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The Widow of Ballarat
A compulsively readable story of passion, adventure and a woman's quest for independence set against the colourful backdrop of 19th century Bendigo and the goldfields of Ballarat.
1854, Ballarat, Victoria When Nell Amberton's husband is shot dead by a bushranger, there are few who grieve his passing, and Nell least of all. How could she miss the monster who had abused her from the day they wed – the man who had already killed his innocent first wife? But his death triggers a chain of events that seem to revolve around the handsome bushranger who murdered him – a man to whom Nell, against her better judgement, is drawn.
But Nell has far more than a mysterious stranger to worry about. With a mess of complications around her late husband's will, a vicious scoundrel of a father trying to sell her off in matrimony, and angry relatives pursuing her for her husband's gold, she is more concerned with trying to ensure her safety and that of her friend, goldfields laundry woman Flora, than dealing with the kind of feelings that led her astray so catastrophically before.
After the violence on the goldfields, Nell's fate also hangs in the balance. It seems that, after all, she might need to do the one thing she has avoided at all costs … ask for the help of a man.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2018
127 people are currently reading
400 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 13, 2019
I'm not really sure what to make of this book, I did enjoy it, yet it seemed to be missing something. Maybe the fact that all the older people in this novel were evil, nasty stereotypes (except for the wonderful Josie, easily the best character in this book) and the younger ones were for the most part good hearted? I don't know, it just didn't really ring true and for the most part annoyed me. But apart from that the story was good, the sense of place was well captured and we did get glimpses into the history of the time.
It's set in the goldfields of Ballarat in the aftermath of the Eureka Stockade. Though these times are mentioned in the book, they are but background and don't take over at any stage. It sees Nell's abusive husband killed in an attempt to flee Ballarat after the Stockade. Nell returns to Ballarat and tries to rebuild her life, even though she's been left with nothing, or has she? She finds work with a friend in a laundry in the gold fields, while trying to escape her family, both her father and her in-laws. And there's the handsome bushranger always in the background.
As I said, I did like this book, and finished it in a day, I just feel there was something maybe a bit too easy about the final wash-up.
3.5 stars rounded up.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's set in the goldfields of Ballarat in the aftermath of the Eureka Stockade. Though these times are mentioned in the book, they are but background and don't take over at any stage. It sees Nell's abusive husband killed in an attempt to flee Ballarat after the Stockade. Nell returns to Ballarat and tries to rebuild her life, even though she's been left with nothing, or has she? She finds work with a friend in a laundry in the gold fields, while trying to escape her family, both her father and her in-laws. And there's the handsome bushranger always in the background.
As I said, I did like this book, and finished it in a day, I just feel there was something maybe a bit too easy about the final wash-up.
3.5 stars rounded up.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2019
* https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
Darry Fraser, who hails from Kangaroo Island, is fast carving a name out for herself in the Australian historical fiction world. Her latest and third novel, The Widow of Ballarat, takes the reader by the hand and places them in the heart of the goldfields of Ballarat, immediately after the famed Eureka Stockade. At the heart of this tale is Nell Amberton, a woman who finds herself in an impossible position following the shock murder of her cruel husband. The Widow of Ballarat is a sprawling Australian saga, reminding us of the trials faced by women in the 1800s in the midst of the gold rush.
Opening in the year 1854, in Ballarat, Victoria, Nell Atherton’s life is changed when she encounters a bushranger at the same time her husband is shot dead. Nell is not sorry her husband has been killed, for he was a cruel and abusive man. However, in a world where women had no rights to claim an inheritance, Nell is left out in the cold. But Nell is inexplicably drawn to the mysterious bushranger that she faced on the day of her husband’s death and she cannot stop thinking about him. Nell is soon distracted by a bevy of problems that have come to light since her husband’s unexpected passing. With her husband’s will defined by debts, relatives with their eye on her husband’s secret gold stash and her father’s cruel influence over her marriage to contend with, Nell is faced with plenty of problems and with little by the way of solutions. Nell is careful to protect her heart, but her livelihood and safety is at stake. As much as she would like to deny it, she needs to seek out the help of the man who stood with her on the day of her husband’s death.
Australian historical fiction definitely needs more writers like Darry Fraser. I am in awe of writers like Fraser, who are able to take snapshots of our nation’s history and magically transform these facts into a compelling novel. Darry Fraser deserves a gold star for her history homework, the content in this novel history wise is informative and fascinating. Fraser also delicately balances her history within an engaging narrative and genuine characters.
I fell in love with Nell from the moment she entered the novel. I admired her greatly. With traits of independence, determination, resilience and an enterprising nature, I felt every niggle of Nell’s constraint as a woman living in 1850s Victoria. Nell is an incredibly well drawn character, she vividly came to life before my eyes and I could envisage her actions, thoughts and feelings.
‘Amberton’s widow. Beaten, but not broken by him. A strong woman who would now find herself, indeed, in dire circumstances. A strong, beautiful woman. Someone ready to do whatever it took to ensure her survival.’
Fraser’s high level characterisation skills extend to her secondary cast list. I developed affection for bushranger Finn and Nell’s laundry woman friend Flora. A number of the periphery protagonists are unlikable, but Fraser does an excellent job of fleshing out these characters.
Time and place are depicted with a sense of ease and rich understanding by Darry Fraser. I have to admit that my primary school Australian history lessons barely touched the Eureka Stockade and the goldfields of Victoria. I am appreciative of the hard graft Darry Fraser has put into this novel. I felt like she planted me in the here and now of the goldfields. Fraser also explores the key events that occurred during this time and the feelings experienced by those who lived during this time of great adventure, greed and survival.
‘Noise from the streets was restrained; life after the killing fields of Eureka Land and the stockade remained quiet. As stillness had descended on the town shrouding the misery. The camp itself hummed with a low energy, like a grumbling dog not yet ready to rise again.’
The role of woman during in 1800s is put heavily in the spotlight by Darry Fraser and I am deeply grateful to Fraser for her approach to The Widow of Ballarat. Fraser goes above and beyond, highlighting the sense of worthlessness, despair, restrictions and longing placed on woman liked Nell, who wished to rise above the men that oppressed them during this era. We get an excellent feel for the early rumblings of women’s rights. I have come across the issues of inheritance laws during early Australian society before, but it still shocked and saddened me to see women like Nell struggle to survive. I liked how Fraser was able to make us see that women like Nell, rather than taking it lying down, came out fighting triumphantly.
‘My husband and my father must have come to some sort of arrangement because if I hadn’t agreed to marry Andrew, it was the streets for me. That much my father did tell me’. Nell shifted on the stump. ‘And fighting Andrew’s will. How? By complaining to a magistrate to get an order to stop the beatings, but it only made it worse. A letter to the governor instead, perhaps,’ she said, a twist in her mouth. Looking off to the distance, she said, ‘So I must work.’
Romance is on the cards in The Widow of Ballarat, I liked how Fraser chose not to make this aspect of the story the centrepiece. This is Nell’s story of survival, but it also her journey to discover true love. In bushranger Finn, Nell finds a man who is able to treat her with the respect, dignity and the genuine love she so deserves. I think readers will pleased Nell’s story as a whole and her parting moments in this novel.
The Widow of Ballarat is an exhilarating insight into yesteryear – a time of discovery, settlement, but also restriction for women like Nell Atherton, who wished to assert their independence. If you have a keen eye for Australian history, with a strong emphasis on women, The Widow of Ballarat will be sure to match your reading tastes.
‘We need out say heard, to have our lives made safe, in law. And the law upheld.’
*I wish to thank Harlequin – Mira AU for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Widow of Ballarat is book #29 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
Darry Fraser, who hails from Kangaroo Island, is fast carving a name out for herself in the Australian historical fiction world. Her latest and third novel, The Widow of Ballarat, takes the reader by the hand and places them in the heart of the goldfields of Ballarat, immediately after the famed Eureka Stockade. At the heart of this tale is Nell Amberton, a woman who finds herself in an impossible position following the shock murder of her cruel husband. The Widow of Ballarat is a sprawling Australian saga, reminding us of the trials faced by women in the 1800s in the midst of the gold rush.
Opening in the year 1854, in Ballarat, Victoria, Nell Atherton’s life is changed when she encounters a bushranger at the same time her husband is shot dead. Nell is not sorry her husband has been killed, for he was a cruel and abusive man. However, in a world where women had no rights to claim an inheritance, Nell is left out in the cold. But Nell is inexplicably drawn to the mysterious bushranger that she faced on the day of her husband’s death and she cannot stop thinking about him. Nell is soon distracted by a bevy of problems that have come to light since her husband’s unexpected passing. With her husband’s will defined by debts, relatives with their eye on her husband’s secret gold stash and her father’s cruel influence over her marriage to contend with, Nell is faced with plenty of problems and with little by the way of solutions. Nell is careful to protect her heart, but her livelihood and safety is at stake. As much as she would like to deny it, she needs to seek out the help of the man who stood with her on the day of her husband’s death.
Australian historical fiction definitely needs more writers like Darry Fraser. I am in awe of writers like Fraser, who are able to take snapshots of our nation’s history and magically transform these facts into a compelling novel. Darry Fraser deserves a gold star for her history homework, the content in this novel history wise is informative and fascinating. Fraser also delicately balances her history within an engaging narrative and genuine characters.
I fell in love with Nell from the moment she entered the novel. I admired her greatly. With traits of independence, determination, resilience and an enterprising nature, I felt every niggle of Nell’s constraint as a woman living in 1850s Victoria. Nell is an incredibly well drawn character, she vividly came to life before my eyes and I could envisage her actions, thoughts and feelings.
‘Amberton’s widow. Beaten, but not broken by him. A strong woman who would now find herself, indeed, in dire circumstances. A strong, beautiful woman. Someone ready to do whatever it took to ensure her survival.’
Fraser’s high level characterisation skills extend to her secondary cast list. I developed affection for bushranger Finn and Nell’s laundry woman friend Flora. A number of the periphery protagonists are unlikable, but Fraser does an excellent job of fleshing out these characters.
Time and place are depicted with a sense of ease and rich understanding by Darry Fraser. I have to admit that my primary school Australian history lessons barely touched the Eureka Stockade and the goldfields of Victoria. I am appreciative of the hard graft Darry Fraser has put into this novel. I felt like she planted me in the here and now of the goldfields. Fraser also explores the key events that occurred during this time and the feelings experienced by those who lived during this time of great adventure, greed and survival.
‘Noise from the streets was restrained; life after the killing fields of Eureka Land and the stockade remained quiet. As stillness had descended on the town shrouding the misery. The camp itself hummed with a low energy, like a grumbling dog not yet ready to rise again.’
The role of woman during in 1800s is put heavily in the spotlight by Darry Fraser and I am deeply grateful to Fraser for her approach to The Widow of Ballarat. Fraser goes above and beyond, highlighting the sense of worthlessness, despair, restrictions and longing placed on woman liked Nell, who wished to rise above the men that oppressed them during this era. We get an excellent feel for the early rumblings of women’s rights. I have come across the issues of inheritance laws during early Australian society before, but it still shocked and saddened me to see women like Nell struggle to survive. I liked how Fraser was able to make us see that women like Nell, rather than taking it lying down, came out fighting triumphantly.
‘My husband and my father must have come to some sort of arrangement because if I hadn’t agreed to marry Andrew, it was the streets for me. That much my father did tell me’. Nell shifted on the stump. ‘And fighting Andrew’s will. How? By complaining to a magistrate to get an order to stop the beatings, but it only made it worse. A letter to the governor instead, perhaps,’ she said, a twist in her mouth. Looking off to the distance, she said, ‘So I must work.’
Romance is on the cards in The Widow of Ballarat, I liked how Fraser chose not to make this aspect of the story the centrepiece. This is Nell’s story of survival, but it also her journey to discover true love. In bushranger Finn, Nell finds a man who is able to treat her with the respect, dignity and the genuine love she so deserves. I think readers will pleased Nell’s story as a whole and her parting moments in this novel.
The Widow of Ballarat is an exhilarating insight into yesteryear – a time of discovery, settlement, but also restriction for women like Nell Atherton, who wished to assert their independence. If you have a keen eye for Australian history, with a strong emphasis on women, The Widow of Ballarat will be sure to match your reading tastes.
‘We need out say heard, to have our lives made safe, in law. And the law upheld.’
*I wish to thank Harlequin – Mira AU for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Widow of Ballarat is book #29 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
November 22, 2018
Once again Darry Fraser takes us back in time, this time to 1855 in Ballarat on the Goldfields where life is hard for everyone and people struggle to make enough to survive on. I always find myself transported to wherever Ms Fraser chooses to take us and this time was no different. I struggled along with Nell living all she went through and all she survived, for she was determined to be a survivor. I fell in love with Finn, what a lovely Bush ranger he was. Life was so hard for women especially in these times, sold off to a man on their parents whim, unable to work to ensure their own income, I for one am glad times have changed. A story about surviving despite the odds, about learning who to trust and how to move forward with life after setbacks. A very enjoyable read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin MIRA for a copy in return for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin MIRA for a copy in return for an honest review.
January 8, 2019
This is a book that takes us back to some hard times in Australia’s history the gold fields of Ballarat, where woman struggled to be treated well, this one shows us the hardships that they went through but it also shows that love is always there as well, this is a book that will keep you turning the pages as you get to know Nell and Finn.
Nell Amberton is forced into a marriage to a very cruel man by her father, life is hard for her but her strength and courage shine though and when the riots start in the gold fields and her husband rushes her out of Ballarat, they are accosted by a bushranger and her husband is shot, although shocked she is very relieved as well and when the bushranger turns out to be a gentleman to her, Nell can feel that her life might change as they have a few mysterious meetings.
Finn Seymour lost his wife and went to England to fight in the war only to return when his sister dies, her death was caused by her cruel husband and Finn vows to end Andrew Amberton’s life this brings him in contact with the beautiful and strong Nell and his feelings are coming back with the meeting, but life is hard in these times and there is a lot to uncover and sort out before there may be a chance of happiness.
This is a moving story, with many ups and downs as the struggles come to life that Nell’s dead husband has been a party too and they need to be set straight and with people after Nell and Finn trying to keep his identity a secret for as long as he can the feelings they have for each other are growing, and when Nell is in danger Finn opens up and a beautiful HEA is enjoyed by them and me, this is a story that I recommend, there is a lot going on and I loved Nell and Finn, their courage and strength shine through and there are many more characters that add a lot to this story, some nasty, some lovely, I hope you pick this book up and enjoy it as I did.
Nell Amberton is forced into a marriage to a very cruel man by her father, life is hard for her but her strength and courage shine though and when the riots start in the gold fields and her husband rushes her out of Ballarat, they are accosted by a bushranger and her husband is shot, although shocked she is very relieved as well and when the bushranger turns out to be a gentleman to her, Nell can feel that her life might change as they have a few mysterious meetings.
Finn Seymour lost his wife and went to England to fight in the war only to return when his sister dies, her death was caused by her cruel husband and Finn vows to end Andrew Amberton’s life this brings him in contact with the beautiful and strong Nell and his feelings are coming back with the meeting, but life is hard in these times and there is a lot to uncover and sort out before there may be a chance of happiness.
This is a moving story, with many ups and downs as the struggles come to life that Nell’s dead husband has been a party too and they need to be set straight and with people after Nell and Finn trying to keep his identity a secret for as long as he can the feelings they have for each other are growing, and when Nell is in danger Finn opens up and a beautiful HEA is enjoyed by them and me, this is a story that I recommend, there is a lot going on and I loved Nell and Finn, their courage and strength shine through and there are many more characters that add a lot to this story, some nasty, some lovely, I hope you pick this book up and enjoy it as I did.
December 10, 2018
4.5* http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
‘She would venture onto the digging fields for one last time, to take a walk over the damaged, sad hills filled with empty holes and dashed dreams.’
Set in the goldfields of Ballarat in the aftermath of the Eureka Stockade, Darry Fraser takes you on a fabulous journey of what it would have been like for women during this transitional phase in history. Whilst certainly interesting to read of key events from this period, this is not the main focus of the book. The main focus is in fact the role of women and one in particular, Nell Amberton. Here is a women (in a time when marriage was the only accepted form of legitimacy) who endures an abusive relationship, tries to realise life as a widow, attempts to become independent and build a new life for herself, all whilst dealing with some shady characters. Nell and her friend Flora, provide a fabulous insight into the life for a woman in extreme circumstances of living on the goldfields.
Darry provides you with a strong historical setting of the day to day living and often tenuous prospects of life on the Ballarat goldfields in Australia of the 1850s. Seeing it through their eyes, you will feel yourself transported back trying valiantly to eke out an existence. How wonderful to view it from a female perspective, the silent partners in this often futile escapade to make a fortune.
The characters are rich and engaging. Nell and Flora representative of female tenacity, the father and nephew the ugly domineering male, that was thankfully, balanced against the gallant Finn - what a fabulous ‘bushranger’ he made! Fear not the obvious cliches, as issues of independence after marriage and the wearing of pants give a little taste of the momentous changes that would ultimately unfold for women. In a time when Aussie authors are making their mark in rich historical fiction, Darry has done a fabulous job with some wonderful storytelling and puts herself right up there with the best.
So if you like a good story, women attempting to exert independence, throw in a dashing hero to assist, then this will be the book for you. Life was hard, especially so for women who were often regarded as male property; this tale saw me eagerly awaiting what would unfold next for the harsh circumstances of being, ‘The Widow of Ballarat’.
‘Nell looked about her, at the rough and tumble of the camp, at the dust and the dirt, the hard, worn-down faces of men and women alike. The white people, the black people, the yellow people, myriad languages, the bellowing, the brawling, the children of all races on the diggings, scampering about, their dirty faces and patched clothes evidence of the fickle luck on the fields.’
‘She would venture onto the digging fields for one last time, to take a walk over the damaged, sad hills filled with empty holes and dashed dreams.’
Set in the goldfields of Ballarat in the aftermath of the Eureka Stockade, Darry Fraser takes you on a fabulous journey of what it would have been like for women during this transitional phase in history. Whilst certainly interesting to read of key events from this period, this is not the main focus of the book. The main focus is in fact the role of women and one in particular, Nell Amberton. Here is a women (in a time when marriage was the only accepted form of legitimacy) who endures an abusive relationship, tries to realise life as a widow, attempts to become independent and build a new life for herself, all whilst dealing with some shady characters. Nell and her friend Flora, provide a fabulous insight into the life for a woman in extreme circumstances of living on the goldfields.
Darry provides you with a strong historical setting of the day to day living and often tenuous prospects of life on the Ballarat goldfields in Australia of the 1850s. Seeing it through their eyes, you will feel yourself transported back trying valiantly to eke out an existence. How wonderful to view it from a female perspective, the silent partners in this often futile escapade to make a fortune.
The characters are rich and engaging. Nell and Flora representative of female tenacity, the father and nephew the ugly domineering male, that was thankfully, balanced against the gallant Finn - what a fabulous ‘bushranger’ he made! Fear not the obvious cliches, as issues of independence after marriage and the wearing of pants give a little taste of the momentous changes that would ultimately unfold for women. In a time when Aussie authors are making their mark in rich historical fiction, Darry has done a fabulous job with some wonderful storytelling and puts herself right up there with the best.
So if you like a good story, women attempting to exert independence, throw in a dashing hero to assist, then this will be the book for you. Life was hard, especially so for women who were often regarded as male property; this tale saw me eagerly awaiting what would unfold next for the harsh circumstances of being, ‘The Widow of Ballarat’.
‘Nell looked about her, at the rough and tumble of the camp, at the dust and the dirt, the hard, worn-down faces of men and women alike. The white people, the black people, the yellow people, myriad languages, the bellowing, the brawling, the children of all races on the diggings, scampering about, their dirty faces and patched clothes evidence of the fickle luck on the fields.’
January 30, 2021
I could forgive a lot of the issues I had with this book if this was the debut novel of Darry Fraser, but it is not. ‘The Widow of Ballarat’ is Darry’s third outing as a writer and missed the mark in many respects.
The biggest gripe I have about this book is it’s total lack of character building and understanding of character motivation. Every character in this book has hints of actual depth but Fraser seems to avoid exploring her characters. Readers need to ‘experience’ character. It’s not enough to say “so and so is a bad man” or “a good man” you need to show your readers and have them experience it for themselves.
Another area in which the Fraser lets us down is the absence of a dramatic plot. I could have been reading a ‘readers digest’ for all the emotion I displayed reading this book. Events alone do not make a plot work. A reader should be invested in characters first (and as stated before they were so 2 dimensional, you couldn’t) and as such you can’t be truely invested in what happens to them.
Sure the setting was interesting. The place and time chosen for “The Widow of Ballarat” is ripe with tension and drama however Darry sees to it, to show us she did her homework on the setting that she fails to immerse us in the space. I know more about the Geelong Advertisers role in publishing the events of the aftermath of the Eureka Rebellion then I did before reading this story. Was it relevant to the characters and plot? Absolutely not.
It’s a true shame since I had truely hoped to like this novel. Unfortunately I will certainly be thinking twice before jumping into any of Darry Fraser’s other work.
The biggest gripe I have about this book is it’s total lack of character building and understanding of character motivation. Every character in this book has hints of actual depth but Fraser seems to avoid exploring her characters. Readers need to ‘experience’ character. It’s not enough to say “so and so is a bad man” or “a good man” you need to show your readers and have them experience it for themselves.
Another area in which the Fraser lets us down is the absence of a dramatic plot. I could have been reading a ‘readers digest’ for all the emotion I displayed reading this book. Events alone do not make a plot work. A reader should be invested in characters first (and as stated before they were so 2 dimensional, you couldn’t) and as such you can’t be truely invested in what happens to them.
Sure the setting was interesting. The place and time chosen for “The Widow of Ballarat” is ripe with tension and drama however Darry sees to it, to show us she did her homework on the setting that she fails to immerse us in the space. I know more about the Geelong Advertisers role in publishing the events of the aftermath of the Eureka Rebellion then I did before reading this story. Was it relevant to the characters and plot? Absolutely not.
It’s a true shame since I had truely hoped to like this novel. Unfortunately I will certainly be thinking twice before jumping into any of Darry Fraser’s other work.
January 26, 2021
Good easy read. It’s about the determination of a young woman who sets her mind on survival during the Goldfield days and what she had to endure during her young life
February 10, 2021
Enjoyed reading this timepiece about my home town. At times while I could picture the scene, sometimes didn't feel fully immersed in the era, also found the throwing in of Peter Lalor's name to be an unsubtle reminder of the location of the story rather than any genuine connection to the storyline. I Found the setting up of the storyline a little clunky to begin with but all in all another easy and enjoyable read.
January 22, 2021
I honestly thought i would love this book. Perhaps my tastes have changed?
Histoical? Tick
Australian? Tick
Dash of romance? Tick
Yet there was something missing.
At times it felt rushed, a million characters thrown in and then you couldnt keep up with them.
It is a serious novel... yet honestly it was very flat in times and difficult to finish.
This is a book i would have loved in my early 20s.... i can only think that my tastes have changed now that i am in my late 30s.
Histoical? Tick
Australian? Tick
Dash of romance? Tick
Yet there was something missing.
At times it felt rushed, a million characters thrown in and then you couldnt keep up with them.
It is a serious novel... yet honestly it was very flat in times and difficult to finish.
This is a book i would have loved in my early 20s.... i can only think that my tastes have changed now that i am in my late 30s.
September 5, 2019
complete utter ridiculous rubbish
December 6, 2018
I felt as though I were stepping back in time as I read The Widow of Ballarat. Living in another Australian gold mining town I have a strong sense of the historical setting and of the lives of miners and the women of the Australian goldfields circa 1850 and this novel bore out all I know. More than the history though I felt as though I were living the lives of some of the women in the goldfields as I watched life taking place through Nell’s eyes. We so often forget the roles women played at the diggings and in this story author Darry Fraser has given us a clear picture of those times.
This is not just a historical essay, however. It is a skilfully woven tale of one woman’s strength of mind and purpose as she makes a new life for herself following the shooting death of her husband. I felt for Nell as soon as I met her and empathised as she faced one challenge after another.
Nell is not the only important character in this story. Finn Seymour, who first appears garbed as a bushranger, slowly becomes Nell’s love interest. I fell a little in love with him as soon as I learned his name. Seriously. Finn is one of those gorgeous Irish names that almost makes me swoon.
This story struck chords for me throughout. I loved the window into the past, but I also loved the actual story telling. Once I started I struggled to put it down. It has been my introduction to Darry Fraser’s writing and I am now keen to read her other two Australian historical novels.
This is not just a historical essay, however. It is a skilfully woven tale of one woman’s strength of mind and purpose as she makes a new life for herself following the shooting death of her husband. I felt for Nell as soon as I met her and empathised as she faced one challenge after another.
Nell is not the only important character in this story. Finn Seymour, who first appears garbed as a bushranger, slowly becomes Nell’s love interest. I fell a little in love with him as soon as I learned his name. Seriously. Finn is one of those gorgeous Irish names that almost makes me swoon.
This story struck chords for me throughout. I loved the window into the past, but I also loved the actual story telling. Once I started I struggled to put it down. It has been my introduction to Darry Fraser’s writing and I am now keen to read her other two Australian historical novels.
January 1, 2019
The Widow of Ballarat is an enchanting novel about the struggles of men and women as they negotiate the perils of Australian life during the gold rush era of the mid 1800s. We meet Nell, a young, head strong lady who is forced into marriage to a ruthless, abusive man. Many know of the husbands' behaviours but little is said and Nell has to suffer. From adversity, Nell is determined to survive and thrive but it will take a mammoth effort of self preservation and determination. Who are her friends, who can she trust, and will she ever fall in love?
Darry Fraser is a very talented author and the research she has conducted and included in this story is evident. This is a rich tale of the trials and tribulations of a significant era in Australian history, and it is clear that the author has worked hard to recreate stories of that time for this novel. This story easily stands alone in a single novel but I have heard there is a prequel which I am very eager to read.
Thank you to Beauty and Lace Book Club, Mira (Harlequin Enterprises) and Darry Fraser for the opportunity to read this fascinating story.
Darry Fraser is a very talented author and the research she has conducted and included in this story is evident. This is a rich tale of the trials and tribulations of a significant era in Australian history, and it is clear that the author has worked hard to recreate stories of that time for this novel. This story easily stands alone in a single novel but I have heard there is a prequel which I am very eager to read.
Thank you to Beauty and Lace Book Club, Mira (Harlequin Enterprises) and Darry Fraser for the opportunity to read this fascinating story.
January 15, 2019
It's the mid-1800's, Ballarat Australia and it's the time of Goldfields a very harsh and hard time in our countries history. People lived hard and worked even harder for very little.
Darry Fraser wove a good tale from a hard time in history it felt like a good description of what it was really like back then I enjoyed reading it.
Darry Fraser wove a good tale from a hard time in history it felt like a good description of what it was really like back then I enjoyed reading it.
June 11, 2025
I enjoyed the story and setting. 1850's Ballarat. Nell was married to a terrible man who, fortunately for her was shot and killed. It is the story of her survival and life after. She also has to escape the clutches of her evil father. Again the setting was lovely and a good wet weekend read.
January 13, 2019
This was a great story written by an Aussie writer. I really enjoyed it
October 4, 2021
4 stars
It’s 1854 on the Goldfields of Ballarat in the colony of Victoria, Australia. Nell Amberton has had a hard life since her mother died and even harder one since her husband Andrew began using her as a punching bag over her failure to produce a son. So when he is killed by bushrangers hijacking their coach, she’s certainly not distraught.
Whilst glad to be free of her husband, life for a widow on the Goldfields is not easy; especially when your sister-in-law blames you for her brother’s death and the truth comes out about the financial position he was actually in. Nell isn’t the only one with struggling though, for Finn is a man with a past of his own and eyes only for her. Desperate to help her, can Nell ever trust a male again or is Finn’s offer of help and happiness too little and too late for this strong willed and independent woman?
A historical fiction novel with a good helping of romance, The Widow of Ballarat is a lovely read by Australian author Darry Fraser. A nice change from the usual historical fiction novels that are set during either World War I or II, Fraser not only takes us back to the Goldfields of Ballarat during colonial times, but sets the scene so well that you can easily picture yourself there; walking among the characters as they go about their business.
I liked the premise of the plot and Nell’s predicament of getting rid of one problem, only to find that it created several more. This made for a unique storyline and a cast of interesting characters that the reader will both love and love to hate.
The Widow of Ballarat is an easy read, which I was able to polish off in a day. It is the kind of book that is easy to pick up and put down if you’re a slow reader or someone short on time; however, don’t say I didn’t warn you that you’ll want to read on to find out if Nell and Finn can both have a happily ever after despite what life had thrown at them to date.
Another great edition to the historic fiction genre, which also features the romance genre; but certainly isn’t taken over by it, The Widow of Ballarat is a four star read.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
It’s 1854 on the Goldfields of Ballarat in the colony of Victoria, Australia. Nell Amberton has had a hard life since her mother died and even harder one since her husband Andrew began using her as a punching bag over her failure to produce a son. So when he is killed by bushrangers hijacking their coach, she’s certainly not distraught.
Whilst glad to be free of her husband, life for a widow on the Goldfields is not easy; especially when your sister-in-law blames you for her brother’s death and the truth comes out about the financial position he was actually in. Nell isn’t the only one with struggling though, for Finn is a man with a past of his own and eyes only for her. Desperate to help her, can Nell ever trust a male again or is Finn’s offer of help and happiness too little and too late for this strong willed and independent woman?
A historical fiction novel with a good helping of romance, The Widow of Ballarat is a lovely read by Australian author Darry Fraser. A nice change from the usual historical fiction novels that are set during either World War I or II, Fraser not only takes us back to the Goldfields of Ballarat during colonial times, but sets the scene so well that you can easily picture yourself there; walking among the characters as they go about their business.
I liked the premise of the plot and Nell’s predicament of getting rid of one problem, only to find that it created several more. This made for a unique storyline and a cast of interesting characters that the reader will both love and love to hate.
The Widow of Ballarat is an easy read, which I was able to polish off in a day. It is the kind of book that is easy to pick up and put down if you’re a slow reader or someone short on time; however, don’t say I didn’t warn you that you’ll want to read on to find out if Nell and Finn can both have a happily ever after despite what life had thrown at them to date.
Another great edition to the historic fiction genre, which also features the romance genre; but certainly isn’t taken over by it, The Widow of Ballarat is a four star read.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
February 25, 2021
Set in 1854 in Ballarat, VIC, this Australian historical fiction follows the life of newly widowed Nell.
Andrew Amberton, Nell’s husband, is a ruthless, abusive man who is not missed by many after he is shot and killed by a bushranger.
His death leaves behind much lies and deceit and Nell is forced back to work on the goldfields.
Determined to fend for herself and not to rely on another man, Nell sets to work in a laundry vowing to remain a widow for the rest of her days until of course the stereotypical fate steps in and her life changes again.
Whilst this novel had a unique story line I found it quite predictable at times. There were no gripping twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat in fact I found some parts of the story very tedious.
The ending was very disappointing and I just got the feeling the author had stopped writing where she did just to get the story finished.
Definitely not a page turner for me.
Andrew Amberton, Nell’s husband, is a ruthless, abusive man who is not missed by many after he is shot and killed by a bushranger.
His death leaves behind much lies and deceit and Nell is forced back to work on the goldfields.
Determined to fend for herself and not to rely on another man, Nell sets to work in a laundry vowing to remain a widow for the rest of her days until of course the stereotypical fate steps in and her life changes again.
Whilst this novel had a unique story line I found it quite predictable at times. There were no gripping twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat in fact I found some parts of the story very tedious.
The ending was very disappointing and I just got the feeling the author had stopped writing where she did just to get the story finished.
Definitely not a page turner for me.
July 17, 2020
I enjoyed the historical setting in this novel, during the aftermath of the Eureka Stockade. This novel has a good sense of place and I appreciated the author's handling of domestic violence. Life was harsh for women on the goldfields and there are some unscrupulous characters that the main character, Nell, has to deal with. The ending began to taper off a bit for me and I wondered which direction it was going to take but on the whole, this is an enjoyable historical romance.
January 8, 2019
I found this story a bit wordy/clunky in parts and too predictable. I usually love a historical romance but this one just didn't hit the mark unfortunately.
August 11, 2019
This book had potential but it dragged on and on and on and on. Disappointing.
February 1, 2019
Book blurb...
A compulsively readable story of passion, adventure and a woman's quest for independence set against the colourful backdrop of 19th century Bendigo and the goldfields of Ballarat.
1854, Ballarat, Victoria When Nell Amberton's husband is shot dead by a bushranger, there are few who grieve his passing, and Nell least of all. How could she miss the monster who had abused her from the day they wed – the man who had already killed his innocent first wife? But his death triggers a chain of events that seem to revolve around the handsome bushranger who murdered him – a man to whom Nell, against her better judgement, is drawn. But Nell has far more than a mysterious stranger to worry about. With a mess of complications around her late husband's will, a vicious scoundrel of a father trying to sell her off in matrimony, and angry relatives pursuing her for her husband's gold, she is more concerned with trying to ensure her safety and that of her friend, goldfields laundry woman Flora, than dealing with the kind of feelings that led her astray so catastrophically before. After the violence on the goldfields, Nell's fate also hangs in the balance. It seems that, after all, she might need to do the one thing she has avoided at all costs … ask for the help of a man.
My thoughts…
Darry Fraser has shown tremendous consistency. Her novels transport the reader to a time in Australia’s history when downtrodden women were mistreated and their marriages arranged. Then she gives her readers a character to care about and Nell—a survivor of abuse by a controlling father and husband—is determined to stay strong and independent. Nell is also smart and while asking a man for help is the last thing she wants to do, there is a handsome bushranger on hand, who ends up helping Nell in her fight for freedom.
Classic Australian historical romance and I loved it.
An excellent portrayal of the era, captivating characters, and a vivid landscape, makes for a great read.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this novel. I look forward journeying back in time with Darry again.
This review is also published on http://www.readroundoz.wordpress.com
A compulsively readable story of passion, adventure and a woman's quest for independence set against the colourful backdrop of 19th century Bendigo and the goldfields of Ballarat.
1854, Ballarat, Victoria When Nell Amberton's husband is shot dead by a bushranger, there are few who grieve his passing, and Nell least of all. How could she miss the monster who had abused her from the day they wed – the man who had already killed his innocent first wife? But his death triggers a chain of events that seem to revolve around the handsome bushranger who murdered him – a man to whom Nell, against her better judgement, is drawn. But Nell has far more than a mysterious stranger to worry about. With a mess of complications around her late husband's will, a vicious scoundrel of a father trying to sell her off in matrimony, and angry relatives pursuing her for her husband's gold, she is more concerned with trying to ensure her safety and that of her friend, goldfields laundry woman Flora, than dealing with the kind of feelings that led her astray so catastrophically before. After the violence on the goldfields, Nell's fate also hangs in the balance. It seems that, after all, she might need to do the one thing she has avoided at all costs … ask for the help of a man.
My thoughts…
Darry Fraser has shown tremendous consistency. Her novels transport the reader to a time in Australia’s history when downtrodden women were mistreated and their marriages arranged. Then she gives her readers a character to care about and Nell—a survivor of abuse by a controlling father and husband—is determined to stay strong and independent. Nell is also smart and while asking a man for help is the last thing she wants to do, there is a handsome bushranger on hand, who ends up helping Nell in her fight for freedom.
Classic Australian historical romance and I loved it.
An excellent portrayal of the era, captivating characters, and a vivid landscape, makes for a great read.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this novel. I look forward journeying back in time with Darry again.
This review is also published on http://www.readroundoz.wordpress.com
March 6, 2021
A friend suggested this book by lending me her book. I took the hint and read it. It's not my usual read. I worry when I pick up historical fiction because I feel as though I'll be inundated with historical facts overtaking the actual story. This time I was not disappointed.
The Widow of Ballarat is set in the goldfields at the time of the Eureka Stockade. It is full of historical events happening in and around Ballarat, Victoria, during the mid-1800s. However, the historical events mentioned are not laid on thick, which allowed me to concentrate on Nell and her story. When Nell's monster of a husband is shot dead, you'd think that life might become easier for her. Wrong. His death creates more complications. The strong-willed Nell is adamant she will not be any man's object. She finds herself pulled in different directions; by her husband's family, her own father, and the desire to do what is best for herself, her friends and, another wronged by her late husband's deeds.
Nell and her friends, Flora and Flora's mother Josie, stand together against the goldfields' rough and tumble. I loved Josie; she made me laugh - you'll have to read the book to find out why.
The strong messages regarding the treatment of women hold firm in our own here and now. Some moments had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I worried for Nell as she stood her ground.
This story has it all. The tense moments, enough history placing me in the setting and mood, sadness, desire "…felt the thump-thump of her heart-beat again and the rush of heat to her cheeks", and humour (remember what I said about Josie?) to keep me reading. I found the book hard to put down, and I came back to it as soon as possible.
The Widow of Ballarat is set in the goldfields at the time of the Eureka Stockade. It is full of historical events happening in and around Ballarat, Victoria, during the mid-1800s. However, the historical events mentioned are not laid on thick, which allowed me to concentrate on Nell and her story. When Nell's monster of a husband is shot dead, you'd think that life might become easier for her. Wrong. His death creates more complications. The strong-willed Nell is adamant she will not be any man's object. She finds herself pulled in different directions; by her husband's family, her own father, and the desire to do what is best for herself, her friends and, another wronged by her late husband's deeds.
Nell and her friends, Flora and Flora's mother Josie, stand together against the goldfields' rough and tumble. I loved Josie; she made me laugh - you'll have to read the book to find out why.
The strong messages regarding the treatment of women hold firm in our own here and now. Some moments had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I worried for Nell as she stood her ground.
This story has it all. The tense moments, enough history placing me in the setting and mood, sadness, desire "…felt the thump-thump of her heart-beat again and the rush of heat to her cheeks", and humour (remember what I said about Josie?) to keep me reading. I found the book hard to put down, and I came back to it as soon as possible.
June 17, 2019
I found this story quite enchanting, and interesting. It is set in Ballarat, on the goldfields, and is evocative of time and place. Nell was sold into marriage to an extremely cruel man, Andrew Amberton, who had just buried his first wife and unborn child. Andrew would beat her for the slightest of reasons, and Nell hated him. Andrew is escaping from the goldfields after a massacre began, with troops killing miners, women and children. But their coach is bushwhacked by an armed man, but while he is talking to them a a shot is fired from the hills nearby and Andrew is killed. Nell realises that she must fend for herself, she is sure that unless she is pregnant she is written out of Andrew’s will. She finds gold, but it transpires that it did not belong to Andrew, he was penniless. Nell carefully hides it. She eventually finds out who it really belongs to, but there are other people searching for it, and they are prepared to kill her, and anyone associated with her, to get it.
This is a slow-burn love story, with two injured and traumatised people helping each other to heal, set in a fairly lawless period of Australian history that I know little about. A vivid picture is painted of life in the goldfields of Ballarat, it is both hard and dangerous, people work hard for little reward.
A lovely story.
This is a slow-burn love story, with two injured and traumatised people helping each other to heal, set in a fairly lawless period of Australian history that I know little about. A vivid picture is painted of life in the goldfields of Ballarat, it is both hard and dangerous, people work hard for little reward.
A lovely story.
January 13, 2019
I read this over the course of a lazy Sunday and it was the most perfect way to spend the day.
A richly detailed landscape, a tough-as-nails MC, and the morally grey characters I love, The Widow of Ballarat does not disappoint. Fraser's research is impeccable and reminds me why I love this genre. Having visited Ballarat as a child, I remember quite a bit about the stockade but was spared the ugliness of it due to my age. I now desperately want to revisit as an adult and experience the history.
I loved Nell and her strength of character - I feel it was an accurate portrayal of how hard those women had to be in the days of early Australian settlement. The turbulent gold fields provided the perfect backdrop for the story, and I could get on board with the romance but I preferred the legal subplot and the individual trials each character went through. Lewis was extremely interesting, and I paid more attention to him as the book went on. Mild spoilers;.
I highly recommend this novel, and will be seeking Fraser's other works to read ASAP.
A richly detailed landscape, a tough-as-nails MC, and the morally grey characters I love, The Widow of Ballarat does not disappoint. Fraser's research is impeccable and reminds me why I love this genre. Having visited Ballarat as a child, I remember quite a bit about the stockade but was spared the ugliness of it due to my age. I now desperately want to revisit as an adult and experience the history.
I loved Nell and her strength of character - I feel it was an accurate portrayal of how hard those women had to be in the days of early Australian settlement. The turbulent gold fields provided the perfect backdrop for the story, and I could get on board with the romance but I preferred the legal subplot and the individual trials each character went through. Lewis was extremely interesting, and I paid more attention to him as the book went on. Mild spoilers;.
I highly recommend this novel, and will be seeking Fraser's other works to read ASAP.
September 26, 2020
DNF
So, I think I set my expectations too high when diving into this book. I love me some angsty period pieces and while the beginning of The Widow of Ballarat accurately depicted a (horrid) husband/wife relationship of that time, I found Finn's debut underwhelming.
*slight spoiler below*
He was like "oh, I hate this guy." Grabs a zillion single shot guns 🔫 and totally misses his opportunity for revenge while at the same time accomplishing... nothing?
It was at this point I grew bored. I usually have a decent amount of patience when waiting for a plot to thicken so I really blame my disinterest on the fact that I felt no connection with either of the characters.
Please, don't decide not to read this book off my review. There are so many hard-core fans of Fraser who gush about how wonderful this story is, I highly suggest giving it a try and seeing if you feel that spark where I didn't.
😊
So, I think I set my expectations too high when diving into this book. I love me some angsty period pieces and while the beginning of The Widow of Ballarat accurately depicted a (horrid) husband/wife relationship of that time, I found Finn's debut underwhelming.
*slight spoiler below*
He was like "oh, I hate this guy." Grabs a zillion single shot guns 🔫 and totally misses his opportunity for revenge while at the same time accomplishing... nothing?
It was at this point I grew bored. I usually have a decent amount of patience when waiting for a plot to thicken so I really blame my disinterest on the fact that I felt no connection with either of the characters.
Please, don't decide not to read this book off my review. There are so many hard-core fans of Fraser who gush about how wonderful this story is, I highly suggest giving it a try and seeing if you feel that spark where I didn't.
😊
April 15, 2024
Very well written. Darry Fraser has researched the period of Australian history in the 1850’s with an eye for detail. Gold fever in Ballarat, Victoria saw a tent city grow where life took on primitive living.
Conflict with the troopers over miners licenses erupted in an uprising which became known as the Eureka Stockade. Although brutally put down, it did pave the way for realistic miners rights and pardons for those in jail. The brutality of the troopers seemed ignored by the authorities.
In this scenario is Nell. She has been married off by her drunken, greedy father to a man of base morals who is quick to beat Nell for any reason.
The storyline is well developed. I felt the era was depicted realistically and the characters absolutely believable.
This second book by Darry Fraser continues to impress me to read more.
Conflict with the troopers over miners licenses erupted in an uprising which became known as the Eureka Stockade. Although brutally put down, it did pave the way for realistic miners rights and pardons for those in jail. The brutality of the troopers seemed ignored by the authorities.
In this scenario is Nell. She has been married off by her drunken, greedy father to a man of base morals who is quick to beat Nell for any reason.
The storyline is well developed. I felt the era was depicted realistically and the characters absolutely believable.
This second book by Darry Fraser continues to impress me to read more.
May 18, 2024
This novel centres on the Eureka Stockade and it's effects on the local populace. Nell Amberton's abusive husband, Andrew, is shot dead in an apparent attack by a bushranger as he attempted to flee the troopers. He is a from a wealthy family and she was 'sold' to him by her own father. Andrew was desperate for a son and heir but he abused his first wife and she died in childbirth [daughter]. We discover that the person that shoots him was a gentleman who hides his identity from her. There is gold in the coach that Andrew was attempting to take away .
The story is a complex involving the role of women in that era, some of whom manage to carve a living in the goldfields by doing laundering, etc. Nell is left without support. She realises the gold does not belong to her and wants to get it back to the family that should have it.
The story is a complex involving the role of women in that era, some of whom manage to carve a living in the goldfields by doing laundering, etc. Nell is left without support. She realises the gold does not belong to her and wants to get it back to the family that should have it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2019
Evokes a strong sense of place and time. Set against the backdrop of the Eureka Stockade, this story explores the greed that comes with gold, and the domestic violence perpetrated against women without legal protection.
A laundress who married up meets a bushranger who is more of a gentleman than her recently deceased husband. Throw in a community living on the edge as they wait to hear how the courts and colonial government will deal with the leaders of the rebellion, and you have an interesting story that snapshots a period of change in this remote part of the British Empire.
Highly recommended.
A laundress who married up meets a bushranger who is more of a gentleman than her recently deceased husband. Throw in a community living on the edge as they wait to hear how the courts and colonial government will deal with the leaders of the rebellion, and you have an interesting story that snapshots a period of change in this remote part of the British Empire.
Highly recommended.
July 9, 2020
A very enjoyable read. This is a big book with a lot going on, so I wouldn't call it an easy read, but I loved the historical setting among the Victorian goldfields and the conflict of Nell's situation. She's happily widowed after her abusive husband is killed, but has a whole bunch of gold she needs to slowly move around and return to its rightful owner.
I liked the various characters of this book, the tension and conflict, and the dire situations they found themselves in. It also has a gorgeous romance between Nell and the 'bushranger' Finn. A wonderful historical story. Can't wait to read more.
I liked the various characters of this book, the tension and conflict, and the dire situations they found themselves in. It also has a gorgeous romance between Nell and the 'bushranger' Finn. A wonderful historical story. Can't wait to read more.
March 22, 2019
I enjoyed some of the background colour of this book - the first I've read about the goldfields, however I found the main characters unconvincing. The first couple of chapters had me thinking they were more interesting than what they turned out to be! They had all these dreams, but then decided to be settle down and be sensible. What a disappointment! Also I felt the depiction of our hero struggling with PTSD from the Crimean war was a bit modern in execution and came off as clumsy. I did however enjoy the characters Flora and her ma. They were great.
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