From bestselling author Jackie French comes a book about the secrets we carry, those that we unearth – and those that are too dangerous to tell.
The once impoverished medical student Agnes Glock is now the fabulously wealthy Mrs Mulberry. Her estate in the mountains is magnificent, a haven for those too ravaged by the Great War to cope with the society that first condemned them to battle and which now shuns them.
The War has, however, stolen Agnes’s chance to graduate as a doctor, as well as the fiance she adored. Her husband, Douglas Mulberry, remains shellshocked and unable to speak. Their scandalous marriage is a farce, an act of kindness to keep Douglas’s fortune from his uncle’s grasp.
A chance visit to a circus brings about a mystery in the form of a fairylike child whose guardians claim was brought up by dingoes. The child cannot speak and seems deformed. But Agnes is inexplicably drawn to her and believes she can be cured.
The decision to save the child will bring Agnes’s lost fiance into her life again, as well as awaken the love of her husband who finds his voice as the three try to solve the mystery of the ‘dingo girl’.
Agnes has put aside her own life and the dreams she once had. But now she has choices, with the main question the hardest: Who is Mrs Agnes Mulberry?
Buy a copy of Becoming Mrs Mulberry here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Sure, a historical novel, but far more than that. An intriguing story with multiple threads, underpinned by the demonstration of sound values. A mystery, some romance, exposure of the post-war traumas for returned and damaged servicemen, the marginalisation of women’s contribution and intellect, exposure of prostitution and child abuse. This novel has it all, packaged in a storyline that builds momentum and sustains the readers’ interest until the last page. An excellent novel, and one not to be missed. Geoff, WA, 5 Stars
Struggling medical student Agnes Glock is now rich Mrs Mulberry, who lives in a marriage of convenience with her shellshocked and mostly mute husband in the Australian mountains. Their estate is home to those scarred physically and mentally by the Great War, whom polite society would rather not see or remember. Her discovery of a “dingo girl” at the circus sets in chain events that will affect everybody. I loved this! It’s a fascinating take on historical fiction: The focus is less on fashion, foreign locations and fabulousness, and more on ordinary Australian people. It also felt a bit gothic. Confinement, looming menace, isolation and the mystery of the “dingo girl” combine to make you feel you could be opening a creaky door in a haunted castle. Lovers of interesting facts will be enthralled and angered by the true history of the first women training to be doctors, and how mental and physical trauma was handled medically and socially. Plus Agnes is a heroine to adore. Her strength and sass is fun to read, without being too contemporary. If you’re a fan of the authors like Natasha Lester, Belinda Alexandra and Kate Morton, I strongly recommend this book. Lisa, QLD, 5 Stars
Wombats, Dingos and people the world tried to forget, a great book to get lost in. Did not want to put it down. Truly supported my belief that unconditional love is a healer of the broken, human or animal. Maryanne, NSW, 5 Stars
Highly recommended. Strong female characters and an intriguing storyline full of hard choices and dreams lost makes it heartwarming, heartbreaking and hard to stop reading. Catherine, NSW, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is the first Jackie French novel I have read, and what a delight it is! I loved everything about this book. The post-World War One, rural NSW setting was lovely and Agnes was a wonderfully strong female character that I became rather attached to. It didn’t take long for me to become invested in her story and not want to put the book down. I highly recommend Becoming Mrs Mulberry to anyone who enjoys historical fiction novels. Chrissie, WA, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Becoming Mrs Mulberry by Jackie French. Set after the end of World War I, the book follows the life of Agnes who puts aside her dream of becoming a doctor to marry and care for a man she barely knows. Set in Scotland and the Blue Mountains, the surroundings are so beautifully described you feel that you are there. Jackie French deals emphatically and honestly with the reality of life for people after the war. A 5-star read. Sarah, QLD, 5 Stars
Agnes Glock is training to be a doctor, engaged and living in Scotland. World War I happens and her world is turned upside down and totally different, This is a great example of storytelling and French’s ability to be inclusive regardless of the time period. This is not typically the type of book I usually read, but was a lovely surprise. Kerrie, NSW, 5 Stars
Praise for Jackie French. She brings us a story celebrating the good and bad that can spring from war, an insight into those broken souls, a story of love, hope and courage. Agnes is funny, she’s witty; one minute you’re laughing with her and the next heartbroken. Her compassion for Dianne, a child she rescues from a travelling circus, gives us an insight into resilience and humility, courage in the face of adversity, and determination. Her story of family and faith, of never giving up, and hanging on to those you love provides the ultimate reminder of what it means to be human. I loved this novel; every page you turn does not disappoint. It’s earthy, enriching, captivating and beautifully told, and exceeded all my expectations. Jackie French, you’ve done it again. Jenny, QLD, 5 Stars
I found this book to be a wonderful mix of eclectic characters set in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW (at least that’s where I imagine it is). Agnes has a best friend known as “Puddin” who asks her to marry her brother Douglas. Because of the trauma of WW1, Douglas suffers from shell shock and their uncle Montague is trying to have him declared insane so as to gain control of the family fortune; however, if Douglas marries, his wife can become his guardian. Agnes gives up her dream of studying medicine in Scotland, marries Douglas, and returns with him to Australia. Their property becomes a haven for a mixture of lost souls who don’t quite fit into normal society. With Agnes’s loving care and attention, Douglas finds his way back to a wonderful and satisfactory life. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it highly. Elizabeth, NSW, 5 Stars
I don’t usually read historical fiction, but Jackie French has convinced me to read more. Her novel is beautifully written in the backdrop of the Blue Mountains; she mixes adventure and intrigue with a love story. Somewhat of a slow burn, I would not have wanted it any other way, as I loved seeing the story of Agnes and the dingo girl unfold. Teresa, VIC, 5 Stars
Being a lover of Australian historical fiction, Becoming Mrs Mulberry appealed to me. A quirky sense of humour shown in characters such as Mrs. Trout brings a giggle. Mrs. Mulberry is not afraid to face society and brings constant gossip to the small town. Thoroughly enjoyable – had me racing to the next chapter to see if the plot reached greater heights! A revelation – thank you for the chance to review this new book by Jackie French. I will be recommending it to my friends who are avid readers of homegrown Australian stories and authors. Cheers. Margaret, TAS, 5 Stars
A stunning depiction of post-Great War life. I love reading books by Australian women about Australian women. Even more so when the woman is a strong, intelligent and passionate woman. The book deals with many issues; PTSD, a changing understanding of mental illness, the aristocracy’s changing relationship with servants/staff, the poor post-war reception of returned service people, sexuality, and Nature as Healer, among others. Being a nurse, I loved the medical components, and I really appreciated the breadth and depth of period research employed by Jackie French. I thoroughly recommend this book if you love feeling like you’re actually in the story. I was sad to leave the world of Wombat Hills, but enjoyed its healing beauty and community. Jackie French is a master storyteller. Christine, VIC, 5 Stars
Another page-turner by Jackie French. I enjoy reading books about women and war and this did not let me down. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy. You won’t be disappointed. Claire, VIC, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry, by renowned author Jackie French is a wonderful book on the secrets we carry in our lives; secrets that are revealed and secrets that should not be unearthed. It starts off as the story of Agnes Glock, a medical student who soon becomes Mrs Mulberry. Her estate is in the mountains, a magnificent and beautiful home that now houses those who were ravaged by the Great War and shunned in society. It is this war that stole Agnes’s chance of becoming a doctor, and from the man she longed to be with. Her husband Douglas remains silent their scandalous marriage is all an act to keep his fortune away from the gripping hands of the uncle. However, their life one day will change when she meets a young girl who cannot speak – a child brought up by dingoes. Agnes believes she can help this child, and Agnes, her husband and the man she loves are brought together to find out the mystery of this young girl and her life. Agnes leaves everything behind, and it is here where we find out, who is Mrs Mulberry? Roxana, VIC, 5 Stars
Set in the relatively untouched Australian bush, Becoming Mrs Mulberry is a fantastic insight into the beliefs and attitudes of post-war Australia. In a society that now honours and validates servicemen and women who sacrifice themselves in war, Becoming Mrs Mulberry reveals the true prejudices these war heroes faced upon return from service. Themes of secrets and choice underpin a complex narrative that leaves readers turning the pages. Mikayla, QLD, 5 Stars
If you are a lover of Jackie French, then you won’t be disappointed, and if you are new to her, this is a great place to begin the journey. Becoming Mrs Mulberry is set in post-World War 1 as Agnes’s life continues in unexpected ways. As per many of Jackie’s novels, the main character, Agnes, is a strong woman, with whom you are quickly enamoured. Agnes and other characters within the book are skilfully built, acknowledging their flaws and contradictions. Becoming Mrs Mulberry, of course, has the romantic element, which, although predictable, wins over any romance tragic. Woven into this historical fiction, prejudices and injustices of the period are highlighted, including the PTSD of returned soldiers, mental illness, the exploitation of children, and the rich/poor divide. Although this sounds heavy, the novel is both easy to read and thought-provoking. Becoming Mrs Mulberry has the right amount of mystery, intrigue and suspense. For me, it was a book I could not put down, and the end left me satisfied but wanting more, as any good book should. I wonder if there will be a spin-off book, with the continued stories of other characters in the book? I hope so! Tracey, QLD, 5 Stars
This journey delves into the relationship of Agnes, Douglas and the many personalities of Wombat Hills and beyond. It highlights varying issues, such as the ostracising of those suffering physical and mental impairments from the War, gender inequality and social status. I devoured this book and the journey of Agnes and the often heart-warming cast in her life. Agnes’s generosity and courage to defy social expectations results in a story of kindness, compassion and love. Lisa, VIC, 5 Stars
My first read by Jackie French and she sure didn’t disappoint. Based on war victims once they have arrived home, she gives them a second chance at life with employment or the help they need and require. A very well-written book, especially about our War Veterans and their treatment once they arrived home from the battle. Annette, NSW, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs. Mulberry is a heartwarming and delightful book that kept me captured from the first page until the final pages of the book. A surprising page-turner as the mystery of the “Dingo Girl” is uncovered. A beautiful heartfelt book that looks beyond individual appearances to the inner beauty of a person, highlighting how a bit of kindness goes a long way towards healing. A must-read! Erena, VIC, 5 Stars
Jackie French brilliantly exposes us to the horrific way that society in the 1920s treated soldiers returning from the Great War. The same men who were hailed as heroes when they left to fight were now shunned by those who had once cheered them. Women had to give up their jobs for returned soldiers, but only those who had no obvious signs that they fought for their country. How Dianne helps Douglas to heal and bring the community together is the vehicle by which Jackie French shows us the hypocrisy of the time. I couldn’t put this book down, being captivated by the twists and turns in the story of Agnes, Douglas and Dianne and how they became a family. Cheryl, TAS, 5 Stars
I, of course, knew the name Jackie French, but I had never read any of her many books so I was delighted to receive a copy of this, and what a joy for me. Agnes Glock, now Mulberry, has travelled from the beaches of Sydney to Scotland and then back to the Australian bush. Her drive on this journey and beyond is her compassion and desire to help people. Compassion, isolation, greed, prejudice, and misunderstandings throughout. For lovers of Australian historical fiction, this is a treat. I, personally, loved it. Karen, VIC, 5 Stars
I had never read anything by Jackie French prior to this but will certainly be adding her to my list of must-read Australian authors. What a truly amazing story this was. These characters are so wonderfully well-rounded. I came to love and care for them all and couldn’t tear myself away, having to read just one more chapter. I read the book in 2 days, which is a record for me. Thank you to Better Reading Preview for introducing me to this wonderful author. Maree, QLD, 5 Stars
If you enjoy history, romance and suspense, Becoming Mrs Mulberry is for you. The descriptions of the various characters, whether they be English high society or Australian outcasts, were vivid and easy to picture. The language attributed to them was also spot on – you could almost hear their accents. I found this novel very easy to read and in some parts very difficult to put down. This book has definitely given me a new respect for dingoes and their familial relationships and the realization that sometimes it is humans who are the real animals. Cynthia, VIC, 5 Stars
What a wonderful historical fiction by Jackie French. This is a beautifully written, well-researched book that I couldn’t put down. So many wonderful characters, an interesting community, determination and devotion under such difficulties of the era. Since finishing the book I can’t help but reflect back on the many characters and the hardships they were placed under due to the Great War. A book I will certainly be recommending to my friends. Marg, VIC, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is a fantastic read. Not only does the novel show Agnes’s commitment to helping people, but finding her place as Mrs Douglas Mulberry. A great read with little surprises that made the book greatly enjoyable. Lorraine, VIC, 5 Stars
As a first-time reader of Jackie French, I have to say it definitely will not be the last. I fell in love with Mrs Mulberry, also known as Agnes Glock. A very incredible character for post-First World War. She has so much empathy as well as a characteristic way about her. I fell in love with the way the areas and the nature are described in the novel, as I have travelled in the region. I was impressed with the way Jackie French describes the characters both human and fauna. She shows us how hard it was for the survivors and the treatment they received on returning to their home country. She describes different situations that happened to survivors and all I could think is that it still goes on today. I could not put the book down as I had to find out what happened to the characters and definitely the dingo girl. Without giving anything away, you will love the humour and the characters… I highly recommend Becoming Mrs Mulberry to be on your list of books to read this year. All I can say is this novel is a winner for anyone who enjoys an Australian story. Jenny, NSW, 5 Stars
I really enjoyed the books and the characters. The multi-levels the book covered from giving up a medical career to war wounds and disabilities and the reaction from those at home when soldiers returned kept the pages turning. Plus the mystery of the dingo girl adds yet another level. I thought I had had enough of women and war books, but this one was very much worth reading. Joy, VIC, 5 Stars
This is such an Australian story, filled with scenes set in the bush and filled with iconic wildlife as well as humans. I think it is the unusual characters in this book that gives it its charm. From the one-armed once-butler-to-an-English-Lord, to the naturalist named Private Private who spends his nights studying the wildlife. This is a collection of damaged and broken souls who come together to form a community and family. Everyone in this community doesn’t fit into a normal society and is shunned and even feared to a degree because they are different. Agnes takes them all in and gives them a place to feel at home, to feel wanted and useful. A beautifully written book that made me smile. Leaha, QLD, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry by Jackie French is an amazing read into the life of Agnes Glock! Debbie, WA, 5 Stars
Another engaging historical fiction novel by Jackie French, offering a glimpse into post-war life from a unique perspective. Expect a strong female character, moral dilemmas to be solved, and (of course) a wombat! I just loved reading the author’s notes at the end – and hope that one day Jackie will release an autobiography of her fascinating life. Kirralee, SA, 5 Stars
Set in 1920’s post war Australia, it is an insightful read into the very different attitudes and times. Jackie French is one of Australia’s best authors and this book does not disappoint. Her descriptions of the land and people make you feel like you have time-hopped back to the 1920s every time you pick up the book. Nicky, VIC, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry had me hooked from the first page. The mix of characters encompassing all relationships and abilities/disabilities were very well thought through. At times, I felt that I was in the story and could envision my surroundings, such was the writing style. I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, or who wants a book they cannot put down. Janice, WA, 5 Stars
Jackie French is a true treasure and has crafted a real gem of a novel with Becoming Mrs Mulberry. French has a great sense of time and place and captures the era well, highlighting the plight of so many dealing with the long-lasting effects of years of war, and she explores the impact at a personal, family and community level. The descriptions of the mountain setting provide a wonderful backdrop for the novel. There is a range of superbly crafted characters who form an interesting and diverse community around the primary characters. Readers will adore Agnes; her flaws and strengths, her independence and determination, her doubts and dreams. Lovers of historical fiction will find much to enjoy in this novel. It is sure to be one of my favourites for the year. Heidi, SA, 5 Stars
A novel full of self-sacrifice, empathy, love, and steadfastness. Agnes, as the central character is strong and determined to help those changed by war, including her husband. A lovely story that warms the heart. Recommended reading. Ros, ACT, 5 Stars
Jackie French has a way of writing to envelop the reader in the countryside she describes. Thoroughly recommend this entertaining read. Di, NSW, 5 Stars
When Agnes uncovers a child purportedly raised by dingoes at a travelling circus, her actions set in motion events that will disrupt their quiet existence – and set her on a path to rediscovering old love, unearthing new hope and revealing her life’s purpose. Jackie French is a superb Australian writer whose literary talent and affinity for the Australian bush shine through in this sweeping, heartfelt story of finding one’s place against the odds. Readers of Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher mysteries and of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series will love Agnes – a strong-willed and intelligent woman who suffers no fools, but whose compassion and loyalty know no bounds. Those who enjoy historical romance will appreciate this unique, Australian take on the genre – especially the detailed research that is evident in depicting the hardship and social isolation experienced by traumatised servicemen and women on re-entering society after the war. But it’s not all serious – there are some laugh-out-loud moments (my favourite featuring a wombat on a rampage through an underwear drawer), and many tender moments too. Lisa, SA, 5 Stars
I loved Becoming Mrs Mulberry by Jackie French. As Agnes learns more about the people around her, she ultimately learns more about herself. If you love strong female leads, mystery, history and a smidge of romance, this book is for you. A testament to all the ways we are healed and connected to the natural world. Such a pleasure to read. Sam, ACT, 5 Stars
Jackie French draws you into the story of Agnes, eager to turn the page to follow her. If you like Di Morrisey or Judy Nunn, you are sure to enjoy this well-researched novel. Another triumph of Australian Literature by Jackie French. Maree, VIC, 5 Stars
In true Jackie French style, this book was so well researched, with the author providing insight into post-World War 1 Australia through the eyes of characters that were so well described I could see them and feel their personalities radiating from the pages. Jackie French has once again managed to capture the essence of the Australian bush and its animals as she entwines the story of the many survivors of the Great War with the landscape in which they live. An enjoyable and insightful read. Lesley, NSW, 5 Stars
Being a lover of all the picture books that Jackie French has written, I was thrilled to review her latest book Becoming Mrs Mullberry. This book gives an insight into the prejudices and bigotry in a small Australian town, as the soldiers return badly injured and damaged. The characters in this book are beautifully portrayed, as are the wombats and dingoes. Merry, TAS, 5 Stars
This is the first book I have read by Jackie French and I dare say that it won’t be the last. Jackie has such an intelligent yet quirky way of writing and I just loved this book. I felt this story was the most beautiful blend of historical fiction, mystery and romance covering psychological, medical and post-war issues. I admired the main character who showed such a deep level of compassion and integrity. I also appreciated how the core of the story showed the importance of accepting others for who they are. This book was a compelling read that I found hard to put down. It is amazing to think this story could be based on true life events in ways most of us would otherwise find difficult to imagine. Coral, VIC, 5 Stars
A heartbreaking yet heartwarming story of a disjointed family who have been shunned by society for the people they’ve taken in around them. The secrets that are unveiled are jaw-dropping. A real page-turner! Sarah, QLD, 5 Stars
This is a fabulous historical fiction by Australian author Jackie French. This story touches on themes of love, loss, grief, the courage and resilience of war veterans, and the different ways they are seen and treated in society, both good and bad! This book is straight to the top of my list for best reads in 2023! Bree, NSW, 5 Stars
Agnes Mulberry is almost immediately sympathetic, but as we see how she treats those around her, and how they respond, the whole household comes vividly to life. Both the time and place are vivid; although intended as background, the depiction deepens the novel’s impact and helps bring the characters to life. I really enjoyed this novel. This is French at her best. Lorraine, ACT, 5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book, and found Agnes to be such an interesting, well-rounded person; certainly a woman way ahead of her time. The treatment of returned war veterans filled me with sadness – and rage – and made me wonder why it was so accepted that there were no better options for them. The societal attitudes that prevailed at the time were so fearful and narrow-minded that it took someone like Agnes to create the change that was badly needed, even if it was only in her small circle of influence. Dariel, WA, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry was the first book written by Jackie French that I have read. I loved the characters and their loyalty. I really enjoyed this book. Denise, VIC, 5 Stars
Sometimes a novel leaves you thinking about it for a while after finishing it and Becoming Mrs Mulberry certainly does that. I admired Agnes, her strength and sense of duty, and her determination to ease the suffering of anyone who came into her life. I grew to understand Douglas and how his suffering changed him and how he evolved through it all. If you want a novel to touch you then this is it; I highly recommend it. Wendy, SA, 5 Stars
Agnes Glock is due to take the final exams of her medical degree in Edinburgh when her friend Puddin’ asks desperately for her assistance: save the Mulberry family fortune from her uncle’s control by marrying her brother Douglas who has returned from the Great War catastrophically shell-shocked. Will Agnes forego her dream of becoming a doctor or become something else? Told with compassion and humour, Jackie French delivers yet again. Anita, QLD, 5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book: romance, history, mystery and a side of the Australian bush I’d not contemplated before. The narrative was easy to follow but intriguing at every turn. And for once I could identify with the main character: she wasn’t merely a pretty girl waiting for someone to solve all her problems with money or intelligence, although she had both. Rather, she was a heroine solving the world with kindness. Would definitely recommend this if you’ve never read Jackie French before. I’ll be looking for her adult books from now on. Frances, NSW, 5 Stars
The first thought that entered my mind when I finished this amazing tale was… wow, that was incredible! It is not my usual type of read but I was instantly captivated by the story, the setting, and the larger-than-life characters. I found it extremely hard to put down. I experienced a range of emotions throughout the story, especially when it came to the treatment of many of the gorgeous characters whom I found it extremely easy to fall in love with. I was giggling along with their antics and smiling as their true selves emerged. Now I’m off to find out what else this incredibly talented author has to offer. Nerelle, NSW, 5 Stars
French brings to life the era after World War I, when the disabled were shunned and treated as less than human, confined in appalling conditions in circuses and madhouses. She also includes the struggles of women to establish themselves as equals in professions that were previously exclusively male. French has clearly researched the era well. This is a great read! I whipped through it – I couldn’t put it down. Helen, SA, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry was quite a lovely surprise. Jackie French has included historical truths of the abysmal treatment of women in the late 1800s who studied medicine, as well as the devastation caused by war… physical disabilities and mental illness as well as ostracism from society. French has developed the character of Agnes Mulberry and her devotion to her war ravaged husband extremely well. Denise, NSW, 5 Stars
What can I say but yes, yes, yes? This is such a well-written story and one that entrances you from page 1 to page 491 plus the author’s notes. We are only just into a new year but this book will be right at the top of one of the best books I have read this year. Lyndsay, QLD, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is Jackie French’s newest historical fiction novel. It is set in Wombat Hill, a glorious Australian haven for a community of people damaged by WW1. The challenges Agnes experienced as she became Mrs Mulberry were handled with kindness, respect, acceptance and grit. If you enjoy love stories this will not disappoint! Kelly, QLD, 5 Stars
I loved this book, about how love grows from nothing. Vivien, ACT, 5 Stars
What an amazingly compelling story; it ripped along so fast I couldn’t put it down – and I was fully emotionally invested, it totally tugged at my heart. I was cheering Agnes and Douglas on from the start. I’ve only read Jackie French’s children’s books previously, all delightful. Now I’m going to be searching for more of her adult books. Malvina, NSW, 5 Stars
Often when you read a Jackie French historical novel you are taken to places, events or people out of the ordinary. In this case, it is the latter who are at the heart of this story. Agnes Glock is training to be a doctor in Edinburgh until World War I turns her world upside down. Back in Australia at the Mulberry property in the Blue Mountains, Agnes establishes a refuge for broken men and women – those who have been physically or mentally brutalised by the War and are ostracised by the local population. Agnes is a well-drawn reflection of a feminist who has difficult choices forced on her by society’s expectations. This is a most engrossing novel that explores both post-war trauma and the seedy underbelly of rural respectability with insight and sympathy. Marina, VIC, 5 Stars
I happily escaped into the Mulberry’s world, being a very different one to that which I live in. One of French’s recent themes has been the role of women throughout history and how they have been ignored or left out. This book continues this theme. Many other themes are explored in the book, which would lead to lively book club discussions. Even though this is a work of fiction (clearly stated at the end of the book), it does relate to many actual events and happenings, in particular the suffering of returned WWI veterans. There is a wide range of characters, a lot of them definitely uniquely Australian. It is definitely not a doom and gloom book but is presented in a lively story that makes you think and is hard to put down. Those who enjoyed the Miss Lilly series would also enjoy this book. Heather, ACT, 5 Stars
I wasn’t sure when I started reading this book whether it was for me, but after a few chapters I was hooked and devoured it quickly. Even though this book was based in the 1920s so much of it was relevant in today’s world. The prejudice then is still alive and well today. If you don’t fit the “norm” as perceived by society, then you are ignored, shunned and ridiculed. I got a laugh out of some of the adorable Aussie nicknames. Agnes sacrificed so much personally for the benefit of others and continued to do so. We need more people like her in the world. Jackie French, you have a new fan. Marg, QLD, 5 Stars
The book started off slow and about 35 pages in I suppose it was getting used to the characters and I was nearly going to give up but I continued on and then I couldn’t put it down until the last page. The author draws you into the book, the characters, and what was happening in the 1920s, which was great. Denise, QLD, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry ticked all the boxes that a good historical fiction should. The many characters came to life on the pages, telling a great story with many layers. Joy, VIC, 5 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry had me feeling like Jackie French was talking to me and telling her story. It gives insight into the kindness of people and the brutality of others. The storyline keeps you wondering while the beauty of the surroundings gives hope to those who need it. Great book, Jackie. Loved it. Rhonda, NSW, 5 Stars
Jackie French is a gifted story teller. She weaves a tale with such detail that you can’t help but feel like you’re in the story. It’s hard to put the book down as you just want to know what will happen next. Catherine, ACT, 5 Stars
A fabulous account of a past Australian era. There is a lovely sense of tribute to Australian’s who have defended our country in times of war and peacekeeping. With great character and setting descriptions, we are taking on a journey of women fighting for their right to education and employment. A well-written and enjoyable read. Suzie, WA, 4 Stars
This book explores the themes of family, loyalty, and marriage, with a few hiccups along the way. A must-read for any historical fiction fan. Amy, NSW, 4 Stars
Great book! I loved the Australian character names like Chummy and Wombat and Dingo. Also, the food and the history bought back nostalgic feelings, like Saos with tomato and cheese! The plot is fresh and unique with a historic Australian style. The story is original and fresh and a joy to read! It is easy to read and the characters are engrossing. I also loved the descriptions of the locations that made you feel like you were there! Thankyou Jackie French for a top book! Raymond, WA, 4 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is a history lesson. It deals with difficult subjects with love and kindness. Men who had returned from the war with either horrific physical injuries or unseen injuries were seen as ‘freaks’. There a number of very interesting characters, some more appealing than others. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it. Kaye, VIC, 4 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is set in 1920s in outback Australia and tells the story of Agnes Mulberry, a fiercely compassionate, kind-hearted woman who often puts the needs of others before her own. While caring for her husband, shell-shocked from the war, she discovers a child in desperate need of tender loving care. This story shows how it really does take a village to raise a child. It shows how important the community you build around yourself can be critical and how not to doubt the capabilities of anyone, despite their disabilities and physical limitations. I very much enjoyed this novel; Jackie French has done it again in this beautiful historical novel. Tayla, VIC, 4 Stars
I’m a huge fan of Jackie French’s writings so was delighted to read her latest book. And I wasn’t disappointed! Her subject was quite controversial as it concerned the aftermath of WW1 and the effects it had on not only the returning men, but their loved ones and the community as a whole. It is a touchy subject but handled with delicacy and feeling. Agnes cares deeply for the health and wellbeing of both these people and takes some huge risks in the process of bringing them back to life. Agnes is my favourite character. She is strong, resilient, and fired with a passion to keep these two people safe. A great read from Jackie French. Chris, VIC, 4 Stars
Not my usual type of book and never read this author before but I am a convert. Took a little bit of time to get into the story but after that I was hooked and finished it in a day. The writing just drew you into the story, you could imagine the beautiful scenery and the people of the time. Totally enjoyable and I am now a new fan. Tracy, WA, 4 Stars
Mrs. Mulberry is extremely likable as a protagonist and the relationships between herself and the other characters feel authentic and real. Whilst the characters are wonderful and the plotline engaging, I did not find the twists twisty enough and certain subject matter in the novel could be confronting at times. The novel is well written at almost five hundred pages, but I also believe Jackie French could have written the story just as skillfully with a more condensed telling of the story. The novel’s ending concluded neatly, which left me with a good feeling. Emma, ACT, 3 Stars
Becoming Mrs Mulberry is what I’d call a ‘gentle mystery’, where the main character has a pure and generous heart, and is served a LOT of delicious food by people with even better manners. I enjoyed the fact that the author included factual information about the story in her final notes. That was a bonus. Kim, WA, 3 Stars
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