Trouble with the law, a missing sister, and a growing attachment to the wrong man – Evie Emerson has a dangerous path ahead of her… an exciting and twisty historical mystery and adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1898: Bendigo, Victoria
Evie Emerson has worked hard to build a fashionable clientele for her hats. But when an ex-paramour employs underhanded tactics after his attempt to coerce an engagement fails, Evie’s reputation is in tatters. On the heels of having to put a case together to defend herself in court, Evie’s life is thrown into further turmoil when the disappearance of her sister takes her to Cobram.
Roving reporter Fitzmorgan O’Shea has troubles of his own: his involvement in uncovering police corruption has placed a target on his back. And while Fitz is hunting a new story in Cobram his problems collide with Evie’s when his research exposes malicious intimidation and threats designed to make local landholders give up their properties.
For Raffety Dolan, he accepted long ago it’s Fitz Evie loves – and his feelings will remain unrequited. But when a disgraced ex-policeman comes searching for revenge, Raff is ready to go save his friends.
There, on the banks of the mighty Murray, with so much misunderstood history and secrets between the three friends – plus the legitimate threat of being shot at – will they survive long enough to discover the truth?
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The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is a historical fiction novel set in Bendigo, Victoria, 1898. The story follows Evie, a single woman, who is a milliner and the trials and tribulations she faces in a time period unkind to women. The descriptions of the different locations were so well written it allowed me to vividly visualise the different Victorian regions. I really enjoyed the twists and turns throughout the story which kept me guessing until the very end. A standalone novel perfect for lovers of mystery, history, and women’s rights. I look forward to reading future works by Darry Fraser. Brittany, VIC, 5 Stars
Wow, what a read. The main characters are big characters but in a good way. They are all strong and adventurous. Risk takers with a purpose. Darry crafts a wonderful story around the Murray River and the lives that surround it. It’s a story of strength and determination and finding the truth, whatever the cost. Evie, Fitzmorgan and Raffety are friends and have their own stories that meld into one another. This book was such an enjoyable read and I was sad when it ended as it meant I had longer to wait for another glorious story from Darry. Ann-Marie, SA, 5 Stars
Historical Fiction is my favourite genre and Darry Fraser ranks high amongst my favourite Aussie authors, so I was overjoyed to receive an ARC of her latest book via the Better Reading website. The novel which was well written was set in Bendigo, Echuca and Cobram in 1898 and although I have never visited any of those places, I felt the author’s descriptions brought them alive for me. I could visualize the mighty Murray River, and the paddle steamers that traveled along it. I could feel the heat and dust, and hear the noises of the towns as well as encounter the smells. The three main characters were well drawn and fleshed out, and I loved that in keeping with her other novels, she provided another strong female lead in the person of Evie. I was invested in Evie’s life and wanted to know whether she would end up with Fitz or Raff? The novel dealt with some important and at times controversial topics – e.g., the expectations upon single women to marry and have kids, rather than seek out a career; being gay in a time when it was against the law for two men to cohabit; post-natal depression and its effects on the mother as well as the family; how to deal with a narcissist; and menopause and the symptoms that accompanied it. This is a standalone novel, and having read four of the author’s previous novels, in my opinion it is her best one yet. I enjoyed it immensely and gave it 5 well-deserved stars. Ruth, WA, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is an exciting novel set in a bygone era. It was a different time regarding social etiquette and social consequences. This is a story about Evie, Fitz and Raff, and the various friends and villains that they meet during their journey. Part love story, part mystery and also a story about greed and corruption at any cost. They have to work together to uncover unjust actions and put things right. Lisa, QLD, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is an enthralling tale that took me away on a journey through 1898. I loved the setting and I could hear the trains rattling and smell the horses. It is exciting and the murder mystery makes it more interesting. The details that have gone into the book have been researched well and I particularly enjoyed the romance. It was great to read how romance was developed in 1898 and it’s definitely nothing like it is in today’s world. The characters are well represented for the time and I consider this to be a well-written historical fiction book for historical lovers. Claire, VIC, 5 Stars
The first book of Darry Fraser’s I have read – and looking forward to reading more! I enjoy fiction of early Australia, and The Milliner of Bendigo upped the ante. From the very beginning of the story, it was well paced. Mystery, murder and clever twists created an absorbing read. Each of the main characters (Evie, Fitz and Raff) had their own stories to tell – you really get to know them and their inner thoughts. From history, Australia in the 1800s has been depicted as a harsh country. The main setting in Cobram is so well described that I could feel the heat, dust and annoyance of flies. The tale is woven neatly… so you think… until there are parts that have you second-guessing. I liked that some of the “supporting cast” had greater detail given about them. This really stood out with the private detective Mr Barrett and his sisters. Caroline, QLD, 5 Stars
What’s not to love? A beautifully written novel that intertwines mystery with a hint of romance, carefully intertwining the main characters throughout the story and keeping you hooked to find out how the story will play out. Beautiful imagery of well-known Australian towns depicting the time the book was set in 1898. This is my first time reading one of Darry Fraser’s novels and I’m keen to read more. A beautiful heartfelt novel that was a joy to read. Erena, VIC, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo was a wonderful story with great twists and turns. The author’s meticulous detail transported me into the world of Evie and Australia at that time. It was a good mix of history, friendship and mystery that kept me engaged and intrigued. An overall fantastic read that I would recommend. Natalie, NSW, 5 Stars
I felt as if I’d travelled back in time reading the novel, it was well-researched and the descriptions of the places and people made me think I was actually there, witnessing this as it was happening. If you enjoy historical fiction with romance, murder and mystery then look no further. The Milliner of Bendigo will fulfill your reading requirements. It’s been a while since I read a historical fiction, but this has left me wanting to read more. This is the first of Darry Fraser’s books that I’ve read and it definitely won’t be the last. Debbie, VIC, 5 Stars
This is a fabulous historical Australian novel with lovable characters and evocative scenery that highlights the plight of women in past society. It makes me glad to be alive in the 21st century! Ruth, NSW, 5 Stars
Have loved all Darry Fraser’s books and this one too! Her characters are well defined and even the ones you don’t like you still want to know what they’re doing. Always good to read about strong independent women. The writing style is so descriptive you almost feel that you are on the paddle steamer with the breeze ruffling your hair. 1898 never looked so good. Definitely recommend this one! Cherie, VIC, 5 Stars
If you like books set in Australia with twists and turns in the storyline this one is for you. I hadn’t heard of Darry Fraser before reading The Milliner of Bendigo but I will definitely be seeking out her other novels. Her attention to detail when describing both the characters and the clothes they wore was superb. I enjoyed learning about how life was in this period of Australian history and felt that the differences between townspeople and country people were well described both by their actions and their language. Definitely a book I would read again. Cynthia, VIC, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is a fantastic historical fiction based in Victoria along the banks of the River Murray, nearing the time of the end of the Paddle Steamer age. A story of the resilience of women in that era and the men who would love and be a champion for them, and those who would strive to trick them into losing everything. A time when women were fast moving out from behind the shadows of men to stand proudly in the sun themselves. A good mix of history, hardship, mystery, friendship and endurance. Very well written and well-researched. An excellent book for those chilly evenings, or those sunny afternoons. Has me rushing to the library to search the shelves for more. Terry, SA, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo was a book I struggled to put down. It’s a story of friendships through thick and thin, about vulnerability with enough suspense and mystery to make it a real page-turner! I fell in love with the main characters, their determination to have the truth be told and expose those trying to hide it. I loved this book, it feels like there could be a sequel as well!?? Sharon, SA, 5 Stars
I will admit it took me a little while to get into this book; I think for me the start was a bit slower than I anticipated. However, once I got hooked I was really in love with Darry’s writing style. The Australiana backdrop is intriguing to me as it was such a stark contrast to where we are today in modern society and I loved reading about travelling on paddle steamers and trains, to think this was considered the norm way back then. I thoroughly enjoyed the character of Evie and found her inspiring and could relate to her in many ways. All the characters came alive for me and I could picture them and hear the way they spoke and interacted with each other. Of course, no one can put down a book when there is the undercurrent of such a love story as Evie and Raff! I thought the ending fitting for such a great story and I look forward to reading more books by Darry Fraser! Jodi, QLD, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Milliner of Bendigo. Darry Fraser writes with an easy reading style and keeps the narrative flowing with side stories and interesting details. I initially wondered about the significance of including Lucille’s menopause trials but then acknowledged it was a reflection of that era (1898), similarly the shootings which, I accept, were part of our Australian history. This novel had romance, intrigue, disenchantment, murder, sorrow, suspense and true-to-life characters. I believe it was an historically accurate portrayal of life in those times. I found Evie Emerson to be a virtuous and strong character, naive yet brave, independent, curious and caring. Her two best male friends, Raff and Fitz, were also kind, caring, daring and loyal friends. Their quests kept me wanting to read more and even knowing how it would end, and taking a long time to get there, I never felt bored or frustrated with the narrative. I am keen now to read more from Darry Fraser. Maree, ACT, 5 Stars
A thrilling historical romance. The author has a great sense of time and place in colonial Australia. The exploration of women’s rights and place in the emerging Australian society is enthralling and exciting for modern readers. Shannan, NSW, 5 Stars
Another wonderful tale by Darry Fraser that captures the ruggedness of the Australian bush and the trials and tribulations of those who inhabit there. I love how Fraser entwines the characters from her other stories into her novels: Bendigo Barratt was a fantastic champion in this story! Highly recommend this novel; however, be mindful that once you start it’s hard to put it down! Pamela, SA, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is a great read. The book is an historical fiction story and set in country Victoria in 1898. The story follows three main characters, Evie, Fitz and Raff, and has a great supporting cast of characters. The story interested me from the beginning, the writing is so detailed and descriptive that I could almost feel the heat and the dustiness coming through the pages. The book really highlights the social aspects of the late 1800s, in particular how the women of the day lived. I so enjoyed getting to know all the characters and never quite knowing what was going to happen next. The book kept me engaged from the first page to the last. I would certainly recommend this book. Kelly, VIC, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo. Wow, wow, wow. Loved this book from the first page to the last. A wonderfully researched historical fiction that transports the reader back to early Australia in the 1890s. This beautiful story captures your heart as you follow the story of Evie Emmerson the Milliner as she has to deal with a court case from a disgruntled shady ex-boyfriend who sues her for breach of contract for a non existing engagement. Along the way we find out what true friendship is, what hard life in early Australia was and a vivid description of the beautiful Murray River. Great book. Rebecca, QLD, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo was an absolutely splendid read. Set within pre-federation Australia, this historical novel shared an alternate perspective to the history books. The heroine, Evie was a strong-willed woman of her time and I was cheering her on at every turn of the page. The drama of the events had me hooked and I found it hard to put the book down. The storyline had so many twists and turns it more felt like three stories within one. I was only sad when it was done. Sarah, NSW, 5 Stars
What a fantastic read – this book was certainly a page-turner with a strong female lead. The suspense as the story continued made it very hard to put the book down. Overall it was a great story line and I enjoyed the era and location for which is was written. Katrina, TAS, 5 Stars
This was my introduction to Darry Fraser and it did not disappoint. From beginning to end, I was hooked into Evie’s adventure, with its twists and turns, deceit and daring, murders, tragedy, and not quite knowing who could be trusted. It moved at a fast pace in a slow, drought affected, hot and dry background of 1890s country Victoria. The atmosphere was taut, but humorous, the hats were exquisite, the losses heartfelt, and the comeuppances of the villians well deserved. Highly recommend! Kirsten, WA, 5 Stars
A sweet love story woven through a heartbreaking and enduring story, The strength of Evie is astonishing Fitz and Raff are both divine and Mr Kingsley someone who everyone should have in their life. Such a vivid picture of outback Australia in 1898 is painted and captured in a way that makes these people seem so real. Rae, NSW, 5 Stars
This book, to me, is all about relationships. It speaks to the importance that support, encouragement, camaraderie and love play in our lives. The people around us help us through our challenges, witness our struggles and triumphs and keep our head above water on the really tough days. They are also there to point out the obvious and keep us on the right path. The milliner of Bendigo was blessed with many good friends and their combined story was a joy to read. Lee, ACT, 5 Stars
Fabulous read that draws you in from the beginning. A step back in time, as in setting and time period, yet it felt modern and echoed the plights of women still today. I’m not going to give away the storyline, but will say there’s intrigue, stories within stories and romance. An entertaining and great read that I didn’t want to stop. Great characters and I highly recommend reading this book. Pippa, WA, 5 Stars
An engaging plot that blends romance with mystery, crime, and the challenges and life for women at the turn of the century in regional Australia. The story is fast paced and taking the reader on an exciting and compelling journey. Geoff, WA, 5 Stars
A fabulous read. A real page-turner and you needed to keep reading to discover what came next. The characters were easy to relate to. You developed real empathy with them and a desire for all to resolve happily for them. An good insight into the social norms of the times. Jude, QLD, 5 Stars
As a first time reader of a Darry Fraser novel I was engrossed from the first chapter. It had mystery, intrigue, romance and history and I found it hard to put down. A very enjoyable read. Karen, NSW, 5 Stars
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love The Milliner of Bendigo. It is set in the late 19th century around Bendigo, Ballarat, Echuca and Cobram. Darry Fraser, the author, transported me back to the time when the main mode of transport was by horse-drawn carriage or on horseback on dusty dirt tracks. She also draws the picture of the romance of paddle steamers plying the Murray River, evoking the time when life was so much simpler and better in some ways than it is today. Evie Emerson, the main character in this book, captured my heart. She faces small town gossips and ostracism after losing her reputation when a revengeful ex-suitor slanders her and tries to blackmail her. This leads to the suspense of a court trial. There is constant turmoil for Evie with the mystery of her estranged sister with whom she has lost contact, undesirable characters, a murder and police corruption. I enjoyed reading this novel and found I was stealing extra time reading this book in the most unlikely of places. I experienced a lot of suspence, anxious to read that there would be happy endings to not only Evie’s tribulations but to her friends also who stood by her and suffered for their tireless support. A good read. Judi, VIC, 5 Stars
What a wonderful, real, heartfelt story. The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is addictive. The story is about the milliner Evie and the trials and tribulations of an 1898 life of a single woman. She is, at the same time, naive, independent, confused about love, fiery, loving, caring, passionate and brave. She has a long term friendship with two men, Raff and Fitz, who are great friends. After an absence of more than a year their lives intercept and the reader has no idea what is going to happen next. I could happily read this again (and I never do that). 5 stars for everything a good story needs. Fiona, QLD, 5 Stars
I found the book very easy to “get into”, read it in four days and wanted more! The author cleverly incorporated many topics of 2023 into a story written about events in the early 1900s. These topics were very hush hush back then and were the cause of grief to a lot of those who experienced them. She also took us on a journey along the beautiful Murray River in a Paddle Steamer and to some of the well-known towns in Victoria as they would have been back then. It wasn’t a book full of sex but the love stories that were intertwined with several of the characters were a delight to read. These characters were a mixed bag, from the prim and proper to the sleazy scoundrels who seem to get away with dastardly deeds. There was nothing about this book that I didn’t enjoy reading and I highly recommend it as a great read. I will be looking to read more books written by Darry Fraser. Maree, NSW, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is a story set in the late 1800’s in country Victoria. It tells of the lives of people living during that time and their trials. A story of mystery, adventure, love and hate. Darry Fraser puts you right there in the thick of country Victoria at that time. A fabulous story that I thoroughly enjoyed and will talk about to family and friends. I would highly recommend reading this book. Jacoba, VIC, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is a thoroughly enjoyable historical fiction novel based in regional Victoria in the late 19th century. Evie Emerson is a delightful character to read about and has managed to surround herself with some wonderful characters, some of whom are nasty but most are sturdy, good quality Australians. Set between Bendigo, Ballarat, Echuca and Cobram, this story tugged at this Echuca girl’s heart, and I could clearly visualise the steam trains, Murray River and the heat and dust that Darry Fraser speaks of. Darry Fraser thoroughly captivated me and had me turning the pages into the early hours has thrown in some great topics adding to the storyline – spinsters, homosexuality, depression and menopause are just a few. I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially Australian fiction. Kate, VIC, 5 Stars
This was my first book by Darry Fraser but it definitely won’t be my last! The milliner of Bendigo, Evie, is a strong woman who weathers many setbacks on her way to happiness. But it’s not only Evie who has a tale to tell. All the characters are well rounded and the reader can feel an affinity with them. The setting of Bendigo and the Murray River suited the timeframe and storyline so well. There was mystery, intrigue and romance, all the ingredients needed for an unputdownable book. Annette, SA, 5 Stars
This author is fantastic. I felt I was on the Murray River and smelling the gumtrees and looking at the beautiful countryside. Her descriptions and storytelling is like no other I have read. Her research of the time period was excellent and having the strong female characters really made interesting reading. I will definitely be reading more books from this author. Lee, SA, 5 Stars
Well, Darry Fraser has done it again. Such great research of times gone by. Darry covers the early years of our history so well and I felt like I was living the story. I read the story in two days, was so hard to put the book down. Evie is such a strong woman and Darry has woven so much into her story and covers so many aspects of so many different personalities. Was such a good read from cover to cover, touching on somethings that were taboo in the early years. I highly recommend this book if you like early Australian history and a good storyline to go with it. Thank you Darry Fraser for another great story. Betty, NSW, 5 Stars
A fabulous, intriguing plot runs right through this novel. Fraser’s research is astounding and keeps you guessing the whole way through. Evie Emmerson has worked so hard to build up her clientele for her hats and all her life comes into chaos when the disappearance of her sister takes her on a truly incredible journey. What a brilliant read. Highly recommended. Noeleen, WA, 5 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is a lovely book. Set in the late 1800s in Victoria, Australia. Evie Emerson a young Milliner is the main character. Evie is introduced by her friends to a bachelor named Edwin Cooper. Edwin proposes to Evie for all the wrong reasons, likely to be her inheritance. The story introduces more characters including two of her friends Raff and Fitz. The book covers a number of other topics which keep the book interesting. I recommend this well written book. Nicola, SA, 4 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is an historical fiction set in Victoria in 1898. Evie Emerson is a single woman whose occupation is a Milliner. She has worked hard to build a good reputation but when she rejects a marriage proposal from suitor Edwin Cooper, he sets out to destroy everything she has worked for. This is a great story set in the townships along the Murray River. Darry Fraser transports the reader back in time and with vivid descriptions you really experience what it would have been like for those living in 1898, with travelling by horseback, trains and paddle steamers. Darry Fraser also covered topics such as the challenges that unmarried women faced in 1898, the crimes and fears of being a gay man, menopause and how women struggled with the condition with the lack of information on the condition available, narcissistic behaviours and being a woman trying to disprove the lies of a man. This is the first Darry Fraser novel I have read, and I just loved it. It was very well researched, and I think Fraser really represented the magic of the Murray River through the story. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a story set on the Murray River in a time when paddle steamers were in full swing. Ally, TAS, 4 Stars
Thank you to Better Reading and HQ for allowing me to read and review an ARC copy of this amazing book! From the moment I opened it, I was instantly transported back to 1898 and felt like I, too, was walking the streets of Bendigo, Ballarat, Echuca, Cobram and surrounds, following along with Evie and her exquisite hats and employed by her beautiful boss Mrs Downing. We witness Evie going through some difficult times including being blackmailed into an engagement among other trials and tribulations along the way. She always has the support of her friends including Fitz and Raff even if they are on seemingly different paths. I thoroughly enjoyed the strong female characters throughout this book, especially during that time period when things were very different for women then to what they are now. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction. It was so well written, and I absolutely loved stepping into towns I have visited in real life too. Thank you again for the opportunity! Amanda, VIC, 4 Stars
Set in 1898 Bendigo, Victoria. Evie finds herself in a spot of bother which in itself is intriguing. The prose is descriptive, taking the reader on a visual adventure across country Australia, not only in scenery and means of travel, but also in fashion. Strong female characters capture your heart and interesting to note that women were challenging the norms, even back then. I really enjoyed this novel, it’s captivating and rich in description. Sharon, QLD, 4 Stars
This was a very different book from my usual reads! The story was very well written, and very obviously well researched. Darry Fraser has clearly put so much work into making sure everything is accurate! I also love that the author drew from her own history as well, as she said in the author’s note. The attention to detail is immaculate! I love how the author displays the subtle strengths of the main characters. Even from the start, Evie shows she is more than just your average woman of that time and I love that about her. This story had me feeling all sorts of ways, and that’s not easy to do. From teary eyed to angry to even laughing. The plot was well written and I loved how the characters were intertwined! I just wish I’d got to spend a bit more time with Evie at times, but otherwise it was an amazing read! I thoroughly enjoyed The Milliner of Bendigo and can easily recommend this book to any historical fiction fan! Jackie, VIC, 4 Stars
The story is set in turn of the century rural Australia and is a great read for fans of historical fiction. With themes of romance and mystery, it has something for everyone. Mellisa, QLD, 4 Stars
A gripping novel that has you feeling that you’re in the 1800s with the characters. Evie is a very likeable character caught up in the lies of Edwin. The dramas in Cobram and deceit of the police are page turning. Never having read a novel of Darry Fraser, after reading this one will definitely be looking out for more by her. Lorraine, VIC, 4 Stars
Darry Fraser writes brilliant historical fiction. This time The Milliner of Bendigo is set in Bendigo, Cobram and Echuca. The characters are well developed and it touches on a variety of themes including broken engagements, romance, intrigue, murder, and even menopause! Evie was such a likeable leading character and I felt for her with the dastardly Mr Cooper who sullied her reputation. Fitz and Raff were great secondary characters and the story gave a good representation of the era. Janine, VIC, 4 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is the first book by Darry Fraser that I have read. The author has obviously well-researched her subject, and this is evident in the vivid writing. I certainly felt propelled back to the era while reading this. This isn’t the sort of book I would normally read; however, the lure of it weaving a murder/mystery and a courtroom drama with a romance thrown in piqued my interest. There were a few instances where my modern-day values got me quite frustrated, but once I settled in for a read, I really found myself enjoying the ride. Tracy, VIC, 4 Stars
Thanks for the opportunity to read The Milliner of Bendigo – it is one of many Darry Fraser books I have read. We follow the story of Evie and the scoundrel who wants to ruin her reputation and also the stories of her friends Fitz and Raff, and their journey around Ballarat, Bendigo, Echuca and Cobram. The story includes topics of gay men, menopause, single women and their place in society and their reputations. A very enjoyable read once again, Darry Fraser. Fiona, VIC, 4 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser draws the reader into the 19th century in Australia and the story of Evie Emerson. Evie’s life involves trouble with the law, her missing sister and a rather strong liking to a man – the wrong man. After the disappearance of her sister, Evie finds herself in Cobram. Meet the local roving reporter Fitzmorgan O’Shea with troubles of his own. Whilst uncovering police corruption he finds himself with a target on his back. Whilst chasing up a story in Cobram his problems collide with those of Evie. A great read for fans of historical mystery and adventure. Catherine, NSW, 4 Stars
Friendship, loyalty, romance, loss, deceit and trickery all get a guernsey in this novel set in pre-federation Victoria, Australia. Darryl Fraser manages to create a story which encompasses the culture of the time and the descriptions of the characters and countryside are engaging and evocative. Evie, the milliner of Bendigo, is a strong woman who encounters many of life’s challenges head on without succumbing to the expectations surrounding women in the 19th century. She competently deals with the loss of her mother, the affections of several “suitors”, and fear of the unknown. Along the way, she strengthens her resolve to continue to create her millinery masterpieces despite the turmoil which surrounds her. My favourite character in the story appears only briefly towards the end, but brings justice and humour into an otherwise tense situation. While the story is predictable in some senses, there is enough intrigue to keep the reader interested to the end. Darryl Fraser is a skilled storyteller and The Milliner of Bendigo is a good story. Glenys, QLD, 4 Stars
I was fortunate to win an ARC through Better Reading and HQ Fiction and was so looking forward to reading this. My thanks goes to them for my copy to read and review. Set in Victoria, Australia staring in 1898, it tells the story of Evie Emerson. Evie has been working hard to build her millinery business. But then underhand tactics from Edwin Cooper, a rejected suitor who wanted to marry Evie, creates all sorts of issues. Trouble, not just for her personal life but also for the planned hat exhibition, and for Lucille, friend and owner of the shop where the exhibition is to be held. There is a lot going on connecting the characters and stories in this book. Just occasionally I would have liked to stay longer with Evie and her story rather than swapping to one of the others, but that is a minor quibble in what is an engaging, well researched and detailed historical novel. A story of friendship, love, loyalty, sexuality and murder. A lot to enjoy in this one. My first read by this author and would like to read more. Dale, NSW, 4 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo is a fast-paced book. I read the first 300 pages in one afternoon! Readers experience all the emotions felt by the main character as she contemplates her future and how to survive the fall-out from a failed relationship. There is also murder and mystery, as she searches for her sister and others become involved in her journey. It is easy to picture the beauty and harshness of the area – the towns, the farms, the river. The author also covers several issues – sexuality, depression and menopause, making the characters even more believable. The various relationships are realistic and I felt included in the scenes partly because of the descriptions of these relationships. I felt fully invested in the characters and their stories. My first Darry Fraser book but it won’t be my last! Sara, SA, 4 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Australian author Darry Fraser is a gripping non-fiction historical mystery. The plot twists and turns artfully, with a plethora of red herrings and dead ends that keep the reader guessing and then second-guessing, which is the sign of a talented author. I particularly appreciated the author’s attention to detail to this era, the setting is wonderfully painted. The characters are well-developed, and their motivations and actions are shrouded in mystery, adding to the intrigue as the more we get to know them, the more complex they become. Evie Emerson is a strong woman with her determination to succeed in her quest; the author has created an endearing lead character in her who is both fearless and feminine at the same time. I particularly enjoyed the intuition that she appears to be endowed with that, whilst helping her in her quest, also causes her doubt and uncertainty when deciding on a course of action. It’s a tale of hidden secrets, perseverance in the face of danger, and the enduring power of truth, which makes for a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. I highly recommend it if you enjoy mysteries with a twist. Melissa, SA, 4 Stars
Thank you to the team at Better Reading for the ARC of this book, my first novel by Darry Fraser. The story follows Evie, a women with great awareness of women’s rights and how they are not met in the year the novel is set, 1898. Evie has many friends and the reader gets to know the friends and their backgrounds as the book develops. The history is fascinating and clearly the author is well researched, the riverside and country descriptions have the reader feeling like they are there. I did wonder though why there was no mention of First Nations people at all. Many themes are covered including love and misunderstood love, friendship, traitors, criminality, murder, sexuality, women’s rights and even menopause! It is a light and entertaining read with lovely descriptions of the countryside and some really nice characters. Toni, QLD, 3 Stars
Set in the late 1800s in Victoria, Australia, this story revolves around Evie who has been the unfortunate victim of a cruel Mr Cooper. The author does a great job of painting the picture of how horrible Mr Cooper and his family are, and I really felt for Evie as a single young women (although not really considered young in that era!) The dramas that she faced really highlighted how times have changed over the last 100+ years. Fitz and Raff are also very likeable characters and I enjoyed learning the history between them and Evie. Overall an enjoyable read. Belinda, NSW, 3 Stars
This was different from the types of books I usually read, but as I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy from BetterReading, I thought I’d give it a go. The author had obviously done her research about the customs, transport, clothing and relationships of the time. The characters were well developed and a range of topics was tackled, mostly well. The ending was a bit predictable but this is possibly the usual style for historical romances. I was frustrated by some of the language not being right for the 1890s. Did anyone at that time call their children ‘kids’? Or use the verb ‘to disrespect’ which seems to have come into vogue lately? Jane, VIC, 3 Stars
A great novel that leaves you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen next. There was a wonderful mix of suspense, mystery, love and friendship all set against the wonderful Victorian countryside. The characters evoke so much emotion. Alex, TAS, 3 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo by Darry Fraser is a great read. The story relates to Evie Emerson, a milliner, who works with Mrs Downing to create beautiful and stylish hats. Problems arise when Evie is proposed to. She requests that she needs to think about it. Adding to this proposal, Evie is worried about her sister Meryl, whom she has not heard from. Evie needs to leave Bendigo to try and find her sister. There is so much history and secrets between the friends. The story is compelling. I felt the author described the story and scenery brilliantly. A wonderful read. Denise, VIC, 3 Stars
A gripping historical adventure for fans of Tea Cooper and Victoria Purman. Evie Emerson is a strong, independent and determined woman. When she refuses a marriage offer from Edwin, the vengeance is swift. His lies render Evie an outcast from many townsfolk in Bendigo. No matter what type of adversity is thrust at Evie, in a place where fights are settled with gun fire, Evie deals with adversity by learning how to load a rifle, while dealing with sunstroke in the harsh landscape. Darry Fraser knows this area well,and writes a richly detailed story of life in 1898 Victoria. Debbie, NSW, 3 Stars
The Milliner of Bendigo commences with a captivating and easily digestible first half, weaving an intriguing narrative that draws readers into the world of its characters. The storytelling exhibits a commendable balance of detail and accessibility, making it an enjoyable read. However, as the narrative progresses into the second half, a notable shift occurs. The pace of the story undergoes a marked slowdown, leaving readers grappling with a sense of frustration. Despite the challenges in the latter portion, those who appreciate a character-driven exploration of emotions may still find elements to appreciate in The Milliner of Bendigo. However, for those desiring a consistently brisk pace and varied plot developments, the book may fall short of expectations. Clare, NSW, 2 Stars
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