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Daughter of the Hunter Valley
Alone. Near destitute. But brave and determined. Can Maddy beat the odds to create a new home in the Hunter Valley? An exciting Australian historical debut, perfect for readers of Darry Fraser.
1831, New South Wales
Reeling from her mother's death, Madeleine Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her father's promises are nothing more than a halcyon dream. A day later, after a dubious accident, she becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, with only three convicts and handsome overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
Determined to fulfil her family's aspirations, Maddy refuses to return to England and braves everything the beautiful but wild Australian country can throw at her - violence, danger, the forces of nature and loneliness. But when a scandalous secret and a new arrival threaten to destroy all she's worked for, her future looks bleak ... Can Maddy persevere or should she simply admit defeat?
A captivating historical tale of one young woman's grit and determination to carve out her place on the riverbank.
1831, New South Wales
Reeling from her mother's death, Madeleine Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her father's promises are nothing more than a halcyon dream. A day later, after a dubious accident, she becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, with only three convicts and handsome overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
Determined to fulfil her family's aspirations, Maddy refuses to return to England and braves everything the beautiful but wild Australian country can throw at her - violence, danger, the forces of nature and loneliness. But when a scandalous secret and a new arrival threaten to destroy all she's worked for, her future looks bleak ... Can Maddy persevere or should she simply admit defeat?
A captivating historical tale of one young woman's grit and determination to carve out her place on the riverbank.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
384 pages, Paperback
Published September 29, 2021
About the author
Paula J. Beavan
2 books15 followersI am a Hunter Valley based writer who grew up, farmed, and played along the banks of the Hunter River.
I love the rich history of the area and often escape down the rabbit hole of research. On one such excursion I fortuitously found a family connection to a local landmark and historic figure, William Harpur, one of the founding settlers in the Hunter Valley; assistant to the Surveyor General in 1821; who established his property Oswald on the Hunter River in the mid 1820’s, and is related to my father’s great-grandfather who settled in Australia in the 1840’s.
This discovery piqued my interest in the people who lived here before me, and so I find myself setting my stories in and around the places I grew up. I was fortunate to have lived on a small property and grew up riding horses, mustering with a local cattleman who filled my head with stories of his life growing up on the land, caring for the pit ponies during a strike at the Rothbury Mine Riot and being branded a scab, and learning about horses, cattle, the land, and the area.
My love of reading evolved into a desire to write, and with that, I determined to be the best writer I could be, and so embarked on a series of writing courses both online and overseas. I was blessed to be able to travel to the UK and attend Kate Forsyth’s History, Mystery, and Magic writing retreat in the gorgeous Cotswolds, where I learned the importance of research and taking the time to get it right. I won a mentorship with Charlotte Legder of Harper Impulse with a Romantic Suspense story, and another with Felicity Pulman for Stone of Destiny, a YA timeslip
I’ve dabbled in contemporary romance, YA timeslip and finally have found my home in Australian Historical stories with a good dash of romance, because I love romance.
I love the rich history of the area and often escape down the rabbit hole of research. On one such excursion I fortuitously found a family connection to a local landmark and historic figure, William Harpur, one of the founding settlers in the Hunter Valley; assistant to the Surveyor General in 1821; who established his property Oswald on the Hunter River in the mid 1820’s, and is related to my father’s great-grandfather who settled in Australia in the 1840’s.
This discovery piqued my interest in the people who lived here before me, and so I find myself setting my stories in and around the places I grew up. I was fortunate to have lived on a small property and grew up riding horses, mustering with a local cattleman who filled my head with stories of his life growing up on the land, caring for the pit ponies during a strike at the Rothbury Mine Riot and being branded a scab, and learning about horses, cattle, the land, and the area.
My love of reading evolved into a desire to write, and with that, I determined to be the best writer I could be, and so embarked on a series of writing courses both online and overseas. I was blessed to be able to travel to the UK and attend Kate Forsyth’s History, Mystery, and Magic writing retreat in the gorgeous Cotswolds, where I learned the importance of research and taking the time to get it right. I won a mentorship with Charlotte Legder of Harper Impulse with a Romantic Suspense story, and another with Felicity Pulman for Stone of Destiny, a YA timeslip
I’ve dabbled in contemporary romance, YA timeslip and finally have found my home in Australian Historical stories with a good dash of romance, because I love romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 27, 2021
Eighteen-year-old Madeleine Barker-Trent had left England, which had been her home her whole life, and also her beloved mother who had recently died. Maddy and her Mama were to join their father in the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia, after he’d been there for some time, building up his property, Shelby, for them, the land on the edge of the Hunter River, the house on top of a hill overlooking the vast Australian bush. It was 1831 when Maddy arrived, after a long trip on a ship to Sydney, then more travel to finally arrive at Shelby. But Maddy’s letter to her father hadn’t arrived and he was shattered to hear of his wife’s death. Though pleased to see Maddy, he needed time to come to terms with his wife’s death.
The big house Papa had bragged about was barely started, the small ramshackle hut where he laid his head at night barely big enough for one person. When Maddie’s Papa’s body was found, she realized she was now truly on her own – no parents, no siblings. Maddie’s grit and determination to follow her parent’s dream through saw her flouting all the ‘rules’ of society, and when she picked up Jane from Parramatta as her maid, Jane proved herself as a hard worker, diligent and thorough. She was also a friend to Maddie. Along with Daniel Coulter, Shelby’s overseer and several convicts, Maddie and Jane began to prove their worth.
Around the district were other landowners whom Maddie came to know. She also discovered the danger of bushrangers, the malicious gossip from certain people, and the knowledge that the hard work was never done. Her horse, Red, was the one relaxation she allowed herself – a quiet ride for an hour or so, did her the world of good. But change was coming, and with it, danger. What would happen to this English girl who had never set foot outside England before arriving in the colonies?
Daughter of the Hunter Valley is the debut novel of Aussie author Paula J. Beavan, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Hunter Valley is my home as well – it’s a large area and encompasses many towns and cities, but back in the 1800s it would have been a wild and dangerous place. I did find Maddie a little annoying at times, but I also found myself rivetted to the pages as I raced to the finish. A fabulous debut, I hope Daughter of the Hunter Valley is the first of many for this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The big house Papa had bragged about was barely started, the small ramshackle hut where he laid his head at night barely big enough for one person. When Maddie’s Papa’s body was found, she realized she was now truly on her own – no parents, no siblings. Maddie’s grit and determination to follow her parent’s dream through saw her flouting all the ‘rules’ of society, and when she picked up Jane from Parramatta as her maid, Jane proved herself as a hard worker, diligent and thorough. She was also a friend to Maddie. Along with Daniel Coulter, Shelby’s overseer and several convicts, Maddie and Jane began to prove their worth.
Around the district were other landowners whom Maddie came to know. She also discovered the danger of bushrangers, the malicious gossip from certain people, and the knowledge that the hard work was never done. Her horse, Red, was the one relaxation she allowed herself – a quiet ride for an hour or so, did her the world of good. But change was coming, and with it, danger. What would happen to this English girl who had never set foot outside England before arriving in the colonies?
Daughter of the Hunter Valley is the debut novel of Aussie author Paula J. Beavan, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Hunter Valley is my home as well – it’s a large area and encompasses many towns and cities, but back in the 1800s it would have been a wild and dangerous place. I did find Maddie a little annoying at times, but I also found myself rivetted to the pages as I raced to the finish. A fabulous debut, I hope Daughter of the Hunter Valley is the first of many for this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2024
Madeleine Barker-Trent makes the long sea journey from England to the new settlement of Australia in 1831, she finally arrives in New South Wales and she hasn’t seen her Papa in six years. He owns property in the Hunter Valley, he’s been busy building a house and establishing his farm. She discovers her father’s living in a hut, in his letters he made it sound like he had made far more progress and it’s not what she was expecting at all.
The next day her father tragically passes away, Madeleine’s only eighteen, she’s now the owner of Shelby, a thousand acres of scrubby bushland, with three convicts and an overseer Daniel Coulter to help her run the property. Maddy doesn’t want to return to England, she’s determined to stay and the kind Garrick family help her. The other settlers assume she should marry, she needs a man’s guidance and it’s the best option for a woman on her own. The wonder of a new land amazes Maddy, the vegetation, vibrant birds and native animals are all fascinating.
Maddy needs a maid, her only choice is to go to Parramatta Goal and employ a convict. Jane's a hard worker, good company and Maddy doesn’t feel so lonely. Shelby’s a hive of activity, their busy planting crops, caring for sheep, milking dairy cows and growing potatoes. Life in Australia is hard, the weather is extremely unpredictable, it’s either too hot, pouring with raining and the never by river floods. It's a dangerous place, a bushranger targets Shelby and Maddy’s exposed to the violent side of the new colony. A young boy called Luke is left in her care, his mother disappears, people start to talk about her strange ideas and she discovers her father’s secret.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley narrative is about Madeleine making a life for herself in a new, remote and wild land. Despite all the obstacles, she perseveres with incredible strength, bravery and determination. Paula J. Beavan’s debut novel is full of details about life in the new Colony of Australia, it’s interesting, well written and I highly recommend reading the book. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review and five stars from me.
The next day her father tragically passes away, Madeleine’s only eighteen, she’s now the owner of Shelby, a thousand acres of scrubby bushland, with three convicts and an overseer Daniel Coulter to help her run the property. Maddy doesn’t want to return to England, she’s determined to stay and the kind Garrick family help her. The other settlers assume she should marry, she needs a man’s guidance and it’s the best option for a woman on her own. The wonder of a new land amazes Maddy, the vegetation, vibrant birds and native animals are all fascinating.
Maddy needs a maid, her only choice is to go to Parramatta Goal and employ a convict. Jane's a hard worker, good company and Maddy doesn’t feel so lonely. Shelby’s a hive of activity, their busy planting crops, caring for sheep, milking dairy cows and growing potatoes. Life in Australia is hard, the weather is extremely unpredictable, it’s either too hot, pouring with raining and the never by river floods. It's a dangerous place, a bushranger targets Shelby and Maddy’s exposed to the violent side of the new colony. A young boy called Luke is left in her care, his mother disappears, people start to talk about her strange ideas and she discovers her father’s secret.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley narrative is about Madeleine making a life for herself in a new, remote and wild land. Despite all the obstacles, she perseveres with incredible strength, bravery and determination. Paula J. Beavan’s debut novel is full of details about life in the new Colony of Australia, it’s interesting, well written and I highly recommend reading the book. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review and five stars from me.
September 28, 2021
What a fabulous debut, truly I fell into this book and loved the setting and getting to know Maddie, to see her grow into a strong and capable woman, a woman who could run a farm in colonial New South Wales and continue with her parent’s wishes and find true happiness made this a story that kept me invested throughout and cheering her on.
Madeline Barker-Trent has travelled to The Hunter Valley devastated at the loss of her mother but looking forward to finally being with her father on the farm in The Hunter Valley, Shelby he has written such beautiful descriptions of the house and farm, but when she arrives nothing is what she thought it would be she is shocked and then a tragic accident leaves her all alone in a strange new world. Maddie is so determined to get on with life and make Shelby what it should be.
Maddie stands firm with her decision even with neighbours suggesting she sell up and move back to England, times are not easy in the colony especially with an underlying scandal but Maddie loves the farm and her new life working with convict labourers she is starting to bring Shelby to what it should be with the help of overseer Daniel Coulter and she is getting closer to Daniel so when a new arrival is about to turn her world upside down and there is danger from bushrangers, Maddie needs to re-think her life.
I was eagerly awaiting this book and was not disappointed at all, it is so well written it shows how strong these woman were they helped build Australia into what it is today. Maddie was thrown in the deep end but did what needed to be done and her courage and strength shone through in this awesome story, this is one that I would highly recommend there is a lot happening and I felt like I was back there with Maddie and Daniel, to see her find happiness in her new life left me feeling very happy. I look forward to many more books from Paula J Bevan.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Madeline Barker-Trent has travelled to The Hunter Valley devastated at the loss of her mother but looking forward to finally being with her father on the farm in The Hunter Valley, Shelby he has written such beautiful descriptions of the house and farm, but when she arrives nothing is what she thought it would be she is shocked and then a tragic accident leaves her all alone in a strange new world. Maddie is so determined to get on with life and make Shelby what it should be.
Maddie stands firm with her decision even with neighbours suggesting she sell up and move back to England, times are not easy in the colony especially with an underlying scandal but Maddie loves the farm and her new life working with convict labourers she is starting to bring Shelby to what it should be with the help of overseer Daniel Coulter and she is getting closer to Daniel so when a new arrival is about to turn her world upside down and there is danger from bushrangers, Maddie needs to re-think her life.
I was eagerly awaiting this book and was not disappointed at all, it is so well written it shows how strong these woman were they helped build Australia into what it is today. Maddie was thrown in the deep end but did what needed to be done and her courage and strength shone through in this awesome story, this is one that I would highly recommend there is a lot happening and I felt like I was back there with Maddie and Daniel, to see her find happiness in her new life left me feeling very happy. I look forward to many more books from Paula J Bevan.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
January 21, 2022
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Daughter of the Hunter Valley by Paula J. Beavan. (2021).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 29 September 2021**
1831, New South Wales. Reeling from her mother's death, Maddy arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her father's promises were just dreams. A day later, after a dubious accident, she becomes the sole owner of 1000 acres of bushland with only three convicts and handsome overseer Daniel for company. Determined to fulfil her family's aspirations, Maddy decides to brave everything the beautiful but wild Australian country can throw at her - violence, danger, forces of nature and loneliness. But when a scandalous secret and a new arrival threaten to destroy all she's worked for, her future looks bleak... can she persevere?
This is a great debut for the author who has well and truly burst onto the Australian historical scene with this novel. The author's note at the end explains her inspiration and it's clear she has put a lot of research in, which is demonstrated by the realism of the story. There is a romance element to the narrative but I would consider that a secondary storyline, with the primary storyline being about a young woman who ends up with a lot on on her shoulders to deal with, all at the tender age of 18. I thoroughly enjoyed following along with Maddy as she found her feet and took on huge responsibilities.
Overall: I would highly recommend this novel for any reader who is a fan of Australian historical fiction as they'll find it a real treat.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Daughter of the Hunter Valley by Paula J. Beavan. (2021).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 29 September 2021**
1831, New South Wales. Reeling from her mother's death, Maddy arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her father's promises were just dreams. A day later, after a dubious accident, she becomes the sole owner of 1000 acres of bushland with only three convicts and handsome overseer Daniel for company. Determined to fulfil her family's aspirations, Maddy decides to brave everything the beautiful but wild Australian country can throw at her - violence, danger, forces of nature and loneliness. But when a scandalous secret and a new arrival threaten to destroy all she's worked for, her future looks bleak... can she persevere?
This is a great debut for the author who has well and truly burst onto the Australian historical scene with this novel. The author's note at the end explains her inspiration and it's clear she has put a lot of research in, which is demonstrated by the realism of the story. There is a romance element to the narrative but I would consider that a secondary storyline, with the primary storyline being about a young woman who ends up with a lot on on her shoulders to deal with, all at the tender age of 18. I thoroughly enjoyed following along with Maddy as she found her feet and took on huge responsibilities.
Overall: I would highly recommend this novel for any reader who is a fan of Australian historical fiction as they'll find it a real treat.
July 13, 2021
I enjoyed the Australian setting, the rich historical details and the background stories of some of the convicts. The romance unfortunately is not so strong and the ending is very abrupt and unsatisfying.
November 14, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
I was drawn to this book because of the comparison to Darry Fraser who I absolutely adore. The comparison is a good one-I loved this book!! Maddy is the ultimate heroine and my heart broke numerous times at her plight. Surrounded by unforgettable characters, this is a lovely book of the early Australian colony and the hardship women, in particular, faced.
I was drawn to this book because of the comparison to Darry Fraser who I absolutely adore. The comparison is a good one-I loved this book!! Maddy is the ultimate heroine and my heart broke numerous times at her plight. Surrounded by unforgettable characters, this is a lovely book of the early Australian colony and the hardship women, in particular, faced.
August 13, 2021
What a sparkling debut by Paula J Beavan! I am thrilled to have read this stunning, well delivered story brimming with courage, resilience and passion. It captivated my attention from the very first page.
Madeleine Barker-Trent leaves the comforts of England in 1831 and sails for six months across the world to join her father in the Hunter Valley. Their joyful reunion quickly evaporates. Unexpected heartbreak and disappointment meet her almost as soon as she arrives in the colony. Amid the severe dryness and heat of December, confusion floods her mind when she surveys the truth and progress of her father’s dream. Letters received at home show a different reality of his success. She is faced with the task of making a difficult decision. Against all odds, and with determination, she aims to fulfil the dream her parents started.
Due to Paula’s meticulous research and strong world-building skills, I was swept into the centre of Australia’s early colonial days. She paints a vivid picture of a harsh unforgiving land of extremes with severe droughts and floods. Those of us who live in this country today with all the conveniences of the modern age, would find it challenging to be transported back to the 1830s when immigrants (including the convicts) tried desperately to carve out a sane existence. This taxing life broke many and sent numerous back to England.
We are not only supplied with an authentic setting but also a carefully crafted, believable cast with whom we can relate. Maddy, unlike her rival Ella, does not rely on the comforts of England. Maddy has grit on her side. As a reader, we cheer her on believing she will succeed where others failed. But not without obstacles in her path or family surprises. She fights for the choice to build a life without a husband who might limit or control her. But are her convictions sustained once meeting and getting to know the handsome Daniel Coulter? He is a reliable and dedicated man working the land to its potential. As the overseer of her one thousand acres of bushland, Daniel’s contribution and presence are substantial. Maddy is faced with new emotions and findings as she tries to succeed.
I would not be thorough with my review if I did not mention the Proverbs 24:27 reference at the start of the novel. For I believe it reveals Maddy’s moral upbringing and how her faith guides her conscience. Though she is not perfect, and as a human grapples with anger, honesty and hurt, her ‘kind heart’ eventually prevails in her decision making. We see her sacrifice her own happiness for others. The Christian cross and Bible appear in the story in gentle measures as firm signposts and symbols of her beliefs.
At all times we get a clear picture of who Maddy is, even when unexpected circumstances disrupt or confuse her. She is a smart woman whose quick thinking saves her during her bushranger encounters. She is not a typical woman of the 1830s (other characters have noted this, too) and does not live by the rules of the era. She knows what she wants, believes in hard work, does not care about the opinions of others and is determined to live her life as she sees fit. Including fulfilling the dream begun by her parents. And for that, she will do everything she can to make it happen—while still helping others along the way.
As for the pacing of the story, Paula never gives anything away too quickly. Little by little the plot unfurls while the tension thickens steadily. Like Maddy in her thoughts and actions, Paula holds her cards close to her chest. This stirs our curiosity and keeps the pages turning. There are numerous road blocks to the truth with tangled threads to sort and choking vines to cull. Then there is Maddy’s desire to remain single and her attraction battle with Daniel. If given a chance, what or who will she choose?
Daughter of the Hunter Valley not only shows us the working life of the colony but its leisure interests, too. Just as in Jane Austen’s world, where the dance is an important social activity, we also see its purpose here in the colony. A Ball becomes an essential community event. This enjoyable gathering of all inhabitants offers a welcomed relief from a tough land that suffers with droughts and floods. Of course, it can be a beehive for gossip, as Maddy learns, where unsolicited opinions and wagging tongues run wild: including talk of her independence and untraditional ways.
This novel, that was ten years in the making, shows its heart boldly. It is a well-crafted, compelling page turner with depth, desire and determination. I loved it from start to finish and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys an exciting journey with convincing characters through colonial Australia. 5 Stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Netgalley and publisher Harlequin Australia for an ARC to review.
Madeleine Barker-Trent leaves the comforts of England in 1831 and sails for six months across the world to join her father in the Hunter Valley. Their joyful reunion quickly evaporates. Unexpected heartbreak and disappointment meet her almost as soon as she arrives in the colony. Amid the severe dryness and heat of December, confusion floods her mind when she surveys the truth and progress of her father’s dream. Letters received at home show a different reality of his success. She is faced with the task of making a difficult decision. Against all odds, and with determination, she aims to fulfil the dream her parents started.
Due to Paula’s meticulous research and strong world-building skills, I was swept into the centre of Australia’s early colonial days. She paints a vivid picture of a harsh unforgiving land of extremes with severe droughts and floods. Those of us who live in this country today with all the conveniences of the modern age, would find it challenging to be transported back to the 1830s when immigrants (including the convicts) tried desperately to carve out a sane existence. This taxing life broke many and sent numerous back to England.
We are not only supplied with an authentic setting but also a carefully crafted, believable cast with whom we can relate. Maddy, unlike her rival Ella, does not rely on the comforts of England. Maddy has grit on her side. As a reader, we cheer her on believing she will succeed where others failed. But not without obstacles in her path or family surprises. She fights for the choice to build a life without a husband who might limit or control her. But are her convictions sustained once meeting and getting to know the handsome Daniel Coulter? He is a reliable and dedicated man working the land to its potential. As the overseer of her one thousand acres of bushland, Daniel’s contribution and presence are substantial. Maddy is faced with new emotions and findings as she tries to succeed.
I would not be thorough with my review if I did not mention the Proverbs 24:27 reference at the start of the novel. For I believe it reveals Maddy’s moral upbringing and how her faith guides her conscience. Though she is not perfect, and as a human grapples with anger, honesty and hurt, her ‘kind heart’ eventually prevails in her decision making. We see her sacrifice her own happiness for others. The Christian cross and Bible appear in the story in gentle measures as firm signposts and symbols of her beliefs.
At all times we get a clear picture of who Maddy is, even when unexpected circumstances disrupt or confuse her. She is a smart woman whose quick thinking saves her during her bushranger encounters. She is not a typical woman of the 1830s (other characters have noted this, too) and does not live by the rules of the era. She knows what she wants, believes in hard work, does not care about the opinions of others and is determined to live her life as she sees fit. Including fulfilling the dream begun by her parents. And for that, she will do everything she can to make it happen—while still helping others along the way.
As for the pacing of the story, Paula never gives anything away too quickly. Little by little the plot unfurls while the tension thickens steadily. Like Maddy in her thoughts and actions, Paula holds her cards close to her chest. This stirs our curiosity and keeps the pages turning. There are numerous road blocks to the truth with tangled threads to sort and choking vines to cull. Then there is Maddy’s desire to remain single and her attraction battle with Daniel. If given a chance, what or who will she choose?
Daughter of the Hunter Valley not only shows us the working life of the colony but its leisure interests, too. Just as in Jane Austen’s world, where the dance is an important social activity, we also see its purpose here in the colony. A Ball becomes an essential community event. This enjoyable gathering of all inhabitants offers a welcomed relief from a tough land that suffers with droughts and floods. Of course, it can be a beehive for gossip, as Maddy learns, where unsolicited opinions and wagging tongues run wild: including talk of her independence and untraditional ways.
This novel, that was ten years in the making, shows its heart boldly. It is a well-crafted, compelling page turner with depth, desire and determination. I loved it from start to finish and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys an exciting journey with convincing characters through colonial Australia. 5 Stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Netgalley and publisher Harlequin Australia for an ARC to review.
September 29, 2021
4.5*
Paula’s debut novel is a wonderful colonial adventure set in the Hunter Valley in 1831. Following the death of her mother in England, Maddy travels to NSW to find her father and comes to the realisation that the promises from his letters had been full of lies. When he then also dies, she decides to stay on and work the property fulfilling her parents’ dreams.
‘What had started as their dream had become a millstone around Maddy’s neck, and the weight of it was drowning her.’
Being a woman of this era, Maddy is confronted with the harsh Australian outback: convicts for labourers, destructive weather patterns and even bushrangers. The story tells how she works hard to make a life for herself in this new, yet wild land. It depicts a strong female lead who shows great strength, bravery and determination to persevere despite the many obstacles. There is also a romantic element to this tale but for me, this was not the strongest or most engaging element.
‘I am convinced you have my best interests at heart, but I was not raised to follow the accepted conventions.’
What I loved about this story was the way Paula captured the feel for what life would have been like for colonial Australians. I appreciated her writing ability to accurately portray descriptions of both the landscape and how dangerous the elements could be. Paula has obviously done her research as I felt swept away to a time and place from almost two hundred years ago. Whether it be the extremes of weather, the remote living or the lurking dangers both natural and man made.
‘It’s a tough land. It’s harder, dryer, and hotter than anything we’re used to. I don’t know if your pa would have made it work, but there’s steel in your spine that will keep you trying long after you could have, perhaps should have, given up. And that’s the kind of person this country needs.’
For a trip to the past when life on the land was often harsh and unforgiving, Paula provides us with a heroine to cheer for. A sensational debut novel and I look forward to more stories from Paula.
‘Maddy was seated in a kitchen with a convict and a hired overseer, about to share a pot of tea. Her life was reduced to two thousand acres in a colony on the far side of the world and she’d never been happier.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Paula’s debut novel is a wonderful colonial adventure set in the Hunter Valley in 1831. Following the death of her mother in England, Maddy travels to NSW to find her father and comes to the realisation that the promises from his letters had been full of lies. When he then also dies, she decides to stay on and work the property fulfilling her parents’ dreams.
‘What had started as their dream had become a millstone around Maddy’s neck, and the weight of it was drowning her.’
Being a woman of this era, Maddy is confronted with the harsh Australian outback: convicts for labourers, destructive weather patterns and even bushrangers. The story tells how she works hard to make a life for herself in this new, yet wild land. It depicts a strong female lead who shows great strength, bravery and determination to persevere despite the many obstacles. There is also a romantic element to this tale but for me, this was not the strongest or most engaging element.
‘I am convinced you have my best interests at heart, but I was not raised to follow the accepted conventions.’
What I loved about this story was the way Paula captured the feel for what life would have been like for colonial Australians. I appreciated her writing ability to accurately portray descriptions of both the landscape and how dangerous the elements could be. Paula has obviously done her research as I felt swept away to a time and place from almost two hundred years ago. Whether it be the extremes of weather, the remote living or the lurking dangers both natural and man made.
‘It’s a tough land. It’s harder, dryer, and hotter than anything we’re used to. I don’t know if your pa would have made it work, but there’s steel in your spine that will keep you trying long after you could have, perhaps should have, given up. And that’s the kind of person this country needs.’
For a trip to the past when life on the land was often harsh and unforgiving, Paula provides us with a heroine to cheer for. A sensational debut novel and I look forward to more stories from Paula.
‘Maddy was seated in a kitchen with a convict and a hired overseer, about to share a pot of tea. Her life was reduced to two thousand acres in a colony on the far side of the world and she’d never been happier.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
April 8, 2022
I have read many historical fiction books in the past with many being pretty full-on and some even a bit depressing. This one was a nice change full of hope and determination (even though there was some hardships and sadness). Based in The Hunter Valley in the early 1830's it tells the story of a young girl who has lost her mother and moves from England to Australia.
The story tells of her life, against many odds, trying to establish a property, farm and build a house in this new and sometimes hostile land. I love that she is a strong woman but does show her weaknesses. This also tells the story of class, and how people treated those they believed were lower than themselves but how others were kinder even when the gossip ran wild!
It is a book that is easy to read but still has plenty of substance and a few twists and turns. It pulls you in and takes you on a journey of a time long ago, a life that is hard but beautiful. It is a great book and an interesting and engaging read.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley
Paula J. Beavan
Harlequin Australia
The story tells of her life, against many odds, trying to establish a property, farm and build a house in this new and sometimes hostile land. I love that she is a strong woman but does show her weaknesses. This also tells the story of class, and how people treated those they believed were lower than themselves but how others were kinder even when the gossip ran wild!
It is a book that is easy to read but still has plenty of substance and a few twists and turns. It pulls you in and takes you on a journey of a time long ago, a life that is hard but beautiful. It is a great book and an interesting and engaging read.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley
Paula J. Beavan
Harlequin Australia
December 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this.
Maddy is a young woman who has been waiting with her unwell mother in England while her father builds a farm and home in New South Wales. Her mother’s frail health means she doesn’t survive to make the trip and then no one is waiting for her so Maddy must make the journey alone to the Hunter River, where her father is. Once there, she finds not a beautiful stone house like his letters promised, but a shack. And he hasn’t received her letters so he neither knew she was coming, nor does he know about her mother. And shortly after her arrival, Maddy finds herself an orphan.
She becomes determined to stay and turn the property into her father’s dream for it, to see it through to the end, which takes bravery and hard work. The conditions are very basic, although they have been blessed with good workers, mostly convicts assigned by the government that landowners can apply for. She also has overseer Daniel Coulter, a good worker and good man, who Maddy finds herself drawn to.
Not everyone in the area is as willing as Maddy to work hard and she finds herself the subject of gossip, for her desire to stay and turn the property into something wonderful and prosperous. She’s also a very eligible woman now and her appearance in the valley means that for the mothers with unmarried daughters, she is competition. Despite being viewed this way by some, Maddy does make some friends and people she can trust to go to for advice regarding things on the property and issues with her workers when they arise.
I felt like the author did a really wonderful job showcasing what it would be like for a young woman to come from England to somewhere that has a completely different climate. Maddy arrives in summer and each chapter lists the date as well as the weather. When Maddy arrives she has to acclimatise to the heat, the humidity and the often powerful summer storms. It’s very different to what she’d be used to and the living conditions probably don’t help. Her determination however, is very high and not the remoteness, nor the weather nor the day-to-day hard work can deter her. There are multiple dangers that she must watch out for, both as a woman considered to be vulnerable (the area has bushrangers) and as someone who is not particularly familiar with the surroundings and the locals (like snakes). Maddy finds a hard worker when she visits the Parramatta Women’s Factory to secure a companion maid to both be a help on the farm and also to avoid the impropriety of being alone on the property with only the male workers, many of whom are technically convicted criminals. Maddy chooses well in Jane who proves to be more than up to the task and takes to most things with relish.
Maddy faces many challenges, including the reluctant guardianship of a young child, whose connection to her she finds that she doesn’t want to investigate too closely. But despite people giving her advice to move the child on, she finds that she cannot and she’s determined to do what she believes to be the right thing, no matter how much it sets local tongues wagging. Maddy really doesn’t ever allow that to impact on her decisions which I found very admirable about her, at a time when there would’ve probably been quite a lot of pressure for women to look and act a certain way and definitely there’d be things that a lady would just never do and the differences between Maddy and some of the other nearby women are highlighted during the planning of a social event, when it’s quite clear that there are two very different agendas.
My only real issue with this book is that I felt it actually ended a bit abruptly. There’s one thing that you know needs to be resolved for the book to finish and when it does, it’s basically on the last page and I really felt like the book could’ve done with just a little more time to deal with this and make it so that it didn’t feel quite so rushed. It’s quite a small thing but I felt like there’d been some build up and then some conflict and it would’ve flowed a little better if there’d been just a little more time spent on resolving it and showing the way forward for Maddy. But apart from that which really is a very small quibble, I thought this was an enjoyable read with great characters and a setting that I haven’t read too much in stories set during this time.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Maddy is a young woman who has been waiting with her unwell mother in England while her father builds a farm and home in New South Wales. Her mother’s frail health means she doesn’t survive to make the trip and then no one is waiting for her so Maddy must make the journey alone to the Hunter River, where her father is. Once there, she finds not a beautiful stone house like his letters promised, but a shack. And he hasn’t received her letters so he neither knew she was coming, nor does he know about her mother. And shortly after her arrival, Maddy finds herself an orphan.
She becomes determined to stay and turn the property into her father’s dream for it, to see it through to the end, which takes bravery and hard work. The conditions are very basic, although they have been blessed with good workers, mostly convicts assigned by the government that landowners can apply for. She also has overseer Daniel Coulter, a good worker and good man, who Maddy finds herself drawn to.
Not everyone in the area is as willing as Maddy to work hard and she finds herself the subject of gossip, for her desire to stay and turn the property into something wonderful and prosperous. She’s also a very eligible woman now and her appearance in the valley means that for the mothers with unmarried daughters, she is competition. Despite being viewed this way by some, Maddy does make some friends and people she can trust to go to for advice regarding things on the property and issues with her workers when they arise.
I felt like the author did a really wonderful job showcasing what it would be like for a young woman to come from England to somewhere that has a completely different climate. Maddy arrives in summer and each chapter lists the date as well as the weather. When Maddy arrives she has to acclimatise to the heat, the humidity and the often powerful summer storms. It’s very different to what she’d be used to and the living conditions probably don’t help. Her determination however, is very high and not the remoteness, nor the weather nor the day-to-day hard work can deter her. There are multiple dangers that she must watch out for, both as a woman considered to be vulnerable (the area has bushrangers) and as someone who is not particularly familiar with the surroundings and the locals (like snakes). Maddy finds a hard worker when she visits the Parramatta Women’s Factory to secure a companion maid to both be a help on the farm and also to avoid the impropriety of being alone on the property with only the male workers, many of whom are technically convicted criminals. Maddy chooses well in Jane who proves to be more than up to the task and takes to most things with relish.
Maddy faces many challenges, including the reluctant guardianship of a young child, whose connection to her she finds that she doesn’t want to investigate too closely. But despite people giving her advice to move the child on, she finds that she cannot and she’s determined to do what she believes to be the right thing, no matter how much it sets local tongues wagging. Maddy really doesn’t ever allow that to impact on her decisions which I found very admirable about her, at a time when there would’ve probably been quite a lot of pressure for women to look and act a certain way and definitely there’d be things that a lady would just never do and the differences between Maddy and some of the other nearby women are highlighted during the planning of a social event, when it’s quite clear that there are two very different agendas.
My only real issue with this book is that I felt it actually ended a bit abruptly. There’s one thing that you know needs to be resolved for the book to finish and when it does, it’s basically on the last page and I really felt like the book could’ve done with just a little more time to deal with this and make it so that it didn’t feel quite so rushed. It’s quite a small thing but I felt like there’d been some build up and then some conflict and it would’ve flowed a little better if there’d been just a little more time spent on resolving it and showing the way forward for Maddy. But apart from that which really is a very small quibble, I thought this was an enjoyable read with great characters and a setting that I haven’t read too much in stories set during this time.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
October 2, 2021
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
A new voice has arrived on the historical fiction scene and a grand entrance she has made.
1831 and Madeleine Barker-Trent arrives in the Hunter Valley joining her father after the passing of her mother.
Her father had promised many great things and a grandiose home but in reality it’s far from luxurious and Maddy is let down.
The next day after a shocking accident Maddy becomes the sole owner of everything.
Maddy must face the wild and dangerous land, town gossip, prove herself and with sheer persistence continue to build the family dream.
Daniel Coulter is the property foreman and stays on to help Maddy achieve her aspiration and keep an eye on the workers.
When a festering secret starts to arise and a unexpected visitor enters, Maddy must stand tall and find courage to survive it all.
A colonial adventure, a headstrong driven heroine, the harsh cruel country and the ruthless and danger of the era are all given top billing in this well presented story of life on the land.
A vivid, visual and descriptive atmosphere gives the reader a complete mental picture of time, place and period in history.
A slow burn romance subtlety woven throughout, a cast of distinctive characters and a plot that will continue to unfold as the pages tick over.
Paula will take you on a astonishing journey of one woman’s determination and give you a fascinating and intriguing history lesson at the same time.
A wonderful debut and an amazing story that will standout in the book world.
A new voice has arrived on the historical fiction scene and a grand entrance she has made.
1831 and Madeleine Barker-Trent arrives in the Hunter Valley joining her father after the passing of her mother.
Her father had promised many great things and a grandiose home but in reality it’s far from luxurious and Maddy is let down.
The next day after a shocking accident Maddy becomes the sole owner of everything.
Maddy must face the wild and dangerous land, town gossip, prove herself and with sheer persistence continue to build the family dream.
Daniel Coulter is the property foreman and stays on to help Maddy achieve her aspiration and keep an eye on the workers.
When a festering secret starts to arise and a unexpected visitor enters, Maddy must stand tall and find courage to survive it all.
A colonial adventure, a headstrong driven heroine, the harsh cruel country and the ruthless and danger of the era are all given top billing in this well presented story of life on the land.
A vivid, visual and descriptive atmosphere gives the reader a complete mental picture of time, place and period in history.
A slow burn romance subtlety woven throughout, a cast of distinctive characters and a plot that will continue to unfold as the pages tick over.
Paula will take you on a astonishing journey of one woman’s determination and give you a fascinating and intriguing history lesson at the same time.
A wonderful debut and an amazing story that will standout in the book world.
October 16, 2021
What a fascinating debut novel Daughter of the Hunter Valley has been. Meticulously researched this book made me feel as though I were sitting on rock watching life unfold nearly 200 years ago in the Hunter region of NSW. While there is a romantic thread that carries through the story, it is Maddy’s story as a pioneer woman in a place that was very different to the Wiltshire area of England where she grew up that captured my imagination. Author Paula J Beavan has clearly studied the history of the area in great detail because she brings to life the day to day world of farmers, landed gentry and their convict labourers in a realistic and believable story. I admired Maddy for her strength of character and her perseverance in the face of hardship and adversity. Her story is not only entertaining but also informative and intriguing.
October 5, 2021
Imagine it is 1831, New South Wales and you have just arrived after a long sea voyage, by yourself. Your mother has just died, and you are travelling to settle in this new, foreign country to live with your father. This is what happened to the heroine of this satisfying debut historical fiction novel by Paula J Beavan.
Madeleine (Maddy) Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her letter to her father telling of his wife’s death has not arrived and the much-vaunted house does not exist. Within a day, Maddy becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, no knowledge of farming or Australian conditions and only three convicts and overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
The trials and tribulations that beset Maddy range from the mundane (making soap), to man management (using convicts), natural disaster (it is the Hunter River!), and violence (specific to that time). Maddy is determined not to be beaten and to fulfil her parents’ vision of a new life in the colony.
There is quite a cast of characters, and it is hard to decide at first who is important to the story. The assigned convicts, an orphaned child, the overseer, visitors from England - they are one thing, but the minefield of ‘society’ is quite another. The petty nature of manners, the evilness of gossip is well depicted. There is also a real feeling of solidarity in relationships built on the shared knowledge of the difficulty of surviving and thriving in this new settlement.
Depiction of the Australian flora and fauna is authentic and feels real. Maddy enjoys the smell of eucalyptus and the bush. She is intrigued by the birdlife, and this is well described with love and obvious affection by the author. Horses feature in a big way and emphasise the limitations of farming and travel in those days without the combustion engine.
The story reads like the fleshing out of a diary or a journal. Weather, the daily routine, meals, agriculture, animal husbandry - all are described with care. The historical detail feels authentic, and it is obvious the author has done her research well.
This book is a wonderful piece of historical fiction and Maddy is an inspirational heroine with a well-drawn and interesting cast of supporting actors.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsAustralia for the ARC
Madeleine (Maddy) Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her letter to her father telling of his wife’s death has not arrived and the much-vaunted house does not exist. Within a day, Maddy becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, no knowledge of farming or Australian conditions and only three convicts and overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
The trials and tribulations that beset Maddy range from the mundane (making soap), to man management (using convicts), natural disaster (it is the Hunter River!), and violence (specific to that time). Maddy is determined not to be beaten and to fulfil her parents’ vision of a new life in the colony.
There is quite a cast of characters, and it is hard to decide at first who is important to the story. The assigned convicts, an orphaned child, the overseer, visitors from England - they are one thing, but the minefield of ‘society’ is quite another. The petty nature of manners, the evilness of gossip is well depicted. There is also a real feeling of solidarity in relationships built on the shared knowledge of the difficulty of surviving and thriving in this new settlement.
Depiction of the Australian flora and fauna is authentic and feels real. Maddy enjoys the smell of eucalyptus and the bush. She is intrigued by the birdlife, and this is well described with love and obvious affection by the author. Horses feature in a big way and emphasise the limitations of farming and travel in those days without the combustion engine.
The story reads like the fleshing out of a diary or a journal. Weather, the daily routine, meals, agriculture, animal husbandry - all are described with care. The historical detail feels authentic, and it is obvious the author has done her research well.
This book is a wonderful piece of historical fiction and Maddy is an inspirational heroine with a well-drawn and interesting cast of supporting actors.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsAustralia for the ARC
October 11, 2021
Daughter of the Hunter Valley - Paula J Beavan
Thank you @harlequinaus
and @paulajbeavan
for #gifting me a copy of Daughter of the Hunter Valley. The novel is an atmospheric historical fiction novel, set in 1813 in the Hunter Valley, NSW. Madeline Barker-Trent arrives in Australia expecting to find comfort and a new home with her father, after losing her mother. Madeline's arrival and the days following offer more tragedy and despair.
Madeline is a strong, courageous and determined young woman who does not care for what society thinks of her, rather she would prefer to continue her parents' dream in creating a life in Australia. As the new owner of the property, Maddy must learn about the workings of the land and everyday bushland living. Fortunately, she has Daniel Coulter, her father's overseer and convicts sent to the country for petty crimes.
The story's setting was stunning. I pictured myself standing where Daniel and Maddy did each morning to discuss the daily running of the property. The untouched land in comparison to the Hunter Valley these days, is still beautiful, yet quite different. The Hunter Valley is now known for its wine and food, having numerous vineyards and restaurants. In contrast, the Hunter Valley of 1813 has a simply desolate, yet peaceful atmosphere. The research that went into creating this setting is evident. Paula J Beavan writes of a place close to her heart and her family's.
This is a sweeping historical romance novel with a strong female protagonist who learns how to trust. I will happily read Paula J Beavan's future novels.
Www.instagram.com/chapter_ichi
Thank you @harlequinaus
and @paulajbeavan
for #gifting me a copy of Daughter of the Hunter Valley. The novel is an atmospheric historical fiction novel, set in 1813 in the Hunter Valley, NSW. Madeline Barker-Trent arrives in Australia expecting to find comfort and a new home with her father, after losing her mother. Madeline's arrival and the days following offer more tragedy and despair.
Madeline is a strong, courageous and determined young woman who does not care for what society thinks of her, rather she would prefer to continue her parents' dream in creating a life in Australia. As the new owner of the property, Maddy must learn about the workings of the land and everyday bushland living. Fortunately, she has Daniel Coulter, her father's overseer and convicts sent to the country for petty crimes.
The story's setting was stunning. I pictured myself standing where Daniel and Maddy did each morning to discuss the daily running of the property. The untouched land in comparison to the Hunter Valley these days, is still beautiful, yet quite different. The Hunter Valley is now known for its wine and food, having numerous vineyards and restaurants. In contrast, the Hunter Valley of 1813 has a simply desolate, yet peaceful atmosphere. The research that went into creating this setting is evident. Paula J Beavan writes of a place close to her heart and her family's.
This is a sweeping historical romance novel with a strong female protagonist who learns how to trust. I will happily read Paula J Beavan's future novels.
Www.instagram.com/chapter_ichi
September 30, 2021
What an absolute delight to read Daughter of the Hunter Valley by debut author Paula J Beavan.
Having left England after the death of her mother, Maddie arrives in the NSW Hunter Valley in 1831 and is confronted with the sudden death of her father. A young but determined woman she decides to stay and build her parent’s dream home and property. It’s a tough land and environment especially for a woman but she is strong and independent.
A wonderful journey with some very tense and dramatic moments with hostile women, unpredictable convicts, roaming bushrangers and romantic challenges!
I loved the location as I lived in that area and the dramatic landscape with droughts and then heavy rainfall with flooding rivers is so realistic.
An enjoyable historical read.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Harlequin Australia for a copy to read and review.
Having left England after the death of her mother, Maddie arrives in the NSW Hunter Valley in 1831 and is confronted with the sudden death of her father. A young but determined woman she decides to stay and build her parent’s dream home and property. It’s a tough land and environment especially for a woman but she is strong and independent.
A wonderful journey with some very tense and dramatic moments with hostile women, unpredictable convicts, roaming bushrangers and romantic challenges!
I loved the location as I lived in that area and the dramatic landscape with droughts and then heavy rainfall with flooding rivers is so realistic.
An enjoyable historical read.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Harlequin Australia for a copy to read and review.
September 17, 2024
I absolutely loved this book and I am really looking forward to reading Paula’s second book.
October 9, 2021
Maddy has everything Australian’s value, she’s got guts, she’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, she believes everyone deserves a fair go and she’s knows what she likes.
I fell in love with the words in this book as much as the story. They didn’t just evoke pictures in my mind, they evoked the sensation of touch as well.
I fell in love with the words in this book as much as the story. They didn’t just evoke pictures in my mind, they evoked the sensation of touch as well.
November 27, 2021
I read this book because Paula and her family were neighbours of my brother when he was growing up. I must admit to having low expectations so the novel was a very pleasant surprise. Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and the Hunter setting made it all the more enjoyable. Great characters and the descriptions of the bush made you feel like you lived there.
Congratulations on your debut novel Paula and I am hoping your next novel is in the pipeline.
Congratulations on your debut novel Paula and I am hoping your next novel is in the pipeline.
August 31, 2021
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Madeleine has lost her mother and braved the seas to come to the hot, untamed Hunter Valley. Within a day of her arrival, she loses her father - and discovers that he has omitted many things in his letters home. There is no grand house. There is backbreaking work to be done, especially if she wants to hold onto her father's land and his dream. But help can come from unexpected places - and so can love.
A stunning debut novel - and I certainly hope it isn't Beavan's last. I stayed up way too late just to finish this, because I enjoyed the book so much (though now I wish I had savoured it a bit!). A lot of research went into this and it shows. The writing itself is superb and flows so well, which is part of the reason I couldn't put it down. I will admit that I was easily enthralled by the setting because my own ancestors arrived near the area at practically the same time as Madeleine!
Madeleine has lost her mother and braved the seas to come to the hot, untamed Hunter Valley. Within a day of her arrival, she loses her father - and discovers that he has omitted many things in his letters home. There is no grand house. There is backbreaking work to be done, especially if she wants to hold onto her father's land and his dream. But help can come from unexpected places - and so can love.
A stunning debut novel - and I certainly hope it isn't Beavan's last. I stayed up way too late just to finish this, because I enjoyed the book so much (though now I wish I had savoured it a bit!). A lot of research went into this and it shows. The writing itself is superb and flows so well, which is part of the reason I couldn't put it down. I will admit that I was easily enthralled by the setting because my own ancestors arrived near the area at practically the same time as Madeleine!
December 24, 2021
Loved it. First time I have read a book by Paula J Beavan and loved the whole storyline. Kept me interested the whole way and that is what I expect from a book. Excellent.
November 4, 2021
Daughter of the Hunter Valley is Paula J. Beavan’s debut romance novel with a touch of historical themes. It is filled with loss, hardship, aspiration and determination.
England 1831, after the overwhelming loss of her mother Madeleine Barker-Trent decides to make the long journey across the sea to join her father in the Hunter Valley, NSW. She has not seen her Papa in six years and now must face him with the terrible news of his wife. He has been in Australia building a house and establishing a farm in the new colony for them to settle.
The very next day after Maddy’s arrival the unthinkable happens and her father drowns in the river. She now must decide if she will stay as sole owner of a thousand acres or return to England. With much deliberation she decides to stay and fulfill her father’s dream
Maddy has a long road ahead of her, the farm and house are not what she had envisioned from her father’s letters. Until the house is built, she settles into a hut with two convict women, she has help from assigned convict labourers, overseer Daniel Coulter to cultivate the land and her maid, Jane. Overtime Maddy establishes herself into the settler’s community, many have opinions of how she should be living her life, but she was determined to prove she was very capable running Shelby
.
I loved Maddy’s character, she developed from a lost only child to a woman that wasn’t afraid of hard work. She braved the harsh elements of the land with unpredictable heat, drought and floods, unknown wildlife and an attack from a bushranger. One cannot help but empathise with this beautiful young woman who wants nothing more than to break away from the strictures of feminine expectation. She is determined to live by her own terms, using her brains, intellect and faith rather than submitting to the expectations of society.
The supporting characters of convicts, Worranua people, bushrangers and an orphaned child are well balanced and thoroughly believable. Secrets, threats and romance will pull you into the story.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley is a character-driven drama at its heart, Paula J. Beavan’s writes in a smooth, flowing style, making this a captivating and easy-to-read book. It engages the reader from the first page to the last with its atmosphere and dialogue. The story incorporates Australia’s early colonial days that add an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. A lot of research went into this novel and it shows.
I highly recommend to anyone with a passion for historical fiction and those who enjoy stories about strong, resilient women.
Thank you, Beauty and Lace and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
England 1831, after the overwhelming loss of her mother Madeleine Barker-Trent decides to make the long journey across the sea to join her father in the Hunter Valley, NSW. She has not seen her Papa in six years and now must face him with the terrible news of his wife. He has been in Australia building a house and establishing a farm in the new colony for them to settle.
The very next day after Maddy’s arrival the unthinkable happens and her father drowns in the river. She now must decide if she will stay as sole owner of a thousand acres or return to England. With much deliberation she decides to stay and fulfill her father’s dream
Maddy has a long road ahead of her, the farm and house are not what she had envisioned from her father’s letters. Until the house is built, she settles into a hut with two convict women, she has help from assigned convict labourers, overseer Daniel Coulter to cultivate the land and her maid, Jane. Overtime Maddy establishes herself into the settler’s community, many have opinions of how she should be living her life, but she was determined to prove she was very capable running Shelby
.
I loved Maddy’s character, she developed from a lost only child to a woman that wasn’t afraid of hard work. She braved the harsh elements of the land with unpredictable heat, drought and floods, unknown wildlife and an attack from a bushranger. One cannot help but empathise with this beautiful young woman who wants nothing more than to break away from the strictures of feminine expectation. She is determined to live by her own terms, using her brains, intellect and faith rather than submitting to the expectations of society.
The supporting characters of convicts, Worranua people, bushrangers and an orphaned child are well balanced and thoroughly believable. Secrets, threats and romance will pull you into the story.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley is a character-driven drama at its heart, Paula J. Beavan’s writes in a smooth, flowing style, making this a captivating and easy-to-read book. It engages the reader from the first page to the last with its atmosphere and dialogue. The story incorporates Australia’s early colonial days that add an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. A lot of research went into this novel and it shows.
I highly recommend to anyone with a passion for historical fiction and those who enjoy stories about strong, resilient women.
Thank you, Beauty and Lace and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
October 5, 2021
Imagine it is 1831, New South Wales and you have just arrived after a long sea voyage, by yourself. Your mother has just died, and you are travelling to settle in this new, foreign country to live with your father. This is what happened to the heroine of this satisfying debut historical fiction novel by Paula J Beavan.
Madeleine (Maddy) Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her letter to her father telling of his wife’s death has not arrived and the much-vaunted house does not exist. Within a day, Maddy becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, no knowledge of farming or Australian conditions and only three convicts and overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
The trials and tribulations that beset Maddy range from the mundane (making soap), to man management (using convicts), natural disaster (it is the Hunter River!), and violence (specific to that time). Maddy is determined not to be beaten and to fulfil her parents’ vision of a new life in the colony.
There is quite a cast of characters, and it is hard to decide at first who is important to the story. The assigned convicts, an orphaned child, the overseer, visitors from England - they are one thing, but the minefield of ‘society’ is quite another. The petty nature of manners, the evilness of gossip is well depicted. There is also a real feeling of solidarity in relationships built on the shared knowledge of the difficulty of surviving and thriving in this new settlement.
Depiction of the Australian flora and fauna is authentic and feels real. Maddy enjoys the smell of eucalyptus and the bush. She is intrigued by the birdlife, and this is well described with love and obvious affection by the author. Horses feature in a big way and emphasise the limitations of farming and travel in those days without the combustion engine.
The story reads like the fleshing out of a diary or a journal. Weather, the daily routine, meals, agriculture, animal husbandry - all are described with care. The historical detail feels authentic, and it is obvious the author has done her research well.
This book is a wonderful piece of historical fiction and Maddy is an inspirational heroine with a well-drawn and interesting cast of supporting actors.
Madeleine (Maddy) Barker-Trent arrives in the newly colonised Hunter River to find her letter to her father telling of his wife’s death has not arrived and the much-vaunted house does not exist. Within a day, Maddy becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, no knowledge of farming or Australian conditions and only three convicts and overseer Daniel Coulter for company.
The trials and tribulations that beset Maddy range from the mundane (making soap), to man management (using convicts), natural disaster (it is the Hunter River!), and violence (specific to that time). Maddy is determined not to be beaten and to fulfil her parents’ vision of a new life in the colony.
There is quite a cast of characters, and it is hard to decide at first who is important to the story. The assigned convicts, an orphaned child, the overseer, visitors from England - they are one thing, but the minefield of ‘society’ is quite another. The petty nature of manners, the evilness of gossip is well depicted. There is also a real feeling of solidarity in relationships built on the shared knowledge of the difficulty of surviving and thriving in this new settlement.
Depiction of the Australian flora and fauna is authentic and feels real. Maddy enjoys the smell of eucalyptus and the bush. She is intrigued by the birdlife, and this is well described with love and obvious affection by the author. Horses feature in a big way and emphasise the limitations of farming and travel in those days without the combustion engine.
The story reads like the fleshing out of a diary or a journal. Weather, the daily routine, meals, agriculture, animal husbandry - all are described with care. The historical detail feels authentic, and it is obvious the author has done her research well.
This book is a wonderful piece of historical fiction and Maddy is an inspirational heroine with a well-drawn and interesting cast of supporting actors.
December 26, 2021
If you’re a fan of @darryfraser or @alison_stuart14 as I am, you will love this beautiful debut about a woman who succeeds against the odds in the challenging landscape of the NSW Hunter Valley in 1831.
The story follows Maddy Barker-Trent as she arrives in New South Wales from England to join her father who came to the Valley early to establish a homestead and farm for his family. Maddy brings the tragic news that her mother died before the voyage and soon after her arrival, Maddy’s father also dies in questionable circumstances leaving Maddy alone in a crude hut with a few convict workers and an overseer, the handsome Daniel Coulter. Instead of fleeing back to England, Maddy determines to make something of her father’s land, despite the threat of bushrangers, snakes, crippling weather and the sometimes snobbish attitudes of the landed gentry in the local community.
Beavan says the book is the result of a decade of researching, writing and re-writing a story she discovered when a distant relative began researching their family history.
And it shows. The careful historic details she melds into her dramatic story draws the reader in and helps you walk in the footsteps of the characters.
Historic Australian fiction is my absolute favourite genre and this book ticked all my boxes. I’m excited to see what this author does next!
The story follows Maddy Barker-Trent as she arrives in New South Wales from England to join her father who came to the Valley early to establish a homestead and farm for his family. Maddy brings the tragic news that her mother died before the voyage and soon after her arrival, Maddy’s father also dies in questionable circumstances leaving Maddy alone in a crude hut with a few convict workers and an overseer, the handsome Daniel Coulter. Instead of fleeing back to England, Maddy determines to make something of her father’s land, despite the threat of bushrangers, snakes, crippling weather and the sometimes snobbish attitudes of the landed gentry in the local community.
Beavan says the book is the result of a decade of researching, writing and re-writing a story she discovered when a distant relative began researching their family history.
And it shows. The careful historic details she melds into her dramatic story draws the reader in and helps you walk in the footsteps of the characters.
Historic Australian fiction is my absolute favourite genre and this book ticked all my boxes. I’m excited to see what this author does next!
November 14, 2021
So much hope for her future on the back of the death of her mother Madeline holds her breath reuniting with her father. But what she was met with was not the vision painted in his letters. No grand house, no developed farm, a shack and fields still being developed.
Unaware of the reasons his letters told such untruths, Madeline just longed to reunite with her dad. But tragedy was still on the cards. Her letter telling of her mother's death had not arrived, the news taken badly by her father, a tragic accident found Madeline alone in the Australian Hunter River in an undeveloped outback. Should she go back to England? Should she stay? Her grief still fresh, decisions required.
An inspiring story of fighting for dreams, working hard and fighting against expectations. Proving herself, finding her place, making friends in different places, falling in love and making Australia her now home. Madeline fights, battles and struggles some more.
I love the passion, the ability of Author Paula Beavan to transport me and evoke such feelings for Madeline and her cause. She describes the outback so well. It truely is empowering to women.
Thank you Beauty & Lace for my chance to read this touching tale
Unaware of the reasons his letters told such untruths, Madeline just longed to reunite with her dad. But tragedy was still on the cards. Her letter telling of her mother's death had not arrived, the news taken badly by her father, a tragic accident found Madeline alone in the Australian Hunter River in an undeveloped outback. Should she go back to England? Should she stay? Her grief still fresh, decisions required.
An inspiring story of fighting for dreams, working hard and fighting against expectations. Proving herself, finding her place, making friends in different places, falling in love and making Australia her now home. Madeline fights, battles and struggles some more.
I love the passion, the ability of Author Paula Beavan to transport me and evoke such feelings for Madeline and her cause. She describes the outback so well. It truely is empowering to women.
Thank you Beauty & Lace for my chance to read this touching tale
September 27, 2021
In 1831, Madeleine Barker-Trent journeys to Australia after her mother’s death, to seek out the father she has not seen for several years. She arrives to find that the life that she believed her father to have, from his letters to her, is not what she thought. A day later, her father tragically dies, and she finds herself the owner of Shelby. The thousand acre property comes with three convicts and the handsome overseer Daniel Coulter. Determined to fulfil her family's aspirations, Maddy refuses to return to England and decides to make a life for herself in the Australian wilderness. Soon Maddy must face violence, danger as well as loneliness.
This is a vividly described story of a woman facing the challenges of the harsh Australian countryside. The perseverance shown by Maddy makes for a great read and even more so with the detail given to the struggles faced by her. The writing flows easily and I found myself completely enthralled from the start.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This is a vividly described story of a woman facing the challenges of the harsh Australian countryside. The perseverance shown by Maddy makes for a great read and even more so with the detail given to the struggles faced by her. The writing flows easily and I found myself completely enthralled from the start.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2021
https://denisenewtonwrites.com/?p=3156
Daughter of the Hunter Valley
Paula J. Beavan
The strength of the novel is in its finely observed portrayal of early colonial life away from the Sydney township; the new environment in which the settlers found themselves, and the hardships they faced. I could picture my own ancestors in similar circumstances in similar locations. Knowing that they, too, had dispossessed Worranua in order to create this new life is uncomfortable, but it is part of my personal history and the history of this country. There are, no doubt, echoes of Maddy’s story in the lives of many of those who came as colonisers to this country.
Daughter of the Hunter Valley
Paula J. Beavan
The strength of the novel is in its finely observed portrayal of early colonial life away from the Sydney township; the new environment in which the settlers found themselves, and the hardships they faced. I could picture my own ancestors in similar circumstances in similar locations. Knowing that they, too, had dispossessed Worranua in order to create this new life is uncomfortable, but it is part of my personal history and the history of this country. There are, no doubt, echoes of Maddy’s story in the lives of many of those who came as colonisers to this country.
August 19, 2024
The reviews here are startling, dedicated friends of the author?
I’m unfortunately giving this a 2.5 stars. I’m quite surprised this book got published. The writing was dry, the characters empty and the plot dull. I had to skim read the book to get to the end.
The protagonist was a simpering loser. The love story was agonisingly basic. I really wanted to like this novel, eager to compare the imagery of my current home in the Hunter Valley. I was left wanting.
The writer neglected any complex sense of place or scenery. The story could’ve been based anywhere it was so generic. It was evident little research had been dedicated to the geography, a lost opportunity to drop more place names.
In a more optimistic light, this book reinforced to me that almost anyone can write a book.
I’m unfortunately giving this a 2.5 stars. I’m quite surprised this book got published. The writing was dry, the characters empty and the plot dull. I had to skim read the book to get to the end.
The protagonist was a simpering loser. The love story was agonisingly basic. I really wanted to like this novel, eager to compare the imagery of my current home in the Hunter Valley. I was left wanting.
The writer neglected any complex sense of place or scenery. The story could’ve been based anywhere it was so generic. It was evident little research had been dedicated to the geography, a lost opportunity to drop more place names.
In a more optimistic light, this book reinforced to me that almost anyone can write a book.
January 9, 2022
This is a highly enjoyable novel set in The Hunter Valley in 1832. Beaven has used her knowledge of the area and of historical places to write an very readable story about the struggles of a young woman arriving fresh from England to find the life she anticipated shattered. Daunted but not broken she sets about building a new life for herself. Anyone who enjoys Australia historical romances will not be disappointed with this story.
September 23, 2021
Paula J. Beavan’s debut novel is a delightful coming-of-age story set in the Hunter Valley. Maddy arrives in NSW in 1831, following the death of her mother back home in England, to find that her father’s letters had been full of lies. When he then also dies, she decides to stay on the property and fulfil her parents’ dreams. But she is a woman, the Australian outback is harsh, there are convicts, weather and highwaymen. And what will happen when she falls in love?
I really enjoyed this historical novel. A few loose ends and leftover questions but I feel the lack of some resolutions lends credibility to the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this historical novel. A few loose ends and leftover questions but I feel the lack of some resolutions lends credibility to the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 24, 2021
Mini Book Review: After Madeline's Mother death in England she sets off to join her Father in the newly colonised Hunters Valley in Australian Country. A day later she endures yet another loss, Her Father. She becomes the sole owner of a thousand acres of bushland, 3 convicts, secrets, a parentless boy and the most handsome overseer.
Reading this novel made me feel like I was in the Australian Country. I really enjoyed descriptions of the bushland that surrounded Maddy. The standout of the novel is Maddy's sheer determination. I often smiled in recognition of her defiance towards social norms of society. I gained sense of her strength and courage.
A great read.
Reading this novel made me feel like I was in the Australian Country. I really enjoyed descriptions of the bushland that surrounded Maddy. The standout of the novel is Maddy's sheer determination. I often smiled in recognition of her defiance towards social norms of society. I gained sense of her strength and courage.
A great read.
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