What do you think?
Rate this book
Daughter of the Murray
1890s, River Murray, Northern Victoria
Georgina Calthorpe is unhappy living with her indifferent foster family the MacHenry’s in their crumbling house on the banks of the River Murray.
Unlike the rest of the family, she isn’t looking forward to the return of prodigal son Dane. With good reason. Dane MacHenry is furious when on his return he finds his homestead in grave decline. Unaware that his father has been drinking his way through his inheritance, he blames Georgina and Georgina decides she has no option but to leave. Unfortunately she chooses Dane’s horse to flee on, and when Dane learns she has stolen his prized stallion, he gives chase.
From this point their fates become intertwined with that of a businessman with a dark secret, Conor Foley, who offers Georgina apparent security: a marriage with status in the emerging nouveau-riche echelons of Melbourne. But none of them could imagine the toll the changing political and social landscape would have on homes, hearts and families.
Will Georgina’s path lead her into grave danger and unhappiness, or will she survive and fulfil her destiny?
Georgina Calthorpe is unhappy living with her indifferent foster family the MacHenry’s in their crumbling house on the banks of the River Murray.
Unlike the rest of the family, she isn’t looking forward to the return of prodigal son Dane. With good reason. Dane MacHenry is furious when on his return he finds his homestead in grave decline. Unaware that his father has been drinking his way through his inheritance, he blames Georgina and Georgina decides she has no option but to leave. Unfortunately she chooses Dane’s horse to flee on, and when Dane learns she has stolen his prized stallion, he gives chase.
From this point their fates become intertwined with that of a businessman with a dark secret, Conor Foley, who offers Georgina apparent security: a marriage with status in the emerging nouveau-riche echelons of Melbourne. But none of them could imagine the toll the changing political and social landscape would have on homes, hearts and families.
Will Georgina’s path lead her into grave danger and unhappiness, or will she survive and fulfil her destiny?
352 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2016
49 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
About the author
Darry Fraser
28 books169 followersBest-selling Australian author, Darry Fraser, has a passion for writing empowering, feminist-driven narratives.
She brings to life the courage, resilience, and spirit of women in her gripping stories and masterfully weaves fictional tales around the rich backdrop of Australian history.
Whether you're familiar with her work or discovering it for the first time, get ready to be captivated by her vivid characters and the rich landscapes of a past era, where adventure and empowerment intertwine.
She brings to life the courage, resilience, and spirit of women in her gripping stories and masterfully weaves fictional tales around the rich backdrop of Australian history.
Whether you're familiar with her work or discovering it for the first time, get ready to be captivated by her vivid characters and the rich landscapes of a past era, where adventure and empowerment intertwine.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 12, 2016
Georgie Calthorpe had been living with her Uncle Tom, Aunt Jemimah and cousin Elspeth at the homestead Jacaranda on the Murray River for the past few years and was terribly unhappy. The house had fallen into disrepair; the stock and grazing were negligible – her only pleasure was riding the few remaining horses. MacNamara and Douglas were the two she favoured, though MacNamara was the one she rode most often. But the day the son of the household, Dane MacHenry arrived home after four years absence was the day it all changed for Georgie.
In view of Dane’s anger at the state of the homestead, and blaming Georgie for its decline, she decided to flee. But Georgie was an innocent and naïve young woman, not used to the way of the country away from the security of the place she’d called home. Meanwhile Dane was livid to discover Georgie had fled with his beloved horse, MacNamara. He gave chase, heading for Echuca where he was sure she would be holed up…
Conor Foley was an astute businessman who owned and ran paddle steamers up and down the Murray River, delivering supplies to the outlying communities. He also had his eye on Georgie for his wife. What would happen when he discovered Georgie missing from her home? And would Foley be able to fulfil his wish to marry Georgie and take her to his home in Melbourne?
Daughter of the Murray is set in country Victoria in the 1890s when women had no say and the suffragette voices were just beginning to be heard. Aussie author Darry Fraser has chosen a beautiful part of the country for the setting of her historical fiction novel - the Murray River and surrounding countryside is awash with birds and wildlife, thick with bush and the river is peaceful and tranquil (mostly) I’ve been there and love the area. I didn’t enjoy the first half of the novel as much as the second; parts of the voice didn’t seem to fit the time frame and didn’t feel like a trait of the era. That said, I would still recommend Daughter of the Murray to historical fiction fans.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
In view of Dane’s anger at the state of the homestead, and blaming Georgie for its decline, she decided to flee. But Georgie was an innocent and naïve young woman, not used to the way of the country away from the security of the place she’d called home. Meanwhile Dane was livid to discover Georgie had fled with his beloved horse, MacNamara. He gave chase, heading for Echuca where he was sure she would be holed up…
Conor Foley was an astute businessman who owned and ran paddle steamers up and down the Murray River, delivering supplies to the outlying communities. He also had his eye on Georgie for his wife. What would happen when he discovered Georgie missing from her home? And would Foley be able to fulfil his wish to marry Georgie and take her to his home in Melbourne?
Daughter of the Murray is set in country Victoria in the 1890s when women had no say and the suffragette voices were just beginning to be heard. Aussie author Darry Fraser has chosen a beautiful part of the country for the setting of her historical fiction novel - the Murray River and surrounding countryside is awash with birds and wildlife, thick with bush and the river is peaceful and tranquil (mostly) I’ve been there and love the area. I didn’t enjoy the first half of the novel as much as the second; parts of the voice didn’t seem to fit the time frame and didn’t feel like a trait of the era. That said, I would still recommend Daughter of the Murray to historical fiction fans.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2025
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
#3.5 stars
The title of Australian author Darry Fraser’s novel, Daughter of Murray, caught my eye – even before it hit bookstores. I have a weakness for Australian historical fiction and after reading a couple of novels in the past set around the iconic Murray River region, I was keen to delve into this offering from new author Darry Fraser.
Taking place around the Murray River region, Northern Victoria in the 1890’s, Daughter of the Murray introduces us to heroine Georgina Calthorpe. Georgina is a free spirited and a somewhat impetuous young woman, who lives with her foster family, the MacHenry’s, on their dilapidated homestead. This sprawling property nestles the banks of the River Murray. When the book opens, the MacHenry’s are struggling to keep their sheep run property afloat. Hope comes in the form of the news that the MacHenry’s beloved son Dane is due to return home, which lifts their spirits. For Georgina, Dane’s return isn’t welcomed at all and when he arrives, he immediately casts blame on Georgina for the sorry state of affairs at home. Furious with Dane, Georgina plots her escape and succeeds in making a run for it. She makes the mistake of taking Dane’s beloved horse with her and he follows her. While making her escape, Georgina crosses paths with a gentleman who will ultimately change her fate forever. Connor Foley, a businessman from Melbourne, cannot resist the charms of Georgina and proposes an offer of marriage to her soon after they meet. Upon returning to Melbourne with Connor, Georgina begins to question if she made the right choice in entering into a marriage in haste. It is obvious Georgina is harbouring love for another and ambitions for a very different life to the one she is living.
Daughter of the Murray was an enjoyable read that payed perfect homage to an era and locale in which it is set, the late 1800’s, around the River Murray. I always lap up Australian historical fiction novels and this historical romance, with a hint of adventure, appealed to me immediately.
Darry Fraser has recreated life in Australia 1800’s, highlighting both the male and female experience, with care and attention to detail. Through Georgina, who is a feisty heroine, we see clearly how women at this time were restricted by society’s rules and norms. This part of the novel gives Fraser the room to explore a little of the emerging suffragette movement in Australia, which was enlightening to read. We also learn about transport in this era and how the paddle steamers ruled the waters of the Murray, this was my personal favourite part of the novel.
Fraser’s characters are well drawn. Georgina is full of life, her personality seems to adapt throughout the course of the novel, by her rich experiences. She makes the transformation from a naive but spirited young girl, to a strong and independent woman over the progression of the novel. She is matched with male protagonists Dane and Connor, who offer the reader a glimpse into the lives of men in this tumultuous era.
Daughter of the Murray is a very good Australian saga, offering a fantastic picture of a highly interesting period in Australia’s history but it is heavy on the romance. So if you are a fan of historical romances, this book should be high on your to read list. I did find the romance and subsequent sexual tension between the main characters seemed to overshadow the wonderful historical narrative at some points in the novel. Perhaps these are my own personal feelings though, as novels heavy on romance/heat are not always to my taste. Despite my misgivings on the romance side of this novel, I am still very happy to endorse this novel as a solid read.
#3.5 stars
The title of Australian author Darry Fraser’s novel, Daughter of Murray, caught my eye – even before it hit bookstores. I have a weakness for Australian historical fiction and after reading a couple of novels in the past set around the iconic Murray River region, I was keen to delve into this offering from new author Darry Fraser.
Taking place around the Murray River region, Northern Victoria in the 1890’s, Daughter of the Murray introduces us to heroine Georgina Calthorpe. Georgina is a free spirited and a somewhat impetuous young woman, who lives with her foster family, the MacHenry’s, on their dilapidated homestead. This sprawling property nestles the banks of the River Murray. When the book opens, the MacHenry’s are struggling to keep their sheep run property afloat. Hope comes in the form of the news that the MacHenry’s beloved son Dane is due to return home, which lifts their spirits. For Georgina, Dane’s return isn’t welcomed at all and when he arrives, he immediately casts blame on Georgina for the sorry state of affairs at home. Furious with Dane, Georgina plots her escape and succeeds in making a run for it. She makes the mistake of taking Dane’s beloved horse with her and he follows her. While making her escape, Georgina crosses paths with a gentleman who will ultimately change her fate forever. Connor Foley, a businessman from Melbourne, cannot resist the charms of Georgina and proposes an offer of marriage to her soon after they meet. Upon returning to Melbourne with Connor, Georgina begins to question if she made the right choice in entering into a marriage in haste. It is obvious Georgina is harbouring love for another and ambitions for a very different life to the one she is living.
Daughter of the Murray was an enjoyable read that payed perfect homage to an era and locale in which it is set, the late 1800’s, around the River Murray. I always lap up Australian historical fiction novels and this historical romance, with a hint of adventure, appealed to me immediately.
Darry Fraser has recreated life in Australia 1800’s, highlighting both the male and female experience, with care and attention to detail. Through Georgina, who is a feisty heroine, we see clearly how women at this time were restricted by society’s rules and norms. This part of the novel gives Fraser the room to explore a little of the emerging suffragette movement in Australia, which was enlightening to read. We also learn about transport in this era and how the paddle steamers ruled the waters of the Murray, this was my personal favourite part of the novel.
Fraser’s characters are well drawn. Georgina is full of life, her personality seems to adapt throughout the course of the novel, by her rich experiences. She makes the transformation from a naive but spirited young girl, to a strong and independent woman over the progression of the novel. She is matched with male protagonists Dane and Connor, who offer the reader a glimpse into the lives of men in this tumultuous era.
Daughter of the Murray is a very good Australian saga, offering a fantastic picture of a highly interesting period in Australia’s history but it is heavy on the romance. So if you are a fan of historical romances, this book should be high on your to read list. I did find the romance and subsequent sexual tension between the main characters seemed to overshadow the wonderful historical narrative at some points in the novel. Perhaps these are my own personal feelings though, as novels heavy on romance/heat are not always to my taste. Despite my misgivings on the romance side of this novel, I am still very happy to endorse this novel as a solid read.
April 18, 2024
Two and a half stars
Georgina Calthorpe is a spirited and feisty young woman who lives with her uncle and aunt and their daughter, on a property in Victoria, Australia.the book starts in 1890. Caroline is rebelling against the restrictions placed on her as a woman by society of the times. When the Mc Henry’s son Dane returns to the neglected sheep property, Caroline is less than thrilled to see him. They get off to a very rocky start when Dane blames Georgina and Papa Rupert, her stepfather, for the lack of funds to attend to the needs of his father’s property. Caroline decides to run away, but her escape is on Dane’s prized stallion, so of course he pursues her.
Caroline is trying to make her way to riverboat captain Conor Foley, who she has feelings for. But there is a lot about Conor she does not know.
I quite enjoyed the spirited Caroline who is not frightened to say what she thinks, sometimes in interesting language, given the times. But the other characters didn’t really feel believable. After a while even Georgie got tiresome with her decisions. To me it felt like the story went on and on, over the same ground and it felt all rather predictable. Didn’t like the way sex scenes were handled either in this book.
I had read another book by this author and loved it so was keen to read this one. But ended up disappointed .So just an ok read from me sadly. But others have enjoyed it more, so don’t let me put you off if steamy, Australian historical fiction sounds like your kind of thing. I loved the cover of this book.
Georgina Calthorpe is a spirited and feisty young woman who lives with her uncle and aunt and their daughter, on a property in Victoria, Australia.the book starts in 1890. Caroline is rebelling against the restrictions placed on her as a woman by society of the times. When the Mc Henry’s son Dane returns to the neglected sheep property, Caroline is less than thrilled to see him. They get off to a very rocky start when Dane blames Georgina and Papa Rupert, her stepfather, for the lack of funds to attend to the needs of his father’s property. Caroline decides to run away, but her escape is on Dane’s prized stallion, so of course he pursues her.
Caroline is trying to make her way to riverboat captain Conor Foley, who she has feelings for. But there is a lot about Conor she does not know.
I quite enjoyed the spirited Caroline who is not frightened to say what she thinks, sometimes in interesting language, given the times. But the other characters didn’t really feel believable. After a while even Georgie got tiresome with her decisions. To me it felt like the story went on and on, over the same ground and it felt all rather predictable. Didn’t like the way sex scenes were handled either in this book.
I had read another book by this author and loved it so was keen to read this one. But ended up disappointed .So just an ok read from me sadly. But others have enjoyed it more, so don’t let me put you off if steamy, Australian historical fiction sounds like your kind of thing. I loved the cover of this book.
October 2, 2020
For author ‘F’ in my A-Z romance book challenge, I picked Darry Fraser’s Daughter of the Murray, an Aussie historical romance, which turned out to be a little bit of an odd read.
Given its title, I was expecting the main setting to be in and around the Murray River. And yes, some parts of the novel were set there in towns where, during this time setting of 1890, paddle steamers ruled. Fraser, I think, should have stuck with that. Paddle steamers are such a romantic ideal for me (blame All the Rivers Run!) so I think I would have been satisfied with that. Instead, she threw in other places, such as Port Fairy (on the Great Ocean Road) and Melbourne. It stopped me from immersing myself in the setting completely.
Our heroine, Georgie, is not the most likeable character. Her contrariness did my head in. She’s interested in women’s suffrage, riding horses, and working instead of marrying and having babies, and yet she seems to make no inroads when it comes to women's rights or independence in the end. And, oh she hates her two suitors but she’s willing to marry them for security and sex. I can’t even…
Yes, there’s two potential suitors and they’re both annoying. There’s Dane, the prodigal son returning to the property where Georgina lives with his mother, her aunt by marriage. And there’s Conor, a rich businessman who has recently secretly won the family property from Dane’s father in a game of poker. Pretty much Conor and Dane bully and treat Georgie like a doormat, but want her for her hot body. *rolling eyes*
Just to add to this, almost all of the supporting characters are also horrid, even Dane’s parents and sister. There also seemed to be a lot of them. I wondered if some of them were featured in other Fraser books but, just glancing at the blurbs of her other titles, I can’t see that they were.
Fraser threw in a lot of conflict that was completely unnecessary too and often it didn’t even make sense. The narrative flow of the book jumped around to keep up and nearly all of the outcomes were glaringly obvious and predictable.
The other weird thing about the book was the secksy times. I was not expecting so many graphic scenes. It made me confused as to who the intended audience was. (Certainly I don't think the cover hinted at a book with such sex scenes.)
Mmm… I would probably give this 2 ½
Given its title, I was expecting the main setting to be in and around the Murray River. And yes, some parts of the novel were set there in towns where, during this time setting of 1890, paddle steamers ruled. Fraser, I think, should have stuck with that. Paddle steamers are such a romantic ideal for me (blame All the Rivers Run!) so I think I would have been satisfied with that. Instead, she threw in other places, such as Port Fairy (on the Great Ocean Road) and Melbourne. It stopped me from immersing myself in the setting completely.
Our heroine, Georgie, is not the most likeable character. Her contrariness did my head in. She’s interested in women’s suffrage, riding horses, and working instead of marrying and having babies, and yet she seems to make no inroads when it comes to women's rights or independence in the end. And, oh she hates her two suitors but she’s willing to marry them for security and sex. I can’t even…
Yes, there’s two potential suitors and they’re both annoying. There’s Dane, the prodigal son returning to the property where Georgina lives with his mother, her aunt by marriage. And there’s Conor, a rich businessman who has recently secretly won the family property from Dane’s father in a game of poker. Pretty much Conor and Dane bully and treat Georgie like a doormat, but want her for her hot body. *rolling eyes*
Just to add to this, almost all of the supporting characters are also horrid, even Dane’s parents and sister. There also seemed to be a lot of them. I wondered if some of them were featured in other Fraser books but, just glancing at the blurbs of her other titles, I can’t see that they were.
Fraser threw in a lot of conflict that was completely unnecessary too and often it didn’t even make sense. The narrative flow of the book jumped around to keep up and nearly all of the outcomes were glaringly obvious and predictable.
The other weird thing about the book was the secksy times. I was not expecting so many graphic scenes. It made me confused as to who the intended audience was. (Certainly I don't think the cover hinted at a book with such sex scenes.)
Mmm… I would probably give this 2 ½
January 31, 2018
Darry Fraser's debut book broke new ground for me. I think the catchphrase for this, and other books set in the same period, has become 'Oztorical' - a descriptor for a historical novel set in Australia at a time when freight was via the Mighty Murray River, and women had yet landed the right to vote (though there were some hardy souls trying to blaze that trail).
So this book was quite an education. Too often I don't think enough about those women who went before me, and what my life might have been like in another time and place. All these freedoms I take for granted — like being able to own or ride a horse if I want, work if I want, own property and be involved in a business — life wasn't always this way.
So this book has opened my eyes, quite apart from keeping me highly entertained for hours in recent days.
I fell at home immediately with the Murray River setting, and with Dane and Georgina and their struggles.
I like that it does not take an entire book to resolve the early plot line that Dane (returning to the family farm of Jacaranda where Georgina lives) has been lied to, and his view of Georgina and her step-father is wrong. This initial lie is the catalyst for all events in the book, but the original deception is further complicated when Georgina flees, seeking rescue with the wrong bloke.
Something that broke new ground for the romance reader in me is the fact that both hero and heroine sleep with other characters during this novel. Dane has a tryst with a woman with whom he has an 'understanding' when Georgina is lost to him; and as mentioned, Georgie chooses the wrong man to marry.
Fate has his/her work cut out to get Georgina and Dane together, but Fate does a pretty darn good job of clearing a path to let that happen. *fist pump* #GoFate
I was swept along in this read, much like sitting by the banks of the Murray River itself. I could see the paddleboats roving up and down on the wide waters, and picture the women and men of the time - customs, clothing, furniture.
I felt true compassion for Georgina, and wished that the world would work out for her and give her the happy ending she desired.
I look forward to more by Darry Fraser, and I recommend this one for rural romance readers who may be looking for something outside the norm.
So this book was quite an education. Too often I don't think enough about those women who went before me, and what my life might have been like in another time and place. All these freedoms I take for granted — like being able to own or ride a horse if I want, work if I want, own property and be involved in a business — life wasn't always this way.
So this book has opened my eyes, quite apart from keeping me highly entertained for hours in recent days.
I fell at home immediately with the Murray River setting, and with Dane and Georgina and their struggles.
I like that it does not take an entire book to resolve the early plot line that Dane (returning to the family farm of Jacaranda where Georgina lives) has been lied to, and his view of Georgina and her step-father is wrong. This initial lie is the catalyst for all events in the book, but the original deception is further complicated when Georgina flees, seeking rescue with the wrong bloke.
Something that broke new ground for the romance reader in me is the fact that both hero and heroine sleep with other characters during this novel. Dane has a tryst with a woman with whom he has an 'understanding' when Georgina is lost to him; and as mentioned, Georgie chooses the wrong man to marry.
Fate has his/her work cut out to get Georgina and Dane together, but Fate does a pretty darn good job of clearing a path to let that happen. *fist pump* #GoFate
I was swept along in this read, much like sitting by the banks of the Murray River itself. I could see the paddleboats roving up and down on the wide waters, and picture the women and men of the time - customs, clothing, furniture.
I felt true compassion for Georgina, and wished that the world would work out for her and give her the happy ending she desired.
I look forward to more by Darry Fraser, and I recommend this one for rural romance readers who may be looking for something outside the norm.
March 10, 2017
Like the Murray River itself, the central motif of Daughter of the Murray South Australian author Darry Fraser gives us a tale that flows effortlessly for the reader, but it's not without its snags and hidden obstacles for its hero and heroine.
Fraser does an excellent job of bringing the landscape vividly to life and touching on some of the late 19th century social issues in a way which is not heavy handed or preachy. Another thing I appreciated was the way she eschewed a cliched villain and gave Conor Foley strong motivation so it was easy to sympathise with some of his decisions.
This is a very easy read and a great way to wile away an afternoon. Daughter of the Murray reminds me of Nancy Cato's Australian classic, All The Rivers Run and it sets itself up effortlessly for a sequel.
Fraser does an excellent job of bringing the landscape vividly to life and touching on some of the late 19th century social issues in a way which is not heavy handed or preachy. Another thing I appreciated was the way she eschewed a cliched villain and gave Conor Foley strong motivation so it was easy to sympathise with some of his decisions.
This is a very easy read and a great way to wile away an afternoon. Daughter of the Murray reminds me of Nancy Cato's Australian classic, All The Rivers Run and it sets itself up effortlessly for a sequel.
October 3, 2020
In terms of writing style, it is five stars. Darry Fraser can certainly string words together.
For me, though, I really disliked Georgina. She was that combination of ignorance and pride that I really hate. Always fighting the world like she knows what's going on, while being completely ignorant. And in her ignorance, she made some really stupid decisions.
And the whole "romance" between Georgie and Dane just didn't work. Romance books often have people dislike each other at first while their bodies are saying "yes, he/she's the one", but usually the head starts catching up with the body. This didn't seem to happen. They didn't really have any good moments together where they see each other's good sides. They just fought. Georgie never trusted Dane, completely disliked him, and fought him at every opportunity.
They slept together and Georgie was certain it was just because he wanted the business and Jacaranda so she ran away. He came after her and they slept together again, and then she was once again certain he had bad intentions and went back to Melbourne. It was only when she discovered she was pregnant that she went after him and they got married. It didn't exactly make me excited that they were tying the knot.
Then we had the whole real dad turning up, and by then I just wanted the book over.
I felt Fraser's intention was to support feminism, but Georgie needed to be a better character for that to happen. In this, she comes across as a bratty teenager who really needs to grow up before being given any responsibility. I'm glad she didn't end up running the business because she really would have destroyed it. It wasn't right for her, but she stubbornly dug her heels in, because she didn't like being told she couldn't do something.
For me, though, I really disliked Georgina. She was that combination of ignorance and pride that I really hate. Always fighting the world like she knows what's going on, while being completely ignorant. And in her ignorance, she made some really stupid decisions.
And the whole "romance" between Georgie and Dane just didn't work. Romance books often have people dislike each other at first while their bodies are saying "yes, he/she's the one", but usually the head starts catching up with the body. This didn't seem to happen. They didn't really have any good moments together where they see each other's good sides. They just fought. Georgie never trusted Dane, completely disliked him, and fought him at every opportunity.
They slept together and Georgie was certain it was just because he wanted the business and Jacaranda so she ran away. He came after her and they slept together again, and then she was once again certain he had bad intentions and went back to Melbourne. It was only when she discovered she was pregnant that she went after him and they got married. It didn't exactly make me excited that they were tying the knot.
Then we had the whole real dad turning up, and by then I just wanted the book over.
I felt Fraser's intention was to support feminism, but Georgie needed to be a better character for that to happen. In this, she comes across as a bratty teenager who really needs to grow up before being given any responsibility. I'm glad she didn't end up running the business because she really would have destroyed it. It wasn't right for her, but she stubbornly dug her heels in, because she didn't like being told she couldn't do something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2017
Daughter of the Murray by Darry Fraser is a really good Australian story of danger and adventure set on a neglected sheep station and homestead named Jacaranda near the banks of the Murray River.
It's also a romance with more than a few surprises in store.
There's a double romance and a double surprise coming near the end with a few more to come to keep you on your toes.
You'll hear all about paddlesteamers like Sweet Georgie, Lady Goodnight and Lady Mitchell.
This was very well written and well worth reading.
I loved hearing about Paddlesteamers on the Murray. I can see them gleaming white as they paddle down our River Murray in all their glory.
I really enjoyed Daughter of the Murray by Darry Fraser and recommend this novel as a great Australian read.
It's also a romance with more than a few surprises in store.
There's a double romance and a double surprise coming near the end with a few more to come to keep you on your toes.
You'll hear all about paddlesteamers like Sweet Georgie, Lady Goodnight and Lady Mitchell.
This was very well written and well worth reading.
I loved hearing about Paddlesteamers on the Murray. I can see them gleaming white as they paddle down our River Murray in all their glory.
I really enjoyed Daughter of the Murray by Darry Fraser and recommend this novel as a great Australian read.
September 30, 2019
A could-have-been-set-anywhere romance. I was really hoping for more than just tasters of Australian scenery and history, with few changes this story would work just as well along the Mississippi river. It is a fine romance if you like your heroines as fiesty horsewomen who despite their desire for independence have no idea what do with it once they have it. The sexual mores of the period are pandered to with a perfectly chaste woman giving themselves fully only to their 1TL (this book finds a blatant way to do this while letting POV character to marry another). There was an Aboriginal person mentioned in the penultimate chapter but in tokenistic fashion they only got to wave from the riverbank.
December 11, 2016
A well written story set in an interesting period of Australian history on the mighty Murray RIver.
Georgie is a strong feisty woman, making her way alone after suffering setbacks in life.
The description of setting evokes the Australian landscape beautifully, and the historical period is realistically portrayed. The depiction of the characters is realistic, and the sexual tension in Georgie’s first relationship lets us see the confusion of an inexperienced young woman who has the courage to go for what she thinks she desires.
Darry Fraser’s debut novel is stunning with the promise of things to come.
Georgie is a strong feisty woman, making her way alone after suffering setbacks in life.
The description of setting evokes the Australian landscape beautifully, and the historical period is realistically portrayed. The depiction of the characters is realistic, and the sexual tension in Georgie’s first relationship lets us see the confusion of an inexperienced young woman who has the courage to go for what she thinks she desires.
Darry Fraser’s debut novel is stunning with the promise of things to come.
February 16, 2021
I enjoyed the middle of the story better than the first half, however I found the main character Georgie a bit confusing about who she is, she seemed to lack depth at times, the relationship between her and Dane confusing, seeming to be one of obsession and possession hate and then somehow immediately flipped to true love. I didnt enjoy this one as much as her other periodic titles.
June 3, 2019
Have to have a break from Darry for awhile. Still enjoyed the book but read too many close together. Will definitely read more after a break.
February 2, 2017
I enjoyed this historical read set on the mighty Murray River (a place I really want to visit!). Loved the setting and the characters. Only one small, very picky observation, is that I found the cover did not match the book at all. I was expecting a nice, descriptive, captivating historical read but found instead more of one of those romances that at first drive you crazy because Georgina from the very beginning was so immature and spoiled and I just wanted to strangle her, but as the book progresses by the end I could see the character she would become. As I said, very picky, but I'm not sure the illustrator read the book first! All in all, a really good read that I did enjoy.
Read
January 11, 2017What a fantastic book!
I just couldn't put it down once I started.
I was completely involved with all the utterly believable characters and yet I found the plot unpredictable but satisfying.
The characterisation was superb and I felt myself being pulled into each of the subjects persona. My emotions were tested but I loved reading it.
As I said before, I couldn't put it down.
Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.
I just couldn't put it down once I started.
I was completely involved with all the utterly believable characters and yet I found the plot unpredictable but satisfying.
The characterisation was superb and I felt myself being pulled into each of the subjects persona. My emotions were tested but I loved reading it.
As I said before, I couldn't put it down.
Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.
January 20, 2017
Good read. Great characters.
Well written good plot . Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I Would recommend. I Definitely would read more by this author
Well written good plot . Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I Would recommend. I Definitely would read more by this author
November 8, 2023
Georgina (Georgie) had lived four years in the care of her Aunt Jemimah (Jem) at Jacaranda. Tom McHenry has been unable to upkeep the homestead and has sunk into much financial debt. Georgie loves to tend to the horses and more so, ride them! The young girl is proud not to conform to social norms such as riding side saddle as expected by a "lady". She cares for the stables, keeps them polished like new and even mucks them out.
Following the arrival of Dane McHenry and his rash behaviours, Georgie believes she needs to flee and be entirely self sufficient or run into the arms of her suitor, Conor Foley. Which will she choose and what will it mean for her future?
From there many events take place and secrets unravel. Darry Fraser has made some of these predictable but carefully, just enough to create immersing anticipation of what's to come. The few twists in addition to the leading characters tenacity make this book an exciting and dramatic read.
Darry chose to set Daughter of the Murray in the 1890's and at the start of the book I was transported back to the colonial times. Unfortunately, this was intermittent throughout as the theme lacked consistency.
However, I did enjoy reading the book and at some points could not put it down due to the anticipation mentioned above. I loved that gum trees were admired by Georgie and the scenes are set in Melbourne and some gorgeous Victorian towns.
Overall I gave this book a rating of 4 and I look forward to reading the other two novels that complete the Murray series.
Following the arrival of Dane McHenry and his rash behaviours, Georgie believes she needs to flee and be entirely self sufficient or run into the arms of her suitor, Conor Foley. Which will she choose and what will it mean for her future?
From there many events take place and secrets unravel. Darry Fraser has made some of these predictable but carefully, just enough to create immersing anticipation of what's to come. The few twists in addition to the leading characters tenacity make this book an exciting and dramatic read.
Darry chose to set Daughter of the Murray in the 1890's and at the start of the book I was transported back to the colonial times. Unfortunately, this was intermittent throughout as the theme lacked consistency.
However, I did enjoy reading the book and at some points could not put it down due to the anticipation mentioned above. I loved that gum trees were admired by Georgie and the scenes are set in Melbourne and some gorgeous Victorian towns.
Overall I gave this book a rating of 4 and I look forward to reading the other two novels that complete the Murray series.
April 24, 2021
If you want to get the wrong idea ao Aussie people, you have to read this book, it will show how as an Australian author is describing Australian people as abnoxious, misleading,with flourished guuter tongues....
I hate this book , none of the characters was pleasant, all rude, cursing , betraying and physical entertainment is what they seek for all over the book.
Starts with Georgina the despitful protagonist runs away from the rude Dane after knowing she will be sent away, and leaving Dane to death after stealing his belongings...searching for her love and marrying him then regretting it , then in mourning sleeping with Dane then run away until he impregnated her and accepting marrying him to to discover her husband has a hidden past which is unkown to him..whole trash book
The whole book is decribing sensual feelings with all details, i don't want to read human productive parts all the time or reading guttery curses all over the book ....this book land as one of awful books i read
I hate this book , none of the characters was pleasant, all rude, cursing , betraying and physical entertainment is what they seek for all over the book.
Starts with Georgina the despitful protagonist runs away from the rude Dane after knowing she will be sent away, and leaving Dane to death after stealing his belongings...searching for her love and marrying him then regretting it , then in mourning sleeping with Dane then run away until he impregnated her and accepting marrying him to to discover her husband has a hidden past which is unkown to him..whole trash book
The whole book is decribing sensual feelings with all details, i don't want to read human productive parts all the time or reading guttery curses all over the book ....this book land as one of awful books i read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2020
This is an epic adventure story. Georgie has always been told what to do, where to go, and when it becomes clear she must leave Jacaranda, she decides to take matters into her own hands. She will no longer be told what to do, so she tries to strike out on her own. On the search for her love, Conor, she comes up against Dane, of whom she's stolen a horse. Neither can deny the attraction they share as Dane attempts to accompany Georgie to Melbourne through the Victorian scrub. But Georgie escapes, finds Conor, and finally gets what she's always wanted - to be Conor's wife.
But it is not at all like she imagined. And she cannot forget about Dane. But never fear, circumstances throw them together once again and once everything is settled and secrets are revealed, Georgie and Dane finally find their happily ever after.
A very interesting, epic story. Definitely a winner for historical fiction lovers.
But it is not at all like she imagined. And she cannot forget about Dane. But never fear, circumstances throw them together once again and once everything is settled and secrets are revealed, Georgie and Dane finally find their happily ever after.
A very interesting, epic story. Definitely a winner for historical fiction lovers.
May 13, 2021
Uhhhh what the heck was this book.
First of all it barely made sense most of the time. I was legitimately so confused with some situations and how they came about.
The main character Georgie was soooo annoying. Why was she on her women's suffrage journey and tried to be independent horse lady but then... never really followed through.
The romance was also bleh. How did we go from a weird hatred to all of a sudden completely absolutely in love with each other. Not it honey buns. Also why did the main character have to have a weird NO I WON'T MARRY YOU except that you knew she absolutely would. Felt kind of crusty and icky when she was sort of "trapped" into marriage by getting pregnant. Again, not it.
I hated almost everyone in this book they were crusty as hell. Could've used way more Murray.
Wouldn't recommend.
First of all it barely made sense most of the time. I was legitimately so confused with some situations and how they came about.
The main character Georgie was soooo annoying. Why was she on her women's suffrage journey and tried to be independent horse lady but then... never really followed through.
The romance was also bleh. How did we go from a weird hatred to all of a sudden completely absolutely in love with each other. Not it honey buns. Also why did the main character have to have a weird NO I WON'T MARRY YOU except that you knew she absolutely would. Felt kind of crusty and icky when she was sort of "trapped" into marriage by getting pregnant. Again, not it.
I hated almost everyone in this book they were crusty as hell. Could've used way more Murray.
Wouldn't recommend.
July 27, 2025
3 stars - An 1890s romance set along the Murray River with a headstrong female protagonist interested in women’s suffrage and a dark-haired brooding male love interest who starts the book with 0 paddle-steamers and ends the book with 3?? Yeah, this was a fun one for me! Not particularly memorable in any sense, in that even as I’m writing this I’m having to flick back through the book to remind myself of plot points, but enjoyable and easy to read all the same. The pacing was decent and it didn’t feel like there were any particularly slow bits. And as I said, I hear 1890s Echuca and I’m immediately in love! Now to read the other two books in the author’s Murray River trilogy (which I didn’t know it was a trilogy, and they’re all standalones) and spend another several books worth of reading time imagining myself back in Echuca…
September 2, 2018
Georgina lives on a property with her foster family. The farm is in decline due to lack of money and her foster father's drinking problem. Dane, their son who has been away quite come back to find the farm in decline and blames Georgina. She overhears the family talking about her so she decides to leave. He realises she has gone and has taken his prized stallion so he gives chase. Conor Foley is someone she has met when he visited the farm so she is determined to find him and thinks he will give her a secure life. Of course he is not what he seems.
Great story.
Great story.
May 11, 2020
Can’t believe I hadn’t logged this one, I really enjoyed it so much! It was such an adventure and like watching Scarlett and Rhett in colonial Australia. It was so lovely. The setting was just perfect, I could see the riverbanks and the buildings. Loved Georgie and Dane. Loved seeing how long everything took and how far away everything was. I loved all the adventure and I know I’m so looking forward to reading more Darry Fraser, this was a great book
February 26, 2022
Having lived my whole life in Victoria, Australia, I could relate to all the areas that were being described. Took a few chapters for me to get fully involved in the book but then found it hard to put down. Often, twists and changes in Geargie's situations, but she was always strong and independent. A good Aussie read.
July 8, 2017
Set on the gorgeous Murray River in the 1890's, this historical fiction novel runs through family dramas of survival, trust and ultimately security. Married off after fleeing her foster family the lead female finds herself in danger and unhappy.
October 5, 2017
A real page turner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the storyline was intriguing giving a real insight into yesteryear and all of the wheeling and dealing that used to go back in that era. Great read and highly recommended.
November 21, 2018
A great novel for when you don't want to think too much. Very predictable plot and bog standard romance novel characters. Plenty of heaving breasts/chests and meaningful looks. Drop dead gorgeous main characters who follow the formula perfectly.
April 10, 2022
Georgina is not happy living with her foster family on the banks of the Murray River. After a lengthy absence Dane returns to the property and includes Georgina in the blame for the decline of the property. And so the adventure begins.
February 9, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Fraser has an authentic voice and her characters are very likeable.
March 19, 2018
Review to follow. :)
November 6, 2018
Main character went from a badass to a pushover - yeah ok
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews