Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is an exquisite historical novel set in a mesmerising yet unforgiving land, where both profit and peril lie deep beneath the ocean’s surface…
Western Australia, 1886.
As the pearling ships return to Bannin Bay after a long diving season, twenty-year-old Eliza Brightwell nervously awaits the arrival of her father’s boat.
But when his lugger finally limps in, it brings with it a tale of tragedy: Charles Brightwell, master pearler, has gone missing at sea.
Immediately, whispers from the townsfolk point to mutiny or murder, but headstrong Eliza knows her father; she is sure he is still alive. As the Bay swelters under the heat of the approaching wet season, it falls to Eliza to seek out the truth behind her eccentric father’s disappearance.
But as she delves beneath the glamorous veneer of south sea pearling, she discovers that the sun-baked streets she thought she knew so well are teeming with corruption, prejudice and blackmail.
How far is she willing to go to solve the mystery and save the ones she loves? And what family secrets will come to haunt her along the way? Because the truth may cost more than pearls – and she must decide if she’s willing to pay the price…
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is an intriguing historical fiction novel set in late 19th century Australia. 10 year old Eliza, along with her family, had sailed from England to Bannin Bay, Western Australia with them intending to pursue her father’s dream of creating fortune from pearling. The conditions are harsh and deadly, with pearls divers constantly facing life threating situations. 10 years later and after Eliza awaits for her father to return from 3 months at sea, his pearling lugger arrives late and without him onboard. Eliza then investigates the disappearance of her father. Eliza is a wonderfully written feminist character who is empowering and endearing. The plot and pace made me feel fully immersed and connected to the story. Lizzie Pook’s beautifully written prose and meticulous historical research will vividly transport any reader back in time to the scorching and harsh conditions experienced by pearl divers during the British colonial rule of Australia. I could not put this novel down and it has left a positive lasting impression within me. Sharon, VIC, 5 Stars
A historical fiction set in Australia in the late 1800s. A wonderful insight into this era with a strong female lead. Nektaria, VIC, 5 Stars
What an amazing debut this novel is! ‘Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter’ by Lizzie Pook is one of the best Australian historical fiction I have read. Living in WA, I especially enjoyed getting immersed in the 19th century Western Australian world, with its dramatic environment, dangers and adventures. The main character Eliza is well depicted and likeable, and a remarkable depiction of early feminism. The novel cleverly leads the reader from historical fiction to mystery as we follow Eliza on her journey to discover the truth. The ending surprised me and I’m now looking forward to the author’s next book! Marjolaine, WA, 5 Stars
In 1886 Eliza Brightwell and her family move from London to Western Australia’s pearling fields. Ten years later Eliza’s beloved father disappears, presumed dead, from the family’s pearling lugger. Eliza can’t believe he is dead and is determined to find him. Come along on this adventure that is a terrifying brutal portrait of Australian life in the late 1800s. So many times I found myself holding my breath! Suspense and danger are interwound tightly with fascinating snippets of history and nature notes. The characters are vividly portrayed and I found myself cheering along Eliza and her crew of supporters. Thanks Better Reading and Penguin Books for a copy of this breathtaking debut from Lizzie Pook. Fabulous! Karan, VIC, 5 Stars
An historical novel set in the 1800’s apt to read around Australia Day. We’ve so little knowledge of our history. A journey from London to Western Australia, prospect of pearl riches. A young Eliza’s searching to the mystery of her father disappearance. Where even in a small community all is not what it seams to be. Enjoyable read in our COVID world. Robert, QLD, 5 Stars
Set in the late 1800s in Western Australia, Eliza is the pearlers daughter, when her father vanishes from his ship Eliza is determined to discover the truth, the town of Bannin Bay is a hostile dangerous place especially for a young woman (no more spoilers) Congratulations Lizzie Pook on an incredible debut book absolutely stunning. Deborah, NSW, 5 Stars
Set in a coastal regional Western Australian town in the late 1800s, the mystery begins when Eliza’s father goes missing from his pearler ship while out at sea. Eliza is the perfect female protagonist who challenges the social norms expected of women during this time. With a streak of independence, strength and determination she will stop at nothing to find her father. Corruption, misogyny, sexism, racism and mistreatment of Aboriginal peoples run rampant within the pages. These issues were prevalent during this time period and while they can be confronting to read, I applaud Lizzie Pook for providing authenticity to the story. The Author’s Notes after the conclusion discusses this in further detail. This book had such a unique premise and was a highly enjoyable read. I also never thought that I’d learn and enjoy reading about the pearling industry as much as I did. Christine, VIC, 4 Stars
1886, Bannin Bay, Australia. The Brightwell family has sailed from England to make their new home in Western Australia. Ten-year-old Eliza knows little of what awaits them on these shores. Ten years later and Charles Brightwell, now the bay’s most prolific pearler, goes missing from his ship while out at sea. Whispers from the townsfolk suggest mutiny and murder, but headstrong Eliza is convinced there is more to the story and refuses to believe her father is dead. It then falls to her to ask the questions no one else dares consider. Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is the debut novel by Aussie author Lizzie Pook and it was superb! Pook did an outstanding job of depicting the harsh landscape of the Australian outback while presenting it all as an exciting and suspenseful story. The main character, Eliza, was extremely likeable, as was the male character Axel and Eliza’s missing father. This book had me riveted the whole way through! I thoroughly enjoyed Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter and recommend it highly to fans of historical fiction, particularly those that are set in Australia. Sandee, NSW, 4 Stars
A moving atmospheric debut by Lizzie Pook, set in the pearling town of Bannin Bay Western Australia over 1886-1896. When master pearler Charles Brightwell’s pearling ship returns without him following his disappearance at sea, Eliza refuses to believe her father is dead despite the swirling rumours and is determined to find him. We follow Eliza on the desperate and unrelenting search for her father; meeting the colourful characters of Bannin Bay, delving into the dangerous world of pearling and unearthing the mysteries and corruption that surrounds the town, and her family. Pook’s beautiful rich immersive writing transported me to this period of history, painting a vivid picture of the remote landscape, pearling industry and the hardships/prejudices of this time. It is well researched, detailed and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about this era. I found the pace a little slow in the middle but once it picked up, I was captivated by the story. I loved Eliza as a character; she was strong, fearless and feisty, knew her own mind, and would do anything in discovering the truth and finding her father. Though the ending didn’t pack a punch, it was a satisfying enjoyable read with a very unique story. Yvette, NSW, 4 Stars
Bloody good story. I have sailed and explored up around that way ages ago and the writing flooded back memories of the coast, the weather and the history. If you have read any of Ion Idriess’s books “Outlaws of the Leopold’s”, “40 Fathoms Deep” you will enjoy this. Eliza the socially unacceptable main characters, who came to the Kimberly frontier pearling town as a child with her extended family in the late 1880’s, now in her 20’s – has to cope with mysterious non-return of her father from sea. The pearling lugger captain was the apple of her eye and while trying to discover his wear-abouts she soon learns the people of the fictional town of Bannin Bay and her family hold many secrets. Well worth the time to read. Stephen, VIC, 4 Stars
This book was set in the late 1880’s and focused on the pearling industry in Western Australia during that time as well as highlighting other social issues of that time. It was a beautifully written story focusing on Eliza, who’s father went missing from one of his pearling ships and the mystery surrounding it. Eliza was convinced her father was still alive despite the local police had already targeted an indingenous worker for his murder. The only way to ensure his safety was to find her father as quickly as she can. After much probing with the assistance of a new friend, Eliza discovers her own brother has had a hand in his disappearance. This book was well written and descriptive and made the reader feel like they were there themselves in this harsh climate, battling against the odds that kept on mounting. It is a compelling read full of corruption, prejudice and even blackmail that will keep you reading from start to finish! Amy, ACT, 4 Stars
The twists and turns of a small village with its secrets and characters draws you in.Learning about the pearling industry, the colourful mix of occupations associated with it takes the reader on an adventure not expected.The hidden secrets of Charles Brightwell that his daughter Eliza discovers show how little we actually know someone until we go looking at their actions, words and intent.A great read if you love Australian contents little history and mystery. Tracey, NSW, 4 Stars
This debut novel by Lizzie Pook is a thoroughly enjoyable read. This is a book of historical fiction modelled on real life characters and harsh geography. Corruption seems to be the norm in north western Australia in the 1890’s. We have Eliza, a strong-willed young woman as the main character, living in a male dominated environment. She is placed here with her family in a remote and unforgiving land in the midst of the ever dangerous pearl diving industry. Eliza has to navigate her way through a variety of situations and characters, both friendly and unfriendly, in an effort to locate her missing father. Family trust is given and taken away in Eliza’s quest to solve this mystery. The narrative takes us along a journey of hope, despair, reality, love and undying belief. Lizzie Pook tells the story with such beautiful use of language, with the imagery created both vivid and evocative. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. Grahame, NSW, 4 Stars
Eliza is the daughter of a Pearler whose boat returns without him. What follows is Eliza’s desperate search and unwavering faith that she will find her father, because she knows he is alive. Watching Eliza’s character develop with each turn of the page was excellent. She essentially goes from a sheltered girl who waits for her ‘daddy’s’ boat, to a headstrong lead in her own life. She is not dissuaded in her search, despite encountering less than helpful townspeople, or as family secrets unfurl, bad behaviour is highlighted and the weaknesses in other’s are revealed. A strong historical fiction novel set in a fictional town of WA, with clearly researched societal norms including misogyny, racism, social hierarchy, but clear knowledge of the lifestyle, the landscape and the weather. Some of my favourite parts of this book are the diary entries and observations of Eliza’s father. This was a wonderful book to dip your toes into the era and the pearling industry, but Eliza is the star and her courage and conviction make this one a must read. Aotea, QLD, 4 Stars
I really appreciate historical fiction that transports me into times and places that I haven’t previously read about. In this strong debut novel the reader finds themselves immersed in the landscape of nineteenth century pearling industry in Western Australia. The story revolves around the mystery disappearance of the master pearler Charles Brightwell, and his daughter Eliza’s search to try and find her missing father. The novel explores not only the harsh physical landscape of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, but also the nineteenth century society within these pearling towns. Neither of these aspects are romanticised by the author, and they are sensitively explored throughout the novel. There was no doubt a significant amount of research undertaken by the author in order to bring this story to life, however, this research is lightly woven through the novel and it is used to further the narrative, rather than overwhelm it. Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is well paced novel which keeps the reader intrigued until the end. I look forward to reading further novels by this author. Holly, WA, 4 Stars
Novel is competently written with the plot and well rounded characters expanding effectively and maintaining interest. Backstories are relevantly introduced within the narrative. Settings of scenery and weather conditions are powerfully presented with excellent use of onomatopoeia. The novel is ably brought to a conclusion. Graham, NSW, 4 Stars
A meticulously researched novel set in a mesmerising and unforgiving land. Captivating from the beginning with beautiful images and words, yet ambitious, with sacrifice and corruption twisted in.The author went to amazing lengths to capture the late 1800’s , she captured the heat, wildlife and industry of the pearling town fantastically. A wonderful and emotional adventurous novel. Andreea, ACT, 4 Stars
A vivid description of the harsh western Australian coast during the late 1800s, this book describes the mystery and intrigue surrounding the disappearance of a master pearler in the pearling industry. There is a thick layer of mystery, tension, and secrecy within the small community. I did find it difficult to immerse myself in the story at the start, Eliza is a fiercely independent protagonist determined to find out what happened to her father. I didn’t think the pairing of Eliza and Axel worked and seemed a bit forced. I loved the themes and the premise of the story as it’s an extremely interesting part of Australian history. Judy, NSW, 3 Stars
Historical fiction set in early-ish colonial times in Broome, I found the descriptions of the mix of cultures and backgrounds in that place at that time to be the most interesting thing about the book. I have never visited the area, and didn’t know very much detail about its history, and so finding out more about our shared past and cultural influences through an engaging story was exactly the reason I enjoy historical fiction. The story was pacy and the characters well-imagined and varied – an easy and entertaining book to read. Jen, TAS, 3 Stars
Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter by Lizzie Pook is the tale of a 20y.o girl/woman attempting to locate her missing father, nothing must get in the way. The protagonist, Eliza Brightwell, is a feisty feminist with very strong ties to her remaining family. The family emigrated in 1886 from London to Bannin Bay (in the Broome region) where her father and uncle set up a pearling business. When the lugger returns without her father she immediately starts to investigate his disappearance absolutely sure he isn’t dead. Whilst combing the settlement for clues Eliza allows the reader an insight into life of 1886 Bannin Bay residents. We read of the corruption, blackbirding, racism, cruelty, hypocrisy and sexism that abounds. She also has flashbacks into her previous ten years learning about the flora and fauna of the area under the tutelage of her father and her indigenous friend, Balarri. I found the opening chapters overly descriptive but soon was immersed in the story. I enjoyed learning more about the lives of these characters. Even though Eliza’s adventures were a tad unbelievable I would recommend the book as a good read. Michael, ACT, 3 Stars
‘Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter’ is an interesting historical adventure mystery novel. Lizzie Pook paints a compelling and beautiful picture of the late 19th century pearling industry life. Her detailed descriptions beautifully illustrate the inequality, hardships, dangers, cruelty, prejudice, and racism of early Top End life. Characters are interesting and well described however I didn’t find myself involved in their lives. For me the standout character was the inhospitable yet captivatingly beautiful and ever-changing Top End. I felt I could breathe the atmosphere of the places Eliza visited in her search. I enjoy strong female characters facing adversity like Eliza. I would have preferred Eliza’s background and early life be covered first up, rather than jumping back and forth by 10 years. I was well into the novel before I started to become interested in what happened to Eliza’s father. Although the novel is focused on solving the mystery of Eliza’s fathers’ disappearance, I didn’t feel the novel was a mystery to be solved. I was happy with the outcome and twist at the end but happier with the rich lyrical setting created by Pook. Sandra, NSW, 3 Stars
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