The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress

by Sue Williams

From the bestselling author of Elizabeth & Elizabeth and That Bligh Girl, comes another fascinating story of female friendship, betrayal and triumphs based on historical events.

'The very best historical fiction … Williams' novel gives voice in a page-turning narrative to the compelling lives and experiences of two forgotten women of early colonial Australia.' Melissa Ashley, author of The Naturalist of Amsterdam

'I very much enjoyed That Bligh Girl, and eagerly look forward to reading its prequel.' Judy Nunn, author of Black Sheep

When future governor Philip Gidley King sailed with the First Fleet to the new colony, he had his pick of the convict women to look after him.

Two years, and two sons, later, he set out back to England to provide a report on Sydney and its newly tamed Norfolk Island, as his mistress Ann Inett begged him to return to her and their children.

After a year and a half he did – but bringing with him a shocking secret that would cut her to the core, and change all their lives forevermore.

This is a story of tangled love affairs, female friendship, twisted loyalties, betrayals, hardship, male infidelity, and the tragedies and triumphs of life in a new land.

'Williams skilfully shows the too-often overlooked impact women had on the early development of the colony.' Meg Keneally, Weekend Australian

'Superb narration and engrossing drama.' Tom Keneally on That Bligh Girl

'Williams draws a touching portrait of a friendship that manages to thrive despite difficulties small and large.' Sydney Morning Herald/The Age on Elizabeth & Elizabeth

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Australia

407 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 7, 2025

Reviews

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress from NetGalley and in exchange for an honest review. Author Sue Williams uses real people as a bases and the First Fleets historic trip across the Pacific Ocean in her narrative, it was long and brutal journey, especially for convicts and many died during the voyage and she explores what it was like living in New South Wales and Norfolk Island in the early years of settlement.

Anna Josepha was a remarkable woman, she cared about Ann's boy’s welfare and education and many in her position wouldn’t have cared about the children of his mistress and with kindness and grace . Ann Inett and her fellow female convicts and friends, were strong, courageous and went on to be influential and powerful women in the new country. However, as a mother I can’t imagine being separated from my son, Ann had four children, and hers was a sad and heartbreaking situation to be in and she wasn't the only one.

Five stars from me, this is the third book I have read by Sue Williams and I highly recommend The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress and Elizabeth & Elizabeth and That Bligh Girl for readers who enjoy well written historical fiction set in the new colony of New South Wales and Australia.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the characters from this story Ann Inett, Phillip Gidley King and Anna Josepha, it is a story of hardship, strength and courage as these people start life in a totally different place that they are used to add in relationships and family and this is a compelling read.

Ann Inett is sentenced to transportation to Botany Bay for theft, she must leave behind her two young children, and never knowing if she will see them again, she sets sail with the first fleet it took eight long months to reach Botany Bay, her life of course is going to change forever.

Gidley King sets sail with the first fleet the trip is long and has many problems but many months later they arrive in Port Jackson and the work begins in setting up a new settlement there is a lot to overcome, when Governor Arthur Phillip sends Gidley to Norfolk Island to start another settlement he takes male and female convicts he has his choice of females to be his housekeeper and he chooses Ann Inett and soon she is more than his housekeeper.

Gidley and Ann get on well and soon are the parents of a son, Norfolk soon after Ann becomes pregnant again Gidley is sent back to England with letters and requests to keep the settlements going, sadly Ann does not go with him and gives birth to their second son Sydney, it is eighteen months before Gidley returns and he returns with a wife, Anna Josepha.

It takes some time but the two woman open up to each other and a friendship slowly grows and over the years it becomes very strong, Gidley becomes Governor and the pressure is on everyone to keep the new settlements going there are many hardships and this book shows what they all went through, it really was a hard life.

This is one that I recommend to any lover of Australian history, these characters are part of Australia’s history, the characters are strong and real and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them, Ann Inett and Anna Josepha are both strong and caring woman who lived through tough time’s hardship in a male dominated world but both came out the other side, this is a wonderful story.

My thanks to Allen & Unwin and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another riveting colonial historical novel from Sue Williams. She has such a gift in turning details from the past into powerful dramatic fiction. Always at the core are resilient women who fought their way to recognition, overcame tremendous trials and built successful lives. The importance of female friendships is showcased in The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress. The much needed support and understanding between women who share loves, trials and victories are seen here. First between the women sent as convicts and then with those who come in higher positions. Ann Inett and Anna Josepha are an unlikely combination. Their unexpected friendship takes centre stage in what would normally be thought of as a rivalry relationship because of their affections for one man. Yet through forgiveness, a collaboration begins that results in a deeply respectful and warm friendship between these two women.

The majority of the narrative is told by Ann Inett, Philip Gidley King and Anna Josepha. This gives us a unique and well-rounded perspective to see inside their minds, feel the ranges of their emotions and understand their actions throughout various circumstances and events. This truly allows us to get to know these people and develop a real connection with them.

The novel is divided into four parts with chapter titles signifying a main event or theme hinting at what is to come.

Part 1 - Banishment …

We get to know a bit about Ann (a seamstress) before she makes a drastic mistake she will regret that leads to her sentence. And although she is heading to the gallows, an intervention occurs that alters judgement and she goes from hanging to exile and is sent on a ship to Australia to work out her seven year sentence in the penal colony. This is the beginning of a very challenging journey for she is separated from her two children after losing the love of her life in war. She makes new friends, though, that will see her through her initial trials on the journey. We also meet Philip Gidley King, of the Royal Navy and learn of his part in the American Revolutionary War and other background information about his family, ambitions, courage and career promotion.

Part 2 - Isolation …

‘Norfolk Island…a tiny speck of land in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean, which Captain Cook discovered thirteen years before…’ A place Philip Gidley King never dreamed he would set foot on, let alone set up a second colony on this island described by Cook ‘as being covered in giant spruce pines, flax plants and little else.’ When King is sent there, he gets to choose a hand full of women to accompany him and Ann Inett is one of them. He finds something special about her and asks her to be his housekeeper. She is nervous but knows she does not really have a choice and accepts. But their relationship eventually expands to friendship, companionship and lovers. She bears him two sons that he is immensely proud of named Norfolk (first child born there) and Sydney. She hopes for a more solid position with him such as marriage but he is hesitant due to appearances back home in England. His mother would never accept him marrying a convict.

Part 3 - Ambition…

King is sent off to England to deliver his report, load up on supplies, visit his mother and get straight back to Sydney. But life takes some strange turns and he faces a new romantic encounter that sees him marrying his cousin Anna Josepha. But what about Ann and their two children? He continues to carry his secret from one shore to the next, until landing back in Sydney when the two women face each other and everything comes undone. There is ‘confusion on his wife’s face and fury on Ann’s.’ How will this situation be resolved? In a way nobody would expect but forgiveness and second chances carry these three into new territory.

Part 4 - Power…

There are many power struggles in this section and things take a turn for the worse for some and better for others. Historical incidents previously seen in Sue’s previous novels are touched upon here as they fit the historical timeline and must be utilised to create a whole picture of what is happening in the colonies and overseas.

I found the ending brilliantly executed as all threads of the characters’ lives are carefully and respectfully delivered and summarised. There are some shifts in positions and dramatic changes but friendships stay strong between the two women in King’s life. Ann, for all the struggles and trials she endured, achieves so much by the end of the novel. Another chance at love, hard earned success, deserved freedom and a chance to see her children again. She had numerous challenges to contend with in relation to her children by two men. Many sacrifices were made. I loved how her children ultimately honoured and surprised her. Anna Josepha proves to be also a very courageous, forgiving and kind-hearted woman. A great mother and worthy wife of a strong leader. She has her own trials and her life takes some unexpected turns. But she ends up where her heart feels most at home.

It was a difficult period for women who found themselves bearing children in unsuitable situations and then being abandoned. The hazards of setting up colonies in tough locations, food issues, storms and so forth. Riots and power struggles, long rough voyages to and from Australia were just a few of the problems convicts, leaders and their families and free settlers faced. But people like Philip Gidley King made a difference as a strong compassionate commander/governor. But he had issues in his romantic relationships and his health proved horrible.

This is a beautifully delivered story that made me feel so many emotions. As always I was thrilled to read and review this novel by Sue Williams. I am glad I entered the realm of her vivid imagination once again: an imagination that constructs such vivid descriptions and true portraits of memorable characters based on real people in history. She brought them to life on the page in an unforgettable way. They are no longer just names in a history book but flesh and blood people who quickly entered my heart from the first page. I feel richer in spirit and more enhanced in the knowledge of colonial Australia after reading The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress. Particularly as far as Ann, Anna and Gidley are concerned. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Many heartfelt thanks to Allen & Unwin for a review copy.

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe 3.5 stars, but not quite 4 for me. I have just had a look back at my review of Elizabeth & Elizabeth and I'm feeling exactly the same way at the end of this book. I love the historical information and it has obviously been well researched. I will now go and seek out the grave of Philip Gidley King and do feel like seeking more information on the early Governors of Australia. Again, it's a simple narrative that is easy to read but just doesn't grab me like something a little more complex

[Gen Lawrence · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars - due to:
1. A well researched historical fiction
2. Set in Australia (supporting my country)
3. It opened well

The first half is a captivating story. It’s a very strong beginning and I was drawn in to the plot.

The second half changes tact, it simply recites facts. There is no plot, it becomes a boring history lesson. A real shame.

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story, as always in Sue’s books, follows two strong women. Ann Inett, a mother-of-two is found guilty of theft and transported to NSW on the First Fleet. On board she meets naval officer Philip Gidley King who asks Ann to be his housekeeper when he is sent to establish a smaller colony on Norfolk Island. While they never marry, they live like husband and wife and Ann bears King two sons before he’s called back to England to provide an in-person update on the colony of Sydney.

When he returns to Sydney two years later, this time in the capacity of Governor of NSW, he greets Ann with a pregnant wife alongside him, the sweet-tempered but naive Anna Josepha.

Sue has such a talent for finding the forgotten yet captivating stories of the women of the early colony and fictionalising them in such a wonderful way that she brings the past to life in vivid colour. While we can never know the secret conversations that took place, she bases her fictional scenes on fact.

And I love how she’s doing a reverse timeline of sorts with her books. In her first book, Elizabeth & Elizabeth - Sue told the story of Elizabeth Macquarie, wife of the fifth governor of NSW, Lachlan Macquarie, and Elizabeth Macarthur, wife of the beligerant wool merchant, John MacArthur. In her second book, That Bligh Girl, she went back in time to tell the story of Mary Bligh, who accompanied her father, William Bligh, when he became fourth governor of NSW. And now, she has gone back further to tell the story of Phillip Gidley King, the third Governor of NSW.

I once read a quote to describe fictionalised history that said something like ‘a historian will tell you what happened, a novelist will tell you what it felt like’ and I really think this describes Sue’s approach perfectly. The streets of colonial Sydney, Norfolk Island and Parramatta come to life in this book.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately intrigued by the title of the book, "The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress" by Sue Williams, and I chose not to read the blurb beforehand, which led to a wonderful surprise when I began reading. To my delight, I discovered that the book explores a historical story that I had recently learned about during a memorable holiday to Norfolk Island with my father and sister just a year prior.

The story revolves around Philip Gidley King, who was a key figure in early Australian history. He sailed with the First Fleet to the new colony of New South Wales, where he played a pivotal role as Governor Arthur Phillips sent Gidley King on an expedition to Norfolk Island. In his complex personal life, he was involved with Ann Inett, a convict also on the first fleet and later became his mistress and mother of his first 2 children, while he later married Anna Josepha King in England before returning to Northfolk island, creating a rich tapestry of historical and personal dynamics.

During my visit to Norfolk Island, I had the opportunity to delve into some of its intriguing history. I learned about the original house where Gidley King lived, which provided a tangible connection to the past. The island's historical significance, coupled with its stunning scenery, made my experience both enriching and enjoyable. I was particularly captivated by the stories that shaped the foundation of the island, from its early exploration to the social intricacies of its inhabitants.

Therefore, I was thoroughly thrilled to discover that this book was centred around a place and a history I had only recently become acquainted with. Williams has crafted a well-written book that seamlessly weaves together historical facts with the intimate details of the lives of the characters involved. The result is a compelling story that not only informs but also engages the reader on both intellectual and emotional levels, providing a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped Norfolk Island's past and the early days of Australia

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engrossing historical fiction that reads almost as a television soap opera. Sue Williams has again embedded historical facts as she tells the story of 2 women most of us have never heard of. Each of the women is given a voice to tell her perspective.
I also enjoy reading the follow up stories of the minor characters as Williams tells of that happened to them at the conclusion - and WOW! the number of children!!!

When future governor Philip Gidley King sailed with the First Fleet to the new colony, he had his pick of the convict women to look after him. Two years, and two sons, later, he set out back to England to provide a report on Sydney and its newly tamed Norfolk Island, as his mistress Ann Inett begged him to return to her and their children. After a year and a half he did – but bringing with him a shocking secret that would cut her to the core, and change all their lives forevermore. This is a story of tangled love affairs, female friendship, twisted loyalties, betrayals, hardship, male infidelity, and the tragedies and triumphs of life in a new land.'Williams skilfully shows the too-often overlooked impact women had on the early development of the colony.' Meg Keneally,

[Debbie Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story, as I have enjoyed all the other books I've read by this author. I enjoy historical fiction and this one appealed to me because we'd recently been to Norfolk Island and read about the characters and life of the penal colony there. Although it's fictional, the history is there and is the basis of the story. The way women were treated back in the day makes me weep at times! But this is an uplifting story in many ways and I came to appreciate the strength of the women, who were very different to each other but had lots in common too.

[Caren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sue Williams brings to life the figures of Australian’s colonial history, as she has in “That Bligh Girl” and “Elizabeth and Elizabeth”, with the main focus on the strong women who feature in her writing. The struggle to reach what would become New South Wales and to establish themselves in the new land focuses on the personal journeys of Ann Inett (a convict woman, the mistress) and Anna Josepha (the wife), both of whom have loved and borne the children of Philip Gidley King, who later becomes Governor of the new settlement.

The first 2/3 of the novel was stunning, including each of the women’s relationship to King and the choices they would have to make regarding their children. For Ann Inett, the realisation that Gidley King had married while he was in England hurt her deeply and changed her circumstances in the colony. The last third of the novel became somewhat slower as it explored the problems faced by King in his administration of the fast-growing colony with his replacement, Bligh. Overall, I enjoyed the portraits Williams presented of figures involved in Australia’s settlement.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sue Williams is a wonderful Australian historical author and I have enjoyed her other books particularly Elizabeth and Elizabeth and That Bligh Girl.

It was heartening to hear the background historical notes to this novel. - so much depth to the research, amazing.

I listened to this book as an audiobook. It felt stilted and dry, quite often full of facts rather than a storyline to draw you in.

I did enjoy the beginning of the book and meeting Ann Inett and discovering more about her journey to becoming a convict on the first fleet.
Lots of hardship and colonial stories true to the time of the story telling

I enjoyed, but did not love this book. The history was extremely interesting and I congratulate on her amazing research.

[Julie Bourke · Rating 3 out of 5]

First error! Not 14 thousand people on the First Fleet- should be 1400, later entry states it correctly. The character of Philip Ridley King annoys me so much! How could he be such an intuitive leader when he is so stupid in his affairs with women? It just doesn’t figure!

[Denise Tannock · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exceptionally good book. I learned so much about Australia's early history in a book that interwove fact with some fiction. Easy to read and with very interesting characters. Leanne, I think you'll enjoy this one.

[Emilie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whilst I found this book depressing and repetitive, there was still something that kept me reading it to the end…

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched by Sue Williams. I have read several of her books featuring colonial Australia. Thus work begins with Anne Inett stealing a dress she had made for a wealthy woman in her village in England. The woman refused to pay Ann thus forcing this theft on Ann out of desperation for her recently widowed self and her two fatherless children. Of course she was caught and sentenced to transportation to the very new colony in Botany Bay.

Gidley King keeps journals describing the horrors of the transportation ships and the terrors of survival for the many convicts both male 548, and 101 female convicts. Six ships will carry convicts and two ships are naval escort ships. The convoy departs in May 1787 and arrives at Botany Bay in January 1788.
This is the first time white people have set foot on what became the colony of New South Wales, apart from explorers the main one being Captain James Cook. Thanks to the successful American war of independence which closed off convict transportation to that former colony, England now had a new depository for its least desirables.
This book is actually a beautiful description of the survival of a colony against many odds and the love that developed between King and the convict Ann.
When King returns from leave back in England, accompanied by his wife whom he married in England Anna Joseph’s King, he is confronted by his mistress Ann and the two children born by her to King.

Anna Joseph’s King was an avid journal writer and from these and other sources we learn how her compassion and wisdom averted a potential disaster for she befriended Ann and for the rest of their lives they were close friends with Ann’ two children by King benefitting in life and opportunities as much as Anna’s children by King.
The story follows the historical events in the lives of our characters and the growth of the colony with set backs, poorly equipped for farming and the conflicts with the native peoples. Port Jackson was preferred over Botany Bay for its depth of harbour and fresh water. Today graced by the Opera House.
This is a masterful narrative of the experiences in the colony and the two women that existed in history and in the life of Governor Philip Gidley King.

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of tangled love affairs, female friendship, twisted loyalties, betrayals, hardship, and the tragedies and triumphs of life in a new land.

Ann Inett-Robinson (1754–1827), was the youngest of four children of Samuel and Mary Inett.As a young woman, she was a dressmaker and had two illegitimate children: Thomas,in 1778, and Constance,in 1781.In 1785, the dwelling-house of Susannah Brookes in Grimley had been broken open and that several articles of her clothing were taken. Ann Inett, was soon apprehended for the crime and taken into custody.At the Worcester Assizes on 11 March, 1786, Ann was found guilty of stealing and initially sentenced to death, but then had her sentence commuted to 7 years transportation beyond the seas.Ann had to leave her two children behind.Ann eventually embarked on the Lady Penrhyn, a ship specifically designed to carry female convicts to Botany Bay, as part of the First Fleet, sailing on 13 May, 1787,and arriving in Australia on February 1788.Because her behaviour on the ship was deemed least exceptional,Ann was sent from Botany Bay to Norfolk Island,and subsequently became housekeeper to Lieutenant-Governor Philip Gidley King.Ann was described as an attractive woman, small framed, dark haired and with a neat and clean appearance.She was an industrious and accommodating woman, keeping King's home comfortable,and sleeping with him.As his mistress, Ann bore Gidley two sons:Norfolk(b.1789) and Sydney(b.1790),who later became distinguished Royal Navy officers.However, Gidley King returned to England, leaving Ann and their sons behind.Gidley King married Anna Josepha Coombe and had another family.

Ann wed English convict Richard John Robinson in November 1792.Together,they opened a hotel named The Yorkshire Grey.Ann and Richard became successful business and property owners.Ann returned to England in 1820 and lived there until her death.

Philip Gidley King was Governor of NSW from 1800-1806.He helped develop livestock farming, whaling,mining,built many schools,and launched the colony's first newspaper.But conflicts with the military wore down his spirit,and they were able to force his resignation.

[Jan Mawdesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sue Williams has researched the story The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress meticulously; her knowledge and understanding of early Australian History make it a compelling reading. Using accurate facts and real characters, the story takes us on a journey into the lives of these people. Ann Inett and her story can be read on the internet.
Less well known is the settlement which began on Norfolk Island just a few weeks after the First Fleet arrived. Ann was a convict who had been chosen to go with this party and became the housekeeper of Phillip Gidley King. He was in command of the convicts there. They eventually began to produce food because of better soil and weather, which was then taken to Sydney Cove.
Ann’s story though, shows a different time and approach to women. The attitudes held towards convicts and the poor were also unforgiving. King was a good man who ran the settlement with wisdom, resulting in a compliant community.
Once his house was completed, King looked to Ann, a lovely young woman, to become his housekeeper. She also became his bed partner and produced two sons for him. He was deeply committed to Ann and his sons. She became his confident and advisor.
However, when King returned home to England he couldn’t tell his parents about his convict family, so he married a lady of their choosing and took her back to Sydney Cove where Ann and his sons were now living. These were terrible times for Ann, however, she was protected because of her previous liaison.
The weaving of Ann’s ‘story into the historic events of early Australia makes fascinating reading. The complications of Napoleon, and the French threat also affect decisions made by the British Government. This is a marvelous story to bring history to life

reviewed by Grasshopper2 for Allen and Unwin and Bluewolf Reviews.

[Shelagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though The Governor, His Wife And His Mistress is a work of fiction, it very well might not be as the central characters are all real and the major events depicted throughout this story all happened. The story is told through the eyes of Phillip Gidley King, a British royal naval officer who rose to become the first governor of Norfolk Island and subsequently of New South Wales, his mistress Ann Inett, whom he met during the First Fleet voyage to Sydney and who subsequently became his housekeeper and lover, and finally through his wife Anna Josepha King, whom he met on a return journey to England. I was set to despise King for his duplicity and even though he ceased relations with Ann before marrying Anna, she had two sons by him and was expecting him to offer marriage. I thought his treatment of her was reprehensible. His wife Anna was a remarkable woman, whom I respected and liked. Her acceptance of Ann’s former role in her husband’s life was well ahead of its time and I loved that she and Ann became firm friends over time. King appears to have been an excellent governor of both Norfolk Island and New South Wales and, while some of his actions would never be accepted by today’s society, they were very much in keeping with his time and he handled some very difficult situations well. I loved the way Ann picked herself up and got on with life after discovering King’s duplicity and that despite his treatment of her, she was loyal. This story has provided an absolutely fascinating insight into both sea travel between England and Australia and life in colonial Australia in the early 1800’s. While it does read a bit like a history lesson at times, this is a well written and enjoyable book and one that has enriched my knowledge of Australia’s early years.

[Jülie ☼♄  · Rating 5 out of 5]

First came That Bligh Girl in May 2023, then soon thereafter came Elizabeth & Elizabeth in October 2023, and now The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress.
All of which can easily be read as a standalone, though each in turn leaves you wanting more…because you know it’s not the end of the story.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all three so far and, after reading this latest, I feel just the same as before… I look forward to the next in this…(series?) Or will it be a trilogy? Either way I truly hope there are more to come because history has shown us that it’s not the end of the story but the beginning of another…each compelling in their own right.

This book brings to life events surrounding the arrival of the First Fleet to Australia from 1788 and onwards to 1820, following the lives of our very first arrivals of convicts and chosen officials along with their families, with enough livestock and supplies to help them settle into starting up their own Colony. The aim is to become as independent as possible as soon as possible, with a desire to rehabilitate the convicts where possible and a vision to building a new self sufficient Colony.
Based on extremely well researched facts, with the author filling in historical gaps and nuances with the most likeliest of scenarios to give us a captivating read with a real sense of how these events may have unfolded at the time.

I love this kind of story telling and was well rewarded with this latest book!
A truly fascinating and enjoyable read, I can highly recommend this (as well as its companion books) for lovers of historical fiction.

5⭐️s

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ann Inett Is humble dressmaker struggling to feed her two children. One of her rich customers refuses to pay for an expensve dress so Ann retrieves and is charged with stealing: sentence death commuted to 7 years transportation of Sydney. She spends some time on Norfolk Island as “housekeeper” To Philip Gidley King, soon to be Governor of the colony of NSW. They form a strong relationship with two children. King returns to England before taking office and returns with Anna his new wife. Incredibly Ann and Anna strike up a good relationship: and King turned out to be a hardworking and good Governor. The text presents a fictionalized account of the events involving Grose, the Rum Corps, and Macarthur. Finally King’s health gives out and returns to England to be replaced by the appalling Bligh. The book is written in the present tense, I suppose to gull the reader into believing this to fiction but it is so well grounded in fact that we know it is largely history. The speech and details of course gives its fictionality away but I was reading it as filling out the history of NSW that I knew. It is crafted very well, perhaps occasionally the dialogue was stilted but possibly as an attempt to suggest contemporaneity. Otherwise it was fascinating reading bringing the history vividly to life. The appendix giving brief accounts of what happened in real life to most characters is an excellent touch.

[Jennifer (JC-S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘She hadn’t slept a wink all night, but Ann Inett doesn’t care.’

Ann Inett, mother of two, is found guilty of theft and is sentenced to transportation. She is one of the convicts on the First Fleet which arrived in Botany Bay in 1788, wondering if she will ever see her children again. Naval officer Philip Gidley King, destined to be a future governor of the fledgling colony, is also on the First Fleet.

When Gidley King is sent to establish a colony on Norfolk Island, he asks Ann to be his housekeeper. Living together as husband and wife, Ann is pregnant with their second son, when Gidley King returns to England to report on the colony. Ann, who is hoping they will marry, awaits his return. Imagine her shock when Gidley King returns — two years later— with Anna Josepha, his pregnant wife.

Ms Williams brings this period of colonial history to life. She depicts the hardships and challenges faced both on the eight-month voyage and in the fledgling colony, as well as an unlikely friendship between wife and mistress.

I would recommend this novel to anyone seeking to read historical fiction set during Australia’s early colonial history. The author’s Afterword provides more details about the main (historical) characters while there is a list of Further Reading for those readers keen to know more of the history.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

[Brendan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What i loved about this book was the historical details and accuracy there of, given so much of it was based on diary entries and journals of articulate, thoughtful people living in the late 18th early 19th century. For all of Phillip Gidley-King's achievements as a governor, and recent history shows he was one of the more enlightened, capable ones, i was shocked at how woefully inept he was intimate relationships with the women in his life and failure to be upfront and honest in his communications with firstly, his mistress, and also with his wife. He was too concerned about his social status and what his family, the Navy and English society generally would think of him bedding a convict woman so he just pretended she, and her two sons she bore him, didn't exist. Until the issue is thrust upon him when he arrives in Sydney with his new pregnant wife beside him and the pair are confronted by his mistress. Very awkward for both women who proved very reasonable and accommodating of the children's needs. Hard to believe how such a competent governor could be such an incompetent communicator, lover, husband and father.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great historical fiction.

This story is based on the real life and times of Captain Phillip Gidley King, Ann Inett and Anna Josepha Coombe.

The story begins with the deployment of the first fleet, composed of free men and convicts. They sailed to Botany Bay in order to set up a British colony in Sydney and Norfolk Island.

The stories of the voyages and the establishment of the colony make an exciting read. In many instances it was the survival of the fittest as the ships sailed for eight months from Britain to Australia.

The women form great lifelong friendships during the hardships faced with sailing, child-bearing and supporting their husbands throughout their ventures. The women were made strong and resilient in the late 1700's. Reading from their viewpoints is both interesting and inspiring.

Thankyou to #Allen&Unwin and #Netgalley for the free copy of The Governer, His Wife and His Mistress in exchange for an honest review.

[Carolyn Cash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down.

The story of Governor Philip Gidley King and the two women in his life - his convict mistress and wife.

A story of tangled love affairs, twisted loyalties and female friendship, hardship and male infidelity whilst adjusting to live in a new land.

Also highlights the difficulties and injustices women faced, especially from those in positions of power, and forgotten women in Australian history.

Recommended for those who loved That Bligh Girl, which follows on from this story.

[Lynne Benton · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much history in this story- I enjoyed it although at times it slightly had a tone of a diary or letter and seemed a bit rushed through. Nevertheless it tells so clearly of the hard times and tenaciousness of all layers of society and of the women and men who made their way to nsw.
A little bit too brief in interactions with indigenous peoples .
I’m always amazed at how long partners were away from each other and how far and often they travelled - the history of Norfolk Island and Gidley King there particularly informative …

[Nicole West · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a book on the early colony. This book explores the hardship of these times, the setting up of a new land, the development and decision made to create a sustainable living.

The men and women accused of petty crimes escape the death penalty to travel by ship from England to Sydney and the newly named Norfolk Island in the hope of surviving terrible conditions.

This story is full of sadness, loss, and frustration, but also female friendship and triumph.

A wonderful account of early colonial Australia.

[Sonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read, particularly because it’s basically a true story. Interesting history, but reading about the relationships is what made it more than just a historical recount. The writing style was a little formal; always using characters full names…. Such as Gidley King…
I’m glad I didn’t live during this time in history, but thankful to the people who really started our nation of Australia. That might be a controversial statement, but it’s thanks to the European settlers that Australia has become what it is today.

[Sarah Pollard · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although the story of these women (and man) tell a fascinating tale of the early years of white settlement in Australia, the author’s skill and style are lacking.
Williams writes chapters told from each of the main characters’ point of view but at not time does she really capture an essence of them nor move beyond the most literal of plot recount.
Readable but mostly for the historical account rather than any meaningful insight.

[Madi F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is an absolutely amazing book. As one of my first dips into historical fiction, one that is heavily influenced by the facts, I really didn’t know what to expect. This was everything that I could’ve asked for and more! As an ancestor of Ann Inett-Robinson, I was so glad to see that her story ended in her favour - she undoubtedly deserved it.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another well researched novel by Sue Williams. She always brings colonial Australia to life in an enjoyable way. I love reading about early governors, their wives, partners and families. So many Australians have a convict past, so learning about their lives, adventures and what they had to endure is always fascinating.