THE NATURALIST'S DAUGHTER
world literature I australia I historical romance i women's fiction I mystery & detective I 20th century
Two fearless women—living a century apart–find themselves entangled in the mystery surrounding the biggest scientific controversy of the nineteenth century.
1808 Agnes Banks, NSW
Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rose must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers will forever alter the course of scientific history.
1908 Sydney, NSW
Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer, seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book. Determined to uncover the book's true origin, Tamsin agrees to join forces with him.
The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery of the book's authorship becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries emerge from the past with far-reaching consequences in this riveting tale of courage and discovery.
“A breathtaking examination of two lesser-known women in science, Tea Cooper’s The Naturalist’s Daughter is a stunning entry on the roster of Australian historical fiction. With deftly crafted prose and a compelling cast of characters, this is a must-read for any fans of Marie Benedict or Tracy Enerson Wood. A true gem.”
—Aimie K. Runyan, bestselling author of Mademoiselle Eiffel and The Memory of Lavender and Sage
"I have read a few of MS Cooper’s books and loved them but I have to say that this is just the best so far what an amazing story set across a century here in Australia and England, the characters are strong and are alive there is a mystery that crosses the century that was amazing as it was unravelled and the two woman are fabulous they showed such courage, I had a very early morning as I finished this one."
—Goodreads review
"I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel. I loved the dual timelines, and couldn't wait to see how they tied together. I learnt a lot about the platypus and always enjoy learning more about Australia back in the day. I highly recommend this novel."
—Goodreads review
TEA COOPER
Tea Cooper is an established Australian author of historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist, and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling. She is the winner of two Daphne du Maurier Awards and the bestselling author of several novels, including The Horse Thief, The Cedar Cutter, The Currency Lass, and The Naturalist’s Daughter.
Connect with Tea:
Website: teacooperauthor.com
Facebook: @TeaCooper
Instagram: @tea_cooper
Pinterest: @teacooperauthor
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