Your Preview Verdict: The Golden Thread by Tea Cooper

Buy a copy of The Golden Thread here.

Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

This book takes you to a different world. A personable and captivating story that is timeless. The characters are relatable. The story opens your eyes to a very different era in Australia’s history. Great book. Highly recommend. Samantha, QLD, 5 stars

A captivating read that kept me turning the pages. I was swept up into Connie and Nell’s life, and the time period of the 1888. Mystery and intrigue until the very last page. My first Tea Cooper novel, won’t be my last. Highly recommend. Pennie, QLD, 5 stars

A beautifully woven mystery, set in the eighteen hundreds in Maitland against a backdrop of seedy dealings and extra layers of fascination and page turning to unravel an amazing tale of rich and realistic period history but keeping you guessing until the end. This book was interesting not only with its choice of place, but its characters and story twists lend themselves to an afternoon of a comfy chair and a good read. Look out for the tying in of the “golden dress”, very unusual aspect but it creates a special bond between Connie and Nell. This is history and events coming together to create magic -Well done Tea!! Glynis, NSW, 5 stars

It is May 1889. Connie lives with her grandmother, Nell Montague, her mother, Faith, and her grandmother’s staff. Like so many of us, Connie begins her day expecting nothing more than the usual routine, a day that blends into the ordinary. Tradition is, after all, a defining trait of the Montague household. To Connie’s surprise, Nell is absent at breakfast; a quick investigation reveals she has not been seen since the previous day. For someone as committed to routine as Nell, this break from her usual schedule is nothing short of extraordinary. Connie set out to track down her grandmother, only to discover that the mysterious disappearance of Nell is just the first of many. As events unfold, long-buried secrets from the past are uncovered that have the potential to reshape the present and endanger the future. Once again, in The Golden Thread, Tea Cooper masterfully blends historical fiction and mystery, weaving intriguing and often overlooked true events into a captivating story, featuring unforgettable female characters. Amanda, QLD, 5 stars

I loved this book! It had me engaged from the first chapter- relatable characters, a touch of humour intertwined with a mystery- what a great mix! I must confess I was a bit nervous about reading this novel- My first encounter with this author left me unsatisfied with too many loose ends but thankfully, Tea Cooper has redeemed herself with this novel. Nell and Constance are terrifically ‘normal’ characters, yet they are far from mundane. Their relationship is a union to be treasured and some of Nell’s reasoning and antics reminded me of my own grandmother- a keeper of secrets I wouldn’t play poker with! The metaphor of the dress was clever and connected the whole enjoyable plot. Overall, extremely congenial and I would highly recommend. Thank you for the opportunity of reviewing. Kathy, VIC, 5 stars

In the latter part of the 1800’s Connie, a young lady from Maitland in the Hunter Valley NSW, finds her beloved grandmother Nell missing. Fearing for Nell’s safety takes Connie on a somewhat dangerous adventure to Sydney. Finally, Nell is found at Old Government House, run by the obnoxious Mrs. Alexander. Mystery and intrigue forms around Nell’s past life which Connie along with the inhabitants of the guesthouse seek to find answers to. A lovely story written in a historical time, featuring past secrets, losses of a beloved grandfather, husband and father interweaving between the 3 generations of females. An engaging book with a novel storyline, I enjoyed from start to finish. Deidre, VIC, 5 stars

Brilliant storyline set in the 1880’s. With some awesome characters and twists along the way, this book was hard to put down from start to finish. Taylor was my favourite character, I loved her strength and resilience. Highly recommend Emma, WA, 5 stars

The Golden Thread winds the clock back to a time when the classes were clearly defined & a family’s reputation was worth its weight in gold. This beautifully descriptive tale takes us into the lives of an early Australian racing family who face ruin at the hands of a blackmailer. The threat of losing the life and reputation that the Montague family has worked so hard to build will draw their matriarch Nell into a past she has spent a lifetime trying to forget. This tale is told through the eyes of Nell & her beloved granddaughter, Constance. They find them selves on an adventure that takes Nell back to face her past and brings Constance into a world she had never experienced with new friends and experiences and new understanding of who her grandmother really is. This tale is told with such detail that you can picture yourself in the grand old buildings and wandering the gardens in a time long forgotten. A beautiful story of family, friendship and the secrets that threaten to undo it all. Bridget, SA, 5 stars

The Golden Thread was an absolute joy to read. I was captivated from page one until the end with the surprising twists and turns as the story unfolded. Tea’s ability to weave historical fact and fiction together gives the story an added depth and transports the reader to the world of New South Wales in the late 1800’s. Her research is impeccable and really adds a great deal of interest and intrigue. The characters are well drawn and beautifully written. I felt a great empathy with Nell and how she was now living in a world she was not always sure how to respond to. I was fascinated to learn of the vibrance of the racing industry, along with the sometimes terrible impact on people’s lives. Tea shows a real understanding of the Australian way of life and culture of that era. She is able to draw you into the social places that the characters hold in society such as Mrs. Trotter, the cook at the guesthouse. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction, Australian history or a book with a cast of strong, intriguing female characters. Sarah, WA, 5 stars

The prologue set the scene, and left me wondering about the golden damask dress and gold nuggets. An engaging story about a granddaughter and her grandmother and I found it hard to put the book down! I have enjoyed this book and will definitely recommend this book to my fellow book club members! Voula, SA, 5 stars

Tea Cooper’s latest book The Golden Thread had me drawn in and hooked from the start. The mystery and questions that unfold at the beginning of the story are slowly elaborated upon with twists and turns and uncovering of information. This keeps you enthralled and wanting to read on. Cooper has a creative way of incorporating historic facts with delicate details to give you a complete world in which you feel you are one with the Characters. The nonlinear storyline was clearly articulated without being overt. This format added to the depth of the character Nell and assists younger readers to understand an elderly character’s motives. Cooper’s use of language easily engages a reader and makes for a fluent read with just the right amount of detail. The Golden Thread has a gripping storyline and well rounded characters you can easily connect with. It was an enjoyable tale that took you back in history and gives you an alternate perspective on the history you are taught in the classroom. Eliza, NSW, 5 stars

Oh my, what a delightful page turner this book is. I absolutely loved it. It had twists and turns on almost every page. I loved how we learnt so much about the characters, and I adored the era that the story was set in. A good book is one that transports into the era in which it is set, and this happened to me with this book. I was in the front row of the Victoria Theatre with Connie, Taylor and Maisie, and I was strolling along the River front on my way back to Old Government House, after feeding the ducks of course. Tea Cooper is a wonderful author and she has written another best seller. My verdict? Absolutely loved it, and wished it was 600 pages long because I didn’t want it to end! Davina, SA, 5 stars

Tea Cooper beautifully and seamlessly weaves (or in this case threads), history and narrative together to create a tale full of mystery and has written a cast of great characters. The premise of the of the book set in 1889 in Maitland NSW and Old Government House Parramatta. Protagonist, 19 year old Constance goes searching for her ‘missing’ grandmother Nell, and the search for a Golden silk dress, which threatens to expose deep, long held family secrets. Historical fiction at its finest, you could easily feel transported to the time and place in this setting, this novel is perfect for history fiction lovers with a dose of mystery elements. Melissa, VIC, 5 stars

Tea Cooper beautifully and seamlessly weaves (or in this case threads), history and narrative together to create a tale full of mystery and has written a cast of great characters. The premise of the of the book set in 1889 in Maitland NSW and Old Government House Parramatta. Protagonist, 19 year old Constance goes searching for her ‘missing’ grandmother Nell, and the search for a Golden silk dress, which threatens to expose deep, long held family secrets. Historical fiction at its finest, you could easily feel transported to the time and place in this setting, this novel is perfect for history fiction lovers with a dose of mystery elements. Melissa, VIC, 5 stars

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed The Golden Thread. The story expertly weaves between two separate but interlinked mysteries, keeping the reader on edge throughout. With strong character development and unexpected revelations, this book kept me guessing right until the end. The characters of Connie and Nell are particularly likeable, and it was easy to imagine them in the time period, thanks to the vivid and well-researched setting. I became invested in their journeys right through to the unexpected ending. Those who love historical fiction will enjoy the local landscape and historical references. Karyn, WA, 5 stars

Another wonderfully written historical fiction novel by Tea Cooper. The Golden Thread is set in Maitland and Parramatta (Old Government House) with strong, independent women trying to find their way through the 1800s. The story begins in Maitland when Connie finds that Nell has disappeared and gone to Parramatta. An intriguing book that keeps the reader engaged. Tea Cooper develops her characters well and connects them through historical facts and events during that period. I highly recommend this book. Tea Cooper is one of Australia’s best historical fiction writers. Brenda, NSW, 5 stars

The Golden Thread was a thoroughly enjoyable read with unexpected twists and turns that takes the reader on a journey from Maitland in regional NSW to Parramatta and back again. We join Constance in 1889 on what should be a regular day in the Montague household. All is not as it seems with Nell having disappeared and all signs pointing to Nell travelling to Sydney. Once Constance joins her there are more questions than answers and several mysteries to solve. This is a delightful story that brings the landscape to life as we travel from Maitland to Sydney and then onto Parramatta. If you have ever visited Old Government House in Parramatta the location will be vividly brought to life by Tea Cooper’s expertly crafted descriptions. If you enjoy historical fiction you’re going to love The Golden Thread. Amy, NSW, 5 stars

The Golden Thread by Tea Cooper is such a brilliantly written novel. Connie goes in search of her missing grandmother and finds herself traveling from Maitland to Sydney then Parramatta. Tea Cooper’s description of NSW and the buildings in 1886 is easy to imagine. This book has everything, mystery, crime, friendship, warm characters, adventure and twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end. Trudy, SA, 5 stars

The Golden Thread is a book I can relate to, set between Sydney, where I was born and Maitland where I raised my family. It is a beautifully written, warm, very readable historical mystery. The main characters are strong, smart, independent women. The description of the old buildings in Sydney were beautifully detailed and I have walked around the area of Horseshoe Bend where the family home is set in Maitland. Next time I walk down the Main Street I will image it as Connie and Nell say in so long ago. The plot will keep readers interested and in many cases surprised. Do yourself a favour and read this. You’ll love it. Mara, NSW, 5 stars

In this delightful story Tea Cooer weaves well researched historical fact into an Aussie mystery full of twists and surprises, set in Maitland, (my hometown) NSW and Sydney. The main characters are likeable, the story moves along swiftly and the ending is full of drama. I loved it and recommend it. Liesl, NSW, 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and loved the characters, especially Connie. She is sent on an unexpected adventure to find her missing grandmother Nell. Along the way Connie comes across a cast of colourful characters as she uncovers Nell’s past and her untold secrets, all of which leads to a silk yellow dress and missing gold. A great read! Gina, SA, 5 stars

The Golden Thread is a fresh entertaining story incorporating colonial history of NSW. It keeps the reader guessing to the very last, bringing new life to places of today – giving insight to both Maitland and Parramatta. Tea has delivered yet again Julie, NSW, 5 stars

I’m a big fan of Tea Cooper! I just love her style of writing and the way she effortlessly pulls you into the story. Her writing is just so seamless and enjoyable. She transports you back to the 1800s with ease. You feel as though you are right there with the characters as part of the story yourself. I also enjoy the strong female leads that dominate her books. The Golden Thread is another fantastic Australian historical novel to add to your shelves, something to read over and over again. Overall a beautifully written, heart warming story thats hard to put down. Kate, TAS, 5 stars

I have just finished reading The Golden Thread, the newest book by Tea Cooper. I found it a delightful read set in 1889. I really loved the special relationship between Constance and her Grandmother Nell. Twists and turns had me reading late into the night. A delightful, intriguing tale. Marion, VIC, 5 stars

Maitland, NSW, 1889. One Wednesday morning, Constance Montague wakes up to discover that her grandmother, Nell, has mysteriously disappeared. Determined to find her, Connie’s search takes her to Old Government House in Parramatta, now a guest house, where she is shocked to find Nell in the midst of socialising with other guests. As Connie is introduced as Nell’s companion, she quickly senses that her grandmother is concealing a significant secret from her past – one that could dramatically change both their lives if revealed. I really enjoyed the way this book was written; it kept me on my toes until the very last page. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down, and I ended up finishing it in a single day because I was so eager to see what would happen next. Even though I didn’t see the ending coming, it wrapped up the story beautifully. This book is a fantastic read, especially for fans of historical fiction, as it’s meticulously researched and paints a vivid picture of what life was like for a single woman in Parramatta and Maitland back in 1889. This was my first experience with Tea Cooper’s writing, and I’m definitely looking forward to diving into her earlier works. Christine, TAS, 5 stars

Congratulations Tea Cooper, you have done it again.I loved this book from first page to last ,you become totally absorbed in the story of Constance and her Grandmother Nell. Connie woke one morning, Nell was gone so she worked out where she might have gone from snippets she had heard. Took the train to Sydney and found Nell. From then on this story is so exciting. Love that the characters were all so interesting. Success Nell and Connie achieved what they wanted and returned home. This will make a wonderful present for your reading family or friends. They will find it such a good read. Lyndsay, QLD, 5 stars

A terrific read. I was taken into the story right from the beginning and didn’t want it to stop. I highly recommend this book! Shirley, VIC, 5 stars

I went back in time… Like the threads in a gown, Tea Cooper has woven a beautiful tale of history, mystery and love together. I got lost in the pages from the beginning and easily saw myself walking through the Parramatta and Maitland of 1889 alongside the characters. About the book: Constance expects this day to be like any other but this morning her grandmother Nell seems to have vanished without an explanation and without a trace – almost without a trace… Connie follows her and the treads of the past start to unravel. Another amazing story by Tea Cooper and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction with strong female characters and a wonderful sense for settings. Sabine, NSW, 5 stars

Tea Cooper’s The Golden Thread is aimed mostly to the female reader, both young and older. From the moment the storyline commences it leads you back in time when women were restricted in their freedom, but the storyline manages to get round this obstacle. It covers some interesting information about the past heritage of Sydney and surrounds in the mid to late 1900’s. The 2 main characters have a great relationship, one being younger and the other of an older generation. Initially the young lady unbeknownst why by herself is introduced as the companion of the older lady and are actually grandmother and granddaughter. The other characters that come into the story as you read are very interesting such as the rather masculine dressing young lady who works in a solicitors to the young seamstress who both help unravel the mystery of the past and the deceit of the current time. The ending has been carefully thought out, and is quite unexpected. I personally had trouble putting the book down, as you didn’t know what was about to happen round the corner. Donna, VIC, 5 stars

For lovers of historical fiction and for those who have never touched this genre, this novel is a must. The author has used true events and objects to weave a beautiful story set in the 1840’s in the town of Maitland in New South Wales. The main protagonists, Nell and her grand-daughter Connie share a beautiful relationship that leads to the unlocking of secrets of the family. I am waiting for a sequel as I am impatient to know the future of the lovely young girls, the elderly ladies and of course Mr. Ballantyne!! This book is sure to be a best seller. Cheryl, VIC, 5 stars

A beautifully written piece of historical fiction, Tea Cooper has created The Golden Thread with care, insight, passion, and a strong storyline. Constance Montague lives with her grandmother Nell and mother Faith in Maitland. When Nell fails to appear at breakfast one morning, Connie is extremely concerned. After speaking with her mother, the local police and others who cannot shed any light on Nell’s whereabouts, Connie decides to take it upon herself to find Nell. Connie’s search for Nell leads her to Old Government House in Parramatta, which is currently a guest house run by Mrs Alexander, a previous acquaintance of Nell. Nell introduces Connie as her companion, raising questions and suspicions from Connie. As other guests get to know Connie and Nell, cracks begin to appear in Nell’s story and the web of lies is cast further afield. The Golden Thread is a story of strong, independent women, all of whom are trying to find their way through the intricacies of life. Each character, while identifiable as late 19th Century characters, could also be modern day women. Self-reliant characters, who are confident in themselves and their circle of friends. Karen, WA, 5 stars

What starts out as a grandmother going missing from her home in 1889 in Maitland, NSW, becomes a story of intrigue and family secrets. Constance Montague, 19, is distressed to find her grandmother, Nell, has disappeared. She chooses to try and find her. Her quest takes her to Sydney and Government House, where her grandmother had worked prior to her marriage. When that draws a blank, she goes onto the Old Government House in Parramatta where a colleague of Nell’s is now running the House as a Guest House. Connie is delighted to find Nell and then come the secrets that have led Nell here. Secrets that go back to when Nell met her husband. Eventually, all the secrets are revealed, and Connie learns of the family secrets and how they impact on her life. Nell’s love for her granddaughter is exposed and so are all the family secrets. A great read. Lisa, SA, 5 stars

If you enjoy an historical novel then this is a book for you.Nell and her granddaughter Connie are involved in a mystery set in Sydney during the late 1800’s. I thoroughly enjoyed this book because it kept my interest until the end. Many features of the story were factual and gave me a sense of the times. A special yellow dress initiated the writing of this book and was a large part of the secret kept by Nell, for thirty years. Lorraine, VIC, 5 stars

You can’t beat a Tea Cooper book! A perfect blend of history, mystery and intrigue. Her writing sets the scene and timeframe beautifully then weaves a story that is based on historical facts but comes to life through her characters. In this case Nell, a strong matriarch, delves into the past to protect the future and her story is revealed along the way. The other main characters also reflect Tea Cooper’s ability to portray strong female characters. The mystery builds and makes this book a real page turner, with just the right twists and turns along the way. Annette, SA, 5 stars

Tea Cooper is my all time favourite author, I simply love her style and being that she writes about my area is a bonus. Her new book “The Golden Thread” was once again beautifully written, recreating the past and setting the scene of a bygone era flawlessly. Many of the characters found a way into my heart. The strong and determined Nell, the ever loving and just as strong and determined Connie, the unique and masterful Taylor, the sweet and caring Maisie and the endearing Miss Pettigrew who showed a mind not as fragile as her body. The story had twists and turns and held me in a state of wonder till the very end. Mystery , intrigue, suspicion, speculation and murder throughout laced with family love and the love and joy of good friends. To say I was overjoyed to receive this copy is an understatement and seeing as how I am a local Maitland Lass and it was my birthday just after receiving it was very special indeed. Cherril, NSW, 5 stars

We start in Sydney, 1846, at Government House where Nell works and is sewing gold nuggets given to her by Granger Montague as a promise that he would return to marry her. She is sewing them into the hem of a dress that belonged to Governor Bligh’s daughter, a yellow silk dress, for safe keeping. This is placed in William Bligh’s trunk in the attic along with other past governors belongings left there. 40 years later, Nell is living in Maitland with her Granddaughter Connie and daughter Faith. Nell is a creature of habit. Breakfast consisted of a boiled egg, two slices of toast, crusts removed spread with freshly made marmalade, followed by a cup of coffee and then her constitutional walk by the river or around the garden. But this morning she is not at breakfast, so Connie goes looking for her. She notices in her room, her fountain pen and carpet bag are missing. Today, Thurs 2nd May 1889, the Hawkesbury Rail Bridge is opening so Connie goes to the station to see if Nell has gone along to the celebrations. No-one has seen her, so Connie starts her search to find Nell taking her to Sydney and then Parramatta. Will she find Nell and if so, what is she doing here. A very interesting read with parts of history and places that still stand to this day.  Sue A, NSW, 5 stars

I find Tea Cooper books well researched and thoroughly enjoyable, as she brings the past alive for the reader. This book is no exception. I could imagine gliding along the corridors of the Old Government House in Parramatta or rushing along busy George St in Sydney to get to the theatre. The main characters are strong feisty women and the villain is no match for them. I would recommend this book especially to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in Australia. Meredith, TAS, 5 stars

An amazing book that has been written so beautifully. The Golden Thread was my introduction to Tea Cooper’s writing and I have been blown away. Tea sets the scenes of yesteryear so flawlessly, capturing the beauty, charm and hardship of an era that feels a world away. This book is not only a historical fiction, but has mysteries and crimes throughout, adding to the entertainment and adventure, with twists and turns that had me guessing along the way, and hooked until the very end. Constance is such a beautiful soul, and when she goes in search of her grandmother Nell, she has no idea how her life is going to change, realising along the way how sheltered her life has been. The cast of characters is very balanced, many of whom made their way into Connie’s heart as well as mine. The uniqueness of Taylor, the sweetness of Maisie and the endearing Miss Pettigrew, just some of the larger than life characters. I love how there is just enough fact woven in amongst the fiction and it blurs the lines between, and of course it made it an even more enjoyable read being familiar with the local Maitland area. Nerelle, NSW, 5 stars

Once again Tea Cooper has shown she is the Queen of early historical stories, a great story & was hard to put it down, intrigue, mystery, & great research on the behalf of Tea & her researchers. Was great to read of our early history especially in the Parramatta & Maitland areas & the Hawkesbury, I would definitely recommend this story to anyone that enjoys Tea’s work & any of those that want to try her books. Betty, NSW, 5 stars

Loved this book, Tea Cooper just gets better and better as she writes. I live near Maitland, so to hear it described as it once was, was quite a thrill. Jessica, NSW, 5 stars

I always love a Tea Cooper book so was delighted to receive her latest “The Golden Thread” as a prerelease review copy. As with her other books, this features women who are independent ahead of their time, across two timelines: Connie in the late 1880’s, and her grandmother Nell, in the 1840’s. In “present day” 1889 Nell goes missing one day and, with little to work with, Connie sets out to find her. Her search leads her from her comfortable home in Maitland to Newcastle, Sydney, and ultimately Old Government House in Parramatta, being run as a boarding house, where she finds her grandmother in residence. As Connie endeavours to determine what caused her grandmother to suddenly leave home and end up in Parramatta, secrets of the past begin to trickle out despite Nell doing her best to keep them hidden, worried about the effect they could have on her family’s reputation. Connie gradually untangles the mysteries of Nell’s past involving her connections to Old Government House, a historic silk dress, and hidden gold, whilst surrounded by new friends, a curious journalist, and questionable residents She uncovers thieving and skulduggery both in Parramatta and ultimately involving one of her family members back at home in Maitland. Tea Cooper’s time and location descriptions are as evocative as ever, bringing to life the rural Hunter Valley, Sydney and Parramatta. I did feel that her characters, though entertaining, were perhaps less well developed than her usual, and I was left wanting more. Fenella, NSW, 4 stars

What a great read. Having never read one of her books before I am so glad I did. I loved the history that was tied in with the story. The characters were great and loved the relationship that the grandmother had with her granddaughter. Will definitely be reading more of her novels. Jo, VIC, 4 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed reading “The Golden Thread,” the second historical fiction novel by Tea Cooper that I have read. The first one I read was “The Girl in the Painting,” and I’m eager to explore more of her work. The way the places, characters, and events are brought to life on the pages made me feel like I had travelled through time, immersing myself in a bygone era from the very beginning. I thought the story was written with warmth, and the author showed great empathy for her main characters, all of whom are strong women. She portrayed the challenges they faced in society at the time, especially the fact that women were not expected to pursue careers in the professions. It was very difficult for women to enter university, and some faculties would not even consider admitting female students. The author highlighted that the skills and talents of many competent women were not acknowledged and sadly went to waste. As the story progresses, it becomes more engaging as the narrative weaves its way across multiple timelines. Susan, QLD, 4 stars

I enjoyed the tale of family and friendship woven with mystery galore that is The Golden Thread. It follows Nell’s disappearance one day and her granddaughter Constance’s determination to locate her and find out why she disappeared. It takes us from Maitland to Sydney and along the way we learn about interesting historical facts 1800’s. We are introduced to an interesting range of characters, the moral dilemmas they face, the choices they make and the gamut of being human. There are so many masterfully intertwined twists and turns and whilst I enjoyed the book I must admit to becoming a bit impatient for a resolution at times. The author has woven a beautiful tale, with flashbacks that unite at the end with some unanswered questions that leave the story open for characters to have and would make a great series. An intriguing story of family and friendship, loyalty and loss which I highly recommend if you love a great mystery. Dianne, NSW, 4 stars

What is Nell up to? And why did she secretly disappear in the early hours of the morning? This historical story transports us back to the late 1800’s of Maitland and Sydney, following our main character 19 year old Constance Montague trying to work out what her grandmother Nell Montague is hiding and slowly revealing her past. The different characters that are introduced to us in the story are quite entertaining, but we are all along wondering about Nell’s history, what will be revealed and why she left Maitland to travel to Sydney all the way to Government House. A delightful story which keeps you intrigued all the way. Maria, NSW, 4 stars

This was a fun, engaging read. I enjoyed the NSW history and the late nineteenth century details about women’s lives, their class and status, the transport, the architecture, the clothes, etc … It was a bit of a ‘romp’, with an amusing cast of characters in a stately home, it gave me an Agatha Christie vibe. Secrets are revealed … the past is uncovered. Cheryl, NSW, 4 stars

This book was set in the 1880s. Not my normal type of reading , so I must say I didn’t enjoy reading this book as much as others. Having said that the writing style was such that it was easy to get in to the story and get to know the characters. The story line was interesting and a bit of a twist at the end was unexpected. Although not my favourite book, still enjoyable Leonie, SA, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is both a historical and mystery novel. A very enjoyable read. Highly recommend it Litsa, VIC, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is a historical novel with a bit of everything. Set in Maitland, Australia, in 1889, Constance Montague goes looking for her grandmother who mysteriously disappears from their home one morning. Her search takes her further than she anticipates and she finds herself in Sydney, far from the familiarity of her small home town. Here she meets women who are challenging female societal norms and must uncover secrets that her grandmother, Nell, seems determined to keep from her. The novel uses strong female characters who stand in contrast to the patriarchal society they inhabit. The theme of mystery is woven in a way to keep the reader guessing if there are more connections between characters and events than first anticipated. A touch of romance is dotted throughout the narrative as well as historical fact which contributes to the authenticity of the plot. If you’re looking for a cosy mystery that will keep you engaged, this one will keep you hanging on until the end by more than just a golden thread. Roxanne, NSW, 4 stars

The Golden Thread by Tea Cooper is a really interesting historical read created around a found and reconstructed yellow silk dress. I really liked that the dress held a starring role, with its features being incorporated into the story. I also really liked the way that actual historical events were threaded throughout as it made it easier to image the story taking place. This was a lovely historical read which I think will be enjoyed by many. Jodie, WA, 4 stars

What a lovely historical fiction story, which starts in Maitland in 1889. Constance is 19 with a day planned to have breakfast with Nell, her grandmother and Faith, her mother, however, Nell has vanished and Constance is determined to find her. She finds her at Old Government House in Paramatta. What a plethora of colourful guests, adding to the mystery of who is her grandmother really. A very enjoyable mystery to unravel the secrets of Nells past. Nicky, QLD, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is a historical mystery, set in Maitland, NSW in 1889. An easy to read book, recommended for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Luciana, WA, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is set in Maitland, Sydney and Paramatta in 1889 and tells the story of Constance and of her grandmother, Nell. They live a comfortable life with Nell’s mother Faith in Maitland, but one Wednesday morning Nell has vanished. Constance is very concerned and sets out to find her. Her journey takes her to Old Government House in Paramatta, now a guest house, where her grandmother introduces Constance as her companion. There Constance finds Nell surrounded by an interesting group of residents, as well as the housekeeper from Nell’s past. Told through Nell’s memories and Constance’s investigations we learn the secret Nell has kept hidden for many years, and the steps she has to take to solve her current problems. I have enjoyed many of Tea Cooper’s historical novels and this is no exception. Using a yellow damask dress hidden in the attic as ‘The Golden Thread’ Tea Cooper weaves the story masterfully with excellent characters and much emotion. I would highly recommend this book. Many thanks to Better Reading and HQ fiction for a copy of this book. Catherine, QLD, 4 stars

Tea Cooper is without a doubt one of my favourite authors and The Golden Thread did not disappoint. While I prefer her natural history based stories like The Naturalists Daughter, The Fossil Hunter and The Butterfly Collector, the characters in The Golden Thread are just as endearing and the storyline just as intricate. I particularly loved the young, strong female side characters in this book, each forging their way in a male dominated world. Cannot wait for her next book! Ruth, NSW, 4 stars

*The Golden Thread* by Tea Cooper is a historical fiction novel that masterfully intertwines two timelines: the 1880s and 1940s. Set in Australia, it follows two women whose lives are connected by a mysterious silk factory and its secrets. Cooper expertly blends romance, intrigue, and vivid descriptions of Australia’s past, crafting a story of resilience and discovery. The dual narrative keeps readers hooked as the mystery unravels. While the pacing can be slow at times, the rich historical detail and well-developed characters make it an engaging read for fans of historical fiction. David, WA, 4 stars

So beautifully written! The pages flowed for me like a song, and the story sweeps you away on a journey of women and friendship in the 19th century Kylie, NSW, 4 stars

Definitely one for fans of a good old fashioned mystery, literally. Set in the 1880s, Connie Montague comes from a family of horse breeders and lives a relatively quiet and gentile existence in Maitland NSW. When her grandmother Nell disappears without notice, Connie begins the search, tracking her down to a guest house in Parramatta where she is sworn to secrecy and introduced as Nell’s companion to the stern landlady of the house and an assortment of guests and staff. There is of course a secret that Nell is keeping from Connie that she refuses to reveal (even though it would have been much easier to have explained it all straight away, but that would spoil the story and is an integral part of this genre) That personal gripe aside, The Golden Thread has an entertaining assortment of characters, the storytelling was well written and the historical detail was excellent. Fans of Kate Morton, and the Phrynne Fisher series among others should enjoy this book. Juanita, NSW, 4 stars

Step back in time to Sydney, Parramatta and The Hunter Valley of the late 1800s. The uncharacteristic behavior of a well-to-do widow, who takes off under mysterious circumstances, prompts her worried granddaughter to set out on an adventure in search of her. What unfolds is an intriguing adventure, full of mystery, developing friendships, revelations of past secrets, petty crime, gold mining, horseracing, ghost stories, trickery and deceit, and maybe murder? Rich with old fashioned terminology and phrases embedded throughout, some of which I had heard my grandparents use, others long dropped from common usage or no longer relevant, makes it feel authentic to the times. This intriguing historical mystery exposes us to places, people, architecture, modes of transport, the arts and lifestyles of Australians during the late 19th Century. It also showcases the various status of women in the community at that time and the restraints imposed on them. Ultimately it is an enjoyable and interesting story that entices you to read on as clues to the saga are unearthed and a few mysteries are solved. Belinda, NSW, 4 stars

In this thrilling historical novel we are introduced in the 1880’s to the Montague family; Constance, her mother faith, and her grandmother Nell. These 3 women become embroiled in secrets and plots to steal their family wealth and reputation. At the start Nell and Constance take a trip to paramatta where they meet some useful new friends and an old enemy or two! Here they must use their strength and courage to see them through some tough times like being framed for a crime, blackmail, and even finding a body! All this and throw in some lost gold! A very interesting story of a family’s fight for security and honour and the lengths they and their friends will go to to set all to rights! Gaye, NSW, 4 stars

The Golden Thread, written by the ever popular Tea Cooper, is yet another captivating historical fiction. Set in the late 1800’s NSW, join Connie on an adventure to not only find but discover who her grandmother Nell really is. The Golden Thread is highly descriptive and paints a very clear picture of the story being told, covering everything from gold, dressmaking, Government House and horse racing. A delightful read historical lovers are sure to enjoy. Rebecca, TAS, 4 stars

Gold, ghosts and a gown! The key elements of this late 19th century Australian historical fiction are all there: a family mystery, train travel to a familiar city (Parramatta), meticulous attention to period fashion and accessories, new friendships and reputation to uphold and of course a real historic building, Old Government House. The cast of characters appeal to a range of readers, young and old. The writing is not overly flowery but is certainly descriptive, so evoking all five senses. The problem requires imminent attention, thus a sense of urgency keeps you reading. All in all, an entertaining enjoyable read from a talented Australian author. Danielle, NSW, 4 stars

Nellie and Constance, what a pair! Set the scene, country New South Wales 1889. A trip to Sydney is normally an organized affair with many things on the list to do and see. But this time for Constance, it was a missing person search, a dash of subterfuge with some detective work thrown in. When Constance’s Grandmother, Nellie, decides to depart Maitland for Sydney without advising anyone, it set off a trail of adventure for the young Miss Constance. Along the way she meets new friends who help with her plight, together they embark on unravelling the mysteries that ensue. Nellie does not fully take Connie into confidences until the last possible moment. What a pleasant journey of discovery and intrigue, the main characters being likeable and a little quirky for the times. Parramatta and Sydney town were well depicted as was the imagery of the guest house and theatre. The history of the era was carefully considered and admirably adapted for the story. Other central characters such as Maisie, Taylor, Mrs Alexander and Mr Ballantyne were delightful, as were the smaller but vital ones that helped portray life in late nineteenth century Sydney. Thoroughly enjoyable and easy read! Gillian, QLD, 4 stars

a really engaging read, set in 1889 around the Newcastle Maitland area.Really enjoyed the history and Connies journey to locate Nell and see what her history represents. Kept you engaged and page turning the history of new south wales along the way. Heartfelt, emotional all whilst not being able to put it down. Julie, NSW, 4 stars

What an amazing new read by Tea. I have learnt to look out for her books and this one did not disappoint. Claire, VIC, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is a well written Historical fiction book with mystery, twists and turns and some wonderful characters. When Constance goes looking for her grandmother Nell across Sydney, she has no idea what is ahead of her and the mystery she will find. With the story set in the 1800’s it tells of a bygone era and the way Tea Cooper describes the old buildings and settings it takes you there. I really enjoy this book and would recommend it for all to read. Tea Cooper is a wonderful writer, and this is another hit for her. Dianne, QLD, 4 stars

‘The Golden Thread’ is a charming read. The Golden Thread relates to a yellow silk dress found in the attic of the old Government House in Parramatta. It is one of the parts of the story that is factual. Tea Cooper has researched thoroughly the events and people who lived in the era and has woven an interesting tale using fact and fiction. I was particularly interested in the status of women in these times (1880s) and enjoyed other historical aspects such as the playing down of the discovery of gold in New South Wales by the Governor. The characters are well developed. The descriptions bring the rooms in the old Government House and the locations of Sydney, Parramatta and Maitland to life. The stories about bribery, race fixing and theft captured and held my interest. Sandra, NSW, 4 stars

In The Golden Thread by Tea Cooper, readers are swept into a historical mystery. The novel begins in Maitland, 1889, where young Constance Montague finds her ordinary Wednesday upended when her grandmother, Nell, vanishes without a trace. Connie’s pursuit of Nell leads her to Old Government House in Parramatta, where her grandmother, surrounded by a cast of quirky and mysterious characters, is surprisingly calm and in control. As Connie becomes immersed in this strange setting, she uncovers long-buried secrets involving lost gold, a yellow silk dress, and the hidden history of the grand old house. Through a labyrinth of twists and turns, Cooper masterfully intertwines mystery, historical intrigue, and family bonds. Nell’s search for something from her past connects to Connie’s own future, and the tension between the two timelines heightens as both women face dangers from secrets that refuse to stay buried. The narrative’s rich details about 19th-century Australia and the intricate connections between the characters keep the reader invested. Cooper’s skillful storytelling, coupled with the haunting atmosphere of Old Government House, makes The Golden Thread a captivating read for fans of historical mysteries and family sagas alike. Antony, VIC, 4 stars

This story has such beautiful historic imagery all Australians will love and for people abroad? They will learn something of our culture. Growing up in Newcastle myself, this tale was so nostalgic and I had previously not known much about the history, so I loved it! I love how so much historic fact was woven in. I fell in love with the characters- Nell has such spunk! She is the type of person who will do anything for her family, but what she doesn’t realise is that she doesn’t have to go it alone. Her granddaughter, Connie, is cut from the same cloth and is willing to support her in the intrigue brought into their previously uneventful and dull lives. New friendships are grounded and alliances forged as events through our characters together when everything is brought to a head. Sarah, TAS, 4 stars

The Golden Thread is a beautifully written, warm, light historical mystery. Tea Cooper uses wonderful, detailed descriptions to set the scenes of the 1800’s. The characters are very likeable, and I quickly felt an affinity with Constance Montague, the main character. There is a great cast of characters, all with pivotal roles in the story. I love old buildings, and they are so well described in this novel, I found myself imagining I was walking the halls and rooms of the homes. It is an easy, fun and light read, that I chewed through in a rainy weekend. I think it would lend itself well to a movie or a short mini-series. I’d recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, Australian fiction or novels with strong female leads. This was my first introduction to Tea Cooper and I will definitely look into more now.  Tracey Parry, TAS, 4 stars

Set in Maitland, NSW, in 1889, The Golden Thread is a journey back in time. Three generations of women, having lost the men in their lives, find themselves in a bit of trouble. Nell, the grandmother goes missing. Constance, the 19yo granddaughter takes off on the train across Sydney to track her grandmother down. What follows is the story of a yellow silk dress, lost gold and what really happened on the horse race track. The past is unlocked in an interesting twist and the characters show their true colours. An easy to read book with great descriptions of the world and places of that historic time. Renee, QLD, 4 stars

Set in Victorian era New South Wales, The Golden Thread elegantly weaves a multilayered mystery that spans over forty years, taking the reader from Government House to the racetrack and a variety of colourful characters. When 19 year old Connie finds her grandmother Nell has gone missing, she follows her to Sydney to uncover the truth, however each step she gets closer to unpicking the truth seems to reveal a new mystery to solve as well as people’s true colours! This was such a cosy read, full of love between granddaughter and grandmother and with plenty of secrets and mysteries to keep you wanting more. A really enjoyable read. Elizabeth, WA, 4 stars

An enjoyable historical mystery set in the late 1880s at Old Government House at Parramatta and also Maitland in the Hunter. It begins with Connie’s grandmother, Nell, disappearing and Connie deciding to look for her. This involves catching the train to Sydney over the new Hawkesbury bridge and there’s lots of other interesting historical bits and pieces introduced throughout the story. Add a colourful cast of characters and this was a fun read for me. Janelle, NSW, 4 stars

Lost: 1 grandmother, golden nuggets and a very special dress. Found: friendship, happiness and the truth. Thank you to Better Reading, for the opportunity to lose myself for a few days in this cleverly woven historical novel. KB, SA, 4 stars

“The Golden Thread” by Tea Cooper is a riveting inter-generational story that entwines the reader in its mysteries and rich historical setting. Cooper explores the importance of family ties and friendships while delving into a mystery that keeps the pages turning. Although the ending felt a little abrupt, the story as a whole was entertaining and thought provoking. Phyllis, NSW, 4 stars

This story, set in the late 1800’s engaged me from the opening pages. Her words transport you back to the early days of Sydney and the storyline keeps you ensnared. Her characters include strong and clever women pushing against the limits placed on them at that time in our history. This is another great read from Tea Cooper. Lyndy, TAS, 4 stars

Tea Cooper writes stories that are the perfect blend of history and mystery. With a touch of romance thrown in, “The Golden Thread” lends a strong female cast with a scattering of colourful side characters. Entertaining, amusing and sure to delight lovers of historical fiction. Belinda, VIC, 4 stars

It took me a while to get into this one but I did end up enjoying it. Christine, QLD, 3 stars

Set in 1889, The Golden Thread follows the disappearance of Constance’s grandmother Nell and the mystery of why she left. While I enjoyed the mystery of the storyline and discovering why Nell left home, I found the language/style of writing in the novel a bit difficult to get into – I’m not usually a reader of historical fiction so perhaps that’s a reason it was a bit of a struggle for me. I very much liked Constance and Nell’s characters and the camaraderie between the women in the novel, along with the underlying theme of strong, independent women (especially in a story set in those times). Overall I enjoyed the story, but the style of writing just wasn’t suited to me. Sally, SA, 3 stars

“The Golden Thread” is the latest historical mystery novel by Tea Cooper. Set in 1889 in New South Wales, the story follows nineteen-year-old Constance “Connie” Montague and her grandmother Nell. When Nell goes missing, Connie tracks her grandmother from their home in Maitland to Old Government House in Parramatta, a place with a political and personal history now serving as a guest house. Here, Connie finds her grandmother and an eclectic mix of guests both young and old residing. But is everyone who they seem? And why is her grandmother here? As events unfold Connie realises, she knows very little about her grandmother, and when things start to go missing from the guesthouse, her grandmother’s search for a golden silk dress and lost gold intersects, revealing secrets that threaten both Nell, and Connie’s future. Whilst the use of historical events provides an interesting backdrop, this story lacks depth, and relies heavily on telling rather than showing. The characters are somewhat naive and one-dimensional, and their motivations often weak. Most of the tension comes from characters refusal to communicate and omission rather than from any real intrigue. This is one for readers who like a little history with a little mystery. Mary-Anne, QLD, 3 stars

I am new to this author and must admit I struggled staying involved. The fact that I grew up around Parramatta helped with recognising locations, street names and visualising buildings. I have been to Government House both in Sydney and in Parramatta so this enhanced my understanding of the story being told. The pace of the story was a bit slow for me but then again, times were slower back then. Descriptions of people and places were excellent and by the end of the book, I felt much closer to the characters. Protecting the family name and their standing in the local community was paramount as Nell struggled with the greed of others. Once again, the power and strength of women both individually and as a group, was shown beautifully. Shelley, QLD, 3 stars

Another book from Tea Cooper; wonderful, I thought, as I loved ‘The Talented Mrs Greenway’. At first it was difficult to get into, however I soon became intrigued by the many mysteries threaded throughout the novel. Connie’s beloved grandmother, Nell, who was virtually her substitute mother, has many secrets from her past which she withholds from Connie to protect her and the family’s reputation. Connie has the determination of her formidable grandmother and as the story unfolds, she and a couple of friends, join forces with Nell to solve the mysteries and injustices. I loved Connie and Nell; they are portrayed as both strong, courageous women for their time. They survived an extortion plot and solved a murder which was claimed as a tragic accident. Their story ended as I hoped it would. Judith Corp, VIC, 3 stars

Interesting read with characters who maintain your interest to see what happens. Good to read about the history of the time in NSW and the racing industry. Great to see strong female characters which meant the story held my interest. A satisfactory ending as it left me at the end feeling like all had been solved. Tonie, NSW, 3 stars

It is not my usual genre but I still enjoyed this charming historical mystery with all its twists and turns unravelled as the book progressed. Gail, WA, 3 stars

The Golden Thread by Tea Cooper is an early Australian mystery interwoven from happenings in 1846 until 1889. Nell Montague has gone missing from her Maitland home and her granddaughter sets off to find her. Travelling by train to Sydney and then Parramatta. Old Government House at Parramatta is now a guest house run by an old adversary of Nell’s, Mrs Alexander. Constance finds Nell and meets guests and staff at the guest house on her quest to find what Nell is looking for. A beautiful yellow dress in an old truck in the attic may be the answer to one mystery but missing treasures and portrait keep the mystery going. It’s a nice easy read and keeps you guessing about the outcome. Nadine, NSW, 3 stars

I found this book to be an easy read although it took me a little while to get in to the story. There were twists which made it interesting and I liked the historical aspect but i didn’t really feel an affiliation with any of the characters. Karen, NSW, 3 stars

While I did like this book, I felt that it was three different stories in one. I would have loved to read more about Nell’s life before she Married Montague and her relationship with Mrs Andrew’s and explore the relationship with Connie and her grandmother more I did feel the ending was rushed and probably would of needed another chapter to round it out Anne, NSW, 3 stars

Another page-turner from the wonderful Tea Cooper! The Golden Thread delights with an intriguing mystery, overlaid with a dash of little-known Australian history, and a bunch of colourful characters throughout. Sure to find a place on every historical fiction booklover’s shelves! Lisa, QLD, 3 stars

The Golden Thread, by Tea Cooper, provided a snapshot of the established and thriving towns of Newcastle and Parramatta in the years before Federation. I enjoyed the snippets of history and society – the opening of the bridge over the Hawkesbury, connecting Newcastle to Sydney at last; a young woman working in a solicitor’s office; the ‘old’ Government House. However, the novel wasn’t quite up to the standard that I’d expected. Several minor mysteries link together to form the plot and, while there were no obvious loose ends, I came away feeling that it was a bit contrived. I also struggled to adjust to the writing style at the start, finding the grammar and punctuation awkward at least. Overall, The Golden Thread will appeal to readers who enjoy a glimpse of Australian history and are seeking an easy read. Alexina, ACT, 3 stars

Maitland 1889 and Constance Montague’s grandmother, Nell goes missing. A woman who does everything by the book and by clockwork. Where has she gone and why? That’s for Constance to work out. Constance travels to Sydney (when women rarely travelled alone) to try and find Nell. She finally locates her at Old Government House which has been turned into a boarding house. Nell is secretive and won’t tell anyone why she is there and what she is doing. I loved the history behind “old” Sydney Town and why the yellow dress is so important. However, that’s where it stopped for me. Although this book has a sound background I found it very slow and no matter how hard I tried I just couldn’t connect with the characters. It wasn’t until the last pages when the twists and turns started to happen and, for me, that was too long. Diane, SA, 2 stars

“The Golden Thread”, by Tea Cooper, uses mystery, secrets and intrigue to draw readers into Victorian-era Australian society in this lightweight novel. It’s heartening to see that way in which Cooper foregrounds female voices within her writing, providing an interesting perspective of this part of the colonial period. Cooper has used real historical sources as inspiration for her new novel; disappointingly, Australia’s rich history is explored only cursorily within the novel’s plot. Furthermore, persistent historical anachronisms make it difficult for readers to feel invested in the (somewhat histrionic) exploits of the characters. Claire, TAS, 1 star

Buy a copy of The Golden Thread here.