Technically, both are avatars of the same goddess, but their physical manifestation is quite distinct and not substitutable with each other.)
I cannot make any declarations about the accuracy of the Dutch rep, but honestly, if there were so many errors in the Indian depiction, it generates doubts about how precise the Dutch portrayal would be. But one thing I can highlight: Douwe’s practice of referring to a married woman (and a stranger to him) by her first name immediately after their introduction seems anachronous to the era.
🐐 The historical story is the main attraction, though the plot gets somewhat episodic and slightly repetitive after a point, detailing the various places and people Douwe visits with Clara and Zubin, and the local reaction to the playful and perennially hungry rhino. The contemporary story starts off well, but functions mainly as a framework to keep the past story going. It doesn’t contribute much value to the overall proceedings other than that singular purpose of filling in the gaps in the historical events.
Bookish Nays:
🦴 Let’s face it. This is an overly romanticised portrayal of colonialism. Not a single derogatory remark or corporal action against Zubin by virtue of his racial background? Every Indian being met and approached by the whites as an equal? Impossible!
🦴 Andrea’s thinking seems to be rather black and white, and she is quite judgemental as well. Something about her character rubbed me off the wrong way. I didn’t get why she had so much trauma about taxidermy as a whole, when it is only certain taxidermy practices that are ethically wrong. She also seems surprisingly naive about the historical treatment of animals, especially considering her eidetic memory and educational background.
🦴 The character development in the contemporary timeline is weak. The content reveals only the bare necessary details about their personalities, so we don’t see any depth to their speech or actions. The way they handed the historical artefacts left me cringing. Also, it is common knowledge (at least among educated historians and archaeologists) that exotic animals were carried off by traders to Europe for the entertainment of the wealthy, so I didn’t get why this team acts almost surprised to learn such details. Plus, we get just the barebones of Andrea’s backstory, which is strange considering that she is the pivotal character of this timeline. Andrea’s mom is often mentioned but we don’t even know her name or where she stays or how exactly she is disabled.
🦴 There is a lot of telling instead of showing in both timelines. The random insertions of outfit or physical trait descriptions, even in between conversations, breaks the flow of the scene. In the historical timeline, there is an overdetailing of the clothing and the architecture. Plus, emotions are highly (melo)dramatized. It is especially odd to see words like ‘blushing’, ‘trembling’ and ‘shivering’ applied to (historical) men’s reactions in perfectly ordinary situations.
🦴 There are sequences in both timelines that focus on physical attraction between characters not in a relationship. These are quite forced in and awkward to read. Imagine being in between a serious professional discussion with your new colleagues and suddenly staring at a man's "full lips" and feeling “heat rise in the belly." If a male character had been written this way, it would have been a big red flag against him. Why are women characters allowed to get away with such objectifying behaviour? Romance novels can get away with such questionable writing choices, but not serious fiction.
🦴 The final section of the contemporary timeline jumps the shark by opting for a sudden swing in genre. This was out of the blue, and didn’t make any sense overall.
Bookish Doubt:
🤔 Can a body buried in the 1770s (in a coffin) last till the 21st century? I was surprised when one of the graves exhumed by Andrea’s team revealed an almost intact skeleton with even some patches of their clothing left. Considering that this cemetery is in a flood-prone area, it was slightly unconvincing. But I’m not sure about the embalming practices of the Dutch or the sturdiness of their coffins in the 18th century, hence this is a doubt and not a nay.
All in all, this is still a commendable debut that doesn’t overload my proverbial kitchen sink with too many themes but keeps its focus (mostly) straight. In all honesty, I am wary of books set in historical India and written by Western authors because the depiction is almost always flawed and/or whitewashed. But my curiosity to learn more about Clara made me succumb this once, and in this aspect, I was well rewarded.
Mine is an outlier review. The fact is that most readers mainly look at the plot. So the areas that I found lacking might not bother many, as the rating clearly proves. Most of the issues I had with the plot could have been resolved by a round of developmental or proofing edits.
Recommended (though not with gusto) to those looking for an unusual historical story based on true events and are not too finicky about writing style.
2.5 stars, rounding up for Clara.
My thanks to History Through Fiction for providing the DRC of “The Rhino Keeper” via NetGalley and LibraryThing. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
August 5, 2024
First off, how about that beautiful book cover! I love books that are based on real events and people. I also love books that not only teach me something but are moving as well. The Rhino Keeper fit the bill beautifully. This book is based on a Dutch sea captain and an Indian rhinoceros called Clara. The captain traveled with Clara across 18th century Europe as they brought joy to most who saw Clara.
This book was gripping from the very beginning and is told in two timelines. In 2022, Andrea Clarkson is a college student who uncovers a historical mystery involving a rhinoceros. An eighteenth-century grave has a rhinoceros carved on it. In 1740, Douwemout (Douwe) van der Meer is a sea captain who obtains Clara and travels Europe with her. His goal is to change the negative thoughts and views about Rhinos. While both timelines were engaging, I could not help but adore the timeline involving Clara and Douwe and Zubin, a young boy who Douwe kept on as Clara's caretaker.
This was a lovely book that took me along with Clara though 18th century Europe. I was drawn into the author’s beautiful writing, vivid descriptions, and the plight of Clara. I was drawn into the author's blending of fact and fiction. Not much is known about the travels of Clara and her keeper. I appreciated how the author took what little was known about the travels with Clara and added her imagined journey for her and her beloved keeper.
The author did a tremendous amount of research prior to writing this book. I applaud her for that and for writing this wonderful book.
This was such a lovely and beautiful book. Highly recommend.
Thank you to History through fiction and Jillian Forsberg who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
This book was gripping from the very beginning and is told in two timelines. In 2022, Andrea Clarkson is a college student who uncovers a historical mystery involving a rhinoceros. An eighteenth-century grave has a rhinoceros carved on it. In 1740, Douwemout (Douwe) van der Meer is a sea captain who obtains Clara and travels Europe with her. His goal is to change the negative thoughts and views about Rhinos. While both timelines were engaging, I could not help but adore the timeline involving Clara and Douwe and Zubin, a young boy who Douwe kept on as Clara's caretaker.
This was a lovely book that took me along with Clara though 18th century Europe. I was drawn into the author’s beautiful writing, vivid descriptions, and the plight of Clara. I was drawn into the author's blending of fact and fiction. Not much is known about the travels of Clara and her keeper. I appreciated how the author took what little was known about the travels with Clara and added her imagined journey for her and her beloved keeper.
The author did a tremendous amount of research prior to writing this book. I applaud her for that and for writing this wonderful book.
This was such a lovely and beautiful book. Highly recommend.
Thank you to History through fiction and Jillian Forsberg who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
August 27, 2024
Dutch sea captain Douwemout van der Meer sailed to Calcutta aboard the Knappenhof, on his last voyage for the Dutch East India Company he returned home to Rotterdam, with his cargo hold filled with luxury goods, and on the deck he had a baby orphaned Indian rhinoceros he saved. Douwe and his young friend Zubin toured Europe with Clara, people had never seen a rhino before, they know she’s will be in danger when she reaches adulthood, her horn will be 22.5 inches long and even a priest thinks she’s evil and people should follow god and not creatures.
The story has a dual timeline, its starts in 1740, told mainly from Douwemout van der Meer point of views and later in 2022 from animal lover and college student Andrea Clarkson’s.
American Andrea Clarkson arrives in Holland after a failed marriage proposal, she’s staying in Leiden and she finds hidden in secret desk drawers two hundred and eighty year old documents. As part of her Historical studies she and her colleagues are relocating eighteenth-century graves from being flooded and one of the markers has an animal carved into it and it’s a rhinoceros. Angela want's to solve the mystery of why the headstone has a rhino on it and she discovers the horns are still valuable and people would do anything to get their hands on one.
I received a copy of The Rhino Keeper from NetGalley and History Through Fiction in exchange for an honest review. The author Jillian Forsberg has done considerable research to write an interesting narrative based around the true story of a Dutch sea captain and an orphaned rhinoceros he saved and toured Europe with. Clara was famous, poems and songs were written about her, and she was painted by artists and patted by royals.
The Rhino Keeper is a story about exotic and rare animals and the impact they had on people and still do. An uplifting and hope filled tale for animal lovers and I really liked the parts set in the 18th century, and it’s truly amazing and fascinating how they managed to get a rhino to Holland and I highly recommend this book and five stars from me.
The story has a dual timeline, its starts in 1740, told mainly from Douwemout van der Meer point of views and later in 2022 from animal lover and college student Andrea Clarkson’s.
American Andrea Clarkson arrives in Holland after a failed marriage proposal, she’s staying in Leiden and she finds hidden in secret desk drawers two hundred and eighty year old documents. As part of her Historical studies she and her colleagues are relocating eighteenth-century graves from being flooded and one of the markers has an animal carved into it and it’s a rhinoceros. Angela want's to solve the mystery of why the headstone has a rhino on it and she discovers the horns are still valuable and people would do anything to get their hands on one.
I received a copy of The Rhino Keeper from NetGalley and History Through Fiction in exchange for an honest review. The author Jillian Forsberg has done considerable research to write an interesting narrative based around the true story of a Dutch sea captain and an orphaned rhinoceros he saved and toured Europe with. Clara was famous, poems and songs were written about her, and she was painted by artists and patted by royals.
The Rhino Keeper is a story about exotic and rare animals and the impact they had on people and still do. An uplifting and hope filled tale for animal lovers and I really liked the parts set in the 18th century, and it’s truly amazing and fascinating how they managed to get a rhino to Holland and I highly recommend this book and five stars from me.
January 24, 2025
Based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who traveled with an Indian rhinoceros called Clara across 18th century Europe, it's even more amazing when you realize that no European had seen a living rhinoceros. The story is told over two different timelines: 2022 when college student Andrea Clarkson uncovers a historical mystery while studying abroad in Holland, and 1740 when ship captain Douwemout van der Meer and Clara, the only rhino in Europe, tour the continent enthralling both peasants and royalty.
The book contains a lot of information about Clara's diet and needs and it was all quite interesting, so interesting that I immediately searched out all I could find about Clara on the internet and there are some great drawings and sculptures there. I probably could've done without the romance in the current timeline but it's very low key.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. Caroline Hewitt, the narrator, did an admirable job voicing the different characters and her modulation was appropriate to each situation. Apparently the print editions were released last year and I'm not sure I would've enjoyed reading the story as much as I enjoyed the audiobook. And what a beautiful cover! I was really pleased to have the Author's Note at the end as quite often they're missing from audiobooks. She provided information on her research and clarified which parts of the story are fiction.
My thanks to History Through Fiction via Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: February 14, 2025
The book contains a lot of information about Clara's diet and needs and it was all quite interesting, so interesting that I immediately searched out all I could find about Clara on the internet and there are some great drawings and sculptures there. I probably could've done without the romance in the current timeline but it's very low key.
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. Caroline Hewitt, the narrator, did an admirable job voicing the different characters and her modulation was appropriate to each situation. Apparently the print editions were released last year and I'm not sure I would've enjoyed reading the story as much as I enjoyed the audiobook. And what a beautiful cover! I was really pleased to have the Author's Note at the end as quite often they're missing from audiobooks. She provided information on her research and clarified which parts of the story are fiction.
My thanks to History Through Fiction via Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: February 14, 2025
October 26, 2024
Debut author, Jillian Forsberg, hits the correct blend of history and creative fiction in her book about the life and times of Clara an Indian Rhinoceros and her owner Captain Douwemout van der Meer and youthful friend Zubin. Based on the historical story of a baby Rhino that was purchased by Douwe, along with Clara's stable boy Zubin, and their exploits as Clara was exhibited throughout Europe in the 1740's, this dual time-line book delves into the treatment of animals, and the rhino/human attachment that was formed during Clara's lifetime. After purchasing Clara, Douwe and Zubin depart on a whirlwind trip to Leiden in the Netherlands, and after a period of time there, they tour Europe delighting crowds and Royalty wherever they go. They also are despised by a Catholic priest, Gregor, who hounds them in his attempt to harm Clara who he feels is an instrument of the devil to distract people from the church. The current day story has to do with young American intern who is assisting the University in Leiden in the preservation of graves, and stumbles upon previously unknown broadsides from the 18th century, as well as the grave of Douwe. While this is an interesting diversion, the actual story of Clara, Douwe and Zubin carries the day, and you shed a tear upon Clara's demise and realize how much she meant to Douwe, Zubin and the many others who came in contact with the only living rhinoceros in Europe. A very good effort by Jillian Forsberg that humanizes Clara and allows us to follow along on her extraordinary adventures.
August 21, 2024
Set in two timelines, the mid-1700’s and the 21st century, this is a story which is based on fact - at least the 1700’s where Clara - a female Indian rhinoceros, an anomaly for that that period in time is based, came to fame after a sea captain, Douwemout van der Meer, saved her from a much worse fate.
Based on the true story of Clara and her journeys from place to place, from the most remote and poverty stricken areas, to being introduced to the King and Queen. There are moments, especially on sea, that she must adjust to, but she remains watched over by her provider, as she watches over him, as well.
In the 21st century, this begins with the discovery of a tombstone which draws the attention of those who are in charge of caring for those whose current residence needs to be moved.
This is a very moving and beautiful story, overall, with moments of danger, but also a lifetime of love, and an ode to the bond of humans and the animals they share their lives and love with.
Pub Date: 22 Oct 2024
Many thanks for the ARC provided by History Through Fiction
June 4, 2024
Dear reader,
I hope you remember an animal you love while reading this book. We have so many things in common with creatures we share this planet with. Many may not think of a rhino as capable of love, but Clara will prove to you otherwise. Enjoy this novel, based on true events, and consider donating to a rhino conservation group or local wildlife organization.
I hope you remember an animal you love while reading this book. We have so many things in common with creatures we share this planet with. Many may not think of a rhino as capable of love, but Clara will prove to you otherwise. Enjoy this novel, based on true events, and consider donating to a rhino conservation group or local wildlife organization.
January 18, 2025
Narrated by: Caroline Hewitt
Presented by: History Through Fiction
A sweet story. A little too soft for my tastes but an interesting account of a strange morsel of history.
Once upon a time, a baby Rhino crossed the sea to travel around Europe.
This is a fictional account of that very true story - Clara the Rhinoceros lived til 1758, and in her 20-odd years toured Europe in the care of a man named Douwe Mout van der Meer (had to Google that spelling lol). They visited kings and queens, and Clara's likeness was captured by painters, sculptors and other artists.
If you're yearning for more details, this book will deliver. It gives a fictionalised account of each visit Clara made while adding heart and humour to the story through the characters. You can tell Clara's story was researched meticulously by the author because a Google search of Clara will essentially provide a synopsis for this story. I like that; I enjoy reading historical fiction and, through it, learning more about true figures of history.
The narrator does a great job in differentiating the characters, and she had quite a job pulling off so many accents. I found it easy to listen to, and easy to follow the action. Some of the names are quite unusual (to this modern-day Australian, anyway) so I had to look up the spelling of some to round out my comprehension a little.
I did find it a little slow at times - Clara makes many visits, so after a while they do tend to get a little same-same. But I am an impatient reader who loves action, so the pace grated on me a little. I think those with more patience will really enjoy the rich details of this novel, and be absorbed by Clara's story.
I do recommend this one because it's such an unusual, uplifting kind of story. Despite a rather short life, Clara seems to have made quite an impact on many and I think many readers will get a lot out of learning her story.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
Presented by: History Through Fiction
A sweet story. A little too soft for my tastes but an interesting account of a strange morsel of history.
Once upon a time, a baby Rhino crossed the sea to travel around Europe.
This is a fictional account of that very true story - Clara the Rhinoceros lived til 1758, and in her 20-odd years toured Europe in the care of a man named Douwe Mout van der Meer (had to Google that spelling lol). They visited kings and queens, and Clara's likeness was captured by painters, sculptors and other artists.
If you're yearning for more details, this book will deliver. It gives a fictionalised account of each visit Clara made while adding heart and humour to the story through the characters. You can tell Clara's story was researched meticulously by the author because a Google search of Clara will essentially provide a synopsis for this story. I like that; I enjoy reading historical fiction and, through it, learning more about true figures of history.
The narrator does a great job in differentiating the characters, and she had quite a job pulling off so many accents. I found it easy to listen to, and easy to follow the action. Some of the names are quite unusual (to this modern-day Australian, anyway) so I had to look up the spelling of some to round out my comprehension a little.
I did find it a little slow at times - Clara makes many visits, so after a while they do tend to get a little same-same. But I am an impatient reader who loves action, so the pace grated on me a little. I think those with more patience will really enjoy the rich details of this novel, and be absorbed by Clara's story.
I do recommend this one because it's such an unusual, uplifting kind of story. Despite a rather short life, Clara seems to have made quite an impact on many and I think many readers will get a lot out of learning her story.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
June 18, 2024
We are thrilled to present "The Rhino Keeper" by Jillian Forsberg. From the initial acquisition through editing, design, and marketing, collaborating with Jillian has been a delight. Clara the Rhino's history captivates, and Jillian's narrative that brings Clara to life is spellbinding. It's a story woven with mystery, affection, and a deep reverence for both our animal and human friends. We were enamored with the novel and its cast of characters from the very start, fueling our fervent collaboration with Jillian to share this gem with you. We're confident you'll cherish it as much as we do.
July 21, 2024
I selected this book from NetG, simply on the basis that my favourite animal is the rhinoceros. From a novel perspective, I had zero expectations.
What I got was incredible. This story is enchanting, beautifully crafted, and with the perfect blend of known history, assumed history, and fiction.
When people say they can't put a book down, they do tend to actually put said book down. However, with Rhino Keeper, I put the book down exactly once (to sleep) , I read the entire book in two sittings, and I could have read a 1000 more pages about Clara
One of the most wonderful stories I've had the pleasure of reading
What I got was incredible. This story is enchanting, beautifully crafted, and with the perfect blend of known history, assumed history, and fiction.
When people say they can't put a book down, they do tend to actually put said book down. However, with Rhino Keeper, I put the book down exactly once (to sleep) , I read the entire book in two sittings, and I could have read a 1000 more pages about Clara
One of the most wonderful stories I've had the pleasure of reading
October 12, 2024
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
3.5/5 stars
In The Rhino Keeper, Jillian Forsberg spins a charming tale full of adventure, discovery, mystery, and heart based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who travelled across 18th century Europe with Clara the Indian rhinoceros; this historical fiction novel might not feature any real magic, but it’s just as entrancing as the most mystical fairy tales, myths and legends.
As a proud Dutchwoman, The Rhino Keeper’s Dutch roots immediately caught my interest, and I found myself stunned to have never heard of Clara the rhinoceros despite the fact that I have been hammered over the head with this time period in history classes at school. Though, as excited as I was to dig into this story, I have to admit that I was just as nervous; not only was I wary of how authentically Forsberg would be able to depict Dutch culture, but there’s obviously also the big elephant (or in this case maybe we could say rhino) in the room regarding my country’s dark and devastating colonial history.
Now, as soon as I started The Rhino Keeper, many of my concerns flew straight out the window. Forsberg’s passion and intellect just bleed through the pages, and her warmly welcoming prose immediately pulled me in and transported me back and forth in time through the smoothly executed dual timeline set 300 years apart. The incredible story of Douwemout van der Meer and his beloved rhinoceros, Clara the two-ton queen, just unfolded in an inexplicably captivating way, filling me with equal parts wonder, fear, excitement, and beautifully bittersweet heartache.
It’s remarkable to me how Forsberg brought both eras to life in such an immersive way, especially through the seamless shifts in prose style to fit the sensibilities of the historical and the modern timeperiod. Moreover, I was really impressed with the authentic and honest way that Dutch culture and history was depicted, and I just loved meeting so many (in)famous historical figures as we travelled through space and time with Douwe and Andrea. Though, I do have to admit that I felt like the balance between the two perspectives was maybe a bit off, and I found myself infinitely more invested and engaged in Douwe’s life than in Andrea’s.
See, while I really admired Andrea for her unapologetic passion, ferocity and resilience, I felt like she was more of a vessel to explore the themes of animal’s rights, women’s rights, and the importance of historical preservation rather than an actually full-fleshed and three-dimensional character. And while I deeply appreciate and fiercely support those themes, I felt like her chapters were just too short to explore them with the depth and nuance they deserve.
All that said, the story of the eponymous rhino keeper absolutely shines, and I ultimately loved how both storylines connected and interweaved. Douwe quickly proved to be an incredibly endearing and admirable man, despite (or maybe especially because of) the fact that he is anything but a perfectly flawless hero. And whereas the side characters in Andrea’s timeline all fell quite flat for me, I absolutely adored the unconventional yet wholesome found family that Douwe gathers around himself.
The dynamic between him, Zubin, Lonnie, and of course Clara absolutely warmed my heart, and I loved the level of emotional complexity and tender vulnerability between them all. Though as wholesome as they were together, it was also tragic to see them being under increasing stress and deadly threat from people who would rather see Clara dead to profit off her. Not to mention, Clara might have been treated like a queen by all of them, but there is no denying that their limited knowledge to properly care for her on their many voyages and travels was slightly painful and heartbreaking at times from a modern viewpoint.
This story could so easily have been boring and messy, but Jillian Forsberg just executed it all in an inexplicably magical yet thrilling way. Despite some of my quibbles, I think The Rhino Keeper is a very ambitious and promising (fiction) debut, and I can’t thank Forsberg enough for giving Clara a spotlight and bringing her into my life in this way. So if you have been looking for a heartwarming yet bittersweet historical fiction novel that spans continents and centuries, then you can’t go wrong with The Rhino Keeper!
Thank you to NetGalley and History Through Fiction for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Rhino Keeper is scheduled for release on 22 October, 2024.
3.5/5 stars
In The Rhino Keeper, Jillian Forsberg spins a charming tale full of adventure, discovery, mystery, and heart based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who travelled across 18th century Europe with Clara the Indian rhinoceros; this historical fiction novel might not feature any real magic, but it’s just as entrancing as the most mystical fairy tales, myths and legends.
As a proud Dutchwoman, The Rhino Keeper’s Dutch roots immediately caught my interest, and I found myself stunned to have never heard of Clara the rhinoceros despite the fact that I have been hammered over the head with this time period in history classes at school. Though, as excited as I was to dig into this story, I have to admit that I was just as nervous; not only was I wary of how authentically Forsberg would be able to depict Dutch culture, but there’s obviously also the big elephant (or in this case maybe we could say rhino) in the room regarding my country’s dark and devastating colonial history.
Now, as soon as I started The Rhino Keeper, many of my concerns flew straight out the window. Forsberg’s passion and intellect just bleed through the pages, and her warmly welcoming prose immediately pulled me in and transported me back and forth in time through the smoothly executed dual timeline set 300 years apart. The incredible story of Douwemout van der Meer and his beloved rhinoceros, Clara the two-ton queen, just unfolded in an inexplicably captivating way, filling me with equal parts wonder, fear, excitement, and beautifully bittersweet heartache.
It’s remarkable to me how Forsberg brought both eras to life in such an immersive way, especially through the seamless shifts in prose style to fit the sensibilities of the historical and the modern timeperiod. Moreover, I was really impressed with the authentic and honest way that Dutch culture and history was depicted, and I just loved meeting so many (in)famous historical figures as we travelled through space and time with Douwe and Andrea. Though, I do have to admit that I felt like the balance between the two perspectives was maybe a bit off, and I found myself infinitely more invested and engaged in Douwe’s life than in Andrea’s.
See, while I really admired Andrea for her unapologetic passion, ferocity and resilience, I felt like she was more of a vessel to explore the themes of animal’s rights, women’s rights, and the importance of historical preservation rather than an actually full-fleshed and three-dimensional character. And while I deeply appreciate and fiercely support those themes, I felt like her chapters were just too short to explore them with the depth and nuance they deserve.
All that said, the story of the eponymous rhino keeper absolutely shines, and I ultimately loved how both storylines connected and interweaved. Douwe quickly proved to be an incredibly endearing and admirable man, despite (or maybe especially because of) the fact that he is anything but a perfectly flawless hero. And whereas the side characters in Andrea’s timeline all fell quite flat for me, I absolutely adored the unconventional yet wholesome found family that Douwe gathers around himself.
The dynamic between him, Zubin, Lonnie, and of course Clara absolutely warmed my heart, and I loved the level of emotional complexity and tender vulnerability between them all. Though as wholesome as they were together, it was also tragic to see them being under increasing stress and deadly threat from people who would rather see Clara dead to profit off her. Not to mention, Clara might have been treated like a queen by all of them, but there is no denying that their limited knowledge to properly care for her on their many voyages and travels was slightly painful and heartbreaking at times from a modern viewpoint.
This story could so easily have been boring and messy, but Jillian Forsberg just executed it all in an inexplicably magical yet thrilling way. Despite some of my quibbles, I think The Rhino Keeper is a very ambitious and promising (fiction) debut, and I can’t thank Forsberg enough for giving Clara a spotlight and bringing her into my life in this way. So if you have been looking for a heartwarming yet bittersweet historical fiction novel that spans continents and centuries, then you can’t go wrong with The Rhino Keeper!
Thank you to NetGalley and History Through Fiction for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Rhino Keeper is scheduled for release on 22 October, 2024.
February 1, 2025
Can’t wait for historical fiction and conservation / animal rights lovers to have the chance to read this heart-felt book. It made me cry. Thank you, Jillian, for helping me come to know Clara, through the ages. Stories like these are so important.
The book itself is beautiful (I can’t wait for everyone to see the cover!), well bound and put together with care. And the story unfolds in an engaging dual timeline narrative which shows the difficulties rhinos face in every age. But the heart of the story is Clara the rhino, and those who clearly cared well for her, as they spread joy throughout Europe, introducing her to the masses who were touched by her. I loved the author’s note, explaining some history and how she pieced the events of Clara’s life together.
My only suggestion to the publisher—on the ebook (which I also asked for so that I could listen to the story as well), the ending link to other books published by History Through Fiction should be hyperlinked rather than by small photo, as readers will want to explore further. Well done.
Thank you to both Jillian and the publisher for advanced copies in exchange for an honest review.
The book itself is beautiful (I can’t wait for everyone to see the cover!), well bound and put together with care. And the story unfolds in an engaging dual timeline narrative which shows the difficulties rhinos face in every age. But the heart of the story is Clara the rhino, and those who clearly cared well for her, as they spread joy throughout Europe, introducing her to the masses who were touched by her. I loved the author’s note, explaining some history and how she pieced the events of Clara’s life together.
My only suggestion to the publisher—on the ebook (which I also asked for so that I could listen to the story as well), the ending link to other books published by History Through Fiction should be hyperlinked rather than by small photo, as readers will want to explore further. Well done.
Thank you to both Jillian and the publisher for advanced copies in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2025
This was "Water for Elephants" set in the late 1600s with a rhino. I loved the story and the characters, both past and present, though I was definitely more taken with the characters of the past. It seems the author was too as they are written more like fully rounded people and not black or white like Andrea. I loved Clara and Zubin and their relationship as well as the relationship that developed between Zubin and the Captain. However I think this is an overly- romanticized version of history, the history we would like to be true instead of the one that actually existed: sexism, racism, colonizers who decimated the lands they conquered.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Jillian Forsburg, and History Through Fiction for my advance copy of this audiobook
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Jillian Forsburg, and History Through Fiction for my advance copy of this audiobook
June 14, 2024
I would first like to thank the publisher, History Through Fiction, for sending me an advance copy of this book. Am I ever glad you did!
This books was incredible! It's been a while since I've read something so well done. Not only did I learn so much from this, but the writing and execution was phenomenal!! I'm using too many exclamation points, but it really was that good!!!!
I had heard many moons ago (probably in a history lesson or Wiki spiral) that there was a rhino who toured Europe hundreds of years ago, but I just kinda brushed it off. When this book was sent to me I was super curious and excited to learn more about it. Now I know a lot of it will be historically inaccurate, or embellished, since there was so little documentation to the events but Jillian Forsberg did an amazing job. Whenever I read historical fiction I always do a Wiki spiral, and this is one didn't do it justice. This book was so well researched, and provided so much information that I was honestly mad that Wiki didn't have more.
The Author's Note at the end was also super interesting, highlighting that such a huge historical event was actually really undervalued / under documented at the time. Obviously Clara's legacy is massive, but the actual events of her (and her keeper's) lives are really ambiguous. I feel like this would be an amazing time to travel to and be a fly on the wall in Clara's pen to see what things really were like.
I'd already really love to know what happened to Clara and Douwe after their deaths. Was he buried with her (or her horn)? Where even is Clara, assuming she is not the rhino in London (and even then that can probably never be confirmed). Why did Douwe disappear following her death? What was his legacy and life like after her?
I would love to pick the author's brain on this book, or see her notes on creating this story cause it was just so well done. I'd also really love to see more historical documents relating to Clara and Douwe - if anyone wants to change this hospital library girls into a rhino archivist hit me up.
I think I will be recommending this book to everyone forever - it really was incredible!! I'm a million percent picking up a print copy when it's published! Thank you again to the publisher for sending me this amazing little nugget 😄
This books was incredible! It's been a while since I've read something so well done. Not only did I learn so much from this, but the writing and execution was phenomenal!! I'm using too many exclamation points, but it really was that good!!!!
I had heard many moons ago (probably in a history lesson or Wiki spiral) that there was a rhino who toured Europe hundreds of years ago, but I just kinda brushed it off. When this book was sent to me I was super curious and excited to learn more about it. Now I know a lot of it will be historically inaccurate, or embellished, since there was so little documentation to the events but Jillian Forsberg did an amazing job. Whenever I read historical fiction I always do a Wiki spiral, and this is one didn't do it justice. This book was so well researched, and provided so much information that I was honestly mad that Wiki didn't have more.
The Author's Note at the end was also super interesting, highlighting that such a huge historical event was actually really undervalued / under documented at the time. Obviously Clara's legacy is massive, but the actual events of her (and her keeper's) lives are really ambiguous. I feel like this would be an amazing time to travel to and be a fly on the wall in Clara's pen to see what things really were like.
I'd already really love to know what happened to Clara and Douwe after their deaths. Was he buried with her (or her horn)? Where even is Clara, assuming she is not the rhino in London (and even then that can probably never be confirmed). Why did Douwe disappear following her death? What was his legacy and life like after her?
I would love to pick the author's brain on this book, or see her notes on creating this story cause it was just so well done. I'd also really love to see more historical documents relating to Clara and Douwe - if anyone wants to change this hospital library girls into a rhino archivist hit me up.
I think I will be recommending this book to everyone forever - it really was incredible!! I'm a million percent picking up a print copy when it's published! Thank you again to the publisher for sending me this amazing little nugget 😄
August 5, 2024
This was such a fascinating read! I just loved Clara and Zubin. Captain Douwemout van der Meer is feeling a change in his life, but he is not sure what yet. Having spent most of his life so far on the seas with merchants and trades, he has never really had a home. When he is offered a species very unknown to man, he knows what he must do to ensure it has a life. Clara the Indian rhinoceros is about to change his life, and with her comes a young boy as her caretaker. The three venture off all over Europe and become a family of sorts with an unbreakable bond between man and beast. The thought of these three venturing a continent during that time with such an animal is just unfathomable and amazing! This was such an amazing story to read! I loved the characters, I loved the dual timeline with Andrea in Linden connecting the past and I especially loved Clara's story. There was so much detail and depth, it was hard to not get attached to the characters. This is a must read for all animal and historical fiction lovers! Thank you to the author for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
January 10, 2025
THE RHINO KEEPER by Jillian Forsberg
Thank you to NetGalley and History Through Fiction, LLC for the audiobook of this story.
Narration by, Caroline Hewitt, was done very well.
This delightful book is based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who toured Europe with an Indian rhinoceros named, Clara, in the 18th century, along with Zubin, the young caretaker for, Clara. A young college student, Andrea, makes a life-changing discovery while studying abroad in the Netherlands in 2022.
If you liked the book, West With Giraffes, I think you might enjoy this book, as well. Dual timelines creates this endearing tale spanning continents and centuries. I was pulled in right from the beginning of this enchanting journey of Clara and her companions along with the story of the aspiring historian, Andrea.
From a modern viewpoint, traveling continents with a wild animal in the 18th century and not having the knowledge to fully understand and properly care for the needs of Clara was a tad disturbing. I enjoyed this book and the unique story of Clara. I look forward to more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and History Through Fiction, LLC for the audiobook of this story.
Narration by, Caroline Hewitt, was done very well.
This delightful book is based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who toured Europe with an Indian rhinoceros named, Clara, in the 18th century, along with Zubin, the young caretaker for, Clara. A young college student, Andrea, makes a life-changing discovery while studying abroad in the Netherlands in 2022.
If you liked the book, West With Giraffes, I think you might enjoy this book, as well. Dual timelines creates this endearing tale spanning continents and centuries. I was pulled in right from the beginning of this enchanting journey of Clara and her companions along with the story of the aspiring historian, Andrea.
From a modern viewpoint, traveling continents with a wild animal in the 18th century and not having the knowledge to fully understand and properly care for the needs of Clara was a tad disturbing. I enjoyed this book and the unique story of Clara. I look forward to more from this author.
February 18, 2025
When I first came across The Rhino Keeper, my initial thoughts were: 1) What a stunning cover, and 2) Rhinos? That’s unexpected. But as I read the description, I was intrigued—how could a book seamlessly weave together a thriller/mystery, historical fiction, and adult fiction? Amazingly, it does, and it does so beautifully.
Julian Forsberg’s immersive writing pulls you into both timelines, making each feel equally compelling. I was especially captivated by the book’s exploration of the deep bond between humans and animals—the sense of wonder they inspire and how that connection transcends race, religion, and socioeconomic status. It was profoundly moving, and I found myself in tears multiple times.
If I had one critique, it would be that the ending felt a bit abrupt. I would have loved a deeper dive into X’s (no spoilers here 😄) family history and how it tied back to the VOC, especially in relation to the museum’s future. Still, this was an unforgettable read—thought-provoking, emotional, and truly unique. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this wonderful story!
Julian Forsberg’s immersive writing pulls you into both timelines, making each feel equally compelling. I was especially captivated by the book’s exploration of the deep bond between humans and animals—the sense of wonder they inspire and how that connection transcends race, religion, and socioeconomic status. It was profoundly moving, and I found myself in tears multiple times.
If I had one critique, it would be that the ending felt a bit abrupt. I would have loved a deeper dive into X’s (no spoilers here 😄) family history and how it tied back to the VOC, especially in relation to the museum’s future. Still, this was an unforgettable read—thought-provoking, emotional, and truly unique. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this wonderful story!
September 13, 2024
What a wonderful historical fiction story about a Dutch captain, a young Indian boy, and a rhinoceros!
I enjoyed the time jumps from present day to eighteenth century India and Europe
We meet actual famous historical figures along the way like Empress Maria Theresa, Voltaire, and the origins of porcelain.
I adored following Clara’s journey with Douwe and Zubin. You can’t help but hope that Clara will be alright. There are many nail biting moments so there’s plenty of suspense too. I hope in the not so distant future that more facts about Clara will be discovered.
And I should not forget Bakari the goat who is Clara’s BFF. They are the truest of friends.
Many kudos to this writer’s first novel. Brilliant!
Thank you to NetGalley for this book.
I enjoyed the time jumps from present day to eighteenth century India and Europe
We meet actual famous historical figures along the way like Empress Maria Theresa, Voltaire, and the origins of porcelain.
I adored following Clara’s journey with Douwe and Zubin. You can’t help but hope that Clara will be alright. There are many nail biting moments so there’s plenty of suspense too. I hope in the not so distant future that more facts about Clara will be discovered.
And I should not forget Bakari the goat who is Clara’s BFF. They are the truest of friends.
Many kudos to this writer’s first novel. Brilliant!
Thank you to NetGalley for this book.
February 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this story based on a true story about a rhino named Clara and a Dutch sea captain named Douwemout van der Meer. The sea captain faces all sorts of odds with the sea crew (who are very superstitious and steal Clara's food), the society and government in Europe (who say Clara can't stay there), but luckily enough kind-hearted people join the crew and make a good journey for Clara. I want to thank the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for giving me an audio copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
December 8, 2024
It is said that we should not judge a book by its cover. Yet, with a cover as beautiful as that of the “Rhino Keeper”, what a challenge it is to resist the temptation to do so! Fortunately, this book is as delightful to read as the cover is to admire. Oh, to be a fly on the wall of the ships and places that Douwe and Clara experienced. Based on a true story, yet still unimaginable how a man in the 18th century man cared for and transported and a 5,000 lb. rhino by boat and cart. A fabulous accounting of the bond between man and animal. Every chapter is an adventure as the beautiful story unfolds in a dual timeline continuing to the current century where the discovery was made. Clara, the gentle rhino was admired and loved by many who encountered her. She captured my heart, too!
My thanks to Amazon through a Goodreads give-away, for the opportunity to read and provide an unbiased review of this book.
My thanks to Amazon through a Goodreads give-away, for the opportunity to read and provide an unbiased review of this book.
September 25, 2024
If rhinos had thumbs they’d each hold up 4 for this ... and their tails, too! I can’t give too many specifics about why I loved this historical novel, because I don’t want to give anything away. But let me say it’s the perfect mashup of times, places, characters, and conflicts (plus resolutions), and the structure perfectly parallels the journeys taken within. I’m usually a slow reader but this story (within a story) seemed to magically propel me along quickly, and I look forward to re-reading it another day—but first I need to visit a wildlife park or zoo look more closely at these magnificent creatures. Brilliant, bravo/brava! P.S. You will need a tissue or three.
April 23, 2025
A reimagining based on a true happening. . . two story lines intertwined.
One takes place in 1740, and is the subject of the second story - all about Clara, a rhinoceros who travels throughout Europe with her keepers. She supports those same keepers and never sees her homelands again. Even though her circle of supporters was bonded with her, her life was not a natural one and she had my full sympathies.
The second story is present day(ish) arising out of a student's historical mystery hunt while she is in Holland. Andrea Clarkson finds an old grave with a rhino on it. . .and her questions whip her up into a full-on search. . .finding the last chapters of Clara's story.
The two storyline were nicely tied together - one of those ". . .and now for something completely different," stories. . .
*A sincere thank you to Jillian Forsberg, History Through Fiction, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.*
One takes place in 1740, and is the subject of the second story - all about Clara, a rhinoceros who travels throughout Europe with her keepers. She supports those same keepers and never sees her homelands again. Even though her circle of supporters was bonded with her, her life was not a natural one and she had my full sympathies.
The second story is present day(ish) arising out of a student's historical mystery hunt while she is in Holland. Andrea Clarkson finds an old grave with a rhino on it. . .and her questions whip her up into a full-on search. . .finding the last chapters of Clara's story.
The two storyline were nicely tied together - one of those ". . .and now for something completely different," stories. . .
*A sincere thank you to Jillian Forsberg, History Through Fiction, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.*
September 19, 2024
First, a huge thank you to History Through Fiction for sending me an ebook copy of The Rhino Keeper in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Second, the cover art - wow! It is absolutely stunning and after reading this incredibly touching story about Clara the Indian rhino, now when I look at this cover I view it in a different light. Yes, I still find it incredibly beautiful, but I feel so much more connected to it on an emotional level knowing what the details represent.
Overall, I would rate this book 5/5 stars. I absolutely loved everything about it - from the way that it was formatted (thank you short chapters and dual timeline perspective), to the characters, the plot, and the writing (loved!). This book is packed full of adventure, suspense, a dash of danger, mystery, history, and heart - so much heart. This book moves you and touches your soul and the writing makes you feel connected to a world at a time (mid-1700s) that you didn't get to experience yourself but made you feel like you were there alongside Clara, Douwe, Zubin, and all the friends they made along the way. This book is an ode to rare animals and a love story of the bond between humans and animals and the preservation of history.
I also enjoyed reading the author's notes. I love that a portion of the proceeds from this book go directly to rhino conservation funds. I recognize the amount of time and research that Jillian Forsberg would have done to complete this book and I appreciate it. I can't wait to read more from her.
Second, the cover art - wow! It is absolutely stunning and after reading this incredibly touching story about Clara the Indian rhino, now when I look at this cover I view it in a different light. Yes, I still find it incredibly beautiful, but I feel so much more connected to it on an emotional level knowing what the details represent.
Overall, I would rate this book 5/5 stars. I absolutely loved everything about it - from the way that it was formatted (thank you short chapters and dual timeline perspective), to the characters, the plot, and the writing (loved!). This book is packed full of adventure, suspense, a dash of danger, mystery, history, and heart - so much heart. This book moves you and touches your soul and the writing makes you feel connected to a world at a time (mid-1700s) that you didn't get to experience yourself but made you feel like you were there alongside Clara, Douwe, Zubin, and all the friends they made along the way. This book is an ode to rare animals and a love story of the bond between humans and animals and the preservation of history.
I also enjoyed reading the author's notes. I love that a portion of the proceeds from this book go directly to rhino conservation funds. I recognize the amount of time and research that Jillian Forsberg would have done to complete this book and I appreciate it. I can't wait to read more from her.
November 22, 2024
THE GOOD:
Told in two timelines, whereby the mysterious revealed in the modern timeline help reveal the past - a very effective method.
Fascinating facts about rhinoceroses and their behavior are learned. Seeing the magic Clara brings to the ordinary and royals alike is a joy.
At its heart, though, this is a tale of a man and his adopted son and their bonded love for this enormous creature.
THE BAD:
The reveal at the conclusion of the modern timeline is a bit twee, as the Brits like to say, and not just a little bit like a Scooby Doo episode. That said, I did like the modern characters. I only wish I was more satisfied with their conclusion.
CONCLUSION:
Excellent. Heart-warming. Fascinating. Highly recommended.
Told in two timelines, whereby the mysterious revealed in the modern timeline help reveal the past - a very effective method.
Fascinating facts about rhinoceroses and their behavior are learned. Seeing the magic Clara brings to the ordinary and royals alike is a joy.
At its heart, though, this is a tale of a man and his adopted son and their bonded love for this enormous creature.
THE BAD:
The reveal at the conclusion of the modern timeline is a bit twee, as the Brits like to say, and not just a little bit like a Scooby Doo episode. That said, I did like the modern characters. I only wish I was more satisfied with their conclusion.
CONCLUSION:
Excellent. Heart-warming. Fascinating. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2025
I took a while after I listened to this book to write my review. The story of Dowe and Clara was so interesting and you could tell the author did her research. I thoroughly enjoyed their part of this book.
What I noticed (and other reviewers saw apparently) was that I immediately wanted to tune out the chapters with Andrea. This urge began pretty much immediately when she behaves as though the man she had been dating was the utmost evil man ever as his family hunted. Now tell me you make it to the stage of him proposing without knowing his family hunts? Her overreactions through the book were major red flags.
Overall I would have rated the book much higher without Andreas part of the boo’k.
I received an ALC of this title, all opinions are my own
What I noticed (and other reviewers saw apparently) was that I immediately wanted to tune out the chapters with Andrea. This urge began pretty much immediately when she behaves as though the man she had been dating was the utmost evil man ever as his family hunted. Now tell me you make it to the stage of him proposing without knowing his family hunts? Her overreactions through the book were major red flags.
Overall I would have rated the book much higher without Andreas part of the boo’k.
I received an ALC of this title, all opinions are my own
January 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this audiobook.
The story starts off with a girl being terrified of taxidermy animals. She is so afraid that she rejects her rich boyfriend's marriage proposal and runs screaming from the house. That is the most interesting part of the story. I was so bored. I got 20% into the book and just never felt compelled to turn it back on. The narrator's fake Indian accent was distracting and I just can't. I love rhinos and I'm sure Clara was a cutie, but no thank you.
The story starts off with a girl being terrified of taxidermy animals. She is so afraid that she rejects her rich boyfriend's marriage proposal and runs screaming from the house. That is the most interesting part of the story. I was so bored. I got 20% into the book and just never felt compelled to turn it back on. The narrator's fake Indian accent was distracting and I just can't. I love rhinos and I'm sure Clara was a cutie, but no thank you.
July 26, 2024
Tonight I finished a very special book, I devoured The Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg.
**Long post Head but PLEASE read**
It's 2022 and Andrea Clarkson is a college student that has decided to study abroad. Andrea's interests are in History. She soon settles into her dorm, taking in the old buildings, and in particular, an orange desk that is secured to the flooring of her dorm room. Curiosity gets to get and she discovers the desk holds hidden drawers, where she finds very old documents about a rhinoceros from around the eighteenth century. With your information she reached out to some other scholars on a student job she's partaking in. With their help, Andrea helps uncover a mystery of the most famous Indian Rhino, the only Rhino ever known in Europe, Clara.
Taking out back to the 1700's Douwemout can see Meer (aka Douwe) is a Captain of a ship, the Knappenhoff where he sails around the world goods and services for the VoC. Upon his travels he meets an old cohort, and sees for the very first time, an Indian Rhino, Clara. From that moment, he knew he was meant to be in her life.
Through some chance encounters and events, Douwe is now the owner of Clara, and has also taken on Zubin, a young boy as Clara's caretaker. Together Douwe, Clara and Zubin travel the world to show Clara to the world, and print that Clara is a wonderful animal, and not a scary beast. But, not everything can be easy, or great. What the three of them encounter will forever change the course of their lives
This is a story of travel, mystery, wonder, and most of all love.
-------------------
I've watched for quite some time, Jillian's road to writing this beautiful story via her facebook and her blog. I've seen her overcome numerous rejections while still believing in herself, and it paid off, this is her debut novel, and I couldn't be more happy and excited for her.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I loved following Andrea's passion in finding out the truth about Clara and Douwe. Though, where I really got hooked was Douwe and Clara's story.
This is historical fiction, Clara and Douwe are real, events and places are real in this book, and Jillian did a magnificent job of blending her story with the truth from history. In all the books I've read, only 2 have made me cry, and this one was one of them. Jillian will take you on a beautifully told story spanking throughout the 18th Century, where you will fall in love with Clara, her story and her keepers.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, it's beautiful and enchanting and will make you fall in love with Clara.
**Note: I also highly recommend reading Jillian's author's note as it helped me to understand more about Clara, what's fact and fiction*"
**Long post Head but PLEASE read**
It's 2022 and Andrea Clarkson is a college student that has decided to study abroad. Andrea's interests are in History. She soon settles into her dorm, taking in the old buildings, and in particular, an orange desk that is secured to the flooring of her dorm room. Curiosity gets to get and she discovers the desk holds hidden drawers, where she finds very old documents about a rhinoceros from around the eighteenth century. With your information she reached out to some other scholars on a student job she's partaking in. With their help, Andrea helps uncover a mystery of the most famous Indian Rhino, the only Rhino ever known in Europe, Clara.
Taking out back to the 1700's Douwemout can see Meer (aka Douwe) is a Captain of a ship, the Knappenhoff where he sails around the world goods and services for the VoC. Upon his travels he meets an old cohort, and sees for the very first time, an Indian Rhino, Clara. From that moment, he knew he was meant to be in her life.
Through some chance encounters and events, Douwe is now the owner of Clara, and has also taken on Zubin, a young boy as Clara's caretaker. Together Douwe, Clara and Zubin travel the world to show Clara to the world, and print that Clara is a wonderful animal, and not a scary beast. But, not everything can be easy, or great. What the three of them encounter will forever change the course of their lives
This is a story of travel, mystery, wonder, and most of all love.
-------------------
I've watched for quite some time, Jillian's road to writing this beautiful story via her facebook and her blog. I've seen her overcome numerous rejections while still believing in herself, and it paid off, this is her debut novel, and I couldn't be more happy and excited for her.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I loved following Andrea's passion in finding out the truth about Clara and Douwe. Though, where I really got hooked was Douwe and Clara's story.
This is historical fiction, Clara and Douwe are real, events and places are real in this book, and Jillian did a magnificent job of blending her story with the truth from history. In all the books I've read, only 2 have made me cry, and this one was one of them. Jillian will take you on a beautifully told story spanking throughout the 18th Century, where you will fall in love with Clara, her story and her keepers.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, it's beautiful and enchanting and will make you fall in love with Clara.
**Note: I also highly recommend reading Jillian's author's note as it helped me to understand more about Clara, what's fact and fiction*"
August 26, 2024
“The Rhino Keeper” by Jillian Forsberg is a deeply moving and masterfully written historical fiction that captures the essence of courage, compassion, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. From the very first page, Forsberg immerses the reader in the world of adventure, love, and companionship across the globe with visits to kingdoms and palaces near and far, weaving a past and present narrative that is both gripping, heartfelt, and full of intrigue.
The story centers on sea Captain Douwemout van de Meer (Douwe), who becomes the lovingly bonded guardian of an orphaned rhinoceros calf, named Clara. Known for transporting livestock cargo across the seas, he was offered a proposition to transport this Behemoth calf orphaned when her mother was killed for her magical horn. As Douwe falls in love with the animal, he sees that he can educate the world that she is more than just a “magical horn” to poach.
Forsberg’s vivid descriptions of the Indian rhinoceros and their adventures across land and sea are breathtaking, painting a picture of its raw beauty and the dangers that lurk within. The author’s ability to bring the animal world (and history) to life is nothing short of extraordinary, making the reader feel as though they are walking alongside Douwe and his beloved rhino.
What truly sets “The Rhino Keeper” apart is its emotional depth. The bond between Douwe, Zubin, and the rhino is portrayed with such tenderness and authenticity that it’s impossible not to be moved.
The characters in this novel are richly developed, multidimensional, and complex, with Douwe standing out as a strong, empathetic protagonist from the historical side and Andrea from the present side. Andrea’s journey of self-discovery, her unwavering commitment to her values, and her love of history and animals make her a character that readers will root for until the very end.
This is a must-read for anyone who loves animals, historical fiction, or simply a beautifully told story. Jillian Forsberg has crafted a novel that is not only entertaining but also deeply poetic leaving a lasting impact long after the final page is turned. I truly loved this book!
Thank you #NetGalley, #jillianForsberg, and #HistoryThroughFiction for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story centers on sea Captain Douwemout van de Meer (Douwe), who becomes the lovingly bonded guardian of an orphaned rhinoceros calf, named Clara. Known for transporting livestock cargo across the seas, he was offered a proposition to transport this Behemoth calf orphaned when her mother was killed for her magical horn. As Douwe falls in love with the animal, he sees that he can educate the world that she is more than just a “magical horn” to poach.
Forsberg’s vivid descriptions of the Indian rhinoceros and their adventures across land and sea are breathtaking, painting a picture of its raw beauty and the dangers that lurk within. The author’s ability to bring the animal world (and history) to life is nothing short of extraordinary, making the reader feel as though they are walking alongside Douwe and his beloved rhino.
What truly sets “The Rhino Keeper” apart is its emotional depth. The bond between Douwe, Zubin, and the rhino is portrayed with such tenderness and authenticity that it’s impossible not to be moved.
The characters in this novel are richly developed, multidimensional, and complex, with Douwe standing out as a strong, empathetic protagonist from the historical side and Andrea from the present side. Andrea’s journey of self-discovery, her unwavering commitment to her values, and her love of history and animals make her a character that readers will root for until the very end.
This is a must-read for anyone who loves animals, historical fiction, or simply a beautifully told story. Jillian Forsberg has crafted a novel that is not only entertaining but also deeply poetic leaving a lasting impact long after the final page is turned. I truly loved this book!
Thank you #NetGalley, #jillianForsberg, and #HistoryThroughFiction for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 11, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
This book is one of my most highly anticipated new releases, and it blew me away, especially considering this is a debut novel. I love historical fiction books that teach me about history, and this book does just that. You can tell how much time and effort the author put into researching this book, and I was transported back in time through the pages. I loved the dual timeline of this book, switching from modern day to the 1700's, and it was so interesting to see how the past can be intertwined with present day.
I'm a huge animal lover, so I loved all the animals that were featured in this book but the star was an Indian rhinoceros names Clara. Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of rhinos was very limited, but the detailed descriptions made me fall in love with them!
Also, this cover is one of the most beautiful covers I've ever seen! The details are so gorgeous!!
This book is one of my most highly anticipated new releases, and it blew me away, especially considering this is a debut novel. I love historical fiction books that teach me about history, and this book does just that. You can tell how much time and effort the author put into researching this book, and I was transported back in time through the pages. I loved the dual timeline of this book, switching from modern day to the 1700's, and it was so interesting to see how the past can be intertwined with present day.
I'm a huge animal lover, so I loved all the animals that were featured in this book but the star was an Indian rhinoceros names Clara. Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of rhinos was very limited, but the detailed descriptions made me fall in love with them!
Also, this cover is one of the most beautiful covers I've ever seen! The details are so gorgeous!!
February 23, 2025
I struggled with this book. On the one hand, I really enjoyed the historical piece of the story. It was compelling and I learned a lot about rhinos and how they were seen in the past. I have always hated zoos. I used to cry when my parents took me there as a toddler and I don't love them anymore now. I have the same struggle with circus animals. So I went into this cautiously optimistic. I ended up loving the historical portion. I thought Douwe showed a lot of respect and love for Clara, the rhino, despite the context of Clara's life. What brought this book down was the absolutely unnecessary modern-day plot, which added nothing whatsoever to the story. The audiobook narrator and the historical timeline carried this book.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
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