Your Preview Verdict: A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose

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Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose is a historical fiction novel about the life of Caroline Douglas, a free settler who has moved to Tasmania, known at the time as Van Diemen’s Land. After leaving England, she encounters some intriguing characters and forges strong connections in her newfound Australian home, while navigating a family saga. I enjoyed the author’s vivid descriptions and the unique way her characters were written with such depth. I felt connected to the story and enjoyed reading about this inspiring young woman. Historically accurately and containing a myriad of destinations which sweep you off your feet and into a captivating journey, I recommend this novel to lovers of historical and Australian fiction. I thoroughly treasured this story and look forward to reading more from Heather Rose. Sharon, VIC, 5 stars

A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose is a powerful work of historical fiction. She transitions into expansive time-traced territory from her more recent modern works. The book follows Caroline Douglas, who comes to Van Diemen’s Land in 1839 with a young ward, secrets, and a determination to change her legacy. Caroline is a compelling lead character with nuanced morals. Much of the emotional core is driven by her relationship with her father, the mystery surrounding his crime, and her attempts to recover family memories. The novel’s emotional impact, ambition, and atmosphere are its strongest points. Its shortcomings occur when the scope seems excessive. Nevertheless, it remains a daring accomplishment. It gives readers a sense of history, location, and the seriousness of self-reinvention. Ariba, NSW, 5 stars

Absolutely brilliant!! If you like Belinda Alexander and Tania Blanchard you will love Heather Rose. From France to London and Australia- Caroline’s journey was captivating. This is one of those books that makes you feel sad when it comes to an end, as you have come to love (or hate) the characters. Annette, NSW, 5 stars

A lovely story and heartfelt, located in Tasmania, scenic descriptive storyline of love life and loss.Caroline makes you feel for her and her journey over the years, a hard to put down engaging read. Julie, NSW, 5 stars

This sprawling saga from England to Van Diemen’s Land captivated me from the very first page! Heather Rose’s skill of creating a story around true characters in history and ensuring they live on in these pages is to be commended. Her writing is beautiful and descriptive, I flew through the pages unable to put it down. Characters so well drawn and the setting of the 1800’s reflected so accurately, I felt I had gone back in time. Another fabulous story by Heather that has all the elements that I love in a good book – strong female lead, family bonds, love, adversity and adventure. A Great Act of Love is such a beautifully written story and it deserves 5 stars and more!! Julie, VIC, 5 stars

An incredible Australian historical saga that taps into the roots of early settlement in Tasmania, seamlessly blending fact and fiction to create an enthralling story. My first encounter of a talented author, and I will definitely be adding more by Heather Rose to my TBR! Alanna, QLD, 5 stars

Heather Rose has excelled herself with this beautiful, heartrending tale of unfailing loyalty, love and hope. With her mother and sister dead, and her father transported for a cruel act of murder, Caroline’s life seems hopeless. But with courage, a fierce determination and what resources she has, she decides to reinvent herself and leave England – first of all for America, and from there to the penal colony of Hobart – to start a new life and find her father, whatever it takes. I loved this tale and am certain A Great Act of Love will become a new classic of Australian literature. Kirsten, WA, 5 stars

I loved this book, it was such a look back into Australian History and how a lot of things originated. The main Character was so interesting, as her story took lots of twists and turns. Took you from the shores of England in the early 1800’s to arrive in Tasmania. Such a journey through different characters and their plights. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in Historical Stories, especially early Australia. Jan, VIC, 5 stars

A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose is one of the most beautifully written books I have ever read. It starts in the early 1800s in London and in each chapter, we move slowly from London to their previous life in France through to the present life which starts with a grueling ship journey for Caroline from London to Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) where convicts are sentenced to live out their lives with hard labor. It’s an epic saga, at its centre is Caroline Colbert and Quill (the cabin boy she meets on the ship) her father Jacques-Louis who is an apothecary and chemist and previous champagne wine maker in France. He teaches his young daughter his medicinal skills with plants, herbs and salves. Along with her mother and sister Augusta and her Tante Henriette they lead a respectable life in London until one day it crumbles as the unspeakable act occurs which changes their lives forever. Caroline is 24 and has to change her name and makeup a new persona for herself as she embarks on a new life in Tasmania where we are introduced to new characters. Every character is bought to life in great depth, as the chapters weave back and forward in time with the story slowly unfolding. By the second half of the book all the unanswered questions that I had started to make sense. This is a story of extremely difficult times and a strong and determined young woman trying to put her life back together in the most difficult way possible. This was a gritty and realistic account of harsh times, and I found this book spellbinding. Bridget, QLD, 5 stars

The idea that A Great Act of Love involved the champagne industry in Van Dieman’s Land was intriguing. The book was so much more including the way history was woven throughout the story. Caroline was central to the storyline beginning with her time in Scotland and London through to her life in Van Dieman’s Land. She was a talented woman, able to make the most of opportunities, including being mindful of the best way to present herself even if not exactly as her true self. Quill, who became her ward, was a delightful addition to Caroline’s life. At times reading about Caroline’s father, Jaques-Louis, was excruciating due to the events that happened to him. His sister Henriette was an interesting character who had a profound effect on Caroline. Cornelius was a kind person who endured much but still saw the best in people. The relationship Caroline had with the Swanston family, especially Georgiana, was fulfilling and useful. Heather Rose was able to describe many beautiful aspects of Hobart and the process of wine making. She has an exquisite way with words. The conclusion of A Great Act of Love was emotional and gave hope that Caroline’s life would be fruitful. Anette, WA, 5 stars

Wow.. just wow! At first I was surprised at Heather Rose writing a work of historical fiction like this, but it didn’t take long to see the masterful storytelling and carefully constructed characters so telling of her work shine through. Such a beautiful weaving of different stories and key moments in history. Even if you’re not a usual reader of historical fiction, I would absolutely encourage you to read this book. It’s hard to share details of the story without giving too much away, so just get into it and discover for yourself. If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would. Highly recommend. Jane, VIC, 5 stars

Wow, what a saga of history, family and determination to survive and succeed. This was not a genre I usually read but I live in Tasmania and being based on true events, I just had to try it. I was not disappointed, the rich detail of history, sea voyages and landscapes certainly made it seem like you had gone back in time. The clothes, the convicts, the homes, the gardens and the unfolding relationships between the characters and their families were superbly illustrated. The twists and turns of the life these pioneers sought to build for themselves, their secrets, traumas and history from England and Paris were richly intertwined into an immensely soul searching story of love and loss. I gained such an insight into the growing of vineyards, champagne and grapes. It was a valuable history lesson while enjoying a wonderful story. This book moved me to remember my own family history and to cherish memories that make us who we are today. Karen, TAS, 5 stars

From the very first page, I was hooked. Set in the 1800s — one of my favourite eras — this story transported me to a time when Australia was still in its early development, full of promise and possibility. Heather Rose captures the atmosphere so vividly that I felt I was walking alongside the characters, seeing and hearing what they did. The cast is both endearing and quirky, each one bringing something special to the narrative. I found myself eagerly turning pages and feeling a sense of anticipation whenever I had to put the book down for everyday life — work, meals, even sleep. A Great Act of Love is more than just historical fiction; it’s a tender, thoughtful exploration of love, resilience, and the ties that hold people together in uncertain times. It’s a book that will stay with me, and one I would gladly recommend to anyone who loves Australian history, heartfelt storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Kaz, NSW, 5 stars

Heather Rose’s A Great Act of Love (Allen & Unwin) is a heartfelt and beautifully written novel that blurs the line between fact and fiction. It follows a daughter, sister, niece, governess, and friend, exploring the many roles we play in the lives of others. What really stuck out to me was how grounded it felt a realistic world full of love, loss, and connection. The author rose’s writing is tender and evocative, drawing out the richness of family and memory. It’s intimate and reminds us all how deeply our stories are woven into one another. A moving, wonderful read that has been on my mind long after finishing the book. Julie, SA, 5 stars

A must read for lovers of historical fiction! From a life of comfort and privilege, helping in her father, Jacques’, apothecary and hoping to one day herself follow in his footsteps, Caroline finds herself having to ultimately adopt a new identity and emigrate abroad to Van Dieman’s Land, now known as Tasmania. On her voyage she meets and befriends Quill, a young boy who has been sold to the ships captain by his father, to settle a debt. They begin this very different, very tough life together in a small cottage on an old abandoned vineyard. Caroline is a self contained and resilient woman. She is extremely kind hearted and compassionate, whilst also intelligent and containing amazing strength to do what must be done. Her relationship with the agile and eager to please Quill, who becomes her ward and eventually her son, is beautiful and enriches both of their lives. As the story unfolds the hidden secrets of Caroline, Jacques and also Jacques sister Henriette also come to light. We cross from London to Tasmania to Champagne in France, learning about each of them. We also learn of the art of grape growing and wine making. You will read of the treatment and hardship of the early convicts and their integration into life in this new country. I adored Cornelius, the blacksmith working on her property and also John Mercer, the doctor she befriends. Mr Swanston, who owned the land, is an interesting character and based on Charles Swanston, a merchant, politician and director of the Derwent Bank – also, who our Swanston Street here in Melbourne was named after. His wife Georgiana becomes a friend and confidant to Caroline. This is an enlightening and thought provoking book that is beautifully written. Not a debut author, but a new author to me – I am very keen to now read Heathers previous novels. Sue Thorpe, VIC, 5 stars

This is Heather Rose’s best book yet. Caroline’s story from Scotland to Van Diemen’s Land via London, New York and a voyage to Australia is gripping. Caroline arrives in Van Diemen’s Land with a new name to find a life away from the notoriety she left behind in London. Her secrets need to stay hidden, but she has plans for herself and Quill, a cabin boy she met on the ship to Australia, now known as her ward, and plans for her family. Keeping a low profile, she relies on the discretion of Captain Swanston, her neighbour and banker, as she builds her life around the vineyard on her property. She finds friendship with Georgiana Swanston, while working as governess to her three sons. Add to that her father’s story, her aunt’s story, and Cornelius’ story and you have a very well researched and fascinating novel. From the vineyards of Champagne during the French revolution, to an apothecary shop in London, and a hard sea voyage; from Norfolk Island prison to an abandoned vineyard in Tasmania, Heather tells these characters’ stories mixing fact and fiction. I highly recommend this book! Catherine, QLD, 5 stars

A captivating family saga extending from France, England and Van Dieman’s Land. The historical facts were well documented which really appealed to me. I thought the Transportation of Convicts to Australia was well researched. The author gave a good explanation of the difference between “Ticket of Leave” and “Conditional Pardon” granted to the convicts after their sentence had been completed. The book was full of emotions for me, I was sad, happy, angry, relieved and proud. The lead character Caroline Douglas was portrayed as a strong individual with loads of charisma. I also enjoyed the passages of poetry that featured throughout the book. Highly recommended. Karen, VIC, 5 stars

A beautiful telling of a tale of determination, passion and love. Not just romantic but friendship, family, kinship and kindness. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and following the journey of the beautiful characters. Tayla, VIC, 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed ‘A Great Act of Love’. Heather Rose takes the reader on an adventure through 19th century Europe during the French and Industrial Revolutions to the penal colonies of Van Diemen’s Land and Norfolk Island. Caroline is a 23 year old single woman who, after a series of tragedies, finds herself alone in the world. Suspense is built as she is forced to escape and reinvent her past and use all her strength and talents to forge her future. She follows the advice of her father who had told her, “Your future is a catapult you must launch into the sky”. Taking strength from his words she builds a life in the new world and finds help and hinderances in the most unexpected places. This book tugs at the heart strings as the reader empathises with the characters, feeling their hope and despair, love and loss, guilt and remorse and calmness and rage as they deal with the subterfuge, brutality and blessings of life. The author’s use of imagery allows the reader to feel they are in the bustling streets of London, at the mercy of the waves on a sailing ship or strolling among vineyards at dusk. Annette, NSW, 5 stars

I was particularly drawn to this title because of the Tasmanian plot, but the story went so much deeper. It was captivating, but moved at a leisurely pace. Hidden little tidbits of wisdom throughout. An enjoyable read. Danae, TAS, 4 stars

This is a historical novel based on some true events set in the early days of (colonised) Van Diemen’s Land – my ARC doesn’t list the real events which might be in the final published version. Told from various points of view and in alternating timelines, much of the storyline is about Caroline. She travelled from England to Van Diemen’s Land, predominantly an island of convicts. It is not a linear story which eventually reveals Caroline’s back story. To be honest, the differing non linear timeline made reading slower and a little frustrating. It is not all about the challenging times – Rose has written around those obsracles with beautiful language. I wish I had written down some of the phrases and sentences so I could share them with you. Lovely story of hope, overcoming obstacles, moving forward and especially of resilience. The descriptions of the trees, fruits, herbs and plants are exquisite. Indigo, NSW, 4 stars

I really enjoyed this, as someone who doesn’t often go for a historical fiction like this. I found the writing was beautiful. I liked the alternating between character focus. Tara, VIC, 4 stars

“A Great Act of Love” by Heather Rose is a sweeping historical saga that feels authentic and vivid……from the turbulence of Europe in the time of the French Revolution to the adventure of a voyage through the Indies and South America and final settling in the strange new Van Diemen’s Land. Caroline Douglas is the mainstay around whom the other characters revolve and we follow her story intertwined with those of her family, friends and companions. I enjoyed the way we were gently led backward and forwards with important reveals along the way. Life back then was dangerous and success and happiness were never assured so while hoping for a happy ending some bitter sweet twists and turns have to be endured. The trials and setbacks of a burgeoning colony both socially and economically are laid out as Caroline attempts to revive the neglected vineyards around her cottage. Brave, intelligent females have abounded throughout history and to think upon their lives and experiences is to make our own richer as a result. A wonderful novel, richly detailed and full of warmth and quiet resolve. Lesley, QLD, 4 stars

What a lovely easy read, with so much history and life lessons along the way. It is not my normal book I would pick, but I am happy that I took the chance to read it. The last chapter was a beautiful ending. Monica, VIC, 4 stars

A beautifully written story covering so much historical information set around 1836 and onwards. The main character is Caroline, an attractive, intelligent and very feisty young woman who has suffered much tragedy. Initially set in England, Caroline travels to New York, South America and then the long journey to what was then named as Van Diemen’s Land, in colonial Australia. The book is fascinating and quite complex. As the reader gets to know Caroline more of her mysterious past is revealed, especially her relationship with her beloved Aunt Henrietta. There are many topics woven into the story; slavery, poverty, conviction life, colonisation, the frontier war, women’s rights (or lack of), the making of champagne, friendship and post traumatic brain disorder. I found the story line compelling and easy to read, I love the authors writing style. The chapters are short and all of it is very interesting, though there were maybe a couple of interwoven tales too many. I was lucky enough to be reading an ARC, so the final version I hope, will have a mention of the true stories that inspired the author. The second book by Heather Rose I have read, I have all her other novels on my ‘to be read’ list and very keen to read them. Toni, QLD, 4 stars

A beautifully written book. The way we find out more about the characters history as we progress through the pages, is wonderful. Caroline lived a life of comfort and privilege, assisting her father in his apothecary and hoping one day this would all be hers. Through a few unfortunate incidents – the loss of her father and the death of her mother and sister, she embarks on a new life in Van Diemens Land. With the help of Quill, a young cabin boy, who disembarks with Caroline to become her ward, they arrive in this new land to start afresh. The two settle in an old abandoned cottage on the edge of a vineyard. The landowner is of importance in the settlement and she utilises this to set her and Quill up. The rejuvenation of the vineyard reaps some interesting help and rewards. I was taken in with Caroline and the depth of her character and was hoping all would work out for her, despite her lies and deception. But can they be forgiven if they come from a place of love? Nicole, VIC, 4 stars

Heather Rose uses some beautiful poetic writing to tell the inspirational story of an independent woman in the early days of the colony of Van Diemen’s land. Caroline knows what she wants and is clever enough to make it happen. She is also a woman capable of empathy and deep love, as is shown through her guardianship of Quill. Readers with an interest in historical trivia will enjoy detailed descriptions of cooking, gardening, farming, herbal remedies and the challenges of growing wine grapes in the colder climates of the southern hemisphere two centuries ago. Politics, racism, law and order and some graphic mistreatment of convicts and servants by those in power add emotional depth to an engrossing story. Although I love puzzles and languages, I would have appreciated translations of the many French phrases which were not obvious through context. Caroline’s combined French/Scottish heritage is fascinating, as is the contrast between aristocratic wealth and her family’s life after the Revolution. Heather Rose uses some beautiful poetic writing to tell the inspirational story of an independent woman in the early days of the colony of Van Diemen’s land. Caroline knows what she wants and is clever enough to make it happen. She is also a woman capable of empathy and deep love, as is shown through her guardianship of Quill. Readers with an interest in historical trivia will enjoy detailed descriptions of cooking, gardening, farming, herbal remedies and the challenges of growing wine grapes in the colder climates of the southern hemisphere two centuries ago. Politics, racism, law and order and some graphic mistreatment of convicts and servants by those in power add emotional depth to an engrossing story. Although I love puzzles and languages, I would have appreciated translations of the many French phrases which were not obvious through context. Caroline’s combined French/Scottish heritage is fascinating, as is the contrast between aristocratic wealth and her family’s life after the Revolution. Highly recommended for anyone interested in reading about the early days of colonial Australia. Heidi, VIC, 4 stars

This is a great sweeping historic novel, taking us through the life of Caroline Douglas, who moved to Tasmania, when it was still known as Van Diemens Land. She is a woman with secrets, and the book backtracks through her timeline, gradually exposing all that has led her to where she now is, and showcasing her tenacity. For the most part, this was a lovely book, telling Caroline’s story beautifully. I did occasionally get frustrated with where and when we were as a new chapter started, telling a part of the back story from a different character’s perspective. Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the early days of Tasmania, and the lives of the pioneers of the time. Karen, VIC, 4 stars

Well, this was a new author for me, I found it a little hard to get into this story at first, but I persisted and started to enjoy it, I loved that it was based on true events, and her description of the areas she travelled to in that time. Will be looking out for more of her books. Karen, SA, 4 stars

This novel offers a blend of fiction and history, weaving together the personal journeys of its characters with the historical events that shaped their lives. The Heather Rose excels at presenting multiple perspectives, allowing readers to connect with each character and understand the weight of their past experiences. The historical elements enrich the narrative without overwhelming it. One minor drawback was the inclusion of French phrases throughout the book. While I understand why there was a use for the French phrases, I felt like it occasionally disrupted the reading flow as I am unfamiliar with the language. A glossary or footnotes would have been a helpful addition for non-French speakers. However don’t let this put you off, the book is not full of French phrases, and usually I understood the gist of the phrase without having to look it up. Overall, an engaging read that balances emotional depth with historical insight into what life was like back in those times. This was the first book I’ve read of Heather’s, I’ll definitely be going back to read her previous novels. Fran, NSW, 4 stars

The latest novel by Heather Rose is a historical saga, “based on several true stories”, as she reveals in the front pages. The story moves from lost family fortunes in revolutionary France to life in colonial Van Dieman’s Land, as Caroline Douglas tries to make a good life for herself and her protege Quill by resurrecting a vineyard in the colony. It’s a sweeping tale, with several side forays – graphic depictions of historical events such as the horrors of slavery, and touching on the terrible treatment of the Tasmanian First Nations people. It also reveals a little about the difficulties and dangers for women at this time – especially women who wish to be in charge of their own lives and be successful in a man’s world. As a Tasmanian reader, I especially appreciated all the historical detail of early settlement and life in the colonies. Ultimately, though, it’s Heather’s storytelling that captures us, with this absorbing story of family, love in all its guises, and the possibility of hope despite myriad sadnesses: “A slow vintage of family, a harvest of souls.” Amanda, TAS, 4 stars

A Great Act of Love is my fourth book by Heather Rose and possibly my favourite! Clearly well researched, this work of historical fiction takes us on a journey from revolutionary France to London to Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) in early colonial Australia. We follow a young woman Caroline who harbours a big secret but is determined to reinvent herself. There’s Apothecary, there’s a cottage at the base of a mountain with an overgrown vineyard, there’s the making of champagne, there’s brutality and beauty, there’s legacy and loss and love. It’s a sizable read but the multiple perspectives and captivating cast of characters kept me engaged in this evocative and moving story. The second half I especially didn’t want to put down. The writing is absolutely beautiful, it will sweep you off your feet and you will want to savour it. If you love historical fiction with a strong female lead and stunning writing, you will not want to miss A Great Act of Love. Julia, NSW, 4 stars
A Great Act of Love is Heather Rose’s first historical novel, and it’s full of rich detail and atmosphere. She really brings Tasmania (then Van Diemen’s Land) to life, and I loved the sense of place throughout the story. The book moves between different characters and times, which kept things interesting and gave me new pieces of the story as I read each section of the book. The writing is lyrical and beautiful, though the pacing felt slower than I usually prefer. I appreciated the the depth and care that went into the story, and the ending was touching. Fans of historical fiction who enjoy descriptive, reflective writing will probably get the most out of this one. Angela, QLD, 4 stars

A Great Act of Love is a story of courage, adventure and beginnings. The new beginnings and growth of Caroline Douglas and the island of Tasmania. I really enjoyed ‘A Great Act of Love’ This is a great historical novel that spans several continents. Add in a healthy dose of intrigue with secrets long held and Champagne being grown in the vineyards of Hobart. This all makes for a terrific read. Janet, NSW, 4 stars

A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose is another brilliantly researched depiction of early life in Australia and the hardships that accompany moving to a new colony. Especially in this case of Caroline coming as a free settler coming to try her hand at establishing a successful vineyard producing Champagne as it’s specially and her main motivation is to give her convict father an opportunity for redemption and freedom. Caroline is an extremely capable strong young woman who creates innovative methods to gain success and respect in the industry and Australia. It’s even better because it’s based on true events. Very interesting reading. Loved it Janet, NSW, 4 stars

Such a beautifully written book loved this story. It was an exquisite tale of adventure, love and wine in Tasmania. The author painted a beautiful picture of the area, and I just lost myself. Jessica, NSW, 4 stars

I enjoyed A Great Act of Love. How cruel times were in slave and convict days. Hard to believe how humans could treat their fellow man so harshly. The storyline was excellent and showed how strong a woman had to be in those times to succeed. The book kept me interested from cover to cover. Kaye, VIC, 4 stars

I love this author and her books never disappoint. What an amazing novel full of adventure, relationships and the wine making taking you from England to Tasmania and beyond. The detail in this novel is exquisite; I couldn’t put it down. Jessica, NSW, 4 stars

The author has a really lovely writing style, very descriptive and I enjoyed this book. Karlie, SA, 3 stars

A story of one woman’s life experience to set her own path and make sense of her family history. Based on true events I the 1800’s Caroline travels across the oceans to a new life. Rita, NSW, 3 stars

I’m afraid I didn’t finish this book. It wasn’t really my genre, I read half and it was very descriptive and well written, but I wasn’t enjoying the story at all. Someone who enjoys a period piece would probably get into it more than me. Leonie, SA, 3 stars

A meandering stroll of a book, telling the story of a young woman’s act of love towards her father, set against the background of Van Diemen Land convict history in the early 19th century. Mopsy, VIC, 3 stars

A historical fiction that takes you on a journey to a place called Van Diemen’s Land. Caroline, a healer of sorts, binds her country farewell and battles the sea to what will be her new home. A self contained, resilient woman with hidden secrets from her past. Quite a thought provoking book as it entails the earlier convict days and based on true events. Rachael, NSW, 2 stars

A most enjoyable read with vividly drawn characters set in different countries and times with action switching between present, past and future. The opening in late c19 London sets up the intriguing father/daughter context at the heart of the book and Heather’s descriptive and expressive writing conjures up scenery, family ties, characters and atmosphere effectively as the resilient protagonist Caroline Colbert (later Caroline Douglas after her necessary lengthy journey from London to Van Dieman’s Land), begins life anew, following the disgrace of her French father’s bewildering murdering act and his deportment to Norfolk Island. I loved the character of Caroline’s Aunt Henrietta, a thief and lady’s companion who recruits Caroline as her apprentice donning male disguises enabling feats impossible for women then and providing the means to flourish in Tasmania. We learn of the privileged background of Henrietta and her brother Jacques-Louis in France’s chateaus and vineyards and apothecary work before the French revolution guillotined their parents and they too had to flee France. Caroline establishes herself in Hobart, eventually working the abandoned vineyard on her property to produce world class champagne with Captain Swanston’s help and enjoying a great friendship with his wife. Cornelius the black blacksmith’s role is also convincing. All the links come to fruition as we are led back to Caroline’s “great act of love” which reached full circle with her father and the author holds our attention throughout. Fran, VIC, 1 star

Inspired by true events, prepare to become completely engrossed in this tale of life, love and grief which begins in 1836 London and leads all the way to Van Diemens Land (now Tasmania) and the newly established penal colony of Hobart Town. The story revolves around a close-knit family struck by a series of personal tragedies, leaving the youngest daughter Caroline, at age 23 determined to remove herself as far as possible from the influences of her old life in London. She courageously secures a berth on a Dutch brigantine and sets sail on a long voyage for a new life at the other end of the world. It is a story of both resilience and hope as Caroline, while harbouring a deep secret adopts the pose of a grieving widow to deflect suspicion away from her arrival as a single woman. Rich in detail, with descriptions not only of the various characters but also the rare beauty in which they find themselves living as they make their way in this fledgling colony, generates a feeling of deep satisfaction as you continue to turn the pages, not really wanting the story to end. With her beautiful prose, award-winning Heather Rose has become one of my very favourite authors! Carel, VIC, 1 star

Buy a copy of A Great Act of Love here.