Books matching: female convicts
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- #1
Save:A vivid, well-researched slice of forgotten history - sometimes a slow burn, but eye-opening and memorable for anyone interested in women’s roles in the making of Australia.
'The Floating Brothel' by Sian Rees is a non-fiction history book that vividly recounts the journey of female convicts aboard the Lady Julian as they are transported to Australia in the 18th century. The book delves into the women's background, crimes, the harsh conditions of the voyage, the romances and struggles they faced, and their eventual settlement in the new British colony of New South Wales. Rees skillfully combines historical records to create a compelling narrative that brings to life the everyday experiences of these women during this tumultuous period.
The book offers a detailed insight into the lives of the female convicts, the challenges they encountered, and the resilience they displayed in the face of adversity. Through engaging storytelling, Rees explores various themes such as justice, morality, colonization, and the treatment of women, weaving together a fascinating tale that sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of Australian British history.
2001•236 pages - #2
Save:A powerful, atmospheric historical romance that balances gritty realism with a moving love story - perfect for readers who crave depth, intensity, and a fresh setting.
Night in Eden by Candice Proctor follows the story of Bryony Wentworth, a young widowed convict woman transported to Australia in the early 19th century. Assigned to care for Captain Hayden St. John's newborn son, Bryony and Hayden navigate a slow burn romance amidst the harsh realities of life in the Australian frontier. The book delves into the struggles of women prisoners, the treatment of convicts, and the challenges faced by Bryony and Hayden as they develop a deep connection in a land far from home.
Proctor's writing style vividly portrays the historical setting of early Australia, capturing the essence of the Regency period and the struggles faced by the characters. The plot unfolds with a mix of suspense, passion, and intense emotions, drawing readers into a story of love, resilience, and survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment.
The howling spring storm was quickly churning the unpaved prison yard into a treacherous expanse of slick yellow mud. Rain pounded on the shingled roof behind him and slapped into the waterlogged grou...September 1997•345 pages - #3
Save:A frothy, entertaining romantic romp on the high seas - perfect for those craving fun pirate antics, sassy heroines, and golden-age historical romance vibes. Suspend disbelief and enjoy the adventure!
The Pirate Lord by Sabrina Jeffries is a historical romance novel set in the 19th century, following the story of Sara Willis, a reformer and the step sister of an earl. Sara decides to accompany a shipload of female convicts being transported to Australia to ensure their well-being. However, things take a turn when the ship is captured by the notorious Pirate Lord, Gideon Horn, who is looking for wives for himself and his crew to settle down on an isolated island. The book explores the clash between Sara's reformist ideals and Gideon's pirate ways, leading to a passionate and tumultuous love story amidst the backdrop of high seas adventure and unexpected alliances.
Sabrina Jeffries weaves a tale filled with sassy dialogue, humorous interactions, and passionate love scenes. The plot unfolds with twists and turns as Sara and Gideon navigate their conflicting personalities and desires, ultimately finding themselves drawn to each other despite their differences. The story delves into themes of adventure, romance, and redemption, offering a unique take on the pirate romance genre with a strong focus on character development and engaging storytelling.
Miss Sara Willis had known a great many awkward moments in her twenty-three years. There was the time as a seven-year-old when her mother had caught her filching biscuits from the grand kitchen at Bla...December 1975•384 pages - #4
Save:Powerful, atmospheric, and heartbreaking, The Exiles offers a moving window into a little-known chapter of history - perfect for fans of beautifully written, character-driven historical fiction.
'The Exiles' by Christina Baker Kline is a historical novel set in the nineteenth century that follows the lives of three women - Evangeline, Hazel, and Mathinna. Evangeline, a governess falsely accused of a crime, is sentenced to exile in Australia, where she meets Hazel, a skilled midwife, and herbalist who was transported for stealing. Mathinna, an aboriginal girl taken from her home and adopted into a household, faces mistreatment and cruelty. The novel beautifully weaves together the stories of these resilient women, portraying a narrative that is heartbreaking yet full of hope and strength.
By the time the rains came, Mathinna had been hiding in the bush for nearly two days. She was eight years old, and the most important thing she’d ever learned was how to disappear. Since she was old e...August 2020•389 pages - #5
Save:A classic, steamy historical romance with a unique Australian setting and plenty of angst - great for genre lovers, but some elements haven’t aged gracefully.
Set in Australia in the mid 19th century, "Dark Torment" by Karen Robards tells the story of Sarah Markham, the daughter of a sheep rancher, and Dominic Gallagher, an Irish convict wrongly transported to Australia. Their forbidden love story unfolds amidst the challenges of convict life, trust issues, and societal expectations. The book is described as a blend of passionate romance, humor, action thrills, and vivid character development set against the backdrop of the Australian frontier.
“I don’t know what Pa can have been thinking about, telling us to meet him down here!” As Liza Markham stared over the high wheels of the pony trap her sister was driving, she wrinkled her pert, freck...August 1985•401 pages - #6
Save:A tough, empathetic look at life after prison, painted in gritty detail. Worth reading if you like realism and aren't put off by some slow pacing or thinly-sketched supporting characters.
Straight Time is a compelling novel about Max Dembo, who has just completed a six-year prison sentence and aims to start afresh in Los Angeles. Determined to live an honest life, Max finds work at a cannery and sparks a relationship with a receptionist. However, his ambition to stay straight is thwarted when a vindictive parole officer sends him back to prison on a trivial drug charge, pushing him back into a life of crime.
The writing style is unvarnished and straightforward, effectively capturing the struggles of an ex-convict trying to reintegrate into society. The screenplay presents a humane perspective on Max’s reality, highlighting how systemic failures can impede personal progress. Though the film touches on heartfelt friendships and daily life, it also grapples with underdeveloped female characters, making their motivations seem ambiguous and sidelined.
1978•303 pages - #7
Save:Hardboiled, fast, and unapologetically pulpy - a blast from crime fiction’s past that’s brash, relentless, and pure 1950s noir. Great escapism for pulp fans; others may want to look elsewhere for their detective fix.
'Kiss Me, Deadly' by Mickey Spillane follows the tough and relentless private eye, Mike Hammer, as he gets entangled in a dangerous web of mob connections, mysterious women, and violent confrontations. Hammer, armed with superior morals and determination, takes on the mafia single-handedly, seeking vengeance for a murder he is framed for. The narrative is fast-paced, full of action, and portrays Hammer as a gruff, old-fashioned man who does what he believes is right, regardless of the consequences.
The writing style of 'Kiss Me, Deadly' is described as gritty, fast-moving, and brutal, with a focus on violence, corruption, and the constant battle between Hammer and the mob. The story is a classic noir detective tale set in the 1950s, featuring a protagonist who is tough, resourceful, and irresistible to women, while also delving into themes of sex, temptation, and justice in a cynical world.
All I saw was the dame standing there in the glare of the headlights, waving her arms like a huge puppet and the curse I spit out filled the car and my own ears. I wrenched the wheel over, felt the re... - #8
Save:A warm and uplifting redemption romance, perfect for fans of small-town stories and characters you’ll root for. Heart, hope, and second chances make "Home Free" a feel-good hit.
Home Free by Claire McEwen tells the story of Arch Hoffman, a man seeking redemption after spending ten years in prison for his past mistakes. The book explores Arch's journey to become a better person and rebuild relationships with his family, particularly with the help of Mandy Allen, who inspires him with her courage and acceptance. As Arch and Mandy work together on a ranch, they both confront their traumatic pasts and strive for happiness amidst struggles and obstacles.
The novel is a contemporary western romance that focuses on themes of redemption, atonement, forgiveness, and personal growth. Claire McEwen's writing style presents a heartwarming and inspiring tale of second chances, showcasing the gradual transformation of despised characters into accepted individuals through courage, love, and self-reliance.
WHEN MANDY ALLEN planned her sister’s perfect wedding, she never imagined crying alone in their ranch house kitchen with only the wedding cake for company. But those were definitely tears sliding down...November 2016•384 pages
