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The Girl in the Painting
An orphaned young math prodigy in need of family. A painting that shatters a woman’s peace. And a decades-old mystery demanding to be solved.
Australia, 1906: Orphan Jane Piper is nine years old when philanthropist siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn take her into their home to further her schooling. The Quinns are no strangers to hardship. Having arrived in Australia as penniless immigrants, they now care for others as lost as they once were.
Despite Jane’s mysterious past, her remarkable aptitude for mathematics takes her far over the next seven years, and her relationship with Elizabeth and Michael flourishes as she plays an increasingly prominent part in their business.
But when Elizabeth reacts in terror to an exhibition at the local gallery, Jane realizes no one knows Elizabeth after all—not even Elizabeth herself. As the past and present converge and Elizabeth’s grasp on reality loosens, Jane sets out to unravel her story before it’s too late.
From the gritty reality of the Australian goldfields to the grand institutions of Sydney, this compelling novel presents a mystery that spans continents and decades as both women finally discover a place to call home.
Praise for The Girl in the
“Combining characters that are wonderfully complex with a story spanning decades of their lives, The Girl in the Painting is a triumph of family, faith, and long-awaited forgiveness. I was swept away!” —Kristy Cambron, bestselling author of The Paris Dressmaker
Stand-alone novel with rich historical detailsBook 102,000 wordsIncludes discussion questions for book clubs and historical note from the authorAlso by Tea The Cartographer’s Secret and The Woman in the Green Dress
Australia, 1906: Orphan Jane Piper is nine years old when philanthropist siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn take her into their home to further her schooling. The Quinns are no strangers to hardship. Having arrived in Australia as penniless immigrants, they now care for others as lost as they once were.
Despite Jane’s mysterious past, her remarkable aptitude for mathematics takes her far over the next seven years, and her relationship with Elizabeth and Michael flourishes as she plays an increasingly prominent part in their business.
But when Elizabeth reacts in terror to an exhibition at the local gallery, Jane realizes no one knows Elizabeth after all—not even Elizabeth herself. As the past and present converge and Elizabeth’s grasp on reality loosens, Jane sets out to unravel her story before it’s too late.
From the gritty reality of the Australian goldfields to the grand institutions of Sydney, this compelling novel presents a mystery that spans continents and decades as both women finally discover a place to call home.
Praise for The Girl in the
“Combining characters that are wonderfully complex with a story spanning decades of their lives, The Girl in the Painting is a triumph of family, faith, and long-awaited forgiveness. I was swept away!” —Kristy Cambron, bestselling author of The Paris Dressmaker
Stand-alone novel with rich historical detailsBook 102,000 wordsIncludes discussion questions for book clubs and historical note from the authorAlso by Tea The Cartographer’s Secret and The Woman in the Green Dress
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
634 people are currently reading
7636 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 573 reviews
December 23, 2019
Another enjoyable novel by Tea Cooper, The Girl In The Painting is a dual timeline account of brother and sister Michael and Elizabeth Quinn, who arrived in Sydney by boat in the 1860s. The first timeline is set in the gold mining town of Hill End, where their parents have settled, and Michael and Elizabeth are to join them from Ireland. The second timeline is set years later in Maitland, where Michael and Elizabeth have settled after the gold rush.
One day at a local art exhibition Elizabeth is found cowering on the floor in a right state and Michael, along with his mathematical genius ward Jane, are determined to get to the bottom of the problem. What has reduced Elizabeth to such a state? Is it one of the paintings, or taxidermied birds on display? And why? As Michael and Jane investigate it becomes clear that not everything is as straight forward as they believe it to be, and as the mystery deepens long hidden secrets come to the fore.
The Girl In The Painting is an immensely readable book, full of historical detail, and with well-meshed, believable, characters. From the gold fields, to the Hunter Valley, the reader is immersed in the lives of Elizabeth, Michael and Jane, and the conclusion is both surprising and satisfying. Recommended for all lovers of Australian historical fiction.
My thanks to Harlequin Australia for an uncorrected proof to read and review. The opinions are entirely my own.
One day at a local art exhibition Elizabeth is found cowering on the floor in a right state and Michael, along with his mathematical genius ward Jane, are determined to get to the bottom of the problem. What has reduced Elizabeth to such a state? Is it one of the paintings, or taxidermied birds on display? And why? As Michael and Jane investigate it becomes clear that not everything is as straight forward as they believe it to be, and as the mystery deepens long hidden secrets come to the fore.
The Girl In The Painting is an immensely readable book, full of historical detail, and with well-meshed, believable, characters. From the gold fields, to the Hunter Valley, the reader is immersed in the lives of Elizabeth, Michael and Jane, and the conclusion is both surprising and satisfying. Recommended for all lovers of Australian historical fiction.
My thanks to Harlequin Australia for an uncorrected proof to read and review. The opinions are entirely my own.
July 4, 2022
The Girl in the Painting was the first book that I had the pleasure of reading by Tea Cooper. She has written many books and I hope to read more of her books in the future. The Girl in the Painting was a stand alone historical fiction novel that took place almost exclusively in Australia. The storyline alternated between the timelines of 1860, 1906 and 1913. It was quite rich in historical details and facts which were woven brilliantly throughout the book. The characters were wonderfully complex and likable for the most part. It was fast paced and kept me engaged from beginning to end. I listened to the audio CD that was brilliantly narrated by Casey Withoos.
The O’Quinn’s were from Ireland originally but when hard times fell on Ireland the O’Quinn parents decided to go to Australia to find their fortune. They left their two children, Michael and Lizzie, with their aunt because married couples without children traveled free on the ship headed to Australia. Somehow Michael and Elizabeth found their way to a workhouse in Liverpool, England. The day a fire broke out in one of the girl’s dormitories, Michael and Elizabeth boarded a ship to Australia to reunite with their parents. Michael was fifteen years old and Elizabeth had turned five during the voyage. Sadly, once he and Elizabeth landed in Australia, Michael discovered that his mother had died and his father was dying. With the death of their father, Michael and Elizabeth inherited a thriving and successful business from their parents. Their surname was shortened to Quinn. After running the business Michael’s father had left to them for several years, Michael informed Elizabeth that they were moving to Maitland and would open an auction house there. Their new business thrived and they both became known for helping others less fortunate than themselves. I really enjoyed how Michael took on a very protective and tender role toward Elizabeth.
In 1906, Michael was introduced to a nine year old math prodigy orphan named Jane Piper. Michael was impressed by Jane’s innate math skills and aptitude for numbers. He met her at the orphanage one afternoon and invited Jane to have tea with his sister Elizabeth. Michael and Elizabeth were quite taken by Jane. They wanted to give her opportunities that she would otherwise never had have. Jane was invited to live with Michael and Elizabeth in their big, fancy house. They would send her to school and give her the education she deserved if she would help run their businesses and manage the books for their businesses. Jane agreed and they lived and worked together harmoniously for many years. Elizabeth and Michael taught Jane how to react to certain situations, how to respond to people and how to conduct her life. They cared for each other tremendously. Then one day, Elizabeth saw a painting in an exhibition at a gallery that caused her to have a puzzling reaction. That reaction would open up a long hidden mystery that had remained hidden for almost fifty years. Could Jane puzzle through it and solve the mystery?
I enjoyed reading The Girl in the Painting by Tea Cooper. It was a book that encompassed family, secrets, trust, hope, faith and forgiveness. I look forward to reading more books by Tea Cooper in the future. I highly recommend this book.
The O’Quinn’s were from Ireland originally but when hard times fell on Ireland the O’Quinn parents decided to go to Australia to find their fortune. They left their two children, Michael and Lizzie, with their aunt because married couples without children traveled free on the ship headed to Australia. Somehow Michael and Elizabeth found their way to a workhouse in Liverpool, England. The day a fire broke out in one of the girl’s dormitories, Michael and Elizabeth boarded a ship to Australia to reunite with their parents. Michael was fifteen years old and Elizabeth had turned five during the voyage. Sadly, once he and Elizabeth landed in Australia, Michael discovered that his mother had died and his father was dying. With the death of their father, Michael and Elizabeth inherited a thriving and successful business from their parents. Their surname was shortened to Quinn. After running the business Michael’s father had left to them for several years, Michael informed Elizabeth that they were moving to Maitland and would open an auction house there. Their new business thrived and they both became known for helping others less fortunate than themselves. I really enjoyed how Michael took on a very protective and tender role toward Elizabeth.
In 1906, Michael was introduced to a nine year old math prodigy orphan named Jane Piper. Michael was impressed by Jane’s innate math skills and aptitude for numbers. He met her at the orphanage one afternoon and invited Jane to have tea with his sister Elizabeth. Michael and Elizabeth were quite taken by Jane. They wanted to give her opportunities that she would otherwise never had have. Jane was invited to live with Michael and Elizabeth in their big, fancy house. They would send her to school and give her the education she deserved if she would help run their businesses and manage the books for their businesses. Jane agreed and they lived and worked together harmoniously for many years. Elizabeth and Michael taught Jane how to react to certain situations, how to respond to people and how to conduct her life. They cared for each other tremendously. Then one day, Elizabeth saw a painting in an exhibition at a gallery that caused her to have a puzzling reaction. That reaction would open up a long hidden mystery that had remained hidden for almost fifty years. Could Jane puzzle through it and solve the mystery?
I enjoyed reading The Girl in the Painting by Tea Cooper. It was a book that encompassed family, secrets, trust, hope, faith and forgiveness. I look forward to reading more books by Tea Cooper in the future. I highly recommend this book.
December 18, 2019
The Girl In the Painting by Tea Cooper is a wonderful historical fiction mostly set in Australia. It is the first book by this writer that I have read. It was a really enjoyable read and I will definitely keep an eye out for more of her books in the future.
The story alternates for most of the book between Jane, a young orphan who is taken in by brother and sister Michael and Elizabeth Quinn, and also from the siblings travels to Australia from England in in the 1860’s . Jane is a very clever girl with an aptitude for numbers. She is saved by the Quinn’s who are now successful business people in Maitland. Elizabeth takes. Funny turn T an art exhibition and starts to have strange flashbacks that have no meaning to her. Jane is determined to solve the mystery and help Elizabeth. Brother Michael sheds some light on the mystery with news that will change both women forever.
We travel from the UK, to Sydney, to the goldfields in Hill End and to Maitland in this beautifully written novel. Tea Cooper captures the feeling of Australia in the past, a country that is still growing and finding its way in the world, much like the characters she writes about. Anybody would feel as if they have been transported back in time when reading this book.
Thank you to Harlequin Books Australia and Tea Cooper for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
The story alternates for most of the book between Jane, a young orphan who is taken in by brother and sister Michael and Elizabeth Quinn, and also from the siblings travels to Australia from England in in the 1860’s . Jane is a very clever girl with an aptitude for numbers. She is saved by the Quinn’s who are now successful business people in Maitland. Elizabeth takes. Funny turn T an art exhibition and starts to have strange flashbacks that have no meaning to her. Jane is determined to solve the mystery and help Elizabeth. Brother Michael sheds some light on the mystery with news that will change both women forever.
We travel from the UK, to Sydney, to the goldfields in Hill End and to Maitland in this beautifully written novel. Tea Cooper captures the feeling of Australia in the past, a country that is still growing and finding its way in the world, much like the characters she writes about. Anybody would feel as if they have been transported back in time when reading this book.
Thank you to Harlequin Books Australia and Tea Cooper for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
May 20, 2021
3.5 ⭐
I felt like reading a historical fiction, but something different, not a WWII so this was a random choice. I'm really happy to pick this new author for me, Tea Cooper's The Girl in the Painting, an Australian story. I enjoyed the characters, time period and setting.
This is a dual timeline story. First period is around 1860s gold fields NSW when siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn arrived in Australia from Ireland/England and the second period in 1913 Maitland Town as adults with an orphan they took in, Jane Piper. They own an auction house and when an art exhibition with a painting causes Elizabeth to become unwell, Jane who is talented with numbers and logic tries to find the answer about the painting and Elizabeth. Oh the surprise! 😉
I felt like reading a historical fiction, but something different, not a WWII so this was a random choice. I'm really happy to pick this new author for me, Tea Cooper's The Girl in the Painting, an Australian story. I enjoyed the characters, time period and setting.
This is a dual timeline story. First period is around 1860s gold fields NSW when siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn arrived in Australia from Ireland/England and the second period in 1913 Maitland Town as adults with an orphan they took in, Jane Piper. They own an auction house and when an art exhibition with a painting causes Elizabeth to become unwell, Jane who is talented with numbers and logic tries to find the answer about the painting and Elizabeth. Oh the surprise! 😉
December 16, 2019
Thank to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia and Tea Cooper for my copy of her new book: The Girl In The Painting.
In 1906, Jane Piper is living in the local orphanage in Maitland, one day she is directed by the nuns to dress in her Sunday best and summoned down stairs. Michael Quinn a local business man wants to talk to her and she has no idea why? Jane was left at the orphanage as a baby, no one has ever wanted to adopt her, she talks too much and has a habit of saying whatever pops into her head at the time! Jane is very smart, Michael and his sister Elizabeth Quinn support the orphanage. In Jane's case she is a mathematical genius, they don't want her brilliant mind be wasted, she's given a scholarship, she can attend the girls school in Maitland and live with them.
In 1913, Elizabeth Quinn and Jane go to the local technical college when her Elizabeth wanders off to look at a taxidermy exhibition and has a funny turn? Elizabeth wants to ignore the whole episode, it's never happened before and she puts it down to being tired. The local doctor thinks it's due to her age and it's a ladies change of life complaint? When it happens again, Jane is very concerned and something is wrong with her sensible Aunt Elizabeth.
The book has a dual timeline and fifty years earlier, Michael and Elizabeth O'Cuinn set sail from England to finally be reunited with their parents in Sydney. When they arrive fifteen year old Michael discovers his parents are not waiting for them when the ship docks and he's very concerned. He leaves four year old Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron a lady who they met on the ship and sets off to discover what happened to his Mam and Da?
He discovers his Ma has passed away and he father will soon follow her. He has no choice but to leave Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron and pay her to look after his little sister until he has a reliable income and a place for them to stay. Later when he discovers that his sister is no longer going to school, the money he sends isn't going towards her "keep" and Mrs Cameron is using Elizabeth to scrub ladies underwear in her laundry business, he's furious. He takes her with him to the Australian gold fields in Hill End where he owns a warehouse and runs a carting business.
Now years later he's very concerned about his sister, did something happen to her while she was staying with the Cameron's and is that why she's started having funny turns? Or is due to what happened to Elizabeth just prior to them leaving for Australia, he has never spoken to her about it and is she having memory flashbacks?
Can cleaver Jane fit together the pieces of the puzzle, put it all together, before her Aunt Elizabeth loses her grip on reality and is considered to be mentally insane? Or, is there something odd about a striking painting on loan from the National Gallery, does this contain clues to her Aunts past and she did see it while in the college?
The Girl In The Painting is a brilliant historical mystery, where the past and the present combine, to create a story that has so many twists and turns, you can't stop reading and the title of the book hides some of the clues to how it ends!
A big five stars from me and well done Tea Cooper.
I shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Barnes & Noble, Twitter and my Blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
In 1906, Jane Piper is living in the local orphanage in Maitland, one day she is directed by the nuns to dress in her Sunday best and summoned down stairs. Michael Quinn a local business man wants to talk to her and she has no idea why? Jane was left at the orphanage as a baby, no one has ever wanted to adopt her, she talks too much and has a habit of saying whatever pops into her head at the time! Jane is very smart, Michael and his sister Elizabeth Quinn support the orphanage. In Jane's case she is a mathematical genius, they don't want her brilliant mind be wasted, she's given a scholarship, she can attend the girls school in Maitland and live with them.
In 1913, Elizabeth Quinn and Jane go to the local technical college when her Elizabeth wanders off to look at a taxidermy exhibition and has a funny turn? Elizabeth wants to ignore the whole episode, it's never happened before and she puts it down to being tired. The local doctor thinks it's due to her age and it's a ladies change of life complaint? When it happens again, Jane is very concerned and something is wrong with her sensible Aunt Elizabeth.
The book has a dual timeline and fifty years earlier, Michael and Elizabeth O'Cuinn set sail from England to finally be reunited with their parents in Sydney. When they arrive fifteen year old Michael discovers his parents are not waiting for them when the ship docks and he's very concerned. He leaves four year old Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron a lady who they met on the ship and sets off to discover what happened to his Mam and Da?
He discovers his Ma has passed away and he father will soon follow her. He has no choice but to leave Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron and pay her to look after his little sister until he has a reliable income and a place for them to stay. Later when he discovers that his sister is no longer going to school, the money he sends isn't going towards her "keep" and Mrs Cameron is using Elizabeth to scrub ladies underwear in her laundry business, he's furious. He takes her with him to the Australian gold fields in Hill End where he owns a warehouse and runs a carting business.
Now years later he's very concerned about his sister, did something happen to her while she was staying with the Cameron's and is that why she's started having funny turns? Or is due to what happened to Elizabeth just prior to them leaving for Australia, he has never spoken to her about it and is she having memory flashbacks?
Can cleaver Jane fit together the pieces of the puzzle, put it all together, before her Aunt Elizabeth loses her grip on reality and is considered to be mentally insane? Or, is there something odd about a striking painting on loan from the National Gallery, does this contain clues to her Aunts past and she did see it while in the college?
The Girl In The Painting is a brilliant historical mystery, where the past and the present combine, to create a story that has so many twists and turns, you can't stop reading and the title of the book hides some of the clues to how it ends!
A big five stars from me and well done Tea Cooper.
I shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Barnes & Noble, Twitter and my Blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
December 26, 2019
*https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
As soon as I heard of The Girl in the Painting I was expecting to love it. Dual time line Historical Fiction set in colonial Australia; it already featured a few of my favourite themes. And I’m happy to say Tea Cooper didn’t disappoint. The Girl in the Painting is totally immersive. I was hooked right from the beginning. William and Elizabeth Quinn are immediately likeable and young Jane Piper’s character is quirky and endearing.
The Girl in the Painting is set in the New South Wales towns of Maitland in the early 1900’s and Hill End during the gold rush years of 1860’s.
Cooper uses true historical events to set the story solidly in its time and place. I do enjoy a strong female character and both Elizabeth and Jane are characters that are independent and intelligent. Elizabeth instils in Jane independence and the knowledge that women should and can look after their own business affairs.
The Girl in the Painting is an engrossing story featuring a compelling mystery that will keep you turning the pages.
*I received a copy from the publisher to read and review
As soon as I heard of The Girl in the Painting I was expecting to love it. Dual time line Historical Fiction set in colonial Australia; it already featured a few of my favourite themes. And I’m happy to say Tea Cooper didn’t disappoint. The Girl in the Painting is totally immersive. I was hooked right from the beginning. William and Elizabeth Quinn are immediately likeable and young Jane Piper’s character is quirky and endearing.
The Girl in the Painting is set in the New South Wales towns of Maitland in the early 1900’s and Hill End during the gold rush years of 1860’s.
Cooper uses true historical events to set the story solidly in its time and place. I do enjoy a strong female character and both Elizabeth and Jane are characters that are independent and intelligent. Elizabeth instils in Jane independence and the knowledge that women should and can look after their own business affairs.
The Girl in the Painting is an engrossing story featuring a compelling mystery that will keep you turning the pages.
*I received a copy from the publisher to read and review
March 25, 2022
I don’t have any real thoughts on this read. There was some true events that were included in Authors Note. This has been a traumatic month. Honestly reading has gone in and out. I haven’t retained much. Reading has been more of a coping skill. I am sorry I dont have more. It was a great story line. I enjoyed it.
October 20, 2019
The Girl in the Painting is a historical fiction novel by best-selling Australian author, Téa Cooper. In Maitland Town in 1913, Jane Piper is still counting her blessings that Michael and Elizabeth Quinn chose her from the orphanage. Not to adopt, but to further her education and realise an undreamt-of career as an accountant. In her first interview, she told Michael: “I like numbers, sir. See, they don’t lie, sir. Not like people. There’s only right or wrong, no in-betweens” and that still holds true.
But one day, at the Technical College with Elizabeth to view an exhibition, her benefactor takes a turn. What can have reduced this unfailingly poised lady to a gibbering mess? Aunt Elizabeth wants to ignore the whole episode, to dismiss it, but Jane can’t let it go. Especially when it happens again. She will use her deductive powers to learn what has affected her beloved patroness so.
Fifty years earlier, a sweet blue-eyed four-year-old girl slipped her hand into young Michael Ó’Cuinn’s as they boarded a ship for their assisted passage to join parents Michael and Aileen Quinn in Sydney. The news that greeted them on arrival was a shock, however, and Michael had to leave Elizabeth with the Camerons while he sorted out a place to safely raise a child: the goldfields at Hill End wouldn’t fit the bill, but that’s where his Da was.
Several narrators tell the story over two timelines, and Cooper easily captures the era and the setting. Her characters are interesting and engaging and it’s utterly impossible not to fall in love with little Jane from the first chapter. Cooper gives the reader lots of historical tidbits mingled with a good dose of intrigue and a hint of romance, and wraps it all in wonderfully evocative prose. Marvellous Australian historical fiction!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley, Better Reading Preview and Harlequin Australia
But one day, at the Technical College with Elizabeth to view an exhibition, her benefactor takes a turn. What can have reduced this unfailingly poised lady to a gibbering mess? Aunt Elizabeth wants to ignore the whole episode, to dismiss it, but Jane can’t let it go. Especially when it happens again. She will use her deductive powers to learn what has affected her beloved patroness so.
Fifty years earlier, a sweet blue-eyed four-year-old girl slipped her hand into young Michael Ó’Cuinn’s as they boarded a ship for their assisted passage to join parents Michael and Aileen Quinn in Sydney. The news that greeted them on arrival was a shock, however, and Michael had to leave Elizabeth with the Camerons while he sorted out a place to safely raise a child: the goldfields at Hill End wouldn’t fit the bill, but that’s where his Da was.
Several narrators tell the story over two timelines, and Cooper easily captures the era and the setting. Her characters are interesting and engaging and it’s utterly impossible not to fall in love with little Jane from the first chapter. Cooper gives the reader lots of historical tidbits mingled with a good dose of intrigue and a hint of romance, and wraps it all in wonderfully evocative prose. Marvellous Australian historical fiction!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley, Better Reading Preview and Harlequin Australia
May 14, 2021
Four and a half stars.
Two stories take place in this novel. One starts in 1906 in Maitland Town NSW. The other in 1862 starts in England but quickly moves to Sydney Australia before moving to the gold mine area of Hill End. In the 1900s the reader is introduced to Elizabeth and her brother Michael. They have also brought Jane Piper from the orphanage into their family, home and business. Elizabeth and Michael are respected in the community. But then one day Elizabeth is found cowering in the corner of an exhibition gallery at the Technical College. What could have caused such a reaction? Could it be something to do with the artwork of English artist Marigold Penter? Jane is determined to find out? In the process she uncovers secrets that will have dramatic impact on several lives.
An interesting historical novel that captures the times and settings beautifully. The characters on the whole are likable, except for that one we are meant to dislike. I found this story with its well drawn characters thoroughly engaging. Elizabeth and Jane are strong independent women who tend to buck some of the social conventions of the times. As well as a story of family and changes there is a hint of romance as well.
This was my first read by this author. I had heard a lot of good things about her from friends on Goodreads so was keen to give this a go. I was not disappointed and will be keen to further investigate this author’s work. A highly recommend historical read with a mystery at its heart. Interesting and enjoyable.
Two stories take place in this novel. One starts in 1906 in Maitland Town NSW. The other in 1862 starts in England but quickly moves to Sydney Australia before moving to the gold mine area of Hill End. In the 1900s the reader is introduced to Elizabeth and her brother Michael. They have also brought Jane Piper from the orphanage into their family, home and business. Elizabeth and Michael are respected in the community. But then one day Elizabeth is found cowering in the corner of an exhibition gallery at the Technical College. What could have caused such a reaction? Could it be something to do with the artwork of English artist Marigold Penter? Jane is determined to find out? In the process she uncovers secrets that will have dramatic impact on several lives.
An interesting historical novel that captures the times and settings beautifully. The characters on the whole are likable, except for that one we are meant to dislike. I found this story with its well drawn characters thoroughly engaging. Elizabeth and Jane are strong independent women who tend to buck some of the social conventions of the times. As well as a story of family and changes there is a hint of romance as well.
This was my first read by this author. I had heard a lot of good things about her from friends on Goodreads so was keen to give this a go. I was not disappointed and will be keen to further investigate this author’s work. A highly recommend historical read with a mystery at its heart. Interesting and enjoyable.
October 8, 2020
3.5* this is an enjoyable historical fiction novel set mostly in two regions of NSW, the old gold mining town of Hill End near Bathurst and Maitland in the Hunter Valley. The story begins when a brother and sister, Michael and Elizabeth Quinn get on a boat to Australia from England. It’s told in two time periods initially from the early 1880s when they first arrive in Sydney and in the early 1900’s in Maitland when the Quinns take in a girl, Jane from an orphanage. The painting in the title doesn’t appear in the book until more than halfway in, although it is significant. I found the “mystery” to be quite obvious once it all came together and felt the story dragged quite a bit in the later stages. It’s a detailed book with regards to historical events, one being the shooting of Prince Alfred in Sydney and the subsequent anti Irish laws. Also the way women’s lives were constrained with regards to work and studying. But mostly it’s a gentle read.
October 20, 2019
The Girl in the Painting by Tea Cooper
A mystery tale of secrets and dark memories
This was a delightful and compelling read, told in two timelines, the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The Girl In The Painting is a historical mystery tale and had me quite intrigued.
It’s the year 1862 in Birkenhead, England, siblings Michael, fifteen and Elizabeth O’Cuinn, four are boarding the ship and emigrating to Australia to be reunited with their parents who have been trying to make a new and better life in the goldfields at Hill End. It’s been a few years since they have seen their parents as they’d been staying with their auntie who recently passed away.
Maitland Town, Australia 1906
Elizabeth and her brother, businessman Michael Quinn have made a wonderful life in Australia and are well known in Maitland Town, they run a number of profitable businesses and own a grand two storey house, where they both live.
Jane Piper is an eccentric mathematical prodigy who was generously taken in by Michael and Elizabeth Quinn when she was a young orphan at age nine, she owes them her life and calls them uncle and aunt.
When Elizabeth takes a strange turn at a gallery exhibition and is found cowering in the corner, seemingly traumatised, Jane is determined to find out what happened. What did her aunt see that day in the gallery? Elizabeth has been troubled and confused since the event and everyone is concerned about her state of mind.
Is Michael, Elizabeth’s brother hiding a secret from their past?
While this is a work of fiction the story was cleverly based around a series of unconnected historical events.
Thank you to Better Reading & HarperCollins Publishers Australia for an advanced copy of the book in return for an honest review
A mystery tale of secrets and dark memories
This was a delightful and compelling read, told in two timelines, the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The Girl In The Painting is a historical mystery tale and had me quite intrigued.
It’s the year 1862 in Birkenhead, England, siblings Michael, fifteen and Elizabeth O’Cuinn, four are boarding the ship and emigrating to Australia to be reunited with their parents who have been trying to make a new and better life in the goldfields at Hill End. It’s been a few years since they have seen their parents as they’d been staying with their auntie who recently passed away.
Maitland Town, Australia 1906
Elizabeth and her brother, businessman Michael Quinn have made a wonderful life in Australia and are well known in Maitland Town, they run a number of profitable businesses and own a grand two storey house, where they both live.
Jane Piper is an eccentric mathematical prodigy who was generously taken in by Michael and Elizabeth Quinn when she was a young orphan at age nine, she owes them her life and calls them uncle and aunt.
When Elizabeth takes a strange turn at a gallery exhibition and is found cowering in the corner, seemingly traumatised, Jane is determined to find out what happened. What did her aunt see that day in the gallery? Elizabeth has been troubled and confused since the event and everyone is concerned about her state of mind.
Is Michael, Elizabeth’s brother hiding a secret from their past?
While this is a work of fiction the story was cleverly based around a series of unconnected historical events.
Thank you to Better Reading & HarperCollins Publishers Australia for an advanced copy of the book in return for an honest review
December 16, 2019
It was 1863 when Michael Ó’Cuinn and his little sister Elizabeth left London bound for Australia. Their Mam and Da had gone earlier, leaving the two children with an aunt, but her death meant the journey to join their parents took place sooner than originally planned. Leaving Elizabeth with the Camerons in Sydney while Michael searched for their parents, the shock he faced meant he had to do some rapid growing up.
Fifty years later in 1913, Michael and Elizabeth lived in Maitland, NSW. They were well known and liked in the town; Michael was an astute businessman while Elizabeth controlled the accounting. They had rescued Jane from the orphanage when she was young, her mathematical genius something they wanted to cultivate. Jane called them Aunt and Uncle; she wasn’t adopted but was part of the family.
It was when Elizabeth was affected by an exhibition at the Technical College that things began to change. Elizabeth felt herself fading in and out of reality; her dizziness and fear was overwhelming. The doctor couldn’t find anything physically wrong with her – so what was happening? Jane was determined to find the answers; she owed everything to Michael and Elizabeth. She had to help. But was it a puzzle she could solve?
The Girl in the Painting by Aussie author Tea Cooper would have to be her best yet in my opinion! An exceptional plot, interesting, intriguing and poignant. I couldn’t put this one down; loved Jane’s character, especially when she first went to the Quinn household. I laughed out loud many times at her antics; she was forthright and didn’t hold back. The Girl in the Painting is a thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery novel which I highly recommend.
With thanks to the publisher for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Fifty years later in 1913, Michael and Elizabeth lived in Maitland, NSW. They were well known and liked in the town; Michael was an astute businessman while Elizabeth controlled the accounting. They had rescued Jane from the orphanage when she was young, her mathematical genius something they wanted to cultivate. Jane called them Aunt and Uncle; she wasn’t adopted but was part of the family.
It was when Elizabeth was affected by an exhibition at the Technical College that things began to change. Elizabeth felt herself fading in and out of reality; her dizziness and fear was overwhelming. The doctor couldn’t find anything physically wrong with her – so what was happening? Jane was determined to find the answers; she owed everything to Michael and Elizabeth. She had to help. But was it a puzzle she could solve?
The Girl in the Painting by Aussie author Tea Cooper would have to be her best yet in my opinion! An exceptional plot, interesting, intriguing and poignant. I couldn’t put this one down; loved Jane’s character, especially when she first went to the Quinn household. I laughed out loud many times at her antics; she was forthright and didn’t hold back. The Girl in the Painting is a thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery novel which I highly recommend.
With thanks to the publisher for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2020
I was so incredibly swept away in this novel! I loved the Australian setting, the history, the split time storytelling, the unique characters, and the threads of mystery woven throughout the whole book. It was one of those "Can't stop reading - NO ONE INTERRUPT ME!" reads—so much so that as soon as I finished it, I downloaded several other Tea Cooper novels to my kindle. Plus, I'm pretty sure I could spend plenty of time just gushing over the cover—gorgeous. The Girl in the Painting is entirely captivating!
October 11, 2022
Why was Elizabeth having these strange fainting spells? and why was it set off with looking at paintings? Hints of nostalgia and melancholy looming and others are looking at sending her to an institution, so can they figure out what is happening and what the connection might be? Carefully calculated thinker Jane is determined to ask questions before Elizabeth's memory disappears forever.
.
We go to 1913 and then to .........
Listened to as an audiobook.
To get the feel of how this author writes, quotes I grabbed quickly are
"porridge - cream and a knob of butter"
I was transported back in time when as a night nurse I had to make porridge that way.
"Acumen, what is acumen"
which I still need to look up. Isn't it funny how you find different words in a book you've never heard of before?
The golden mean was talked about with its numbers and sequences, because this book has alot of painting and art references. Also mentions, Chinese calligraphy, Painting of The Cuttysark. The place, Bathurst, is mentioned alot. We have Pelicans and Gum Trees, and "whirligigs".
"pears, soap, a blue bag, half a pound of tea, a ham hock, and ....."
Was said like a rhythm
"she sliced off the top off the first egg with more force then she intended and scooped the dribbling egg yolk from the side of the cup with her finger."
"Let's make a cuppa tea, tea fixes everything".
"grasped like dandelions"
"Jane Austen her guilty secret, how she loved those books"
"She must see the girl gets some more note books, she goes through them like barley sugars"
"Arnotts biscuits"
A surprising ending.
Authors notes at the end is extremely interesting and tells what's true in the book.
The author aimed to write a book that was fictional but plausible.
Rating this a whole hearty 5 stars, and will suit Historical Fiction lovers - Australia/England and anyone who is into the arts.
.
We go to 1913 and then to .........
Listened to as an audiobook.
To get the feel of how this author writes, quotes I grabbed quickly are
"porridge - cream and a knob of butter"
I was transported back in time when as a night nurse I had to make porridge that way.
"Acumen, what is acumen"
which I still need to look up. Isn't it funny how you find different words in a book you've never heard of before?
The golden mean was talked about with its numbers and sequences, because this book has alot of painting and art references. Also mentions, Chinese calligraphy, Painting of The Cuttysark. The place, Bathurst, is mentioned alot. We have Pelicans and Gum Trees, and "whirligigs".
"pears, soap, a blue bag, half a pound of tea, a ham hock, and ....."
Was said like a rhythm
"she sliced off the top off the first egg with more force then she intended and scooped the dribbling egg yolk from the side of the cup with her finger."
"Let's make a cuppa tea, tea fixes everything".
"grasped like dandelions"
"Jane Austen her guilty secret, how she loved those books"
"She must see the girl gets some more note books, she goes through them like barley sugars"
"Arnotts biscuits"
A surprising ending.
Authors notes at the end is extremely interesting and tells what's true in the book.
The author aimed to write a book that was fictional but plausible.
Rating this a whole hearty 5 stars, and will suit Historical Fiction lovers - Australia/England and anyone who is into the arts.
May 8, 2020
Thank to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia and Tea Cooper for my copy of her new book: The Girl In The Painting.
In 1906, Jane Piper is living in the local orphanage in Maitland, one day she is directed by the nuns to dress in her Sunday best and summoned down stairs. Michael Quinn a local business man wants to talk to her and she has no idea why? Jane was left at the orphanage as a baby, no one has ever wanted to adopt her, she talks way too much and has a habit of saying whatever pops into her head at the time! Jane is very smart, Michael and his sister Elizabeth Quinn support the orphanage. In Jane's case they noticed from her school work that she's a mathematical genius, they don't want her brilliant mind to be wasted, she's offered a scholarship, she can attend the girls school in Maitland and live with them.
In 1913, Elizabeth Quinn and Jane go to the local technical college to look at the accounting books, when Elizabeth wanders off to look at a taxidermy exhibition and she has a funny turn? Elizabeth wanted to ignore the whole episode, it's never happened before and she puts it down to being tired. The local doctor thinks it's due to her age and it's a ladies change of life complaint? When it happens again, Jane is very concerned and something is wrong with her sensible Aunt Elizabeth.
The story has a dual timeline and fifty years earlier, Michael and Elizabeth O'Cuinn set sail from England to finally be reunited with their parents in Sydney. When they arrive fifteen year old Michael discovers his parents are not waiting for them when the ship docks and he's very concerned. He leaves four year old Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron a lady who they met on the ship while sailing to Australia and sets off to discover what happened to his Mam and Da?
He discovers his Ma has passed away and he father will soon follow her. He has no choice but to leave Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron and pay her to look after his little sister until he has a reliable income and a place for them to stay. Later when he discovers his sister is no longer going to school, the money he sends isn't going towards her "keep" and Mrs Cameron has put Elizabeth to work scrubbing ladies underwear in her laundry business, he's furious. He takes her with him to the Australian gold fields in Hill End where he owns a warehouse and runs a carting business.
Now years later he's very concerned about his sister, did something happen to her while she was staying with the Cameron's and is that why she's started having funny turns? Or is due to what happened to Elizabeth just prior to them leaving for Australia, he has never spoken to her about it and is she having memory flashbacks?
Can cleaver Jane fit together the pieces of the puzzle, put it all together, before her Aunt Elizabeth loses her grip on reality and is considered to be mentally insane? Or, is there something odd about a striking painting on loan from the National Gallery, does it contain clues to her Aunts past and did she look at it while visiting the college?
The Girl In The Painting is a brilliant historical mystery, where the past and the present combine, to create a story that has so many twists and turns, you can't stop reading it and the title of the book hides some of the clues to how it ends!
A big five stars from me and well done Tea Cooper.
I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, NetGalley, Kobo, Australian Amazon and my blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
In 1906, Jane Piper is living in the local orphanage in Maitland, one day she is directed by the nuns to dress in her Sunday best and summoned down stairs. Michael Quinn a local business man wants to talk to her and she has no idea why? Jane was left at the orphanage as a baby, no one has ever wanted to adopt her, she talks way too much and has a habit of saying whatever pops into her head at the time! Jane is very smart, Michael and his sister Elizabeth Quinn support the orphanage. In Jane's case they noticed from her school work that she's a mathematical genius, they don't want her brilliant mind to be wasted, she's offered a scholarship, she can attend the girls school in Maitland and live with them.
In 1913, Elizabeth Quinn and Jane go to the local technical college to look at the accounting books, when Elizabeth wanders off to look at a taxidermy exhibition and she has a funny turn? Elizabeth wanted to ignore the whole episode, it's never happened before and she puts it down to being tired. The local doctor thinks it's due to her age and it's a ladies change of life complaint? When it happens again, Jane is very concerned and something is wrong with her sensible Aunt Elizabeth.
The story has a dual timeline and fifty years earlier, Michael and Elizabeth O'Cuinn set sail from England to finally be reunited with their parents in Sydney. When they arrive fifteen year old Michael discovers his parents are not waiting for them when the ship docks and he's very concerned. He leaves four year old Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron a lady who they met on the ship while sailing to Australia and sets off to discover what happened to his Mam and Da?
He discovers his Ma has passed away and he father will soon follow her. He has no choice but to leave Elizabeth with Mrs Cameron and pay her to look after his little sister until he has a reliable income and a place for them to stay. Later when he discovers his sister is no longer going to school, the money he sends isn't going towards her "keep" and Mrs Cameron has put Elizabeth to work scrubbing ladies underwear in her laundry business, he's furious. He takes her with him to the Australian gold fields in Hill End where he owns a warehouse and runs a carting business.
Now years later he's very concerned about his sister, did something happen to her while she was staying with the Cameron's and is that why she's started having funny turns? Or is due to what happened to Elizabeth just prior to them leaving for Australia, he has never spoken to her about it and is she having memory flashbacks?
Can cleaver Jane fit together the pieces of the puzzle, put it all together, before her Aunt Elizabeth loses her grip on reality and is considered to be mentally insane? Or, is there something odd about a striking painting on loan from the National Gallery, does it contain clues to her Aunts past and did she look at it while visiting the college?
The Girl In The Painting is a brilliant historical mystery, where the past and the present combine, to create a story that has so many twists and turns, you can't stop reading it and the title of the book hides some of the clues to how it ends!
A big five stars from me and well done Tea Cooper.
I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, NetGalley, Kobo, Australian Amazon and my blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
March 11, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
Take a journey into the heart of Australia’s past, in the company of strong and inspirational characters in Tea Cooper’s latest triumph, The Girl in the Painting. A stunning historical timepiece, The Girl in the Painting roams through quaint Maitland Town, to the heart of the goldfields, through to bustling Sydney and even the British countryside. With touch of mystery and an air of romance, this new novel from one of Australia’s leading historical fiction specialists will leave you amazed.
Opening in Australia in 1906, The Girl in the Painting introduces Jane. Despite her tough upbringing, Jane becomes a mathematical pundit. Life has plenty in store for this intrepid young woman. The novel also features Elizabeth Quinn, a fortunate woman with well-made connections in Maitland Town. Along with her brother Michael, the Quinns are prominent figures in their local area. However, when Elizabeth is found in mysterious circumstances in the grounds of the Technical College gallery, exhibiting uncharacteristic behaviour, something is clearly remiss. The contents of the gallery where Elizabeth was found comes into question. With only Jane to turn to for help in rectifying her escalating mental state, Elizabeth relies on Jane to unravel this mysterious puzzle. The Girl in the Painting lays out a perplexing historical mystery, that is defined by strong period detail and extraordinary characters.
To read a new Tea Cooper novel is always quite a thrill for me. I’ve always looked on Cooper’s work with a great deal of respect and admiration. Yet again she demonstrates her aptitude for bringing a slice of history to life in the guise of an intriguing dual timeline historical narrative. The added appeal of bold and surprising characters ensures that The Girl in the Painting should not be overlooked. I found Tea Cooper’s latest to be just as consuming as her previous novels.
Tea Cooper has a flair for inserting endearing lead characters in her books. In Jane and Elizabeth, we are presented with two very interesting and colourful leads, with equally intriguing lives. I found both very likeable and I enjoyed going on a journey into the past with each of them. What I liked the most about this particular character set was the situations Cooper pits them up against and their responses. It shows us that there were definitely some bold and admirable women in times past.
Cooper treats us to a number of well-placed historical settings in her last offering. We are transported with ease from the Australian town of Maitland, which is an area of the lower Hunter Valley I am not familiar with. We also travel to the goldfields, as well as Sydney. I loved each and every locale. I inhaled the history, societal trends of the time and the cultural fabric of the periods outlined by Cooper. The Girl in the Painting crosses over a fifty year time period, which is quite a feat, but Cooper handles it complete ease. I favoured this part of the reading experience, along with the fascinating Historical Note at the close of the book.
With a mystifying historical puzzle at the heart of this novel, along with a gentle brush of romance, The Girl in the Painting has plenty to offer readers.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Girl in the Painting is book #25 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
Take a journey into the heart of Australia’s past, in the company of strong and inspirational characters in Tea Cooper’s latest triumph, The Girl in the Painting. A stunning historical timepiece, The Girl in the Painting roams through quaint Maitland Town, to the heart of the goldfields, through to bustling Sydney and even the British countryside. With touch of mystery and an air of romance, this new novel from one of Australia’s leading historical fiction specialists will leave you amazed.
Opening in Australia in 1906, The Girl in the Painting introduces Jane. Despite her tough upbringing, Jane becomes a mathematical pundit. Life has plenty in store for this intrepid young woman. The novel also features Elizabeth Quinn, a fortunate woman with well-made connections in Maitland Town. Along with her brother Michael, the Quinns are prominent figures in their local area. However, when Elizabeth is found in mysterious circumstances in the grounds of the Technical College gallery, exhibiting uncharacteristic behaviour, something is clearly remiss. The contents of the gallery where Elizabeth was found comes into question. With only Jane to turn to for help in rectifying her escalating mental state, Elizabeth relies on Jane to unravel this mysterious puzzle. The Girl in the Painting lays out a perplexing historical mystery, that is defined by strong period detail and extraordinary characters.
To read a new Tea Cooper novel is always quite a thrill for me. I’ve always looked on Cooper’s work with a great deal of respect and admiration. Yet again she demonstrates her aptitude for bringing a slice of history to life in the guise of an intriguing dual timeline historical narrative. The added appeal of bold and surprising characters ensures that The Girl in the Painting should not be overlooked. I found Tea Cooper’s latest to be just as consuming as her previous novels.
Tea Cooper has a flair for inserting endearing lead characters in her books. In Jane and Elizabeth, we are presented with two very interesting and colourful leads, with equally intriguing lives. I found both very likeable and I enjoyed going on a journey into the past with each of them. What I liked the most about this particular character set was the situations Cooper pits them up against and their responses. It shows us that there were definitely some bold and admirable women in times past.
Cooper treats us to a number of well-placed historical settings in her last offering. We are transported with ease from the Australian town of Maitland, which is an area of the lower Hunter Valley I am not familiar with. We also travel to the goldfields, as well as Sydney. I loved each and every locale. I inhaled the history, societal trends of the time and the cultural fabric of the periods outlined by Cooper. The Girl in the Painting crosses over a fifty year time period, which is quite a feat, but Cooper handles it complete ease. I favoured this part of the reading experience, along with the fascinating Historical Note at the close of the book.
With a mystifying historical puzzle at the heart of this novel, along with a gentle brush of romance, The Girl in the Painting has plenty to offer readers.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Girl in the Painting is book #25 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
June 14, 2021
I was instantly drawn to the cover and just knew I had to read it.
I have read other books by this author and assumed I would enjoy it and I was correct.
Very well written time split historical taking place in Australia in the late 1860s through 1913.
The book involves a mystery that spans continents and decades this kept me reading and wanting to see what happens.
Well thought out characters.
Published March 9th 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I have read other books by this author and assumed I would enjoy it and I was correct.
Very well written time split historical taking place in Australia in the late 1860s through 1913.
The book involves a mystery that spans continents and decades this kept me reading and wanting to see what happens.
Well thought out characters.
Published March 9th 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 9, 2021
Once again Cooper doesn’t disappoint. The action moves to Maitland at the time of the Australian Gold Rush. This tale reaches between its English roots and Australian outcomes.
A brother and sister are left in England as their parents journey to New South Wales to make a new start. Finally they are called to join them. Michael Quinn and his sister Lizzie are very young when their journey begins in 1862.
However our Australian leg of the saga begins in Maitland in 1906 when Michael takes under his wing a young mathematical savant, Jane Piper.
As we move from past to present throughout the story the history of the Ó’Cuinn (now Quinn) family becomes a riveting read.
A visit to a gallery where a painting by an English female artist effects Lizzie to the extent that she seems to have a fit whenever she sees paintings by this woman, where “in every picture was the wistful young girl in the pale dress.”
A mystery is slowly and surely unlocked and in true Cooper fashion a fascinating story is revealed.
Riveting!
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley
A brother and sister are left in England as their parents journey to New South Wales to make a new start. Finally they are called to join them. Michael Quinn and his sister Lizzie are very young when their journey begins in 1862.
However our Australian leg of the saga begins in Maitland in 1906 when Michael takes under his wing a young mathematical savant, Jane Piper.
As we move from past to present throughout the story the history of the Ó’Cuinn (now Quinn) family becomes a riveting read.
A visit to a gallery where a painting by an English female artist effects Lizzie to the extent that she seems to have a fit whenever she sees paintings by this woman, where “in every picture was the wistful young girl in the pale dress.”
A mystery is slowly and surely unlocked and in true Cooper fashion a fascinating story is revealed.
Riveting!
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley
April 17, 2020
This book gives so much more than the cover illustrates and it's a pity that even a shadow pencil drawing of a man to represent Michael Ó'Cuinn (Quinn) and the young girl Jane would have given a broader indication of the story of these three main characters for which alternates between two time zones 1862 and 1906.
1862 Michael Ó'Cuinn (Quinn) and his small sister Elizabeth have made their way from far away Dublin via England to Australia. Their Mam and Da have already travelled to Australia to the Goldfields just near Bathurst. Getting the passage organised proved to be difficult for teenager Michael given that a family berth had first been organised to include an Aunt who had died just six months prior. Refused the family berth by authorities, Michael has had to accept a billet with the other single immigrants where it is extremely unpleasant, lack of fresh air and no place for his small sister. His delima about Elizabeth fortunately has been solved by the Camerons who are travelling to Sydney, offering to have Elizabeth share their family accommodation. Elizabeth, a quiet child has taken to Mrs Cameron much to Michael's relief.
Arriving in Sydney Michael learns that his Mam has passed away, however as equally unexpected he also learns that his Da has been very successful in his business of general supplies for the goldminers. Taking the advice of his Sydney contacts and with the Camerons' insistence that Elizabeth be left with them, Michael heads off to the goldfields. On his arrival he finds his Da a broken man now addicted to opium after an accident and in only a short time Michael is burying his Da alongside his Mam. Inheriting his father's business Michael even at such a young age along with the trusted bookkeeper Jing and other trusted staff sets about continuing and improving the business. He has an easy relationship with everyone and is well acknowledged by all who he comes into contact with. However being Irish Catholic has its drawbacks and when the Irishman O'Farrell attempts to kill Prince Alfred a lot changes. The relationship with the Camerons also sours and Michael is forced to take Elizabeth back with him to Diggers Rest where Jing and Kitty share in her care when Michael is away. Elizabeth is a smart child with an aptitude for figures and it's not long before she masters Ping's abacus. As Elizabeth develops into a teenager there becomes a romantic attachment to Ping. Horrified with Elizabeth's affection to a "celestial" Michael sells up everything and they move to Maitland, a much larger and more sophisticated town. Ping's family are equally horrified at the budding liaison and he is shipped back to China.
While Elizabeth is happy for the move to a large town, her emotional ties to Ping remain. Brother and sister build a successful business but neither marry.
1906 Maitland town, Jane Piper nine years old lives in a Catholic orphanage and has done so since she was a baby. Jane has a talent for figures and it's with this talent that Michael and Elizabeth decide to take Jane under their wing. During a visit to the technical college where Jane has the responsibility of explaining bookkeeping to the Guardian and with a special event on display Elizabeth excuses herself to view the exhibition. It's here that Elizabeth takes a bad turn and on discovery by Jane growls incomprehensible words. After this event Elizabeth's condition doesn't improve. With no real explanation for her malaise other than being described by her doctor as "hysteria" Elizabeth struggles to regain her former confident self. For all their good fortunes built over the years at this time in their lives it all begins to unravel for Michael and Elizabeth. Further developments take place when an English artist, her husband and son arrive in Maitland for an exhibition booked at the technical college. However, due to the popularity of the present exhibition they find themselves and the paintings without a facility. Jane, now an older and decisive young woman makes space available at the disused Quinn auction house. It's here when the paintings are hung for which one in particular reveals a certain depiction that brings to light the truth of Elizabeth's dilemma and on the Opening Night of the Exhibition there is a further endearing element to end this beautiful story.
1862 Michael Ó'Cuinn (Quinn) and his small sister Elizabeth have made their way from far away Dublin via England to Australia. Their Mam and Da have already travelled to Australia to the Goldfields just near Bathurst. Getting the passage organised proved to be difficult for teenager Michael given that a family berth had first been organised to include an Aunt who had died just six months prior. Refused the family berth by authorities, Michael has had to accept a billet with the other single immigrants where it is extremely unpleasant, lack of fresh air and no place for his small sister. His delima about Elizabeth fortunately has been solved by the Camerons who are travelling to Sydney, offering to have Elizabeth share their family accommodation. Elizabeth, a quiet child has taken to Mrs Cameron much to Michael's relief.
Arriving in Sydney Michael learns that his Mam has passed away, however as equally unexpected he also learns that his Da has been very successful in his business of general supplies for the goldminers. Taking the advice of his Sydney contacts and with the Camerons' insistence that Elizabeth be left with them, Michael heads off to the goldfields. On his arrival he finds his Da a broken man now addicted to opium after an accident and in only a short time Michael is burying his Da alongside his Mam. Inheriting his father's business Michael even at such a young age along with the trusted bookkeeper Jing and other trusted staff sets about continuing and improving the business. He has an easy relationship with everyone and is well acknowledged by all who he comes into contact with. However being Irish Catholic has its drawbacks and when the Irishman O'Farrell attempts to kill Prince Alfred a lot changes. The relationship with the Camerons also sours and Michael is forced to take Elizabeth back with him to Diggers Rest where Jing and Kitty share in her care when Michael is away. Elizabeth is a smart child with an aptitude for figures and it's not long before she masters Ping's abacus. As Elizabeth develops into a teenager there becomes a romantic attachment to Ping. Horrified with Elizabeth's affection to a "celestial" Michael sells up everything and they move to Maitland, a much larger and more sophisticated town. Ping's family are equally horrified at the budding liaison and he is shipped back to China.
While Elizabeth is happy for the move to a large town, her emotional ties to Ping remain. Brother and sister build a successful business but neither marry.
1906 Maitland town, Jane Piper nine years old lives in a Catholic orphanage and has done so since she was a baby. Jane has a talent for figures and it's with this talent that Michael and Elizabeth decide to take Jane under their wing. During a visit to the technical college where Jane has the responsibility of explaining bookkeeping to the Guardian and with a special event on display Elizabeth excuses herself to view the exhibition. It's here that Elizabeth takes a bad turn and on discovery by Jane growls incomprehensible words. After this event Elizabeth's condition doesn't improve. With no real explanation for her malaise other than being described by her doctor as "hysteria" Elizabeth struggles to regain her former confident self. For all their good fortunes built over the years at this time in their lives it all begins to unravel for Michael and Elizabeth. Further developments take place when an English artist, her husband and son arrive in Maitland for an exhibition booked at the technical college. However, due to the popularity of the present exhibition they find themselves and the paintings without a facility. Jane, now an older and decisive young woman makes space available at the disused Quinn auction house. It's here when the paintings are hung for which one in particular reveals a certain depiction that brings to light the truth of Elizabeth's dilemma and on the Opening Night of the Exhibition there is a further endearing element to end this beautiful story.
November 21, 2019
‘The bell rang late.’
The story opens in Maitland Town, Australia in 1906 and then shifts to Birkenhead, England in 1862. It ends in Maitland Town in 1913. What is the story that links these places and years?
In 1862, fifteen-year-old Michael Ó’Cuinn and his four-year-old sister Elizabeth left Birkenhead to join their parents in Australia. Their parents had left Ireland to try to make a better life in the goldfields at Hill End and the siblings had been staying with an aunt.
By 1906, Michael Quinn is a well-established businessman in Maitland Town. He and Elizabeth live in an impressive two-storey stone house next to the church. Jane Piper is a nine-year-old orphan, a mathematical prodigy, taken in by the Quinns, and offered a future.
In 1913, in the exhibition gallery at the Technical College, Elizabeth Quinn is found cowering in the corner. Elizabeth does not seem to recover from the incident and Jane is determined to find out why.
I don’t want to spoil this engaging story for a first-time reader. Suffice to say there is a mystery or two to be uncovered: the past is full of secrets.
Ms Cooper has woven an interesting novel around a series of disconnected historical events, peopled the story with interesting (and some dastardly) characters. I really enjoyed this novel.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin HQ for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
The story opens in Maitland Town, Australia in 1906 and then shifts to Birkenhead, England in 1862. It ends in Maitland Town in 1913. What is the story that links these places and years?
In 1862, fifteen-year-old Michael Ó’Cuinn and his four-year-old sister Elizabeth left Birkenhead to join their parents in Australia. Their parents had left Ireland to try to make a better life in the goldfields at Hill End and the siblings had been staying with an aunt.
By 1906, Michael Quinn is a well-established businessman in Maitland Town. He and Elizabeth live in an impressive two-storey stone house next to the church. Jane Piper is a nine-year-old orphan, a mathematical prodigy, taken in by the Quinns, and offered a future.
In 1913, in the exhibition gallery at the Technical College, Elizabeth Quinn is found cowering in the corner. Elizabeth does not seem to recover from the incident and Jane is determined to find out why.
I don’t want to spoil this engaging story for a first-time reader. Suffice to say there is a mystery or two to be uncovered: the past is full of secrets.
Ms Cooper has woven an interesting novel around a series of disconnected historical events, peopled the story with interesting (and some dastardly) characters. I really enjoyed this novel.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin HQ for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 3, 2021
It was refreshing to read a historical fiction novel in a setting I know little about. The Girl in the Painting takes place (almost entirely) in Australia, providing me the opportunity to learn bits and pieces of it's history (and I actually ran a search on iced VoVos!). This is a dual time period novel revolving primarily around two women, both with missing fragments of their childhood. It also stresses the importance of family and loved ones.
My rating came down, however, for two main reasons. First, I found the first 70% of the novel to be very slow and struggled to maintain interest. The final 30% was quite well done and made up for some of that, but I do wish it amped up earlier. Secondly, upon reading the back cover, I anticipated a fair bit of mystery in this story. Unfortunately, that was lacking as well. Yes, there was the mystery of the past, but I found it rather predictable early on and left me feeling a little less invested in the story than I otherwise would have been. Historical fiction fans may find this book to be an enjoyable read, keeping mind this does not have a great deal of romance or faith (as some sources have suggested), but does have a small amount of mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My rating came down, however, for two main reasons. First, I found the first 70% of the novel to be very slow and struggled to maintain interest. The final 30% was quite well done and made up for some of that, but I do wish it amped up earlier. Secondly, upon reading the back cover, I anticipated a fair bit of mystery in this story. Unfortunately, that was lacking as well. Yes, there was the mystery of the past, but I found it rather predictable early on and left me feeling a little less invested in the story than I otherwise would have been. Historical fiction fans may find this book to be an enjoyable read, keeping mind this does not have a great deal of romance or faith (as some sources have suggested), but does have a small amount of mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 7, 2021
1913.
Michael and Elizabeth Quinn are respected members of the Maitland Town community. Michael owns a successful Auction House and Elizabeth takes care of the accounts. But life was not always so easy for them. Fifty years earlier Michael and his little sister Elizabeth boarded a ship sailing from London to reunite with their parents who had taken an earlier voyage to Australia. But when they arrived, things were not as expected and Michael was left in charge of young Elizabeth. Though times were often tough, they both persevered. Now they both strive to give back to the less fortunate. That is what leads them to take in June, an orphan who shows an apptitude for math. She comes to live with them and blossoms into a curious, determined young woman.
Then one afternoon while visiting an art exhibition Elizabeth suffers from a breakdown. What triggered her episode? While Elizabeth tries to dismiss her reaction to a painting, Jane is determined to solve the mystery. Is there a secret from Elizabeth's past that holds the answers?
A wonderful mystery that also explores some of the history of Maitland Town.
Michael and Elizabeth Quinn are respected members of the Maitland Town community. Michael owns a successful Auction House and Elizabeth takes care of the accounts. But life was not always so easy for them. Fifty years earlier Michael and his little sister Elizabeth boarded a ship sailing from London to reunite with their parents who had taken an earlier voyage to Australia. But when they arrived, things were not as expected and Michael was left in charge of young Elizabeth. Though times were often tough, they both persevered. Now they both strive to give back to the less fortunate. That is what leads them to take in June, an orphan who shows an apptitude for math. She comes to live with them and blossoms into a curious, determined young woman.
Then one afternoon while visiting an art exhibition Elizabeth suffers from a breakdown. What triggered her episode? While Elizabeth tries to dismiss her reaction to a painting, Jane is determined to solve the mystery. Is there a secret from Elizabeth's past that holds the answers?
A wonderful mystery that also explores some of the history of Maitland Town.
December 13, 2025
Another brilliant historical mystery by Australian author Tea Cooper.
April 15, 2021
Last year I read and loved Tea Cooper's The Woman in the Green Dress and was excited for her new one that came out this year, i.e. The Girl in the Painting, and I am happy to report I loved this one just as much.
Dual timeline historical fiction works excellently for me, and this one set in colonial Australia and a bit in British countryside kept me engaged with its mystery, romance and beautiful writing.
What I love most about Cooper's books is that there is a fair bit of actual history embedded in the stories, and even some places and events are real. The amount and quality of research put into this one too was simply outstanding. I loved the characters of both Jane and Elizabeth and really appreciated the depth and layers Cooper put into these strong, independent and highly intelligent women protagonists.
Full of intrigue and with a hint of romance, The Girl in the Painting is a stunning historical novel that weaves events and characters spanning decades and crossing oceans. I will be eagerly awaiting her next book and will also be going through the backlist now.
Recommended if you enjoy a good quick historical fiction book weaved in with true events and places.
**A free paperback ARC was provided by Thomas Nelson and TLC Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own **
Dual timeline historical fiction works excellently for me, and this one set in colonial Australia and a bit in British countryside kept me engaged with its mystery, romance and beautiful writing.
What I love most about Cooper's books is that there is a fair bit of actual history embedded in the stories, and even some places and events are real. The amount and quality of research put into this one too was simply outstanding. I loved the characters of both Jane and Elizabeth and really appreciated the depth and layers Cooper put into these strong, independent and highly intelligent women protagonists.
Full of intrigue and with a hint of romance, The Girl in the Painting is a stunning historical novel that weaves events and characters spanning decades and crossing oceans. I will be eagerly awaiting her next book and will also be going through the backlist now.
Recommended if you enjoy a good quick historical fiction book weaved in with true events and places.
**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 29, 2021
I fell in love with these characters instantly! The storytelling is rich and nuanced, and I felt immersed in the setting. Although Michael, Elizabeth, and Jane each have their flaws, they are strong individuals who have endured and overcome their circumstances to thrive in the lives they have built for themselves. I'm not the biggest fan of dual timeline stories, but this was done so well, I felt like the past and present intertwining throughout the book enhanced my reading experience. I think what I loved about it was that the narrative of Michael and Elizabeth's early days in Australia didn't feel like is was being told as the past, it felt very much the present, as much as Jane's perspective which is set 30 or so years later. There is a compelling drive to the narrative that keeps a steady pace, even though the mysterious nature of Elizabeth's past doesn't emerge until the later part of the book. I enjoyed the cast of characters that brought depth to the relationships of Michael, Elizabeth, and Jane, and helped show their personalities and characteristics as they interacted. Although the amount of romance was light, it was sweet and just right for the story being told. Highly recommend to fans of historical fiction!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
March 19, 2021
The Girl In The Painting
By Tea Cooper
The Girl In The Painting by Tea Cooper is an amazing historical fiction full of mystery and rich historical details. I hardly ever read books set in Australia so I was quite fascinated with this one, and also the first book I have picked up from Tea Cooper which was quite fascinating.
This was a stunning historical fiction read that spans continents and decades in a mystery that will have you turning those pages to find out what happens next.
Siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn who emigrated to Australia from the United Kingdom as children to follow their families during the gold rush. Having achieved success in their business, they decide to become benefactors to Jane Piper, an orphan and a child mathematics prodigy. In a mysterious turn of events, an exhibition in a gallery causes severe trauma to Elizabeth which is a mystery to be solved or off to the asylum she goes.
A beautifully written story that was hard to put down, quite the intriguing and immersive read, with wonderfully developed characters.
This was simply a stunning read.
By Tea Cooper
The Girl In The Painting by Tea Cooper is an amazing historical fiction full of mystery and rich historical details. I hardly ever read books set in Australia so I was quite fascinated with this one, and also the first book I have picked up from Tea Cooper which was quite fascinating.
This was a stunning historical fiction read that spans continents and decades in a mystery that will have you turning those pages to find out what happens next.
Siblings Michael and Elizabeth Quinn who emigrated to Australia from the United Kingdom as children to follow their families during the gold rush. Having achieved success in their business, they decide to become benefactors to Jane Piper, an orphan and a child mathematics prodigy. In a mysterious turn of events, an exhibition in a gallery causes severe trauma to Elizabeth which is a mystery to be solved or off to the asylum she goes.
A beautifully written story that was hard to put down, quite the intriguing and immersive read, with wonderfully developed characters.
This was simply a stunning read.
December 31, 2019
Tea Cooper never disappoints me. I love her tales of intrepid women centred smack in the middle of Australian history so was really looking forward to reading The Girl in the Painting and she didn’t let me down!
The story stretches from Liverpool in England, to the Goldfields in NSW, and eventually to Maitland in The Hunter Valley.
Elizabeth was four when she migrated to Australia with her older brother Michael. After a shaky start, Michael prospers in the auction business, and they move to Maitland.
Years later they become benefactors to an orphan, Jane. She has a mathematical mind and helps them in the auctioneering business. But Michael has a secret and Elizabeth is having strange turns and Jane sets out to find the truth of their past.
I loved The Girl in The Painting. I’d give it a full five stars just for the character of Jane herself! I loved her mind full of patterns. A highly recommended read.
The story stretches from Liverpool in England, to the Goldfields in NSW, and eventually to Maitland in The Hunter Valley.
Elizabeth was four when she migrated to Australia with her older brother Michael. After a shaky start, Michael prospers in the auction business, and they move to Maitland.
Years later they become benefactors to an orphan, Jane. She has a mathematical mind and helps them in the auctioneering business. But Michael has a secret and Elizabeth is having strange turns and Jane sets out to find the truth of their past.
I loved The Girl in The Painting. I’d give it a full five stars just for the character of Jane herself! I loved her mind full of patterns. A highly recommended read.
December 20, 2019
The Girl In the Painting is an engaging historical fiction novel, with an element of mystery, from Tea Cooper.
Set largely in New South Wales during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, the narrative of The Girl In the Painting moves between two timelines which connects siblings Elizabeth and Michael Ó’Cuinn with Jane Piper, a bright young orphan, who becomes their ward.
As the story unfolds we learn of the circumstances that brought Michael and Elizabeth to New South Wales from Liverpool, England in 1863 as children, and the life they make for themselves in Hills End, and later Maitland Town. It’s 1906 when the siblings offer Jane, a math prodigy, a home, a role in their business, and the chance to further her education, but the crux of the story isn’t revealed until 1913 when Elizabeth uncharacteristically experiences a panic attack at an art exhibition, prompting Jane to investigate the cause, and a startling confession from Michael. I liked the thread of intrigue that the author developed, though the resolution was a little contrived.
I really enjoyed the setting of the novel. Cooper uses real, though unconnected, historical events as a framework, from the fire in an orphanage in Liverpool, to the attempted assassination of Prince Alfred, and the flooding of Maitland Town in 1913. The social and cultural details of the period, and the landscape of early Australia from the crowded streets of Sydney, to the goldfields of Hill End, and the nascent town of Maitland, are interesting and feel authentic.
Well crafted, with appealing characters, and rich in Australian historical detail, The Girl In the Painting is a novel that is sure to please.
Set largely in New South Wales during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, the narrative of The Girl In the Painting moves between two timelines which connects siblings Elizabeth and Michael Ó’Cuinn with Jane Piper, a bright young orphan, who becomes their ward.
As the story unfolds we learn of the circumstances that brought Michael and Elizabeth to New South Wales from Liverpool, England in 1863 as children, and the life they make for themselves in Hills End, and later Maitland Town. It’s 1906 when the siblings offer Jane, a math prodigy, a home, a role in their business, and the chance to further her education, but the crux of the story isn’t revealed until 1913 when Elizabeth uncharacteristically experiences a panic attack at an art exhibition, prompting Jane to investigate the cause, and a startling confession from Michael. I liked the thread of intrigue that the author developed, though the resolution was a little contrived.
I really enjoyed the setting of the novel. Cooper uses real, though unconnected, historical events as a framework, from the fire in an orphanage in Liverpool, to the attempted assassination of Prince Alfred, and the flooding of Maitland Town in 1913. The social and cultural details of the period, and the landscape of early Australia from the crowded streets of Sydney, to the goldfields of Hill End, and the nascent town of Maitland, are interesting and feel authentic.
Well crafted, with appealing characters, and rich in Australian historical detail, The Girl In the Painting is a novel that is sure to please.
July 1, 2024
The novel alternates between two timelines: the 1860s-70s and the 1900s in Australia. It follows the lives of two orphans, Jane Piper and Michael Quinn, who are taken in by siblings Elizabeth (Eliza) and John Quinn.
The Past:
Eliza and Michael's Journey: Eliza and her brother Michael Quinn, Irish immigrants, arrive in Australia seeking a better life. Michael, an aspiring artist, dreams of making a name for himself in the art world. Eliza supports his ambitions and becomes deeply involved in the art community.
The Painting: Michael creates a series of paintings, one of which features a mysterious girl whose identity becomes central to the novel’s intrigue.
The Present (1906):
Jane Piper: Jane is a mathematical prodigy who was taken in by the Quinns as a child. Now grown, she lives with Eliza in the town of Maitland. Jane is intrigued by Michael’s art and begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding his life and the girl in the painting. As Jane delves into the Quinns' past, she uncovers secrets that have long been buried, including the true identity of the girl in the painting and the circumstances of Michael’s untimely death.
This seemed like my cup of tea from the book cover to the premise but unfortunately I struggled with this one. It was long winded, boring and predictable. I couldn’t wait for it to end.
Do not recommend.
2 ⭐️ ⭐️
The Past:
Eliza and Michael's Journey: Eliza and her brother Michael Quinn, Irish immigrants, arrive in Australia seeking a better life. Michael, an aspiring artist, dreams of making a name for himself in the art world. Eliza supports his ambitions and becomes deeply involved in the art community.
The Painting: Michael creates a series of paintings, one of which features a mysterious girl whose identity becomes central to the novel’s intrigue.
The Present (1906):
Jane Piper: Jane is a mathematical prodigy who was taken in by the Quinns as a child. Now grown, she lives with Eliza in the town of Maitland. Jane is intrigued by Michael’s art and begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding his life and the girl in the painting. As Jane delves into the Quinns' past, she uncovers secrets that have long been buried, including the true identity of the girl in the painting and the circumstances of Michael’s untimely death.
This seemed like my cup of tea from the book cover to the premise but unfortunately I struggled with this one. It was long winded, boring and predictable. I couldn’t wait for it to end.
Do not recommend.
2 ⭐️ ⭐️
April 9, 2021
I LOVED Tea Cooper’s “The Girl in the Painting." This is my first time reading a novel by this author and I’ll look for more of her work. I’m a huge historical fiction fan and enjoy books with dual time lines so this was a perfect fit for me, and that aspect was well-handled. It had just the right amount of mystery that kept me guessing and turning pages. I liked that it’s set in Australia in a location I knew nothing about and a time period that, for Australian history, was new for me.
The author did an excellent job weaving together the two different timelines in a way that wasn’t confusing and was easy to follow, even though some of the characters exist in both timelines. The story is complex and entertaining. There were some good twists in the plot. I liked all the characters and thought they were well drawn and consistent. I especially loved the way the author described Australia during that time and the specific locations she chose.
Highly recommended to anyone looking for a good historical fiction/mystery novel with great characters and atmosphere, just enough suspense to keep you wondering, and bit of romance as well.
The author did an excellent job weaving together the two different timelines in a way that wasn’t confusing and was easy to follow, even though some of the characters exist in both timelines. The story is complex and entertaining. There were some good twists in the plot. I liked all the characters and thought they were well drawn and consistent. I especially loved the way the author described Australia during that time and the specific locations she chose.
Highly recommended to anyone looking for a good historical fiction/mystery novel with great characters and atmosphere, just enough suspense to keep you wondering, and bit of romance as well.
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