What do you think?
Rate this book
Along the Endless River
In the heart of the rainforest, Katharine will fight for her life and for love
1890: When Katharine and her husband, Anselmo, set sail to Brazil to reap the spoils of the rubber boom, it seems as if they cannot fail. But when Anselmo dies suddenly on the treacherous waters of the Amazon, a pregnant Katharine must decide whether or not to continue her husband’s dream, alone.
Meanwhile her sister Mabel is struggling to support their family back in London. Navigating new worlds in the upper class, she discovers that life as a housemaid has its own dangers, and Mabel soon learns that the whims of men can prove deadly…
Mabel and Katharine must both fight for their futures if they are ever to be reunited. Can they find love and happiness along the way?
A stunning saga of love, betrayal, secrets and family for fans of Dinah Jefferies, Erica Brown and Renita D'Silva.
1890: When Katharine and her husband, Anselmo, set sail to Brazil to reap the spoils of the rubber boom, it seems as if they cannot fail. But when Anselmo dies suddenly on the treacherous waters of the Amazon, a pregnant Katharine must decide whether or not to continue her husband’s dream, alone.
Meanwhile her sister Mabel is struggling to support their family back in London. Navigating new worlds in the upper class, she discovers that life as a housemaid has its own dangers, and Mabel soon learns that the whims of men can prove deadly…
Mabel and Katharine must both fight for their futures if they are ever to be reunited. Can they find love and happiness along the way?
A stunning saga of love, betrayal, secrets and family for fans of Dinah Jefferies, Erica Brown and Renita D'Silva.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2021
56 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 24, 2021
Katharine Bird lives in Clerkenwell, England and she works as a sales assistant at busy department store. At the end of a long day, she goes home to help her mother with her younger siblings and she’s extremely close to her little sister Mabel.
At work she meets Anselmo Ferrandis, after a quick courtship and they get married three weeks later. Anselmo plans to travel to Brazil, he wants to buy a rubber plantation and live in the remote Amazon jungle. Tragically he drowns not long after he buys his land, Katharine’s a pregnant widow at eighteen and she’s determined to run the rubber plantation herself. When she arrives at Norwood, it’s not at all what she’s expecting, the buildings are in terrible condition and the entire plantation needs a lot of work. Patrick McNamara owns a large rubber plantation, he gives Katharine some much needed advice and she hires a cook Philippe, a clerk Charles and a hundred laborers. Katharine wants to fulfill her husband’s dream, living in the Amazon jungle is really hard, she has to battle the elements, insects, snakes, food shortages, illness, and she gives birth to a baby boy Antonio and raises him in a remote environment.
Mabel Bird is the youngest in the family, Katharine wants her to finish school and she sends money home to her family in England. She has no idea, her father has been injured at work, her little sister has to leave school and Mabel starts work as a housemaid. The hours are long for a thirteen year old girl, her hands are raw from scrubbing pot and pans and she attracts unwanted attention from her employer’s husband. Mable’s finds a new job as a ladies maid, a step up and better working conditions. Lady Alexandra has beautiful clothes, she takes care of them, does her hair, makeup and she really loves her new job. Mabel's a very pretty young woman, being a servant, it makes her a target of the unwanted advances of men living in the house and it happens again.
Along the Endless River is a historical saga about two sisters struggling to survive in a man’s world, both are extremely strong women and they need to be, to deal with the challenges they face on a daily basis. Despite being an ocean apart, one day they hope to see each other again and be reunited.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, an interesting story set in the remote Amazon jungle and the mansions of London and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
At work she meets Anselmo Ferrandis, after a quick courtship and they get married three weeks later. Anselmo plans to travel to Brazil, he wants to buy a rubber plantation and live in the remote Amazon jungle. Tragically he drowns not long after he buys his land, Katharine’s a pregnant widow at eighteen and she’s determined to run the rubber plantation herself. When she arrives at Norwood, it’s not at all what she’s expecting, the buildings are in terrible condition and the entire plantation needs a lot of work. Patrick McNamara owns a large rubber plantation, he gives Katharine some much needed advice and she hires a cook Philippe, a clerk Charles and a hundred laborers. Katharine wants to fulfill her husband’s dream, living in the Amazon jungle is really hard, she has to battle the elements, insects, snakes, food shortages, illness, and she gives birth to a baby boy Antonio and raises him in a remote environment.
Mabel Bird is the youngest in the family, Katharine wants her to finish school and she sends money home to her family in England. She has no idea, her father has been injured at work, her little sister has to leave school and Mabel starts work as a housemaid. The hours are long for a thirteen year old girl, her hands are raw from scrubbing pot and pans and she attracts unwanted attention from her employer’s husband. Mable’s finds a new job as a ladies maid, a step up and better working conditions. Lady Alexandra has beautiful clothes, she takes care of them, does her hair, makeup and she really loves her new job. Mabel's a very pretty young woman, being a servant, it makes her a target of the unwanted advances of men living in the house and it happens again.
Along the Endless River is a historical saga about two sisters struggling to survive in a man’s world, both are extremely strong women and they need to be, to deal with the challenges they face on a daily basis. Despite being an ocean apart, one day they hope to see each other again and be reunited.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, an interesting story set in the remote Amazon jungle and the mansions of London and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
January 15, 2021
I absolutely loved this book and read it in around 24 hours. Reading about Katharine’s journey was insightful, giving me a view of a world, I knew nothing about. While familiar with fiction set in Victorian times, I had never read anything set in such a remote, yet exotic location. It has inspired me to find out more about this era in the Amazon and in particular the rubber trade. The characters were likeable, and I really rooted for them throughout the ups and downs that befell them. While reading this book, I had the sense that it would make a great film and that there is room for a sequel. I would love to read more about how Katherine and Thomas are received in London, Antonio’s new business venture and the adventures of Lily and Elspeth growing up. This was definitely a five-star read for me.
Thank you to Love Books Tours and Canelo Saga for my gifted copy.
Thank you to Love Books Tours and Canelo Saga for my gifted copy.
January 4, 2021
I really thought this book was stunning, and found it quite impossible to put down. I don’t know how much you know about the colonisation of the Amazon rainforests in Victorian times, the atrocities that were committed in the name of capitalising on the need for the need for rubber to provide the tyres for those new-fangled cars, the obscene fortunes made by the rubber barons through the exploitation of the indigenous people – no, me neither, but I certainly loved learning more.
Against that backdrop, we get to know Katharine – I do love a book that has a strong and complex woman at its heart – who leaves her beloved family and her work as a shopgirl to travel to the Amazon with new husband Anselmo in the hope of making their fortunes. When Anselmo is tragically killed, and Katharine understands the extent of debt he has incurred in following their dream, she has little choice but to carry on alone – rejecting the offers of powerful baron Mac to buy her out, she travels on with a small group of supporters to set up the estate at Norwood, intent on operating ethically (unlike the many others) and hopeful of success with her dangerous venture.
The first part of the book focuses entirely on Katharine’s endeavours, and I have to say I thought the writing and storytelling were quite superb, the obstacles and moments of well-wrought drama coming thick and fast. This is an incredibly hostile environment, vividly and often beautifully described – and the actions of others often make things many times more challenging. And while Katharine strives for survival and success against all the odds, there’s always too a strong focus on family, on how the profit she hopes to make will improve the lot of her family back in England – and she particularly misses her young sister Mabel.
As Katharine’s struggles continue, we then have the opportunity to catch up with other members of her family – her feckless opportunist of a brother, and sister Mabel who’s been forced into service after misfortune befalls the family. I must say I enjoyed (perhaps the wrong word…) Mabel’s story as much as Katharine’s, as she discovers the realities and danger of life on the lowest rung of the ladder. The stories do very cleverly converge… but exactly how I think I must allow you to discover.
There was so much I really loved about this book – the exceptional descriptions that brought the Amazon to life (along with its towns and settlements), the strong women at the core of the story who had me willing them on at every turn, the wonderfully written moments of drama, the quieter moments of reflection and emotion, the unexpected twists that often drive the story in directions you’re not expecting. The research that went into this book must have been immense, and the way the author made use of it was sheer perfection – I was entirely transported to both the locations and their era, and you really can’t ask for much more than that.
This was one of those rare books that I found quite impossible to set aside until I’d reached its perfect end, and I felt quite bereft to leave its characters behind – if ever there was a book crying out for a sequel, then this must be it. Very highly recommended.
Against that backdrop, we get to know Katharine – I do love a book that has a strong and complex woman at its heart – who leaves her beloved family and her work as a shopgirl to travel to the Amazon with new husband Anselmo in the hope of making their fortunes. When Anselmo is tragically killed, and Katharine understands the extent of debt he has incurred in following their dream, she has little choice but to carry on alone – rejecting the offers of powerful baron Mac to buy her out, she travels on with a small group of supporters to set up the estate at Norwood, intent on operating ethically (unlike the many others) and hopeful of success with her dangerous venture.
The first part of the book focuses entirely on Katharine’s endeavours, and I have to say I thought the writing and storytelling were quite superb, the obstacles and moments of well-wrought drama coming thick and fast. This is an incredibly hostile environment, vividly and often beautifully described – and the actions of others often make things many times more challenging. And while Katharine strives for survival and success against all the odds, there’s always too a strong focus on family, on how the profit she hopes to make will improve the lot of her family back in England – and she particularly misses her young sister Mabel.
As Katharine’s struggles continue, we then have the opportunity to catch up with other members of her family – her feckless opportunist of a brother, and sister Mabel who’s been forced into service after misfortune befalls the family. I must say I enjoyed (perhaps the wrong word…) Mabel’s story as much as Katharine’s, as she discovers the realities and danger of life on the lowest rung of the ladder. The stories do very cleverly converge… but exactly how I think I must allow you to discover.
There was so much I really loved about this book – the exceptional descriptions that brought the Amazon to life (along with its towns and settlements), the strong women at the core of the story who had me willing them on at every turn, the wonderfully written moments of drama, the quieter moments of reflection and emotion, the unexpected twists that often drive the story in directions you’re not expecting. The research that went into this book must have been immense, and the way the author made use of it was sheer perfection – I was entirely transported to both the locations and their era, and you really can’t ask for much more than that.
This was one of those rare books that I found quite impossible to set aside until I’d reached its perfect end, and I felt quite bereft to leave its characters behind – if ever there was a book crying out for a sequel, then this must be it. Very highly recommended.
March 12, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging historical novel which kept me gripped from start to finish. The story is a saga of love, betrayal, secrets and family, and it’s an engrossing read. Set in 1890, and Katharine and her husband, Anselmo set sail for Brazil, and to the heart of the rainforest in order to reap the spoils of the rubber boom. Sadly Anselmo dies whilst they are travelling up the treacherous waters of the Amazon, leaving a pregnant Katharine on her own. Katharine has to decide whether to continue with her husband’s dream. When an opportunity of a new love appears, Katharine is unsure if she’s brave enough to risk her heart again.
Back in London and Katharine’s sister Mabel had had to take a job as a housemaid to support her struggling family. Mabel soon discovers the dangers that a life as a housemaid has, when she learns that the whims of the upper class men can be deadly. Both Mabel and Katharine have to fight for their futures if they are ever to be reunited. This is a wonderfully written novel, both the characters and the setting are brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, and the added historical details give it a realistic air.
Back in London and Katharine’s sister Mabel had had to take a job as a housemaid to support her struggling family. Mabel soon discovers the dangers that a life as a housemaid has, when she learns that the whims of the upper class men can be deadly. Both Mabel and Katharine have to fight for their futures if they are ever to be reunited. This is a wonderfully written novel, both the characters and the setting are brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, and the added historical details give it a realistic air.
February 1, 2021
A wonderful historical family drama, spanning 20 years, set in Brazil and London. In 1890 Katharine and her husband, Anselmo, set off for the Amazon to build their rubber plantation business. Meanwhile Katharine’s sister, Mabel, is growing up in London and then becomes a ladies’ maid to the daughter of a rubber baron. As in all great stories, things don’t always go smoothly and there is quite the bumpy ride for them both!
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written and book. The author brought the Amazon and the characters to life for me. It’s vividly described and it was all so easy to visualise in my mind. I loved Katharine, she’s a strong and resourceful woman. It’s well researched and the era is depicted superbly. I almost felt like I was there! A fabulous tale and easy to read, it will effortlessly transport you to another time and another place. It’s just right for reading in these uncertain times. Highly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written and book. The author brought the Amazon and the characters to life for me. It’s vividly described and it was all so easy to visualise in my mind. I loved Katharine, she’s a strong and resourceful woman. It’s well researched and the era is depicted superbly. I almost felt like I was there! A fabulous tale and easy to read, it will effortlessly transport you to another time and another place. It’s just right for reading in these uncertain times. Highly recommended.
January 7, 2021
I’d like to thank Love Book Tours for including me on their book tour for Along the Endless River.
This was a wonderful Historical Fiction read centered on the rise and fall of the Amazon rubber business from the point of view of a young English woman, Katharine, and her family.
Katharine’s new husband dies on the dangerous trip up the Amazon to their newly purchased land. Katharine must make the decision to continue on, create a home and build a thriving rubber business or go home to her family, penniless.
“But to get to these Elysian Fields, they would have to journey deep into the dark heart of the forest, braving whirlpools and waterfalls, snakes and savages, poisoned arrows and piranhas”
The beautiful scenery described, the heartbreaking treatment of the indigenous people and the strength and bravery of Katharine to build a life in this strange land made this a beautiful, captivating read. So many heartbreaking moments, dastardly characters, racism, rape, slavery – so many difficult subject matters. But to offset that are courageous people, unstoppable bravery, friendships and love.
Fans of Historical Fiction, strong female leads and adventurous stories will all love this new book by Rose Alexander!
This was a wonderful Historical Fiction read centered on the rise and fall of the Amazon rubber business from the point of view of a young English woman, Katharine, and her family.
Katharine’s new husband dies on the dangerous trip up the Amazon to their newly purchased land. Katharine must make the decision to continue on, create a home and build a thriving rubber business or go home to her family, penniless.
“But to get to these Elysian Fields, they would have to journey deep into the dark heart of the forest, braving whirlpools and waterfalls, snakes and savages, poisoned arrows and piranhas”
The beautiful scenery described, the heartbreaking treatment of the indigenous people and the strength and bravery of Katharine to build a life in this strange land made this a beautiful, captivating read. So many heartbreaking moments, dastardly characters, racism, rape, slavery – so many difficult subject matters. But to offset that are courageous people, unstoppable bravery, friendships and love.
Fans of Historical Fiction, strong female leads and adventurous stories will all love this new book by Rose Alexander!
January 4, 2021
An exceptionally well written novel. Engaging and thought provoking.
I found this book really moving and the stories were really cleverly woven together
A fab read
I found this book really moving and the stories were really cleverly woven together
A fab read
April 5, 2022
Better than expected.
December 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. If the author hadn't spelt out the characters' feelings, particularly at the start of the story, I would have given it 5 stars. However, the vivid imagery of the Amazon and the descriptions of how it is to live in such a cultural melting pot were captivating. I loved how the women are the heroes of the story and how we journey with them through their joys, struggles and sorrows. The novel also was a real insight into Victoria society and colonialism with all its conflicts and vices. Overall a story that both entertained and educated me about this exciting time in history.
January 17, 2021
Along the Endless River is a stunning, poignant, and powerful saga of love against the odds, of family drama, secrets and lies all set during a period which casts a shadow across this countries history, but intricately entwined is a stunning tale of love and family.
To be perfectly honest I didn’t know a lot about the Rubber Plant trade and the atrocities in the Amazon during the Victorian era, I knew that the English did – as this country have always done over the thousands of years of our history – enforced their will on and exploited the people from the area, but other than that this book is a real eye-opener, it really shows just what men (and women) will do for money. And that is all it was for, that’s the whole reason so many fled to seek out these Rubber plants from the Amazon was for; to line the pockets of the already rich and not care one jot for the people who crumble and whose lives are destroyed on their wake. To be honest, the world hasn’t changed that much has it?
I think I went on a mini-rant there, and slightly off-topic, but when hearing about what the powerful Victorian people did just to have a few more zero’s added to their bank balance really puts fire in the blood, doesn’t it? Again, not a lot has changed, has it?
Along the Endless River is a story of the strength of a women’s fight for survival, for her family and the fight to do what is right and good, I may not agree with Katherine and her husband original dream to go to the Amazon with one purpose in mind; to jump on the band-wagon of the hugely lucrative Rubber trade, but I can’t help but admire her. After her husband dies, she is left completely alone, pregnant and in a country on the other side of the world with Anselmo’s debt hanging over her head. She must make the decision should she carry on or give up?
Katherine takes the chance and decides to carry on, she refuses offers from money-grabbing businessmen and she goes it alone, she has real fight in her to make her husbands dream a reality, but to also do that as ethically as possible (something which I think was left on the British shores for most of those in hunt of fortune). Katherine knows nothing about the life she has found herself grabbing with both hands, as she was a humble shop girl, but she has got real courage, she knows that she has to make this work if she is ever to make it home and see not only her unborn child grow up but if she is ever to see her beloved sister again.
Along the Endless River has its heart set firmly in family love and loyalty, this is all about one woman’s fight for her family and every one of us can connect with Katherine in some way, we would all go to the ends of the earth for those we love, wouldn’t we? As well as getting to follow Katherine as she struggles to pave the path back home, we also have a glimpse into the family she is trying to get home to; her brother – who is nothing less then a wastrel, to be perfectly honest I didn’t like him too much, but her sister Mabel, like Katherine, has her struggles and she must face her own trials and tribulations, she is a really likeable woman too.
There is so much to love about this book, the vivid and atmospheric attention to detail, it transports you across the sea, you experience the Amazon as though you were right there in the thick of it. I love that even though the world which Katherine has found herself in is predominantly dominated by men, this is all about the women, it’s about Katherine and her sister.
The writing is stunning, Rose Alexander’s powerful tale which demands attention, it demands you to keep reading well into the night. I love that Alexander harnesses your imagination and educates all at the same time as well as spinning a beautiful tale. It makes you think as much as it entertains, it’s a stunning piece of work one of which many historical fiction readers are going to love.
To be perfectly honest I didn’t know a lot about the Rubber Plant trade and the atrocities in the Amazon during the Victorian era, I knew that the English did – as this country have always done over the thousands of years of our history – enforced their will on and exploited the people from the area, but other than that this book is a real eye-opener, it really shows just what men (and women) will do for money. And that is all it was for, that’s the whole reason so many fled to seek out these Rubber plants from the Amazon was for; to line the pockets of the already rich and not care one jot for the people who crumble and whose lives are destroyed on their wake. To be honest, the world hasn’t changed that much has it?
I think I went on a mini-rant there, and slightly off-topic, but when hearing about what the powerful Victorian people did just to have a few more zero’s added to their bank balance really puts fire in the blood, doesn’t it? Again, not a lot has changed, has it?
Along the Endless River is a story of the strength of a women’s fight for survival, for her family and the fight to do what is right and good, I may not agree with Katherine and her husband original dream to go to the Amazon with one purpose in mind; to jump on the band-wagon of the hugely lucrative Rubber trade, but I can’t help but admire her. After her husband dies, she is left completely alone, pregnant and in a country on the other side of the world with Anselmo’s debt hanging over her head. She must make the decision should she carry on or give up?
Katherine takes the chance and decides to carry on, she refuses offers from money-grabbing businessmen and she goes it alone, she has real fight in her to make her husbands dream a reality, but to also do that as ethically as possible (something which I think was left on the British shores for most of those in hunt of fortune). Katherine knows nothing about the life she has found herself grabbing with both hands, as she was a humble shop girl, but she has got real courage, she knows that she has to make this work if she is ever to make it home and see not only her unborn child grow up but if she is ever to see her beloved sister again.
Along the Endless River has its heart set firmly in family love and loyalty, this is all about one woman’s fight for her family and every one of us can connect with Katherine in some way, we would all go to the ends of the earth for those we love, wouldn’t we? As well as getting to follow Katherine as she struggles to pave the path back home, we also have a glimpse into the family she is trying to get home to; her brother – who is nothing less then a wastrel, to be perfectly honest I didn’t like him too much, but her sister Mabel, like Katherine, has her struggles and she must face her own trials and tribulations, she is a really likeable woman too.
There is so much to love about this book, the vivid and atmospheric attention to detail, it transports you across the sea, you experience the Amazon as though you were right there in the thick of it. I love that even though the world which Katherine has found herself in is predominantly dominated by men, this is all about the women, it’s about Katherine and her sister.
The writing is stunning, Rose Alexander’s powerful tale which demands attention, it demands you to keep reading well into the night. I love that Alexander harnesses your imagination and educates all at the same time as well as spinning a beautiful tale. It makes you think as much as it entertains, it’s a stunning piece of work one of which many historical fiction readers are going to love.
January 7, 2021
This addictive historical romance will be a great addition to your 2021 TBR. Alexander’s effort and commitment to creating a 19th century piece of fiction is shown through the detail and description, enriching the plot. The fascinating novel vividly describes the Amazon, painting a clear image in your head. I felt like I was there with Katharine. This is a highly commended feature of Along The Endless River, with incredible insights into the culture. The worldbuilding developed perfectly, with a clear and obvious distinction between settings. Through the successful writing of the Amazon, it allowed a stunning account of the characters, especially with the running theme of colonialism. Protagonist Katharine allows for a useful and powerful story to be told, allowing the reader to fully become emotionally captivated in her quest.
There are many characters included in the story and although if I were to list them it would read as too many, it didn’t feel so. They all felt important and necessary to the story. Even if some characters were anecdotal mentions, they were described with equal attention. This showcases Alexander’s meticulous writing and creates a whole new world for the reader, despite the real locations. The dialogue between the characters aided a Victorian context, with the differences in culture and society. The family element was equally heartwarming and heartbreaking with the challenges faced. Learning all about the Amazon and Victorian life was very interesting. I really liked being transported back in time and having a modern novel approach such context was refreshing.
The third person narration allowed for an omniscient account, with the reader simultaneously learning about the expedition and feelings of the character. The book mainly centres around Katharine and this is a welcomed approach. The character is brilliant. Like many of the other female characters included in the story, she leads the plot development. Her experience is remarkable and Alexander has creatively made an original plot. However, I did enjoy the narrator following Mabel too. It added to the story being told, allowing both of their lives to be explored. I liked the alternation between the pair, allowing different experiences to be read and combine naturally.
Overall, this was a great read and I really enjoyed it. The most striking detail that I will mention is Alexander’s incredible ability to describe the environment so vividly. I truly felt transported and this allowed for a more engaging read. I will certainly be adding more works by this author to my TBR.
There are many characters included in the story and although if I were to list them it would read as too many, it didn’t feel so. They all felt important and necessary to the story. Even if some characters were anecdotal mentions, they were described with equal attention. This showcases Alexander’s meticulous writing and creates a whole new world for the reader, despite the real locations. The dialogue between the characters aided a Victorian context, with the differences in culture and society. The family element was equally heartwarming and heartbreaking with the challenges faced. Learning all about the Amazon and Victorian life was very interesting. I really liked being transported back in time and having a modern novel approach such context was refreshing.
The third person narration allowed for an omniscient account, with the reader simultaneously learning about the expedition and feelings of the character. The book mainly centres around Katharine and this is a welcomed approach. The character is brilliant. Like many of the other female characters included in the story, she leads the plot development. Her experience is remarkable and Alexander has creatively made an original plot. However, I did enjoy the narrator following Mabel too. It added to the story being told, allowing both of their lives to be explored. I liked the alternation between the pair, allowing different experiences to be read and combine naturally.
Overall, this was a great read and I really enjoyed it. The most striking detail that I will mention is Alexander’s incredible ability to describe the environment so vividly. I truly felt transported and this allowed for a more engaging read. I will certainly be adding more works by this author to my TBR.
May 21, 2024
I have always been fascinated by stories about the Amazon especially since reading Eva Ibbotson’s wonderful “Journey to the River Sea” and then Portuguese lessons with my lovely Brazilian teacher renewed my interest in the country, especially its tortuous history.
This book by Rose Alexander tells of the struggle and hard work to establish a successful rubber producing estate without resorting to cruel practices by Katherine, a young widow in the 1890s. An impetuous marriage had taken her from her loving family in London where she worked in a department store to a life of excessive heat, mosquitos and pregnancy where she decides to struggle on after the unexpected death of her husband. Gradually she makes a success of her business and brings up her sulky son. The unwelcome arrival of her selfish brother is not all bad as he also brings her Tom, a capable Jamaican, who guides the plantation into further success.
Meanwhile, her much loved younger sister, Mabel, has had to leave school and become a housemaid, due to her father’s injury while working in the docks. A beautiful, clever,15-year-old, she labours for long hours but does not tell her sister, Katherine, of their change of circumstance. When she is able to take up a position as Lady’s maid to the daughter of a friend of Katherine’s, she believes she can finally enjoy life, but all is not as it seems.
Both Katherine and Mabel make mistakes and are perhaps too trusting, but these courageous women grew up in a loving family and eventually they will be reunited. The story highlights the awful treatment of many servants in Britain and also cruelty to the native Indians in the Amazon jungle. The unfair world in which women existed at that time is also an important part of the story but there is also love, happiness and finally justice. An interesting perspective on a time of great change.
This book by Rose Alexander tells of the struggle and hard work to establish a successful rubber producing estate without resorting to cruel practices by Katherine, a young widow in the 1890s. An impetuous marriage had taken her from her loving family in London where she worked in a department store to a life of excessive heat, mosquitos and pregnancy where she decides to struggle on after the unexpected death of her husband. Gradually she makes a success of her business and brings up her sulky son. The unwelcome arrival of her selfish brother is not all bad as he also brings her Tom, a capable Jamaican, who guides the plantation into further success.
Meanwhile, her much loved younger sister, Mabel, has had to leave school and become a housemaid, due to her father’s injury while working in the docks. A beautiful, clever,15-year-old, she labours for long hours but does not tell her sister, Katherine, of their change of circumstance. When she is able to take up a position as Lady’s maid to the daughter of a friend of Katherine’s, she believes she can finally enjoy life, but all is not as it seems.
Both Katherine and Mabel make mistakes and are perhaps too trusting, but these courageous women grew up in a loving family and eventually they will be reunited. The story highlights the awful treatment of many servants in Britain and also cruelty to the native Indians in the Amazon jungle. The unfair world in which women existed at that time is also an important part of the story but there is also love, happiness and finally justice. An interesting perspective on a time of great change.
January 9, 2021
The cover of the book intrigued me, the amazon rainforest and a women dressed like that, just looks so out of place.
Trigger warnings- book contains slavery/ rape/racism
I loved Katharine, such brilliant depiction of a strong female, despite all the hurdles knockbacks and failings of the rubber tree business venture, her resilience and determination to succeed was just incredible. At a time where women didn’t run companies or be a leader.
I admired her steadfast resolve to pay back the money her husband borrowed from her father. She had the courage to make a stand against the awful treatment of the Indians and found a better way.
Mabel, Katharine’s sister was such a likeable girl, but so naive and trusting only to be exploited and taken advantage of. The way some men of stature treated women, especially servants was abhorrent. Katharine wanted revenge and to make Mac pay for what he did.
Katharine and Thomas’s love story was so wonderful, what a gentle kind thoughtful soul he was. I was so pleased she put her happiness before what was proper and correct.
I found the and story so interesting and the writing style drew me in and kept me wanting to know more. Even though some of the subject matter in this book is hard to read about, Katharine’s upbeat positivity was uplifting. I feel inspired by her.
Trigger warnings- book contains slavery/ rape/racism
I loved Katharine, such brilliant depiction of a strong female, despite all the hurdles knockbacks and failings of the rubber tree business venture, her resilience and determination to succeed was just incredible. At a time where women didn’t run companies or be a leader.
I admired her steadfast resolve to pay back the money her husband borrowed from her father. She had the courage to make a stand against the awful treatment of the Indians and found a better way.
Mabel, Katharine’s sister was such a likeable girl, but so naive and trusting only to be exploited and taken advantage of. The way some men of stature treated women, especially servants was abhorrent. Katharine wanted revenge and to make Mac pay for what he did.
Katharine and Thomas’s love story was so wonderful, what a gentle kind thoughtful soul he was. I was so pleased she put her happiness before what was proper and correct.
I found the and story so interesting and the writing style drew me in and kept me wanting to know more. Even though some of the subject matter in this book is hard to read about, Katharine’s upbeat positivity was uplifting. I feel inspired by her.
January 14, 2021
The book tells the story of a pregnant,widowed young woman at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. Katharine leaves her family behind in London and heads off with her intrepid husband to the Amazon rain forest in search of rubber trees which is to make them their fortune - or so they are told. When Anselmo dies in a boating accident, it would be so easy for Katharine to return home, however she chooses to stay on and make a go of things much to the amusement of most of the white men around her.
The story takes you her journey and is vividly written with lots of detail not only about the surroundings but also all the emotions which Katherine is experiencing along the way. The story also dips back and forth to London where her young sister still is, who although a servant not a slave, has similar experiences to those tribes in the Amazon who are all but slaves in name. Katherine is like many pioneering women of this age who just got on with things however was still not averse to men helping her out. We are taken on a journey with her from an innocent and naive young woman to a feisty, enterprising business woman.
I found it a great story and page turner and would highly recommend it especially if you like historical tales. I learned so much about the birth of the rubber trade!
I read this book as an ARC for my book club.
The story takes you her journey and is vividly written with lots of detail not only about the surroundings but also all the emotions which Katherine is experiencing along the way. The story also dips back and forth to London where her young sister still is, who although a servant not a slave, has similar experiences to those tribes in the Amazon who are all but slaves in name. Katherine is like many pioneering women of this age who just got on with things however was still not averse to men helping her out. We are taken on a journey with her from an innocent and naive young woman to a feisty, enterprising business woman.
I found it a great story and page turner and would highly recommend it especially if you like historical tales. I learned so much about the birth of the rubber trade!
I read this book as an ARC for my book club.
February 3, 2021
‘Along The Endless River’ was a engrossing read as it beautifully detailed a period of history I knew nothing about, had a amazing strong female lead character and a plot that was superbly detailed. It’s a great piece of historical fiction based in Brazil during the rubber boom!
I really enjoyed the tale of Katharine and her husband, who put all their eggs in one basket and sailed off into the Amazon to make their fortune in rubber. There are a lot of twists and turns to keep the audience engaged and they were great. I was fully gripped whilst reading this tale and devoured the book in one day! We also find out more about Katharine siblings and family which added extra layers to the story.
The star of this book was the character of Katharine. She is feisty, strong willed, hugely determined to succeed but also shows a great empathy for the local populations. Which was historically a time of exploitation of the indigenous population, whereas Katharine knew she wanted a more working collaboration with them. I found this to be extremely refreshing as it does tally with my ethos and therefore I found the plot more believable. There are some dark aspects to the plot but they are dealt with compassion and with understanding.
I really enjoyed this book - 4⭐️‘s from me!
I really enjoyed the tale of Katharine and her husband, who put all their eggs in one basket and sailed off into the Amazon to make their fortune in rubber. There are a lot of twists and turns to keep the audience engaged and they were great. I was fully gripped whilst reading this tale and devoured the book in one day! We also find out more about Katharine siblings and family which added extra layers to the story.
The star of this book was the character of Katharine. She is feisty, strong willed, hugely determined to succeed but also shows a great empathy for the local populations. Which was historically a time of exploitation of the indigenous population, whereas Katharine knew she wanted a more working collaboration with them. I found this to be extremely refreshing as it does tally with my ethos and therefore I found the plot more believable. There are some dark aspects to the plot but they are dealt with compassion and with understanding.
I really enjoyed this book - 4⭐️‘s from me!
May 28, 2023
4.0 1890 Katherine and her newly wed husband set off to Brazil and to the Amazon for a new life and adventure on a rubber plantation. Anselmo has made all the arrangements and is the businessman but things do not always work out as planned and after arriving and moving further into the jungle Anselmo's boat capsizers along with his manager so Katherine is left alone to learn a business the very hard way. Katherine is pregnant and thius makes it harder but she hires good help so she can continue with her husbands dream. Meanwhile in London Katherines sister is struggling to help out the rest of the family by becoming a housemaid while brother Mayhew acts the playboy and spends money he does not have. Life in the Amazon and on a rubber plantation is tough but Katherine is determined to succeed for her son's sake.
January 11, 2021
Well this book took me by surprise I loved it the historical fiction. I felt the grief that Katharine had for her husband and the love she had for him and her determination for his business and the fight she had two carry on for her baby sake. I loved how she talk deeply about the amazon and the way of living and how she had two pay of her husband debts before she can move on and start rebuilding the cargo business I loved kathrine character connected with her allot in the story. Such a beautiful love story and the story was well written the author has certainly done well with this story line x the writing is easy two follow well worth the read The cover is beautiful
January 15, 2021
I found this book to be a beautiful tale of love, betrayal and historical intrigue.
This book was raw, emotional and powerful. Oh don't I love books that destroy me😩
I cried, I laughed, I sop-smiled and I let my heart get destroyed. (as I do😌)
Katherine and Mabel were just inspirational female protagonists. Their stories were beautifully inspiring and their characters were really relatable in some ways.
Alexander's way of writing was beautiful and flowy. Making this book a smooth, addictive read.
I would definitely recommend this book! To my historical fans, to my readers who want to be destroyed, this book is 100% for you!!
This book was raw, emotional and powerful. Oh don't I love books that destroy me😩
I cried, I laughed, I sop-smiled and I let my heart get destroyed. (as I do😌)
Katherine and Mabel were just inspirational female protagonists. Their stories were beautifully inspiring and their characters were really relatable in some ways.
Alexander's way of writing was beautiful and flowy. Making this book a smooth, addictive read.
I would definitely recommend this book! To my historical fans, to my readers who want to be destroyed, this book is 100% for you!!
December 5, 2023
This is a great read, on an unusual topic - the nibber industry in the Amazon from the 1890's!
The story centres around Katherine, who marries young and sets off there with her husband, then experiences a number of tragedies that she fights through.
It's historical rather than Romance, I would say, but it's beautifully told and Rose Alexander really brings the Amazon to life. I was really invested in the story and, although there are a few endings which are a little too neat, I still really enjoyed Alexander's style of writing.
This is a great holiday or other read and definitely worth reading.
The story centres around Katherine, who marries young and sets off there with her husband, then experiences a number of tragedies that she fights through.
It's historical rather than Romance, I would say, but it's beautifully told and Rose Alexander really brings the Amazon to life. I was really invested in the story and, although there are a few endings which are a little too neat, I still really enjoyed Alexander's style of writing.
This is a great holiday or other read and definitely worth reading.
January 9, 2021
Excellent book! Beautiful description of characters and setting with an intriguing storyline. It is a story of romance, but also of the struggle of good against greed and honesty against exploitation. I found the plot focusing on the development of the rubber trade deep in the Amazon rainforest at the turn of the century really fascinating. The plot also focuses on the struggles of the heroine to make a success of her venture in a world full of men. I thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a novel, found it gripping in parts and it was hard to put down towards the end.
January 9, 2021
This book is set in both nineteenth century England and along the Amazon. Young Kathryn meets and quickly marries adventurer Anselmo.They sail across the ocean to the jungle wilds of the Amazon river where they intend to set up a rubber plantation. This is a thrilling historical take of the strength of a young woman in a man's world.Fighting for her workers, family and what she believes to be right against a backdrop of manipulation, betrayal, loss and revenge.
January 11, 2021
I’d like to thank Love Book Tours for including me in the book tour and the author.
I thought this book was stunning I love historical fiction it was impossible to put down,
It was wonderful I love the setting and I love everything to do with this book.
The beautiful scenery described the heartbreak and bravery of Katherine to build a life in this strange land.
Such a captivating read I honestly could not put it down.
Definitely recommend getting a copy.
I thought this book was stunning I love historical fiction it was impossible to put down,
It was wonderful I love the setting and I love everything to do with this book.
The beautiful scenery described the heartbreak and bravery of Katherine to build a life in this strange land.
Such a captivating read I honestly could not put it down.
Definitely recommend getting a copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2021
I have enjoyed this book very much. The storyline covers history in England and the Amazon, mostly focusing on the rubber trade.
Katharine, the main character has a hard and challenging life. She refuses to follow the trends of the time.
Mabel, her sister back in England, becomes caught up with a character that has influenced Katharine throughout her life.
An interesting, educational and rewarding read.
Katharine, the main character has a hard and challenging life. She refuses to follow the trends of the time.
Mabel, her sister back in England, becomes caught up with a character that has influenced Katharine throughout her life.
An interesting, educational and rewarding read.
July 8, 2025
Found it a bit disappointing I'm afraid although the story outline is great and I loved the fact it was focused on an industry not much written about elsewhere. It was clichéd and full of anachronism unfortunately which rather spoilt it for me. But if you enjoy cute fairytale type fiction of a woman who overcomes adversity then it could be a pleasant read.
June 9, 2021
A great read
Such a lovely story full of amazing research and set in a place that is unique. I've never read a novel set in the Amazon before and about the early rubber industry. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Such a lovely story full of amazing research and set in a place that is unique. I've never read a novel set in the Amazon before and about the early rubber industry. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
January 18, 2024
Every day's a school day with reading; I hadn't even realised that rubber had been harvested in South America, but now I know differently - have also, sadly, learned a little of the brutality attached to the trade. Well written, in that I could almost feel that oppressive jungle heat!
July 2, 2024
Rose Alexander is a talented writer and I will surely read other novels of hers.Great read, I recommend it! Loved the main characters and learnt a lot about the rubber trade in the Amazon. Horrowing, despicable deeds done for greed, I had no idea about them.
November 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this book with it twists and turns. I learned a lot about the way of life and death in the Amazon. Also, who the natives were treated. I would like to about her life after the Amazon and thet of her family and friends.
October 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book much more than I expected. I very much reminded me of the Seven Sisters series by Lucinda Riley which I have been enjoying, It did take a while to get going but I did get invested in the characters and their hardships and found the ending very satisfying.
January 21, 2021
A stunning historical drama!
Could not put this down! Beautifully written and so evocative in its detail. I can't wait to see what Rose writes for book 4! Strongly recommend.
Could not put this down! Beautifully written and so evocative in its detail. I can't wait to see what Rose writes for book 4! Strongly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews