What connects a botanical illustration of a butterfly with a missing baby and an enigma fifty years in the making? A twisty historical mystery from a bestselling Australian author.
Read some great 5-Star reviews from our Preview readers here:
I fell in love with the story and characters of The Butterfly Collector from the very first sentence. A well written and beautiful Australian story that was a pleasure to read. The characters were well developed, the story engaging and unique and I was transported to a different time where life was slower. To be honest I wish I could escape to that beautiful garden to find the butterflies myself. Add this book to your Christmas wish list or gift it to a friend. Nicole, NSW, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector was a captivating read. A mix of nature, contrasting eras, and twists I didn’t see coming! An entertaining lesson in history, and there was also love stories and drama. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Butterfly Collector. Tanya, QLD, 5 Stars
Tea Cooper blends fact and fiction to deliver a story that is rich in intrigue and wonderfully immersive. The Butterfly Collector is a dual timeline Historical Fiction set in 1868 Morpeth in country NSW and 1922 Sydney, NSW. I enjoyed all the mentions of Sydney landmarks that still stand to this day. Tea keeps the pages turning with a layering of mysteries. As soon as one is revealed another is presented. Centred around the first sighting of the Wanderer butterfly in Australia, the newspaper industry and baby farms, Tea Cooper has seamlessly delivered a story that is diverse in its content and impossible to put down. Tea Cooper’s trademark strong female characters take centre stage in this multi-layered tale of friendship and tenacity. Veronica, NSW, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector is a breathtaking collection of puzzle pieces that all fit together brilliantly to make a remarkable story. Using charming characters, and real places, Tea Cooper takes us through multiple generations and weaves a story of heartbreak, shock, love, and family. This book will have you drawing in breath at the turn of every page. Fabulous from start to finish, I will definitely be recommending this book to friends, family and strangers in the supermarket. Rebecca, NSW, 5 Stars
What a wonderful historical book to read with lots of twists & turns flicking between the two times & places. Absolutely loved reading about the characters & working out how they fitted together across the time zones. Mel, VIC, 5 Stars
Tea Cooper nails it again. Fabulous Australian Historical Fiction. Great story and an easy read. Loved the Butterfly element and the mystery of the missing babies. So heartbreaking for those mothers. Kept me intrigued till the happy ending. You can tell this book is researched thoroughly and is very believable. Would recommend to anyone who loves a mystery. Cant wait for Tea Cooper’s next novel! 5 stars from me! Lynette, VIC, 5 Stars
The narrative follows two time period 1868 and 1922, A beautiful written historical novel I found myself immersed in. The story has 3 story lines the characters interwoven. 1868 Sid Binks, his partner Clarrie and baby Charlie and Theodora Beckenbridge in the town of Morpeth and 1922 Verity Binks set in Sydney, A discovery of a Butterfly not found in Australia at the time, a stolen baby and the grand daughter trying to piece together her family beginnings. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction another fantastic read from Tea Cooper. Leigh, WA, 5 Stars
I was eagerly awaiting to read a novel by Tea Cooper and The Butterfly Collector did not disappoint. Intertwined tales bring a new perspective to early Australian life and the historical aspects brings this fictional novel such a strong reader understanding and connection. This matches head to head with the stunningly constructed prose and you are totally and quickly invested. It’s a masterpiece of intrigue, historical brilliance and uniquely Australian storyline. My recommendation – grab a copy and read it straight away – a real stunner. Cathy, QLD, 5 Stars
Absolutely loved the book, couldn’t put it down, then sad when it actually ended, as it was over. My favourite Genre set in more than one time. So intriguing, as it switched between the 60 year time difference. Twists and turns along the way. A great read. Jan, VIC, 5 Stars
An amazing read. Very easy to read in spite of swapping between generations. So revealing re baby farming in those days. Sad, but it was a real money spinner for those involved. The story revolves around the life of Charlie, a baby boy who was supposed to be traded by the baby farmers. However, his mother and father became aware of his disappearance when they went to pick him up for a day’s outing, and they traced is whereabouts just in time before he was traded. A sad story at times, very revealing re the depths of the baby farming as they are revealed, but very uplifting at other times. A once well respected family in the community is revealed as being the recipients of the baby farming trade as all their four daughters were traded by the baby farmer. It was a hard decision to make to reveal the full depths of the baby farming trade. A shock discovery that one of the main people in the story has an unknown sister is another line to the baby farming story. So well written, very interesting read. Highly recommended. Glenice, VIC, 5 Stars
Young reporter Verity Binks, in 1922, is put onto a new lead for her paper, looking into a foundation for disgraced mothers. What she discovers is more than she bargained for and more personal. While in 1868 Clarke, Verity’s grandmother must work as a maid to support herself and her new baby with the help of her boyfriend Sid. What happens to the baby is terrifying and ties in to verity’s future investigations. Told in alternate timelines the story is thrilling and suspenseful. This latest novel by Tea Cooper is one of her best! Gaye, NSW, 5 Stars
Verity’s investigation has me inthralled from the first chapter. The twists and turns over the years and the discoveries made told the sad truth of the era. Beautifully written, Tea Cooper captured the essence of the time. Natalie, QLD, 5 Stars
This historic dual-timeline novel was very well written. Both Carrie’s story set in 1868 Morpeth, and Verity’s in 1922 Sydney were totally atmospheric and gripping. Carrie and Sid, a young couple with a new baby, trying to make ends meet, use a midwife to look after their newborn while they work to earn money. Meanwhile Verity, Sid and Clarrie’s granddaughter, is a struggling newspaper reporter investigating a mysterious charity for unwed mother’s and babies. How these 2 stories progress and relate to one another makes for a great reading experience. The main characters are likeable and determined young women in trying times. I loved this novel and eagerly look forward to everything this talented author puts out. Kristy, NSW, 5 Stars
Tea once again has brought to the table another book that could be true historically true. I love the way she has brought the story of 3 different generations to life, and intermingled a few different families along the way. She really has a great knack of going back and forth in time without losing the reader along the way. I love the way she has brought to life the butterfly and included it in the story of each generation of characters. Towards the end, the mention of some books that I read as a child brought up in Australia (and that I have my mum’s copies of) made it extra special. Thank you Tea I continue to look forward to reading all future books, you are my favourite Australian author. Donna, VIC, 5 Stars
This book is set in two time lines – Morpeth 1868 and Sydney 1922. Sydney – Verity Binks works for the local paper when she is sacked due to men coming home from war needing jobs. When she arrives home there is a mysterious parcel waiting for her. Inside is a beautiful butterfly costume and an invitation to the Sydney Artists Masquerade Ball. Morpeth – Theodora Breckenridge lives with her 3 sisters after their parents and brother were killed when their ferry crashed into oyster beds. She has friends, Harriet and Helena Scott who are butterfly specialists, and well are known. Now how do the two time lines meet? What does the butterfly costume have to do with Morpeth? At the ball Verity is asked to do a story on the Treadwell Foundation, this is where she finds a painting of the butterfly that is the same as her costume. Along with Verity’s grandparents and father 1922, and Theodora and her family and associates, 1868, the story unravels and the time lines add up. This was a great read and I loved how it all came together with twists and turns. Sue, NSW, 5 Stars
Another stunning book from Tea Cooper, set in colonial New South Wales and spanning a number of generations, the tone is set with a gentle picture of a girls love for painting butterflies. The reader is then led into a world of baby farming. In a true reflection of the time when Womens rights were only just beginning this story keeps you wondering what will happen next. I thoroughly enjoyed The Butterfly Collector and am happy to add it to The Woman in the Green Dress. I look forward to Tea’s next book. Ainsley, QLD, 5 Stars
What a magnificent story! Set in 1868, Morpeth and 1922, Sydney; this story was amazing and I feel like I was just whisked away and travelled back in time. The two timelines were not difficult to follow at all as it was written so perfectly well. The writing is beautiful and descriptive, I really feel like I was back there in 1868. I actually visited Morpeth a few years ago and fell in love with this beautiful town. I loved how all the characters all completed the puzzle in the end, so so clever. I’ve never read much about baby farming in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. This was a real eye opener, so sad and tragic, gave me goosebumps and made my heart hurt for all those parents who lost their babies. Absolutely devastating. Marie, NSW, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector by Tea Cooper is presented as a dual timeline 1868 in Morpeth and 1922 in Sydney, bringing it all together at the end. It’s a compelling story that combines scientific exploration, historical facts and hint of drama. It all begins with the discovery of the ‘wanderer’ butterfly. I particularly enjoyed the strength and compassion of the female characters of Theodora and Verity. A thoroughly great read. Thank you @Better Reading and Harper Collins Publishers for the opportunity to preview this wonderful book. Matilda, QLD, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector is a sweeping historical romance full of twists and suspense. The two time lines of 1868 Morpeth and 1922 Sydney become intertwined as connections between the main characters Verity Binks (Sydney) and Theodora Breckenridge (Morpeth) are discovered. The story has strong women characters and the sense of place is well developed. Living in Newcastle and having been to all the places mentioned in the book gave me a personal interest in the story. Historical fact is scattered throughout especially regarding women’s rights, baby farming and adoption. Tea Cooper has created another story that is interesting and easy to read that draws the reader in whilst leaving one wanting to know more. Janelle, NSW, 5 Stars
Tea Cooper has written a beautiful historical mystery. I really loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed reading between the two timelines and eventually seeing them come together. A great cast of interesting characters. A must read! Litsa, VIC, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector gradually unfolds in a very captivating way just like the creatures it highlights. This story has such exquisite detail that you can almost feel yourself breathing in the scents of nature and being surrounded by the beauty within the pages. There is also a harsh element to this story which also holds lots of mystery and intrigue. As a butterfly lover, I was very attracted to this book and pleased to learn of the history of Monarch butterflies within Australia. The other aspect that this story drew upon relating to baby farming was very much an eye opener and a topic I would be keen to research further. This book is one to hold onto and treasure. Coral, VIC, 5 Stars
Many thanks to @betterreadingau for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful book. My first time reading Tea Cooper and I’m sure I will read more. This book has both fact and fiction. The story runs between two timelines and combine together to tell the frightening story of babies taken from their unmarried mothers and given up for adoption. As a big fan of historical fiction I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Tracey, VIC, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector by Tea Cooper is an historical mystery set in NSW. There is a dual historical storyline that jumps from 1868 in the small town of Morpeth and 1922 in Sydney. The storyline centres on three families; the Binks, the Breckenridges and the Kendall’s. I love historical fiction as you learn interesting facts along the way. In this story I learnt all about butterflies. The story ended nicely and all loose ends were tied up and you realise there is more to the mystery than you first thought. A lovely story. Yvette, NSW, 5 Stars
This is a well written book with interesting characters and a good deal of intriguing historical information. Tea Cooper weaves together a tale of intrigue, including a missing baby and family secrets spanning more than one generation! The author has clearly done her research well and it makes the book a good read. Set in the Hunter Valley of NSW, and in Sydney, which is only a few hours south by train, it reveals historical and natural facts about these places and weaves them into a compelling story. The characters are well drawn, the local history woven in to story you will want to read. I won’t say too much about the plot as it would spoil it for readers, (you can read the blurb) but I will say that if you pick up this book you will be in for a treat. Do it. Five stars. Liesl, NSW, 5 Stars
I loved this book by Tea Cooper and I have already passed it onto a friend. That fact that is et in my own backyard adds an extra dimension. I found the plot compelling and read the book over two days. The mystery is well thought our with quite a few unexpected twists and turns. It’s a story of an historical tragedy, a missing baby, secrets, family connections and illegal baby trafficking. Throw in a feisty modern woman, nature, science and the Wanderer Butterfly. I didn’t mind the split time period and I loved that the book has an epilogue. Read it. You’ll be glad you did. Mara, NSW, 5 Stars
Two stories, two time periods, many characters, all connected! When Verity goes hunting for some historical information for a story she has been asked to write, she uncovers far more than she was expecting, including about her own family history. Some 50 years earlier, Theodora was still coming to terms with a great loss and trying to move on as best she could through her art and love of nature, when a new maid, Clarrie, enters her life and things take quite the unexpected turn. A little romance and a little mystery, this was probably my favourite book I’ve read in the past couple of years. The stories from the two time periods were told really well, never confusing and slowly built up the connection with a surprise or two thrown in! Katrina, VIC, 5 Stars
The first thing that drew me in with this one was the stunningly magical cover but the story that Tea Cooper tells is even more noteable. The telling of two timelines which come together and make a twisty historical mystery. 1869 Clarrie leaves her newborn baby in the care of a midwife while she is working. Then the baby goes missing… Will the father Sid be able to find him? 1922 Verity is striving to be a correspondent when she loses her job and then she is sent a beautiful butterfly costume and is invited to the masquerade ball. This sets off a series of mysterious events, will Verity be able to put it altogether. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this all the way through, Tea Cooper has a talent for writing fiction but also does her research and includes some true facts. The descriptions are beautiful and I adored the characters. My favourite part of the story was the mystery and danger, the mystery of the story is what kept me engaged. Historical, mystery, romance fans will all devour this amazing novel. Leanne, QLD, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector is a beautifully written novel, entwining historical settings with mystery. It’s a wonderful page-turner that kept me guessing until the very end. Cooper weaved a decades-spanning story with amazing connections, with strong female characters at the forefront. Alexandra, TAS, 5 Stars
What a beautifully charming story the Butterfly Collector is. It is heart warming! I especially loved the side by side stories of Verity and Arlo, Clarrie, Sid, Redmond and Theodore. Truly wonderful characters entwined in a gripping story line! I was quite taken with Tea’s setting of scenes, they were so vivid that you felt like you were standing there watching the “wanderers” or flying past the landscape in the train. I love that it is Australian set and really sets the scenes between the two story lines – I love reading anything that shows how life used to be, it really helps to put our own current lives in perspective and see just how far we have come! I am looking forward to delving into some other stories by Tea, I am sure they will be just as special as this read was. Thank you for the opportunity to read something I might not have picked up voluntarily in a book shop! Jodi, QLD, 5 Stars
Tea Cooper has the reader turning the pages with impatience as the characters evolve, from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.. A surprise of a butterfly costume is sent to Verity Binks, a news correspondent, for a masquerade ball in 1922.. How is it connected to the discovery of a previously unknown butterfly in the 19th century? Verity’s research into the family of the woman who first saw that butterfly leads her to an unexpected connection.. and also reveals the history of the Treadwell Foundation which appears to help ‘disgraced young women’ and their babies. A powerful story, with the horror of attitudes of a different era and the unexpected connections over fifty years… beautifully written as always by Tea Cooper. Chris, QLD, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector by Tea Cooper, the first thing that grabbed my attention was the absolutely beautiful book cover. Thank you to Better Reading for giving me the opportunity to read this Historical Fiction book. Beautifully written and easy to follow and I just did not want to put it down as it was such great story telling. It is all connected, this story unravels beautifully , exploring the discovery of a butterfly, the social reality for women at those times, and the serious issue of baby farming. The characters are interesting and delightful, whilst the two time lines makes the story easy to follow. It includes lots of good mystery to solve, and some nice twists and and turns throughout. Great story telling, very engaging throughout, and I would totally recommend this book to read. Fran, VIC, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector by Tea Cooper provided, in the words of Old Mr Kendall, ‘everything anyone could want’ in a historical fiction book and more. You can feel the love of science and history, and extensive research that Tea Cooper has poured into the fictional storyline. Hooked from the outset, we follow the tale of Verity Binks, a strong woman journalist ahead of her time, and the mystery surrounding her grandparents, the town of Morpeth, and ‘the Wanderer’. I found the transition between the dual timelines seamless, the characters flawed yet loveable, and the plot exciting with suspense, twists and a satisfying ending. I almost didn’t want the book to reach it’s close, but I’m looking forward to reading it through again. This was my first Tea Cooper book and I have since looked up her backlist, adding plenty of titles to my ‘to be read’ pile. I highly recommend this book, whether you are a historical fiction tragic like me or you just love a good suspenseful mystery. M.E., WA, 5 Stars
Tea Cooper with the Butterfly Collector has once again delivered a captivating, intriguing tale of early life in Australia. A mystery that is compelling from page one making it hard to put down. The characters invite you into their lives in Sydney and the Hunter and you pick up interesting colonial history tit bits as the mystery unravels. Julie, NSW, 5 Stars
The Butterfly Collector is set in two time zones, 1868, Morpeth and 1922, Sydney. Not only following the story of the rare butterfly but also uncovering the life of the baby farmers, women who take care of the adoption of babies with or without the mother’s consent. This is something that did occur in these times. I found this part interesting but rather upsetting. Verity Binks is determined to get to the bottom of the scandal of this racket ensuring a great mystery throughout the book. I have heard many great things about Tea Cooper and I am very grateful for the chance to read one of her books thanks to Better Reading. Renee, QLD, 5 Stars
I enjoyed the chance to read this well written and engrossing historical novel spanning 50 years. The mystery and intrigue kept me fascinated to find out the answers to many questions that were posed throughout the book to the very end. The characters were interesting and endearing and brought to attention the scandals that endured over many years, being covered up for different reasons during that time. I liked the fact that many places and people were real and the description of such towns and city were explicit enough to see them in my own imagination. I will be exploring more Tea Cooper books in the future. Diana, VIC, 5 Stars
I always know that when I pick up a book by Tea Cooper that I will be transformed to the past where as I read I can smell and taste the past as if I was right there. The Butterfly Collector is this and so much more. Tea has been able to inform the reader of a horrific part of Australian history and fuse this with a beautiful story of grief and finding who a person really is. Verity is a women before her time and I only wish that she was a real person as I want to know more about her. Absolutely loved this book!!! Anne, NSW, 5 Stars
My quest to discover more Aussie authors let me this weekend to The Butterfly Collector by Tea Cooper. The story revolves around Theodora Beckenridge who loves to draw botanical illustrations on her family’s country estate in the Hunter Valley and dreams of becoming known for this instead of going husband hunting with her sisters. A butterfly never sighted before in Australia captures her attention and might be her chance to fulfil her dream. If dual timelines is something which I stayed away from lately as I had read too many, this inclusion of a second timeline and storyline worked for me very well and didn’t interrupt the flow. From a search for a butterfly to a missing baby, family secrets and strong women determined to go their own way – this historical fiction novel was a winner for me. So much that I now want to start immediately The Cartographer’s Secret. The historical note makes me plan a trip not only to the Australian Museum in Sydney to see some of the nature drawings by Harriet and Helena Scott but also adding a walk in the Rocks and a weekend excursion to the Hunter Valley to my wishlist! Sabine, NSW, 5 Stars
This book had me from the first chapter. I love historical fiction and family sagas. There were lots of surprises and twists, which made me want to read just one more chapter. An easy read with lovable characters woven into a very interesting time in history. Thoroughly enjoyed the read. Joy, VIC, 5 Stars
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