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The Woman in the Green Dress
After her husband’s death in World War I, Fleur’s surprising inheritance takes her deep into the past—and could unravel a mystery surrounding a cursed opal, a gnarled family tree, and a sinister woman in a green dress.
1919: After a whirlwind romance, London teashop waitress Fleur Richards can’t wait for her new husband, Hugh, to return from the Great War. But when word of his death arrives on Armistice Day, Fleur learns he has left her a sizable family fortune. Refusing to accept the inheritance, she heads to his beloved home country of Australia in search of the relatives who deserve it more.
In spite of her reluctance, she soon finds herself the sole owner of a remote farm and a dilapidated curio shop full of long-forgotten artifacts, remarkable preserved creatures, and a mystery that began more than sixty-five years ago. With the help of Kip, a repatriated soldier dealing with the sobering aftereffects of war, Fleur finds herself unable to resist pulling on the threads of the past. What she finds is a shocking story surrounding an opal and a woman in a green dress. . . a story that, nevertheless, offers hope and healing for the future.
This romantic mystery from award-winning Australian novelist Tea Cooper will keep readers guessing until the astonishing conclusion.
Praise for The Woman in the Green
“Refreshing and unique, The Woman in the Green Dress sweeps you across the wild lands of Australia in a thrilling whirl of mystery, romance, and danger. This magical tale weaves together two storylines with a heart-pounding finish that is drop-dead gorgeous.” —J’nell Ciesielski, author of The Socialite
A USA TODAY bestsellerFull-length historical fiction with both mystery and romance Stand-alone novelIncludes discussion questions for book clubs
1919: After a whirlwind romance, London teashop waitress Fleur Richards can’t wait for her new husband, Hugh, to return from the Great War. But when word of his death arrives on Armistice Day, Fleur learns he has left her a sizable family fortune. Refusing to accept the inheritance, she heads to his beloved home country of Australia in search of the relatives who deserve it more.
In spite of her reluctance, she soon finds herself the sole owner of a remote farm and a dilapidated curio shop full of long-forgotten artifacts, remarkable preserved creatures, and a mystery that began more than sixty-five years ago. With the help of Kip, a repatriated soldier dealing with the sobering aftereffects of war, Fleur finds herself unable to resist pulling on the threads of the past. What she finds is a shocking story surrounding an opal and a woman in a green dress. . . a story that, nevertheless, offers hope and healing for the future.
This romantic mystery from award-winning Australian novelist Tea Cooper will keep readers guessing until the astonishing conclusion.
Praise for The Woman in the Green
“Refreshing and unique, The Woman in the Green Dress sweeps you across the wild lands of Australia in a thrilling whirl of mystery, romance, and danger. This magical tale weaves together two storylines with a heart-pounding finish that is drop-dead gorgeous.” —J’nell Ciesielski, author of The Socialite
A USA TODAY bestsellerFull-length historical fiction with both mystery and romance Stand-alone novelIncludes discussion questions for book clubs
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2018
1304 people are currently reading
6987 people want to read
About the author
Tea Cooper
28 books942 followersTea Cooper writes Australian contemporary and historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 609 reviews
September 26, 2019
What a wonderful book with a marvellous sense of time and place. 'The Woman In The Green Dress' is set in two timelines in Sydney and the Hawkesbury region. The first is set in 1853, where Della works out of the Hawkesbury property as a taxidermist, while her Aunt Cordelia runs her curio shop in Sydney. However, the arrival of an Austrian Captain in the Hawkesbury brings to light some potentially nasty goings on in the Sydney store, so Della returns with the Captain to Sydney to determine the truth. The second timeline is set in 1919 in the aftermath of the Great War. Fleur is a young English war widow, her Australian husband Hugh not coming back from France, and she finds herself heading to Australia to unravel his affairs.
Tea Cooper interweaves these two time lines perfectly, and, just when we thinks we are going to have the answers to some questions more seem to arise. What kind of business is Cordelia really running from Della's shop? Who was Hugh really? And most pressing of all, where is the opal? I found myself unable to put this book down, having to know the answers, which are revealed in a most satisfying way at the end. Recommended for all lovers of Historical and Australian Fiction.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tea Cooper interweaves these two time lines perfectly, and, just when we thinks we are going to have the answers to some questions more seem to arise. What kind of business is Cordelia really running from Della's shop? Who was Hugh really? And most pressing of all, where is the opal? I found myself unable to put this book down, having to know the answers, which are revealed in a most satisfying way at the end. Recommended for all lovers of Historical and Australian Fiction.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2019
Historical fiction has become one of my favourite genres and in a lot of them there are two timelines as there was in this story. Aussie author Tea Cooper has done a brilliant job in not only writing a marvellous story, but she has done a superb job of entwining the two timelines together. It takes one hell of a talented author to be able to achieve this as I believe not all authors can.
There was so much that I loved about this story, the writing and the descriptions throughout this tale will take you along a journey unlike any other and one you wish would never end. If you, like me, enjoy reading historical fiction, then make sure you read this book I promise you won’t regret it, but it will leave you wanting more. Thoroughly LOVED and ENJOYED this story and I highly recommend it. With thanks to Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
There was so much that I loved about this story, the writing and the descriptions throughout this tale will take you along a journey unlike any other and one you wish would never end. If you, like me, enjoy reading historical fiction, then make sure you read this book I promise you won’t regret it, but it will leave you wanting more. Thoroughly LOVED and ENJOYED this story and I highly recommend it. With thanks to Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
December 13, 2018
Fleur Richards had married Hugh just before he was shipped back off to the war; his promises ringing in her ears of the clear blue sky, and bright sparkling stars in the best country of all – Australia. Fleur was a waitress in London and waiting for Hugh to return from the war that was now over filled her with excitement. She certainly didn’t expect to hear Hugh had died in the last days of the war; neither did she want the inheritance she learned Hugh had left her.
It was 1919 when Fleur arrived in Sydney after the long sea journey. Her arrival at the Berkeley Hotel continued her search to find all she could about Hugh; his properties that were now apparently hers, including land at a place called Mogo Creek, and The Curio Shop of Wonders – which she’d walked past and noted it was abandoned and boarded up…
1853 and Della Atterton lived on the property, Mogo Creek on the edge of the Hawkesbury River, while she tried to deal with her grief at the loss of her parents. Back in Sydney, Cordelia Atterton, her aunt, was caring for the Taxidermy shop which had been her father’s. The sudden appearance at Mogo Creek, of Captain Stefan von Richter and his sidekick, Bert, with a fantastic tale plus news from Sydney, caused her anger to spark. How dare she! Accompanying the Captain and Bert, the three set off for Sydney, unaware of the events that would soon transpire – and the danger that would accompany those events.
The Woman in the Green Dress is another breathtaking historical fiction novel by Aussie author Tea Cooper. Set in and around Sydney, the Hawkesbury River and Wiseman’s Ferry, even the train trip from Sydney to Brooklyn – all so familiar. The Historical Note at the end is fascinating, showing how fact fed fiction, with information about certain characters and places. I loved the two time frames – 1853 and 1919 – and enjoyed the descriptions of the countryside; laughing jackasses/kookaburras; even the different items in the curio shop. All in all, The Woman in the Green Dress is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to HQ Fiction for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
It was 1919 when Fleur arrived in Sydney after the long sea journey. Her arrival at the Berkeley Hotel continued her search to find all she could about Hugh; his properties that were now apparently hers, including land at a place called Mogo Creek, and The Curio Shop of Wonders – which she’d walked past and noted it was abandoned and boarded up…
1853 and Della Atterton lived on the property, Mogo Creek on the edge of the Hawkesbury River, while she tried to deal with her grief at the loss of her parents. Back in Sydney, Cordelia Atterton, her aunt, was caring for the Taxidermy shop which had been her father’s. The sudden appearance at Mogo Creek, of Captain Stefan von Richter and his sidekick, Bert, with a fantastic tale plus news from Sydney, caused her anger to spark. How dare she! Accompanying the Captain and Bert, the three set off for Sydney, unaware of the events that would soon transpire – and the danger that would accompany those events.
The Woman in the Green Dress is another breathtaking historical fiction novel by Aussie author Tea Cooper. Set in and around Sydney, the Hawkesbury River and Wiseman’s Ferry, even the train trip from Sydney to Brooklyn – all so familiar. The Historical Note at the end is fascinating, showing how fact fed fiction, with information about certain characters and places. I loved the two time frames – 1853 and 1919 – and enjoyed the descriptions of the countryside; laughing jackasses/kookaburras; even the different items in the curio shop. All in all, The Woman in the Green Dress is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to HQ Fiction for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2020
1853. After cholera claims her parents, Della return to Sydney and devotes herself to the Curio Shop of Wonders. Where she also discovers her aunt Cordelia is selling something more than just curiosities to collectors.
London, 1918. Fleur learns about her husband being claimed by war. She travels to Sydney to claim her inheritance, her husband’s land and wealth. It leads her to the same store, Della and her aunt owned. There, she unravels the story of her inheritance.
I like fast moving stories, but the characters and events could be better developed. It feels like everything is just scratched at the surface and it keeps jumping from one person to another, at least at the beginning. It gets better developed later in the story, but I was still missing a good hook at the beginning. I had a hard time getting into the story and being connected with the characters.
Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
London, 1918. Fleur learns about her husband being claimed by war. She travels to Sydney to claim her inheritance, her husband’s land and wealth. It leads her to the same store, Della and her aunt owned. There, she unravels the story of her inheritance.
I like fast moving stories, but the characters and events could be better developed. It feels like everything is just scratched at the surface and it keeps jumping from one person to another, at least at the beginning. It gets better developed later in the story, but I was still missing a good hook at the beginning. I had a hard time getting into the story and being connected with the characters.
Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 22, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
The Woman in the Green Dress is the fifth novel I have read by Tea Cooper. Cooper is an author who is a great asset to Australian historical fiction and her novels go from strength to strength. In The Woman in the Green Dress, we meet not one, but two strong female protagonists. The level of endurance both these women possess reminds us of the hard work and sacrifices made in Australia of yesteryear. The Woman in the Green Dress is a stunning historical fiction showpiece, with some wonderful elements of mystery.
Defined by two distinct timelines, The Woman in the Green Dress opens in London, in late 1918. The war is over and teashop waitress Fleur Richards is awaiting news of the return of her Australian husband Hugh. When she is delivered the worst possible news, Fleur must travel to Sydney to claim the land she has inherited. In investigating her inheritance, Fleur becomes embroiled in unlocking a family secret involving a Hawkesbury situated property and an unusual shop, now boarded up. Helping Fleur along the way is Kip, a returned solider. Together, along with the help of a number of local figures, a mystery is unleashed, involving opals and a woman in a green dress. Running parallel to the post WWI storyline is a step back into the past, in 1853 NSW. We meet the formidable Della Atherton as she becomes involved with the man on a search to uncover Australia’s very first opal. In Sydney, Della devotes herself to the Curio Shop of Wonders, but her eccentric aunt Cordelia seems to be dabbling in some strange activities. Della may have to tread carefully, in this colourful tale of envy and passion.
Tea Cooper is an author who can do no wrong in my eyes, her books get better and better each time. If you are a fan of historical fiction, with a particular eye for trusted Australian historical fiction, you must turn to Tea Cooper. The Woman in the Green Dress is a prime example of Cooper’s prowess in the area of carefully considered historical fiction.
A word on Tea Cooper’s research. I am in awe of her abilities. Yet again she is perfectly able to transfer time and place into the pages of her novel. Cooper’s research is thorough and clear and it is carefully embedded within an engrossing narrative. The icing on the cake with any Tea Cooper novel is her ‘Author Notes’ at the close of the book. I come to look forward to them very much, as they do offer another dimension to the whole reading process of the novel. The problem is, I now want to take a trip to all the places mentioned in the novel, from Hawkesbury and Mogo Creek to the Settlers arms in St Albans (I’d love to try that chicken pie!). Book my ticket now!
Much of the affection I attach to The Woman in the Green Dress is based on my connection to the characters. I loved Della, she was a real pioneer and her story was fascinating to uncover. Cordelia was a colourful protagonist, who added plenty of interest to the unfolding story. However, I do feel like my heart belongs to Fleur. I developed a swift and easy connection to Fleur. Her story was a sad, but a life changing, coming of age story. Cooper captures Fleur’s feelings so accurately. Her deep loss of her husband Hugh, her high hopes for their reunited love back in Australia, and her inability to accept his death. I was with Fleur every step of the way and I felt quite greedy when I craved more of this character’s journey. Supporting this story to reach great heights are figures such as Bert and Kip. Each of Tea Cooper’s character are well placed and carefully considered.
There is a strong line of mystery and intrigue to this novel. Drawing in a concealed family history that Fleur must uncover in 1918/19, adds an air of puzzlement to the novel and I welcomed this aspect with open arms. The book is titled The Woman in the Green Dress, and who this woman in the green dress is, as well as the mystery of her final fate is tied up very nicely by the close of the novel.
With a rich and pervading sense of place, accompanying a rich character set, The Woman in the Green Dress is a book not to be missed. From the discovery of the first opal, the hidden family secrets, overcoming the impact of war and the art of taxidermy, Tea Cooper gives it her all!
The Woman in the Green Dress is book #52 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge .
The Woman in the Green Dress is the fifth novel I have read by Tea Cooper. Cooper is an author who is a great asset to Australian historical fiction and her novels go from strength to strength. In The Woman in the Green Dress, we meet not one, but two strong female protagonists. The level of endurance both these women possess reminds us of the hard work and sacrifices made in Australia of yesteryear. The Woman in the Green Dress is a stunning historical fiction showpiece, with some wonderful elements of mystery.
Defined by two distinct timelines, The Woman in the Green Dress opens in London, in late 1918. The war is over and teashop waitress Fleur Richards is awaiting news of the return of her Australian husband Hugh. When she is delivered the worst possible news, Fleur must travel to Sydney to claim the land she has inherited. In investigating her inheritance, Fleur becomes embroiled in unlocking a family secret involving a Hawkesbury situated property and an unusual shop, now boarded up. Helping Fleur along the way is Kip, a returned solider. Together, along with the help of a number of local figures, a mystery is unleashed, involving opals and a woman in a green dress. Running parallel to the post WWI storyline is a step back into the past, in 1853 NSW. We meet the formidable Della Atherton as she becomes involved with the man on a search to uncover Australia’s very first opal. In Sydney, Della devotes herself to the Curio Shop of Wonders, but her eccentric aunt Cordelia seems to be dabbling in some strange activities. Della may have to tread carefully, in this colourful tale of envy and passion.
Tea Cooper is an author who can do no wrong in my eyes, her books get better and better each time. If you are a fan of historical fiction, with a particular eye for trusted Australian historical fiction, you must turn to Tea Cooper. The Woman in the Green Dress is a prime example of Cooper’s prowess in the area of carefully considered historical fiction.
A word on Tea Cooper’s research. I am in awe of her abilities. Yet again she is perfectly able to transfer time and place into the pages of her novel. Cooper’s research is thorough and clear and it is carefully embedded within an engrossing narrative. The icing on the cake with any Tea Cooper novel is her ‘Author Notes’ at the close of the book. I come to look forward to them very much, as they do offer another dimension to the whole reading process of the novel. The problem is, I now want to take a trip to all the places mentioned in the novel, from Hawkesbury and Mogo Creek to the Settlers arms in St Albans (I’d love to try that chicken pie!). Book my ticket now!
Much of the affection I attach to The Woman in the Green Dress is based on my connection to the characters. I loved Della, she was a real pioneer and her story was fascinating to uncover. Cordelia was a colourful protagonist, who added plenty of interest to the unfolding story. However, I do feel like my heart belongs to Fleur. I developed a swift and easy connection to Fleur. Her story was a sad, but a life changing, coming of age story. Cooper captures Fleur’s feelings so accurately. Her deep loss of her husband Hugh, her high hopes for their reunited love back in Australia, and her inability to accept his death. I was with Fleur every step of the way and I felt quite greedy when I craved more of this character’s journey. Supporting this story to reach great heights are figures such as Bert and Kip. Each of Tea Cooper’s character are well placed and carefully considered.
There is a strong line of mystery and intrigue to this novel. Drawing in a concealed family history that Fleur must uncover in 1918/19, adds an air of puzzlement to the novel and I welcomed this aspect with open arms. The book is titled The Woman in the Green Dress, and who this woman in the green dress is, as well as the mystery of her final fate is tied up very nicely by the close of the novel.
With a rich and pervading sense of place, accompanying a rich character set, The Woman in the Green Dress is a book not to be missed. From the discovery of the first opal, the hidden family secrets, overcoming the impact of war and the art of taxidermy, Tea Cooper gives it her all!
The Woman in the Green Dress is book #52 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge .
March 29, 2020
4.5 actually. Another wonderful read by historical fiction writer Tea Cooper. Again set in Australia. Using two different time periods: the mid 1850s and just after WW1. I was impressed with how well Cooper managed the story time shifts.
A young lady in London finds out her husband has been killed in the war. A man she meet, fell in love with, then married: all within 6 weeks. She, Fleur, then discovers she has been left a considerable inheritance. In Australia.
A superbly told story. Unputdownable
A young lady in London finds out her husband has been killed in the war. A man she meet, fell in love with, then married: all within 6 weeks. She, Fleur, then discovers she has been left a considerable inheritance. In Australia.
A superbly told story. Unputdownable
March 3, 2023
The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper
Synopsis /
1853 Mogo Creek, NSW
Della Atterton, bereft at the loss of her parents, is holed up in the place she loves best: the beautiful Hawkesbury in New South Wales. Happiest following the trade her father taught her, taxidermy, Della has no wish to return to Sydney. But the unexpected arrival of Captain Stefan von Richter on a quest to retrieve what could be Australia's first opal, precipitates Della's return to Sydney and her Curio Shop of Wonders, where she discovers her enigmatic aunt, Cordelia, is selling more than curiosities to collectors. Strange things are afoot and Della, a fly in a spider's web, is caught up in events with unimaginable consequences...
1919 Sydney, NSW
When London teashop waitress Fleur Richards inherits land and wealth in Australia from her husband, Hugh, killed in the war, she wants nothing to do with it. After all, accepting it will mean Hugh really is dead. But Hugh's lawyer is insistent, and so she finds herself ensconced in the Berkeley Hotel on Bent St, Sydney, the reluctant owner of a Hawkesbury property and an old curio shop, now desolate and boarded up.
As the real story of her inheritance unravels, Fleur finds herself in the company of a damaged returned soldier Kip, holding a thread that takes her deep into the past, a thread that could unravel a mystery surrounding an opal and a woman in a green dress; a green that is the colour of envy, the colour buried deep within an opal, the colour of poison...
My Thoughts /
The Woman in the Green Dress is the third novel I've read by Australian author, Tea Cooper that at its heart, is a story about the discovery of the first opal to be found in Australia. In terms of actual writing, I didn't think this story held up alongside her latest works; however, that's to be expected, as you would assume her writing, along with plot and storylines, would develop over time. Now, I'm not saying that The Woman in the Green Dress is subpar, because it's not - in any respect. I just found the writing lacked a little of the author's later finesse. But I'm just jabbering, so don't mind me.
In a genre jam packed to overfilling with WWII timelines, it's refreshing to find one up that goes back in time further, to the more neglected timeline of WWI.
The Woman in the Green Dress has two distinct timelines. 1853 Mogo Creek, New South Wales and 1919 Sydney. Notably, each timeline has a strong female protagonist and, each one has its own elements of mystery and collection of well-structured characters.
The story opens in London, it's early November of 1918. Fleur Richards is working as a waitress at a local teashop, and she's just been given the morning off - with pay. Armistice was signed early that morning with an order for any and all hostilities to cease on all fronts. After four years, fourteen weeks and two days of hell, the war was over. Just like that. Fleur heart bubbled with happiness, because with the end to the war, it meant that her husband, Hugh was coming back to her. All she had to do now, was wait for him to return home. Except, fate had other plans for Fleur. Waiting for her at home was a letter from the Ministry of Information: Dear Mrs Richards, I have information regarding your husband, Corporal Hugh Richards.
Taking a further step back in time, is the parallel storyline of Della Atterton.
Sydney, NSW, 1853 - after 265 days aboard ship Captain Stefan von Richter stepped off the gangplank and onto Australian soil. Travelling as the envoy to Baron Charles von Hugel, he has been assigned the task of transcribing the Baron's copious journal entries and reworking his notebooks to ready them for publication. As part of his assignment, Stefan intends to explore the Hawkesbury district, spending time cataloguing its remarkable flora and fauna. He also has a more private reason for travelling to Australia. To locate the whereabouts of a precious stone called an opal. While checking in to the Berkeley Hotel, a flyer caught his eye - Visitors to Sydney should not leave without calling upon The Curio Shop of Wonders at 84 Hunter Street.
Mogo Creek, and Della Atterton sewed animal hides for her Pa's shop in Sydney. Now her Ma and Pa were gone, and no one ever came to visit, except for hunters Gus and Dobbin, who brought monthly supplies and more skins for her to sew. Since her parent's death, Della couldn't bring herself to work in her father's Taxidermy shop in Sydney, so her Aunt Cordelia cared for it, reporting back by letter sent with Gus and Dobbin. Della's world is turned on its head when she receives a visit from Captain Stefan von Richter with not so good news from Sydney.
The story meanders between timelines much like the Hawkesbury River, flowing steadily onwards until it reaches its destination. Once again, Tea Cooper's meticulous research and writing abilities make this novel come to life. With strong, colourful protagonists and lots of interesting secondary characters to cheer or jeer. How does an opal connect these two timelines? A mysterious and intriguing hidden family secret adds a certain amount of interest to the plot which was very much welcomed.
Plus, learning about taxidermy in the 1850's……very, very interesting!
Synopsis /
1853 Mogo Creek, NSW
Della Atterton, bereft at the loss of her parents, is holed up in the place she loves best: the beautiful Hawkesbury in New South Wales. Happiest following the trade her father taught her, taxidermy, Della has no wish to return to Sydney. But the unexpected arrival of Captain Stefan von Richter on a quest to retrieve what could be Australia's first opal, precipitates Della's return to Sydney and her Curio Shop of Wonders, where she discovers her enigmatic aunt, Cordelia, is selling more than curiosities to collectors. Strange things are afoot and Della, a fly in a spider's web, is caught up in events with unimaginable consequences...
1919 Sydney, NSW
When London teashop waitress Fleur Richards inherits land and wealth in Australia from her husband, Hugh, killed in the war, she wants nothing to do with it. After all, accepting it will mean Hugh really is dead. But Hugh's lawyer is insistent, and so she finds herself ensconced in the Berkeley Hotel on Bent St, Sydney, the reluctant owner of a Hawkesbury property and an old curio shop, now desolate and boarded up.
As the real story of her inheritance unravels, Fleur finds herself in the company of a damaged returned soldier Kip, holding a thread that takes her deep into the past, a thread that could unravel a mystery surrounding an opal and a woman in a green dress; a green that is the colour of envy, the colour buried deep within an opal, the colour of poison...
My Thoughts /
The Woman in the Green Dress is the third novel I've read by Australian author, Tea Cooper that at its heart, is a story about the discovery of the first opal to be found in Australia. In terms of actual writing, I didn't think this story held up alongside her latest works; however, that's to be expected, as you would assume her writing, along with plot and storylines, would develop over time. Now, I'm not saying that The Woman in the Green Dress is subpar, because it's not - in any respect. I just found the writing lacked a little of the author's later finesse. But I'm just jabbering, so don't mind me.
In a genre jam packed to overfilling with WWII timelines, it's refreshing to find one up that goes back in time further, to the more neglected timeline of WWI.
The Woman in the Green Dress has two distinct timelines. 1853 Mogo Creek, New South Wales and 1919 Sydney. Notably, each timeline has a strong female protagonist and, each one has its own elements of mystery and collection of well-structured characters.
The story opens in London, it's early November of 1918. Fleur Richards is working as a waitress at a local teashop, and she's just been given the morning off - with pay. Armistice was signed early that morning with an order for any and all hostilities to cease on all fronts. After four years, fourteen weeks and two days of hell, the war was over. Just like that. Fleur heart bubbled with happiness, because with the end to the war, it meant that her husband, Hugh was coming back to her. All she had to do now, was wait for him to return home. Except, fate had other plans for Fleur. Waiting for her at home was a letter from the Ministry of Information: Dear Mrs Richards, I have information regarding your husband, Corporal Hugh Richards.
Taking a further step back in time, is the parallel storyline of Della Atterton.
Sydney, NSW, 1853 - after 265 days aboard ship Captain Stefan von Richter stepped off the gangplank and onto Australian soil. Travelling as the envoy to Baron Charles von Hugel, he has been assigned the task of transcribing the Baron's copious journal entries and reworking his notebooks to ready them for publication. As part of his assignment, Stefan intends to explore the Hawkesbury district, spending time cataloguing its remarkable flora and fauna. He also has a more private reason for travelling to Australia. To locate the whereabouts of a precious stone called an opal. While checking in to the Berkeley Hotel, a flyer caught his eye - Visitors to Sydney should not leave without calling upon The Curio Shop of Wonders at 84 Hunter Street.
Mogo Creek, and Della Atterton sewed animal hides for her Pa's shop in Sydney. Now her Ma and Pa were gone, and no one ever came to visit, except for hunters Gus and Dobbin, who brought monthly supplies and more skins for her to sew. Since her parent's death, Della couldn't bring herself to work in her father's Taxidermy shop in Sydney, so her Aunt Cordelia cared for it, reporting back by letter sent with Gus and Dobbin. Della's world is turned on its head when she receives a visit from Captain Stefan von Richter with not so good news from Sydney.
The story meanders between timelines much like the Hawkesbury River, flowing steadily onwards until it reaches its destination. Once again, Tea Cooper's meticulous research and writing abilities make this novel come to life. With strong, colourful protagonists and lots of interesting secondary characters to cheer or jeer. How does an opal connect these two timelines? A mysterious and intriguing hidden family secret adds a certain amount of interest to the plot which was very much welcomed.
Plus, learning about taxidermy in the 1850's……very, very interesting!
April 10, 2019
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The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper. (2019).
1853. Della has lost her parents, lives in Hawkesbury, NSW and has no intentions to return to Sydney. However Captain Stefan arrives on a quest to retrieve Australia's possibly first opal. This results in Della returning to Sydney and her Taxidermy Shop where she finds that her aunt Cordelia has turned it into the Curio Shop of Wonders, and strange things are happening...
1919. London waitress Fleur has an inheritance after her Australian husband dies in the war. She doesn't really want it but travels to Australia and finds herself, among other things, the owner of a boarded up curio shop. Fleur unravels the real story of the inheritance and also the mystery around an opal and a woman in a green dress...
Firstly, I just want to say how exquisite this cover is! The intensity and contrast of the green dress and the red hair is simply divine when you've got the book in your hands.
This novel was a slow starter for me. It took me about 100 pages before I started gaining interest in the plotline. I just felt the book didn't really take off and hold my interest as much as what I thought it would. The dual storylines were intriguing, came together in the end and each had it's merits but I think that there was a lot of lingering questions and not enough detail to satisfy me. Overall for me it was a pleasant enough book which was an easy read however I just never really got into it. There are plenty of reviews highly rating this book and historical fiction fans may really appreciate this novel.
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The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper. (2019).
1853. Della has lost her parents, lives in Hawkesbury, NSW and has no intentions to return to Sydney. However Captain Stefan arrives on a quest to retrieve Australia's possibly first opal. This results in Della returning to Sydney and her Taxidermy Shop where she finds that her aunt Cordelia has turned it into the Curio Shop of Wonders, and strange things are happening...
1919. London waitress Fleur has an inheritance after her Australian husband dies in the war. She doesn't really want it but travels to Australia and finds herself, among other things, the owner of a boarded up curio shop. Fleur unravels the real story of the inheritance and also the mystery around an opal and a woman in a green dress...
Firstly, I just want to say how exquisite this cover is! The intensity and contrast of the green dress and the red hair is simply divine when you've got the book in your hands.
This novel was a slow starter for me. It took me about 100 pages before I started gaining interest in the plotline. I just felt the book didn't really take off and hold my interest as much as what I thought it would. The dual storylines were intriguing, came together in the end and each had it's merits but I think that there was a lot of lingering questions and not enough detail to satisfy me. Overall for me it was a pleasant enough book which was an easy read however I just never really got into it. There are plenty of reviews highly rating this book and historical fiction fans may really appreciate this novel.
May 30, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas-Nelson Fiction and Tea Cooper for my copy of The Woman in the Green Dress.
1918, London waitress Fleur Richards can't wait for her husband, Hugh, to return from the Great War and move to Australia with him. As the crowds are cheering for the King, celebrating the end of WW I she is swept up in the excitement and can’t wait to hear from Hugh. But, instead receives word of his death, not by telegram, a solicitor contacts her from Archer Waterston and informs her of her husband’s demise. Hugh has left her an inheritance; she doesn’t believe he's dead and she decides to travel to Australia to find out what’s really going on?
1919, Fleur arrives in Sydney, she discovers she is the rightful owner of farmland in Mogo Creek and a boarded up derelict taxidermy shop called the curio shop of wonders. All left to her by her deceased husband Hugh, she’s shocked and why didn’t Hugh tell her he was wealthy? I must admit I find the whole subject of taxidermy rather creepy; I had doubts about if I would I like this story and I’m happy that I continued reading the dual timeline book and it’s an interesting historical fiction tale.
1853, Della Atterton lives on a farm in Mogo Creek near the Hawkesbury river, she works as a taxidermist and her father taught her this very unique trade. Her parent’s tragically passed away, her Aunt Cordelia runs her father’s shop in Sydney and she assumes everything is fine? But when Captain Stefan von Richter arrives to inform her of what’s going on and she discovers her Aunt is up to no good. Not only is her Aunt selling special tonics to the ladies of Sydney, odd feathered creations, she’s selling traditional aboriginal items and where did she get them from?
Both Fleur and Della’s stories are connected, as you read The Woman in the Green Dress, the story keeps you guessing, as it unfolds and it all makes perfect sense at the end. It’s a story about greed, deceit, intrigue, murder, secrets, a very complicated family tree, stuffed animals, stolen aboriginal treasure and a cursed Australian gem stone. I enjoyed the book, four stars from me and Tea Coopers books are never boring. I have shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Edelweiss, Australian Amazon, Twitter, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
1918, London waitress Fleur Richards can't wait for her husband, Hugh, to return from the Great War and move to Australia with him. As the crowds are cheering for the King, celebrating the end of WW I she is swept up in the excitement and can’t wait to hear from Hugh. But, instead receives word of his death, not by telegram, a solicitor contacts her from Archer Waterston and informs her of her husband’s demise. Hugh has left her an inheritance; she doesn’t believe he's dead and she decides to travel to Australia to find out what’s really going on?
1919, Fleur arrives in Sydney, she discovers she is the rightful owner of farmland in Mogo Creek and a boarded up derelict taxidermy shop called the curio shop of wonders. All left to her by her deceased husband Hugh, she’s shocked and why didn’t Hugh tell her he was wealthy? I must admit I find the whole subject of taxidermy rather creepy; I had doubts about if I would I like this story and I’m happy that I continued reading the dual timeline book and it’s an interesting historical fiction tale.
1853, Della Atterton lives on a farm in Mogo Creek near the Hawkesbury river, she works as a taxidermist and her father taught her this very unique trade. Her parent’s tragically passed away, her Aunt Cordelia runs her father’s shop in Sydney and she assumes everything is fine? But when Captain Stefan von Richter arrives to inform her of what’s going on and she discovers her Aunt is up to no good. Not only is her Aunt selling special tonics to the ladies of Sydney, odd feathered creations, she’s selling traditional aboriginal items and where did she get them from?
Both Fleur and Della’s stories are connected, as you read The Woman in the Green Dress, the story keeps you guessing, as it unfolds and it all makes perfect sense at the end. It’s a story about greed, deceit, intrigue, murder, secrets, a very complicated family tree, stuffed animals, stolen aboriginal treasure and a cursed Australian gem stone. I enjoyed the book, four stars from me and Tea Coopers books are never boring. I have shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Edelweiss, Australian Amazon, Twitter, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
May 30, 2020
I haven’t read much historical fiction set in Australia, so I really enjoyed this latest novel by Tea Cooper. Told in two timelines, 1853 and 1919, Cooper shows a side of Australia that many are unfamiliar with, and one that has quite a few similarities with the early days of the United States.
Young newlywed, Fleur Richards is working in a London tea shop while her husband Hugh is off fighting in the war. On Armistice day, she learns that he has died, but she refuses to believe it, even after her husband’s lawyer contacts her regarding his estate in Australia.
Because she was so newly married, Fleur believes she isn’t entitled to his estate and that she must go to Australia to make certain that it was Hugh who had died and to find any of his other next of kin.
Once in Australia, Fleur unwittingly begins to unravel the mystery of who her husband really was and of the family secrets and curses that are hidden in the inheritance.
I felt like the novel had a bit of a slow and murky start, but by the end everything tied together and it was a tale I really enjoyed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson-Fiction for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.
Young newlywed, Fleur Richards is working in a London tea shop while her husband Hugh is off fighting in the war. On Armistice day, she learns that he has died, but she refuses to believe it, even after her husband’s lawyer contacts her regarding his estate in Australia.
Because she was so newly married, Fleur believes she isn’t entitled to his estate and that she must go to Australia to make certain that it was Hugh who had died and to find any of his other next of kin.
Once in Australia, Fleur unwittingly begins to unravel the mystery of who her husband really was and of the family secrets and curses that are hidden in the inheritance.
I felt like the novel had a bit of a slow and murky start, but by the end everything tied together and it was a tale I really enjoyed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson-Fiction for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.
June 16, 2020
Ok this took me awhile 'cause there was a lot to think about. Teasing out the things that I saw was complicated. Hence me mulling over things for a time! So much more I could say. But the story says it better!
A touch of the macabre, tragic on many levels, and so distinctively Australian!
I fairly raced through this tale, although I hesitated. I felt it was going to be complex. I was right. Atmospheric, at times oppressive, this is a dynamic historical read with mysterious overtones.
Unknown to us the story is woven around the supposed discovery of the first opal in Australia. To my mind that takes a secondary place, and yet it bubbles along under the surface almost as a raison d'être. Stefan von Richter journeys to 1853 Sydney to trace the opal and have its authenticity verified for his former mentor.
The action shifts between 1853 and 1920's Sydney and the Hawksbury region. (I am reminded that the marvellous Kate Grenville writes historical fiction centered around this region) Della Atterton spends her time on the family property at Mogo Creek out beyond Wisemans Ferry and St Albans in the Upper Hawksbury region of New South Wales, practicing her taxidermist craft. Living on land important to the Darkinjung people. We time shift constantly from Della the taxidermist's daughter to the widowed Fleur Richards.
1918 London and Corporal Hugh Richards married Fleur. Hugh dies in the war and Fleur discovers that she has inherited property in Australia. Distraught, after a momentous inner struggle she embarks for Australia to investigate.
As we move between the two women's stories Fleur's investigations reveal Della. I was so present when Fleur followed in her footsteps.
I was caught up in Della's concern for the traditional owners of the land that encompass Mogo Creek. She seems to understand the link of the Aboriginals with their traditional land. Her distress at their treatment by Cordelia's men who stole artifacts and more was heartfelt, as is her love of Mogo Creek.
Hunting down a lead in the area and anxious to meet up with Cordelia's men, Stefan von Richter finds Della, at an opportune moment. Della's aunt Cordelia runs Della's taxidermist shop, the Curio shop, in Sydney. From the outset there is something is off here. Who is the woman in the green dress? When Stefan first meets Cordelia at the shop he thinks her as "bizarre and unusual" as in turn is the shop. He notes the "virulent green of her dress; Scheele’s Green." "Virulent!" A curious descriptive to use! Malignant and Scheele's Green? I looked it up. A poisonous pigment apparently. Here the color green is associated with arsenic used in taxidermy, also for ensuring a particular green for wallpaper, or to hold that color in young woman's dresses. "There’s a reason they’re called drop-dead gorgeous. They are dancing in a cloud of arsenic powder."
Della's world will come crashing down after her meeting with Stefan and the actions of Cordelia's men.
A complex story that weaves history and fiction in such an amazing way. Cooper's writing is a gem, the story is darkly powerful. The way other characters and their descendants are given place in the tale is amazing.
My attention was grabbed from the beginning. Normally I dislike time shift novels but Cooper's handling of the time divisions, as one informs the other, is brilliant.
Reading this against the current events of BLM movement sweeping the world, I am once again reminded of the stained undercurrent of Australia's poor record with regard to Indigenous Australians, inhabitants of the land for over 60,000 years.
Cooper's acknowledgement of the indigenous owners of the land in the Hawksbury region where part of the story was set is fitting
"I would like to acknowledge the Darkinjung and Eora people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which I live, work, play, and have set this story, and pay my respects to Elders both past and present."
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley
A touch of the macabre, tragic on many levels, and so distinctively Australian!
I fairly raced through this tale, although I hesitated. I felt it was going to be complex. I was right. Atmospheric, at times oppressive, this is a dynamic historical read with mysterious overtones.
Unknown to us the story is woven around the supposed discovery of the first opal in Australia. To my mind that takes a secondary place, and yet it bubbles along under the surface almost as a raison d'être. Stefan von Richter journeys to 1853 Sydney to trace the opal and have its authenticity verified for his former mentor.
The action shifts between 1853 and 1920's Sydney and the Hawksbury region. (I am reminded that the marvellous Kate Grenville writes historical fiction centered around this region) Della Atterton spends her time on the family property at Mogo Creek out beyond Wisemans Ferry and St Albans in the Upper Hawksbury region of New South Wales, practicing her taxidermist craft. Living on land important to the Darkinjung people. We time shift constantly from Della the taxidermist's daughter to the widowed Fleur Richards.
1918 London and Corporal Hugh Richards married Fleur. Hugh dies in the war and Fleur discovers that she has inherited property in Australia. Distraught, after a momentous inner struggle she embarks for Australia to investigate.
As we move between the two women's stories Fleur's investigations reveal Della. I was so present when Fleur followed in her footsteps.
I was caught up in Della's concern for the traditional owners of the land that encompass Mogo Creek. She seems to understand the link of the Aboriginals with their traditional land. Her distress at their treatment by Cordelia's men who stole artifacts and more was heartfelt, as is her love of Mogo Creek.
Hunting down a lead in the area and anxious to meet up with Cordelia's men, Stefan von Richter finds Della, at an opportune moment. Della's aunt Cordelia runs Della's taxidermist shop, the Curio shop, in Sydney. From the outset there is something is off here. Who is the woman in the green dress? When Stefan first meets Cordelia at the shop he thinks her as "bizarre and unusual" as in turn is the shop. He notes the "virulent green of her dress; Scheele’s Green." "Virulent!" A curious descriptive to use! Malignant and Scheele's Green? I looked it up. A poisonous pigment apparently. Here the color green is associated with arsenic used in taxidermy, also for ensuring a particular green for wallpaper, or to hold that color in young woman's dresses. "There’s a reason they’re called drop-dead gorgeous. They are dancing in a cloud of arsenic powder."
Della's world will come crashing down after her meeting with Stefan and the actions of Cordelia's men.
A complex story that weaves history and fiction in such an amazing way. Cooper's writing is a gem, the story is darkly powerful. The way other characters and their descendants are given place in the tale is amazing.
My attention was grabbed from the beginning. Normally I dislike time shift novels but Cooper's handling of the time divisions, as one informs the other, is brilliant.
Reading this against the current events of BLM movement sweeping the world, I am once again reminded of the stained undercurrent of Australia's poor record with regard to Indigenous Australians, inhabitants of the land for over 60,000 years.
Cooper's acknowledgement of the indigenous owners of the land in the Hawksbury region where part of the story was set is fitting
"I would like to acknowledge the Darkinjung and Eora people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which I live, work, play, and have set this story, and pay my respects to Elders both past and present."
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley
January 21, 2020
The read covers two time zones and two countries. It's the end of WW1, 1918 England and Fleur waits for news of her Australian husband's return from his time in France. They had fallen in love and married before his deployment. Fleur's personality has been impacted by the war from early on with the death of her parents from a Zeppelin attack, she is timid, colourless and survives only with the dream promised her of a wonderful life in Australia. She receives a letter from the Ministry of Information but as it's not a Telegram to confirm the death of her husband she ignores it, her job is menial and asking for time off may mean losing it. Waterson from the government turns up at the restaurant where the news of Hugh's death is related to her as well the information regarding her inheritance and for the need to travel to Australia immediately. Fleur's insistence of refusing this information because of the lack of a Telegram begins to become a little boring and for the remainder of the book until almost the end Fleur's petulance is rather annoying.
Sydney 1853 and Stephan von Richter steps onto Australian soil. He is here as representative of Baron von Hügel and for the return of a quality Opal gemstone, initially given to the Baron, the first discovery of an envisaged great mine. From here the story evolves into a read of intrigue, cruelty, murder and love. Stephan von Richter's life collides with Della and Charity while travelling to the Hawkesbury and Wisemans Ferry, after first being enticed to The Curio Shop of Wonders in Sydney by a woman representing herself as the owner, Mrs Cordelia Atterton when in fact she is unmarried and the convict sister of Della's deceased father. Della and Charity return to Sydney and discover the ruse. Stephan has an immediate attraction to Della but as his time in Sydney is limited he doesn't declare his affection.
Fleur on the other hand is frustrated by the lack of action by the Sydney Solicitor who is assisting with the repatriation of service men, his wife has been left to the task of not only moving office but also assisting her. Fleur takes things into her own hands. Determined to discover Hugh's family history she breaks into the Curio shop that has been boarded up and also makes her way up the Hawkesbury. The Hawkesbury trip even in 1918 would have been difficult given the small amount of development of this area and the dense terrain. However she is assisted by the river people and on reaching her destination is discovered by a man who questions her rather oddly. The mystery of all the connections are not resolved until her return to Sydney and the Curio Shop.
The author has created a wonderful read with many characters giving great colour to the story. Bert who assists Stephan one can easily imagine his language the beginnings of an Australianism cutting words short and with a touch of English slum like lilt. Also the generations of the Sladdin's in the same position at the hotel all seemingly with the same temperament and the assistant Kip, his personality revealing a possible PTS from the Great War.
The picturesque area of the Hawkesbury River and Wisemans Ferry remain much the same even today with the mail still being delivered by the Post Ferryman and the vehicular ferry to cross the river still there after so many years. The author's reference to the serviceman making comment to Fleur when she is on the boat as they head to shore "the smell of Eucalyptus" is the fragrance of Australia, whilst now not so obvious at an airport only a short distance from the city and after rain, the Eucalyptus fragrance is there.
Sydney 1853 and Stephan von Richter steps onto Australian soil. He is here as representative of Baron von Hügel and for the return of a quality Opal gemstone, initially given to the Baron, the first discovery of an envisaged great mine. From here the story evolves into a read of intrigue, cruelty, murder and love. Stephan von Richter's life collides with Della and Charity while travelling to the Hawkesbury and Wisemans Ferry, after first being enticed to The Curio Shop of Wonders in Sydney by a woman representing herself as the owner, Mrs Cordelia Atterton when in fact she is unmarried and the convict sister of Della's deceased father. Della and Charity return to Sydney and discover the ruse. Stephan has an immediate attraction to Della but as his time in Sydney is limited he doesn't declare his affection.
Fleur on the other hand is frustrated by the lack of action by the Sydney Solicitor who is assisting with the repatriation of service men, his wife has been left to the task of not only moving office but also assisting her. Fleur takes things into her own hands. Determined to discover Hugh's family history she breaks into the Curio shop that has been boarded up and also makes her way up the Hawkesbury. The Hawkesbury trip even in 1918 would have been difficult given the small amount of development of this area and the dense terrain. However she is assisted by the river people and on reaching her destination is discovered by a man who questions her rather oddly. The mystery of all the connections are not resolved until her return to Sydney and the Curio Shop.
The author has created a wonderful read with many characters giving great colour to the story. Bert who assists Stephan one can easily imagine his language the beginnings of an Australianism cutting words short and with a touch of English slum like lilt. Also the generations of the Sladdin's in the same position at the hotel all seemingly with the same temperament and the assistant Kip, his personality revealing a possible PTS from the Great War.
The picturesque area of the Hawkesbury River and Wisemans Ferry remain much the same even today with the mail still being delivered by the Post Ferryman and the vehicular ferry to cross the river still there after so many years. The author's reference to the serviceman making comment to Fleur when she is on the boat as they head to shore "the smell of Eucalyptus" is the fragrance of Australia, whilst now not so obvious at an airport only a short distance from the city and after rain, the Eucalyptus fragrance is there.
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January 15, 2020Read for Endorsement:
Readers of Kate Morton and Beatriz Williams will be dazzled. The Woman in the Green Dress spins readers into an evocative world of mystery and romance in this deeply researched book by Tea Cooper. There is a Dickensian flair to Cooper’s carefully constructed world of lost inheritances and found treasures as two indomitable women stretched across centuries work to reconcile their pasts while reclaiming love, identity and belonging against two richly moving historical settings. As soon as you turn the last page you want to start again just to see how every last thread is sewn in anticipation of its thrilling conclusion. One of the most intelligent, visceral and vibrant historical reads I have had the privilege of visiting in an age.
Readers of Kate Morton and Beatriz Williams will be dazzled. The Woman in the Green Dress spins readers into an evocative world of mystery and romance in this deeply researched book by Tea Cooper. There is a Dickensian flair to Cooper’s carefully constructed world of lost inheritances and found treasures as two indomitable women stretched across centuries work to reconcile their pasts while reclaiming love, identity and belonging against two richly moving historical settings. As soon as you turn the last page you want to start again just to see how every last thread is sewn in anticipation of its thrilling conclusion. One of the most intelligent, visceral and vibrant historical reads I have had the privilege of visiting in an age.
March 9, 2025
The Woman in the Green Dress is a dual timeline historical fiction by Australian Author Tea Cooper involving heartache, mystery, taxidermy, stolen Indigenous artifacts and a cursed Australian opal.
In 1918 Fleur Richards is waitressing in London, waiting for her husband Hugh to return from the war and take her to his sunny home in Australia. Devastatingly, she receives news of his death instead and then is pressured into travelling to Australia to deal with a large inheritance she does not really want. She travels to his property at Mogo Creek in New South Wales, and visits The Curio Shop of Wonders. Finding herself with questions about Hugh, his family and property, Fleur enlists the helps of returned veteran Kip and begin to unravel some mysterious events.
In 1853 Della Atterton was living at Mogo Creek by the Hawkesbury River, dealing with the loss of her parents and practising the taxidermy skills they had taught her. Back in Sydney her aunt, Cordelia Atterton, looks after the Curio shop. Della is taken aback by the arrival of Captain Stefan von Riechter and his sidekick Bert, hunting for a mysterious disappeared opal. The pressure escalates as Della discovers her aunt is caught up in some nefarious business that risks not only her family’s beloved shop but also Della’s safety.
www.blackstaropal.com
I enjoyed this as a story. I think I preferred some of Tea Cooper’s other books though, such as The Cartographer's Secret and The Talented Mrs Greenway, as the romantic elements of this one were less convincing. The setting does get under your skin, and you will find yourself yearning to hold a mesmerizing multicoloured opal by the end of this book!
In 1918 Fleur Richards is waitressing in London, waiting for her husband Hugh to return from the war and take her to his sunny home in Australia. Devastatingly, she receives news of his death instead and then is pressured into travelling to Australia to deal with a large inheritance she does not really want. She travels to his property at Mogo Creek in New South Wales, and visits The Curio Shop of Wonders. Finding herself with questions about Hugh, his family and property, Fleur enlists the helps of returned veteran Kip and begin to unravel some mysterious events.
In 1853 Della Atterton was living at Mogo Creek by the Hawkesbury River, dealing with the loss of her parents and practising the taxidermy skills they had taught her. Back in Sydney her aunt, Cordelia Atterton, looks after the Curio shop. Della is taken aback by the arrival of Captain Stefan von Riechter and his sidekick Bert, hunting for a mysterious disappeared opal. The pressure escalates as Della discovers her aunt is caught up in some nefarious business that risks not only her family’s beloved shop but also Della’s safety.
www.blackstaropal.com
I enjoyed this as a story. I think I preferred some of Tea Cooper’s other books though, such as The Cartographer's Secret and The Talented Mrs Greenway, as the romantic elements of this one were less convincing. The setting does get under your skin, and you will find yourself yearning to hold a mesmerizing multicoloured opal by the end of this book!
December 24, 2018
4.5* http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
Tea Cooper has delivered once again! Just like in, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’ (HERE), where she presented strong female historical figures, Tea’s latest tale not only provides a truly engaging story but also two fabulously strong women. I thoroughly enjoyed both dual time narratives (an admirable accomplishment in itself) and couldn’t wait to see how Tea would provide the crucial and very cleverly linked storylines as she often does.
‘The Woman in the Green Dress’, is full of good locations, well rounded characters and an engaging plot. I just love these strong female leads and both Fleur and Della once more exemplify the feminine intuitive that runs across all Tea’s books. Venturing from Sydney to the Hawkesbury, there are many aspects to this tale that make it unique: taxidermy, opals, villains, bequests, courage and love.
Both Della in 1853 and Fleur in 1919 have much to offer the reader with their courage and tenacity. Fleur’s story is courageous as she travels from England to uncover the truth behind her husband’s legacy; likewise Della, pursues the truth - admirable for both women in an age where they were viewed as secondary citizens. There are several interesting aspects here - taxidermy, plight of the first Australians, the opal industry and much more. The way Tea interweaves fact and fiction is highly commendable - rich in intriguing historical facts.
This is a clever story that will have you working to organise all the plot puzzle pieces that have been masterfully crafted by Tea. I was captivated by not only the strength and determination of the two women, but also the cast of secondary characters. Congratulations Tea on once again producing a masterfully crafted tale of mystery and intrigue that will see the reader journeying side by side with Della and Fleur as they both respectively work to uncover the truth behind, ‘The Woman in the Green Dress’.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Tea Cooper has delivered once again! Just like in, ‘The Naturalist’s Daughter’ (HERE), where she presented strong female historical figures, Tea’s latest tale not only provides a truly engaging story but also two fabulously strong women. I thoroughly enjoyed both dual time narratives (an admirable accomplishment in itself) and couldn’t wait to see how Tea would provide the crucial and very cleverly linked storylines as she often does.
‘The Woman in the Green Dress’, is full of good locations, well rounded characters and an engaging plot. I just love these strong female leads and both Fleur and Della once more exemplify the feminine intuitive that runs across all Tea’s books. Venturing from Sydney to the Hawkesbury, there are many aspects to this tale that make it unique: taxidermy, opals, villains, bequests, courage and love.
Both Della in 1853 and Fleur in 1919 have much to offer the reader with their courage and tenacity. Fleur’s story is courageous as she travels from England to uncover the truth behind her husband’s legacy; likewise Della, pursues the truth - admirable for both women in an age where they were viewed as secondary citizens. There are several interesting aspects here - taxidermy, plight of the first Australians, the opal industry and much more. The way Tea interweaves fact and fiction is highly commendable - rich in intriguing historical facts.
This is a clever story that will have you working to organise all the plot puzzle pieces that have been masterfully crafted by Tea. I was captivated by not only the strength and determination of the two women, but also the cast of secondary characters. Congratulations Tea on once again producing a masterfully crafted tale of mystery and intrigue that will see the reader journeying side by side with Della and Fleur as they both respectively work to uncover the truth behind, ‘The Woman in the Green Dress’.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
July 9, 2020
The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper is a historical mystery that alternates between 1853, Mogo Creek, New South Wales and 1919, Sydney and has all the makings of an excellent read - two strong female protagonists, a cursed opal, a mysterious curio shop, a lost inheritance, generations of family secrets and the mystery behind the woman in the green dress.
The pacing is just right, not brisk like thrillers, nor ponderous as literary fiction. The story moves with a constant, steady rate, asking a question here, uncovering a secret there, while deepening the general plot and keeping the intrigue intact.
This was my first book by the Australian author Tea Cooper and I am definitely going to be checking out more of her works. I was very impressed with how well researched this book was, and how a lot of facts and places mentioned in the story were real. I learned plenty about the plight of native Australians, their extreme struggles, and the cruelty of the first settlers. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and when a book transports me to a time and place I've never been before, like this one, it's an absolute treat.
The Woman in the Green Dress is an extensively researched, beautifully written story that adeptly combines facts and fiction and keeps its readers invested and interested from start to finish. Recommended if you enjoy dual timeline historical mysteries.
**A free paperback ARC was provided by Thomas Nelson and TLC Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own **
The pacing is just right, not brisk like thrillers, nor ponderous as literary fiction. The story moves with a constant, steady rate, asking a question here, uncovering a secret there, while deepening the general plot and keeping the intrigue intact.
This was my first book by the Australian author Tea Cooper and I am definitely going to be checking out more of her works. I was very impressed with how well researched this book was, and how a lot of facts and places mentioned in the story were real. I learned plenty about the plight of native Australians, their extreme struggles, and the cruelty of the first settlers. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and when a book transports me to a time and place I've never been before, like this one, it's an absolute treat.
The Woman in the Green Dress is an extensively researched, beautifully written story that adeptly combines facts and fiction and keeps its readers invested and interested from start to finish. Recommended if you enjoy dual timeline historical mysteries.
**A free paperback ARC was provided by Thomas Nelson and TLC Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own **
March 5, 2019
In 1835, Della Atherton lives in Mogo Creek which is a rural area in NSW. She is a taxidermist selling her wares to her family shop in Sydney, currently run by her aunt Cordelia.
Fast forward to 1919 and we are introduced to Fleur Richards in London who is a young war widow, told that her husband has left her a sizeable inheritance, including a property in Mogo Creek and a taxidermy shop in Sydney.
And so we flip back and forth between these timelines, slowly learning how these women and places are connected. There are themes of settlement & land rights, but also family and love.
I found this a very easy read and an enjoyable historical fiction - particularly because of the setting - reading about early days of Australian settlement always interests me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, HarperCollins, for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I also downloaded the audio and recommend the narration :)
Fast forward to 1919 and we are introduced to Fleur Richards in London who is a young war widow, told that her husband has left her a sizeable inheritance, including a property in Mogo Creek and a taxidermy shop in Sydney.
And so we flip back and forth between these timelines, slowly learning how these women and places are connected. There are themes of settlement & land rights, but also family and love.
I found this a very easy read and an enjoyable historical fiction - particularly because of the setting - reading about early days of Australian settlement always interests me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, HarperCollins, for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I also downloaded the audio and recommend the narration :)
January 17, 2019
Tea Cooper has managed once again to write a tale that draws you in and takes you back to a different time in Australia. The detail in her writing had me walking the streets with these characters and living out in the countryside with the native people and animals. I did find the book started a bit slower than expected, but then I was hooked and couldn't wait to see where this dual timeline took us and how the timelines joined together. Fleur took a long while to grow on me and I much preferred Della from the older timeline as a main heroine. I enjoyed unravelling the mystery that Della and then Hugh left behind.
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
June 6, 2020
This dual timeline read has a healthy dose of mystery, thrill, and a bit of romance as well. Told from the POVs of Fleur (1918-1920), Stefan, and Della (1853), the story of a strange storefront and cursed opal slowly unwinds. The cast of side characters is as rich as the main characters, and the settings and details are described beautifully. Look out for my full review at bitchbookshelf.com on June 16. My thanks for HF Book Tours, NetGalley, the author, and publisher for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book, historical fiction being one of my favourite genres. At times, I felt there was a bit much loaded into the life of only one woman, with the plot feeling a little contrived. However, overall it was an entertaining read and would recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to receive this arc in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to receive this arc in exchange of an honest review.
January 1, 2019
‘The sky is higher in Australia.’
There are two timelines, with two different stories in this enthralling work of historical fiction. The earlier is in 1853, in the Hawkesbury region of New South Wales. Here, at Mogo Creek, Della Atterton works as a taxidermist, while her aunt Cordelia sells her work from the taxidermy shop that had belonged to Della’s father. Della has no desire to return to Sydney, but the arrival of Captain Stefan von Richter (on a quest of his own) raises some serious questions about the Sydney store.
In 1918 in London, just after Armistice Day, Fleur Richards learns that she has been widowed. Her Australian husband, Hugh Richards, has left her wealthy. Fleur cannot believe that Hugh is dead and wants nothing to do with his estate. But she is persuaded to travel to Australia to sort out Hugh’s affairs.
In 1919, Fleur finds herself at the Berkeley Hotel in Sydney. She and Hugh were not married for long before his death, and she is keen to learn as much about him as she can. Fleur finds that amongst the property she has apparently inherited is land at a place called Mogo Creek and an old curio shop in Hunter Street, Sydney. Fleur had walked past the shop and had noticed that it was boarded up.
Fleur’s quest for information takes her to the Hawkesbury where she finds more questions than answers. She also explores the curio shop premises, with the assistance of Kip, a young returned soldier who works for the Sydney lawyers handling Hugh’s estate. Who was Hugh? What is the mystery behind the curio shop, and where does Stefan von Richter and his quest fit into the story? As the story unfolds, new questions arise. Fleur’s inheritance is not straightforward, but she has the strength to deal with it. And the green dress? That’s part of the mystery that Fleur will solve in a very satisfying way.
This is the second of Ms Cooper’s novels I have read and loved: count me as a fan. In an historical note at the end of the novel Ms Cooper writes that ‘The Woman in the Green Dress is a work of fiction, however in some cases fact has fed fiction.’ Fascinating.
Highly recommended to lovers of historical fiction set in Australia.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and HQ Fiction for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
There are two timelines, with two different stories in this enthralling work of historical fiction. The earlier is in 1853, in the Hawkesbury region of New South Wales. Here, at Mogo Creek, Della Atterton works as a taxidermist, while her aunt Cordelia sells her work from the taxidermy shop that had belonged to Della’s father. Della has no desire to return to Sydney, but the arrival of Captain Stefan von Richter (on a quest of his own) raises some serious questions about the Sydney store.
In 1918 in London, just after Armistice Day, Fleur Richards learns that she has been widowed. Her Australian husband, Hugh Richards, has left her wealthy. Fleur cannot believe that Hugh is dead and wants nothing to do with his estate. But she is persuaded to travel to Australia to sort out Hugh’s affairs.
In 1919, Fleur finds herself at the Berkeley Hotel in Sydney. She and Hugh were not married for long before his death, and she is keen to learn as much about him as she can. Fleur finds that amongst the property she has apparently inherited is land at a place called Mogo Creek and an old curio shop in Hunter Street, Sydney. Fleur had walked past the shop and had noticed that it was boarded up.
Fleur’s quest for information takes her to the Hawkesbury where she finds more questions than answers. She also explores the curio shop premises, with the assistance of Kip, a young returned soldier who works for the Sydney lawyers handling Hugh’s estate. Who was Hugh? What is the mystery behind the curio shop, and where does Stefan von Richter and his quest fit into the story? As the story unfolds, new questions arise. Fleur’s inheritance is not straightforward, but she has the strength to deal with it. And the green dress? That’s part of the mystery that Fleur will solve in a very satisfying way.
This is the second of Ms Cooper’s novels I have read and loved: count me as a fan. In an historical note at the end of the novel Ms Cooper writes that ‘The Woman in the Green Dress is a work of fiction, however in some cases fact has fed fiction.’ Fascinating.
Highly recommended to lovers of historical fiction set in Australia.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and HQ Fiction for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
June 20, 2020
Let’s just start by pointing out the obvious here—-this cover is gorgeous! And then I read the summary and couldn’t wait to dive in! A cursed gemstone set in WWI, sign me up is exactly what I said! Ok if I am being honest, I stopped reading the summary after ‘cursed opal’ because I was already sold on this book!
I haven’t read anything else by Tea Cooper but I know that she has written a ton of books, many of which sound interesting and fun so I felt confident giving this one a shot.
Especially given that this book promised romance, mystery, and intrigue. All the things I love in historical fiction. Not to mention I couldn’t stop staring at the cover of this book!
Sigh, what did I just read? This was a wonderful novel. I read it in only a couple of sittings because I was captivated! This would be a great read for book clubs as there is a lot to discuss and think over. It was a great read and I am so glad I discovered this new to me author!
The only thing that I was a little disappointed by was I thought there would be a little more romance than what was actually given in this book but at the end of the day it didn’t really matter because I found the other plots (mystery etc) compelling and interesting.
I love duel timeline stories and this book executed that plot device really well and I found myself equally invested in both timeline and characters. I especially loved Fleur’s story though. She is a great character, full of life and color!
This book is always well researched and I loved learning about new things like opal mining and taxidermy. This author is an Australian writer and I loved learning about that part of the world especially during that time period. It was interesting and I felt like I was reading something new and refreshing simply from the setting alone but the author takes it to the next level and invites readers into Australian history with exciting characters and a mesmerizing plot.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author and am thrilled to recommend this book to all my family and friends! A great read especially if you love historical fiction! I was entirely swept away!
See my full review here
I haven’t read anything else by Tea Cooper but I know that she has written a ton of books, many of which sound interesting and fun so I felt confident giving this one a shot.
Especially given that this book promised romance, mystery, and intrigue. All the things I love in historical fiction. Not to mention I couldn’t stop staring at the cover of this book!
Sigh, what did I just read? This was a wonderful novel. I read it in only a couple of sittings because I was captivated! This would be a great read for book clubs as there is a lot to discuss and think over. It was a great read and I am so glad I discovered this new to me author!
The only thing that I was a little disappointed by was I thought there would be a little more romance than what was actually given in this book but at the end of the day it didn’t really matter because I found the other plots (mystery etc) compelling and interesting.
I love duel timeline stories and this book executed that plot device really well and I found myself equally invested in both timeline and characters. I especially loved Fleur’s story though. She is a great character, full of life and color!
This book is always well researched and I loved learning about new things like opal mining and taxidermy. This author is an Australian writer and I loved learning about that part of the world especially during that time period. It was interesting and I felt like I was reading something new and refreshing simply from the setting alone but the author takes it to the next level and invites readers into Australian history with exciting characters and a mesmerizing plot.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author and am thrilled to recommend this book to all my family and friends! A great read especially if you love historical fiction! I was entirely swept away!
See my full review here
June 22, 2020
When I started The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper, I had no idea what path it would take and how it would end up. The story is told in two timelines: 1853 and 1919. Both of these timelines have an element of mystery with interesting characters. It wasn't until I was well into the story when I finally began to put details together and figure out how all of the characters' lives would intersect. Every chapter felt like another layer was being built so the final third of the story could make big reveals. Once I started sensing the connection, things moved quickly and overall, the story was quite fascinating.
I don't want to spoil a single thing about this story so I won't mention any of the details, but I had no idea that the story would move in some of the directions that it did. I really enjoyed the mystery aspects of the story. Part of the intrigue for me, I think, is that I have very little knowledge of Australia's history during the 1850's and the early 1900's. Most of what I know about these time periods is mostly through the lens of United States and Europe. So having the chance to read things from an Australian perspective was really great. There were several times that I stopped reading so I could go online and learn more about the places and events and customs in the story.
I particularly enjoyed reading about Della and Fleur and I think other readers will love them too.
Sidenote: I read an uncorrected digital galley and it did not include a map so I spent a great deal of time tracking the characters' travels on online maps. I'm not sure if a map is included in the final copies of this book, but I think it would make a lovely addition to the text and I urge readers to check out the area online so you can track the characters' travels too.
I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!
Find this review and more like it on my blog, Into the Hall of Books!
I don't want to spoil a single thing about this story so I won't mention any of the details, but I had no idea that the story would move in some of the directions that it did. I really enjoyed the mystery aspects of the story. Part of the intrigue for me, I think, is that I have very little knowledge of Australia's history during the 1850's and the early 1900's. Most of what I know about these time periods is mostly through the lens of United States and Europe. So having the chance to read things from an Australian perspective was really great. There were several times that I stopped reading so I could go online and learn more about the places and events and customs in the story.
I particularly enjoyed reading about Della and Fleur and I think other readers will love them too.
Sidenote: I read an uncorrected digital galley and it did not include a map so I spent a great deal of time tracking the characters' travels on online maps. I'm not sure if a map is included in the final copies of this book, but I think it would make a lovely addition to the text and I urge readers to check out the area online so you can track the characters' travels too.
I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!
Find this review and more like it on my blog, Into the Hall of Books!
June 15, 2020
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
I did not finish this book at 10 percent. Sorry, the changing perspectives and formatting was too much for me to overcome. I really liked the synopsis which is why I chose this book and just felt let down in the end. I noticed a lot of reviewers mentioned the slowly moving story and honestly I just kept going this is boring, this is boring, who is this, and this is boring.
"The Woman in the Green Dress" follows Fleur Richards. Fleur is waiting for her husband Hugh to return from The Great War (World War I) when she receives news of his death on Armistice Day. She supposedly leaves England for Australia (I didn't get that far).
What didn't help me while reading though is that we follow so many characters in this (and I only got to 10 percent). We are introduced to a character named Della. I still don't know what she was about since the formatting made it hard to "see" who was speaking. And then we followed Fleur and there was a male character whose name is eluding me right now.
I just have to say my first impression of Fleur was she was weak as anything. She literally hides and doesn't speak to anyone and the book jumps to a character in Australia who I assume is important later. I think Cooper didn't set up enough time for readers to even care about Fleur's predicament. She throws us right into Armistice Day and then Fleur sees the Queen of England and then runs home to bad news. The book would have been better to show Fleur and Hugh in love so that you at least care when she receives news of his death.
I think the writing wasn't doing a lot for me. The dialogue that I managed to get through felt stiff and forced. The book felt slow and also at the same time not as developed as it should have been. I know this is an ARC, but it was hard to get through this with the formatting being all over the place too.
I did not finish this book at 10 percent. Sorry, the changing perspectives and formatting was too much for me to overcome. I really liked the synopsis which is why I chose this book and just felt let down in the end. I noticed a lot of reviewers mentioned the slowly moving story and honestly I just kept going this is boring, this is boring, who is this, and this is boring.
"The Woman in the Green Dress" follows Fleur Richards. Fleur is waiting for her husband Hugh to return from The Great War (World War I) when she receives news of his death on Armistice Day. She supposedly leaves England for Australia (I didn't get that far).
What didn't help me while reading though is that we follow so many characters in this (and I only got to 10 percent). We are introduced to a character named Della. I still don't know what she was about since the formatting made it hard to "see" who was speaking. And then we followed Fleur and there was a male character whose name is eluding me right now.
I just have to say my first impression of Fleur was she was weak as anything. She literally hides and doesn't speak to anyone and the book jumps to a character in Australia who I assume is important later. I think Cooper didn't set up enough time for readers to even care about Fleur's predicament. She throws us right into Armistice Day and then Fleur sees the Queen of England and then runs home to bad news. The book would have been better to show Fleur and Hugh in love so that you at least care when she receives news of his death.
I think the writing wasn't doing a lot for me. The dialogue that I managed to get through felt stiff and forced. The book felt slow and also at the same time not as developed as it should have been. I know this is an ARC, but it was hard to get through this with the formatting being all over the place too.
January 7, 2021
Set in Australia alternating between 1853 and 1918/19 the author has, with flowing prose, infused the reader with the sights, sounds and scents of Australia.
In 1853 we meet the characters of Captain Stefan von Richter and Della Atterton and in 1918 we meet our English heroine Fleur.
Fleur, after a very brief romance in London, married an Australian soldier, Hugh Richards, who vows to take her to Australia after the war and dazzled her with promises of the wonderful life they will have there.
Fluer is shattered when she learns that her husband has been killed in action and she has been left a considerable inheritance which she must travel to Australia to claim.
While she has no interest in the inheritance her refusal to accept her husband’s death compels her to travel to Australia to either (a) find her husband who she is not convinced has been killed or (b) find his remaining family.
Her arrival in Australia is nothing like she had imagined. She is first introduced to an inept lawyer’s wife (the lawyer himself is unavailable) leaving Fleur to gather up strength and courage she didn’t know she had and forge ahead on her quest to find answers on her own.
Thus her adventure begins in order to learn the truth of her husband and his family.
This was an enjoyable and engrossing read. I enjoyed Fleur’s journey as she discovered the land her husband had promised her; and how her inheritance came to be which is told admirably in the 1853 chapters which is where we find the other main characters Captain Stefan von Richter and Della Atterton all of whom are equally intriguing and connecting the ever fascinating sub-plots together.
In 1853 we meet the characters of Captain Stefan von Richter and Della Atterton and in 1918 we meet our English heroine Fleur.
Fleur, after a very brief romance in London, married an Australian soldier, Hugh Richards, who vows to take her to Australia after the war and dazzled her with promises of the wonderful life they will have there.
Fluer is shattered when she learns that her husband has been killed in action and she has been left a considerable inheritance which she must travel to Australia to claim.
While she has no interest in the inheritance her refusal to accept her husband’s death compels her to travel to Australia to either (a) find her husband who she is not convinced has been killed or (b) find his remaining family.
Her arrival in Australia is nothing like she had imagined. She is first introduced to an inept lawyer’s wife (the lawyer himself is unavailable) leaving Fleur to gather up strength and courage she didn’t know she had and forge ahead on her quest to find answers on her own.
Thus her adventure begins in order to learn the truth of her husband and his family.
This was an enjoyable and engrossing read. I enjoyed Fleur’s journey as she discovered the land her husband had promised her; and how her inheritance came to be which is told admirably in the 1853 chapters which is where we find the other main characters Captain Stefan von Richter and Della Atterton all of whom are equally intriguing and connecting the ever fascinating sub-plots together.
January 30, 2019
My excuse is that I was on holiday & had finished my book and had to quickly find another one in k-mart. I liked the historical aspect, set in 1850s and 1919 Sydney and Hawkesbury area and the story kept me interested. I found all the characters quite annoying, especially the dopey Fleur, war bride from England who instead of appearing principled by rejecting her inherited fortunes seemed plain silly to me. It’s not surprising that this author has also written books that look like romance novels as the chivalrous male featured in this one too. Look, it wasn’t too bad, just not my cup of tea.
February 17, 2019
The Woman In The Green Dress is the eighth novel from Australian author, Tea Cooper. The stunning cover with the vivid green dress immediately caught my eye and I was eager to read it when I learnt that it was historical fiction. I was interested to note that it is a story based on people from the past…..Tost and Rohu were two people who opened a taxidermist shop while Baron Charles von Hugel, Johann Menge and the Darkijung Indigemous people did exist. In Coopers’ version, she uses a split narrative structure to link the lives of Della Atterton in 1853 and Fleur Richards in 1919. What do these two women have in common?
Della Atterton is not your typical lady and one who I had great admiration for. Residing in rural Mogo Creek, NSW, she is an independent young woman who is comfortable within herself. Della is an earthy woman who is at one with a nature that is both wild and harsh. With her big heart, Della’s loyalty is strong as is her relationship with the native Australians, the Darkinjung people. No matter a person’s race or creed, she is helpful and stands up for the rights of other people. Cooper sensitively deals with the plight of the Indigenous people as she reminds us of the treatment they received hundreds of years ago. She also reminds us that there were people such as Della who were kind and respectful of the Indigenous way of life. Captain Stefan von Richter was another character who didn’t agree with the treatment of the Indigenous and who Della had a delightful romance with. He is the opposite of Della in that he has been raised as a gentleman yet they make a good couple because they both have good hearts. When fate brings them together, Della and the Captain embark on a journey to Sydney, NSW, for two very different reason and where the Curio Shop of Wonders awaits them. Passed on to Della after the death of her parents, she returns to the city to find out what has happened to the store that is now under the care of her Aunt Cordelia.
Fleur Richardson is a lady that is typical of the time. When I first met Fleur, she was living in England a year after the great war. Fleur receives news that her husband, Hugh, has been killed in the battle. I felt for Fleur as she was unable to come to grips with the new situation she found herself in. Now a widow, Fleur must deal with the secrets that Hugh has kept. This was not at all surprising as Fleur and Hugh had only known each other for five weeks before they married and he left to fight! Everything that Hugh owned has now been passed onto Fleur, including land in NSW. Fleur surprised me by deciding to move to Australia by herself to unravel Hugh’s secrets. I didn’t think that she would survive the boat journey, let alone living in a new country, but she did. With the help of the local community, Fleur showed that she could arise in the face of adversity, that she has a hidden, inner strength. Will Fleur discover her husband’s secrets? What links Della and Fleur over fifty years apart?
With themes of war, class, women, family history and the Indigenous people this is a historical fiction read that is unique to the plethora in the market.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the chance to review this book!
#AWWC6#
Della Atterton is not your typical lady and one who I had great admiration for. Residing in rural Mogo Creek, NSW, she is an independent young woman who is comfortable within herself. Della is an earthy woman who is at one with a nature that is both wild and harsh. With her big heart, Della’s loyalty is strong as is her relationship with the native Australians, the Darkinjung people. No matter a person’s race or creed, she is helpful and stands up for the rights of other people. Cooper sensitively deals with the plight of the Indigenous people as she reminds us of the treatment they received hundreds of years ago. She also reminds us that there were people such as Della who were kind and respectful of the Indigenous way of life. Captain Stefan von Richter was another character who didn’t agree with the treatment of the Indigenous and who Della had a delightful romance with. He is the opposite of Della in that he has been raised as a gentleman yet they make a good couple because they both have good hearts. When fate brings them together, Della and the Captain embark on a journey to Sydney, NSW, for two very different reason and where the Curio Shop of Wonders awaits them. Passed on to Della after the death of her parents, she returns to the city to find out what has happened to the store that is now under the care of her Aunt Cordelia.
Fleur Richardson is a lady that is typical of the time. When I first met Fleur, she was living in England a year after the great war. Fleur receives news that her husband, Hugh, has been killed in the battle. I felt for Fleur as she was unable to come to grips with the new situation she found herself in. Now a widow, Fleur must deal with the secrets that Hugh has kept. This was not at all surprising as Fleur and Hugh had only known each other for five weeks before they married and he left to fight! Everything that Hugh owned has now been passed onto Fleur, including land in NSW. Fleur surprised me by deciding to move to Australia by herself to unravel Hugh’s secrets. I didn’t think that she would survive the boat journey, let alone living in a new country, but she did. With the help of the local community, Fleur showed that she could arise in the face of adversity, that she has a hidden, inner strength. Will Fleur discover her husband’s secrets? What links Della and Fleur over fifty years apart?
With themes of war, class, women, family history and the Indigenous people this is a historical fiction read that is unique to the plethora in the market.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the chance to review this book!
#AWWC6#
June 29, 2020
How much do I love this book??
Honestly, I can’t even put into words just how amazing this book is, everything that I love about historical fiction is here, ((she says pointing furiously at the book)) not only has it two of the most engaging, strong and defiant female characters, whose both stories will captivate and you will become fully absorbed into each of these two fine women’s worlds.
This is a beautiful, richly textured, atmospheric and mesmerizing story which not only has two amazing women who are traversing their way through uncertain times. I have always been a big fan of strong and detailed history and this does not disappoint, each and every scene is so vivid, the story entwines clear and passionate history with mystery and emotion, it swirls around the reader like a magical and easily some of the best I’ve read.
Opening in London 1918, that long and bloody war is over, Fleur is waiting for news on her husband; Hugh, but on Armistice Day she gets the worst news any person can receive. Her beloved Hugh is gone and she has been left a huge inheritance in his native Australia, Fleur doesn’t want it she only wants her husband, it’s heartbreaking to read at times. She diced to travel to Australia, find Hugh’s family and hand over the inheritance she believes that they deserve far more than her, but once there I think a little of her broken heart starts to breathe life again and she is soon in the midst of a huge mystery, a secret and a mysterious woman in a green dress…but who is she?
Moving side by side with Fleurs story is one set back in 1853 and revolves around Della a gusty woman who dips her toes into the world of Opal hunting and shop owning but there are odd things happening and Della must tread carefully. As much as I loved Della and how pioneering she is forging away in a man’s world, but I was more drawn to Fleur her story is sad and memorable and really grasped hold of my heart.
I haven’t read any of Tea Cooper’s work before, something which I am planning on remedying as soon as possible, I am in awe of her writing, her knowledge and passion for her native Australia, she has a real flare with words which really captures the readers imagination and attention. Tea Cooper is certainly a skilled and articulate writer with a great mind for knowing exactly what her readers want. The way she has flawlessly intertwined Fleur’s story in 1918 with Della’s story in 1853 is a stroke of genius and I just may be ruined me for all other duel timeline books now.
Overall, this is a cleverly written, beautiful and captivating book, I cannot recommend it more if you love your historical fiction which has drama, a little romance, strong female character’s, mystery and a intriguing plot then this is the book you need to read!
Honestly, I can’t even put into words just how amazing this book is, everything that I love about historical fiction is here, ((she says pointing furiously at the book)) not only has it two of the most engaging, strong and defiant female characters, whose both stories will captivate and you will become fully absorbed into each of these two fine women’s worlds.
This is a beautiful, richly textured, atmospheric and mesmerizing story which not only has two amazing women who are traversing their way through uncertain times. I have always been a big fan of strong and detailed history and this does not disappoint, each and every scene is so vivid, the story entwines clear and passionate history with mystery and emotion, it swirls around the reader like a magical and easily some of the best I’ve read.
Opening in London 1918, that long and bloody war is over, Fleur is waiting for news on her husband; Hugh, but on Armistice Day she gets the worst news any person can receive. Her beloved Hugh is gone and she has been left a huge inheritance in his native Australia, Fleur doesn’t want it she only wants her husband, it’s heartbreaking to read at times. She diced to travel to Australia, find Hugh’s family and hand over the inheritance she believes that they deserve far more than her, but once there I think a little of her broken heart starts to breathe life again and she is soon in the midst of a huge mystery, a secret and a mysterious woman in a green dress…but who is she?
Moving side by side with Fleurs story is one set back in 1853 and revolves around Della a gusty woman who dips her toes into the world of Opal hunting and shop owning but there are odd things happening and Della must tread carefully. As much as I loved Della and how pioneering she is forging away in a man’s world, but I was more drawn to Fleur her story is sad and memorable and really grasped hold of my heart.
I haven’t read any of Tea Cooper’s work before, something which I am planning on remedying as soon as possible, I am in awe of her writing, her knowledge and passion for her native Australia, she has a real flare with words which really captures the readers imagination and attention. Tea Cooper is certainly a skilled and articulate writer with a great mind for knowing exactly what her readers want. The way she has flawlessly intertwined Fleur’s story in 1918 with Della’s story in 1853 is a stroke of genius and I just may be ruined me for all other duel timeline books now.
Overall, this is a cleverly written, beautiful and captivating book, I cannot recommend it more if you love your historical fiction which has drama, a little romance, strong female character’s, mystery and a intriguing plot then this is the book you need to read!
July 1, 2020
3.5 stars
The Woman In The Green Dress was such a unique read. I wasn't expecting the two timelines and so I was a little confused at first, but once I got used to the alternating stories, I found it intriguing.
The mystery was fascinating, and even creepy at times (mainly near the end, lol). I was hooked in trying to figure things out and really liked how it ended. There was a certain aspect that I didn't care for, as it seemed unrealistic, but I can understand why it was in the story.
All in all, The Woman In The Green Dress was a good read and one that I'm sure historical lovers will enjoy.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The Woman In The Green Dress was such a unique read. I wasn't expecting the two timelines and so I was a little confused at first, but once I got used to the alternating stories, I found it intriguing.
The mystery was fascinating, and even creepy at times (mainly near the end, lol). I was hooked in trying to figure things out and really liked how it ended. There was a certain aspect that I didn't care for, as it seemed unrealistic, but I can understand why it was in the story.
All in all, The Woman In The Green Dress was a good read and one that I'm sure historical lovers will enjoy.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
February 10, 2021
Tea Cooper spins a tale filled with mystery and romance. I absolutely adore split time stories, so was immediately drawn into both stories. As a new to me author, I found Ms. Cooper's writing to be refreshing. While most WWI or post war historical fiction is set in Europe, I was enchanted by the Australian setting and the eclectic cast of characters that came to life under Ms. Cooper's pen. With excellent pacing, the clues are expertly woven together in a satisfying conclusion that left me eager to read more of Ms. Cooper's books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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