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Elsa Goody, Bushranger
Elsa Goody is a woman on a quest for buried treasure - and her own freedom. A thrilling historical romance adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
'Outstanding prose that flows and ripples through every page.' Starts at 60
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
'Outstanding prose that flows and ripples through every page.' Starts at 60
432 pages, ebook
First published May 18, 2020
20 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Darry Fraser
28 books175 followersBest-selling Australian author, Darry Fraser, has a passion for writing empowering, feminist-driven narratives.
She brings to life the courage, resilience, and spirit of women in her gripping stories and masterfully weaves fictional tales around the rich backdrop of Australian history.
Whether you're familiar with her work or discovering it for the first time, get ready to be captivated by her vivid characters and the rich landscapes of a past era, where adventure and empowerment intertwine.
She brings to life the courage, resilience, and spirit of women in her gripping stories and masterfully weaves fictional tales around the rich backdrop of Australian history.
Whether you're familiar with her work or discovering it for the first time, get ready to be captivated by her vivid characters and the rich landscapes of a past era, where adventure and empowerment intertwine.
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May 14, 2020
It was 1896 in Robe, South Australia where Elsa Goody lived with her father on a small holding on the outskirts of town, and her sister Rosie lived with her husband Frank over the bakery which Frank owned in Robe. The day Elsa received a letter from a stranger in Casterton, Victoria, was the day the sisters’ lives changed. Their father died the day after receipt of the letter, so there was nothing to stop them heading to Casterton to find Ezekiel Jones, the person who’d sent the letter to advise of the death of their brother, George.
Grief stricken and devastated, the sisters travelled with Pippen the horse and their cart, keeping to the backroads – not much more than tracks through the bush – until they encountered a Cobb & Co coach and bushrangers. Their fright was real, but this was to be the start of a danger they weren’t aware of; it seemed there were others searching for their brother’s last resting place…
Elsa Goody, Bushranger by Aussie author Darry Fraser was an excellent read, set in an area of South Australia and Victoria that I know well. Well-paced, with plenty of tension and full on action, I enjoyed the characters, especially Elsa, and Zeke’s children were delightful. A great historical fiction novel which I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Grief stricken and devastated, the sisters travelled with Pippen the horse and their cart, keeping to the backroads – not much more than tracks through the bush – until they encountered a Cobb & Co coach and bushrangers. Their fright was real, but this was to be the start of a danger they weren’t aware of; it seemed there were others searching for their brother’s last resting place…
Elsa Goody, Bushranger by Aussie author Darry Fraser was an excellent read, set in an area of South Australia and Victoria that I know well. Well-paced, with plenty of tension and full on action, I enjoyed the characters, especially Elsa, and Zeke’s children were delightful. A great historical fiction novel which I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2025
Elsa Goody, Bushranger by Darry Fraser
Synopsis /
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
My Thoughts /
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is written by Australian Author, Darry Fraser. Fraser hails from Kangaroo Island, which is located 13 kilometres (eight miles) off the coast of South Australia. The Island is internationally celebrated for its pristine wilderness and wildlife - as well as a thriving food and wine industry. This offering from Fraser is set in 1896 in Robe, South Australia.
Let Fraser's writing transport you back in time. As a reader you will feel like you are the one travelling the dusty roads between Robe SA and Casterton VIC on horseback – right down to the sore backside!
In 1896, the era of traditional, notorious bushranger gangs was largely over across Australia, including South Australia. The year 1896 specifically saw a newspaper report mentioning a "bushranger at large" in South Australia, which indicates isolated criminal activity referred to by that term at the time. Although, there was one man, John Francis Peggotty, known as the "Birdman of the Coorong", who was active in the late 1890s. He was an eccentric figure, reportedly committing hold-ups while riding an ostrich and wearing stolen gold jewellery. True Story!
Now although this story doesn't have bushrangers riding ostriches; it does have bushrangers and it does have some wonderful historical connectivity to SA at the time. Like the right to vote for women. The legislation granting women this right was passed in 1894 and became law in 1895, allowing them to participate in the general election for the first time in April 1896. South Australia was the first Australian colony to grant women's suffrage and the first place in the world to give women both the right to vote and the right to stand for parliament. This right applied to all adult women, including Aboriginal women, without restrictions based on age, marital status, or property ownership (unlike some other places where limited suffrage existed). The first election in which women could cast a vote was held on April 25, 1896, and the turnout among eligible women was reportedly slightly higher than that of men.
Miss Elsa Goody has been running their family's small farming holding by herself of late as her father Curtis has been unwell; when a letter arrives in the post informing the family that George Goody (Elsa's brother) had passed away. The letter, signed by a man called Ezekiel Jones, went on to tell the family that he buried George on his own property, alongside the graves of his own late wife and son. He writes that he is holding George's few personal effects with him until the family can arrange to collect them. Together, Elsa and her sister Rosie, travel to Casterton to find Mr Jones and visit the gravesite of their dearly departed brother. However, things didn't go as planned and the journey there is fraught with danger.
Historically well researched, and, combined with wonderfully written characters this story jumps to life from the pages as you read.
If you like your books to come with mystery; a strong female lead; a handsome debonair hero; and just a dash of romance, then this will be the book for you.
Synopsis /
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
My Thoughts /
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is written by Australian Author, Darry Fraser. Fraser hails from Kangaroo Island, which is located 13 kilometres (eight miles) off the coast of South Australia. The Island is internationally celebrated for its pristine wilderness and wildlife - as well as a thriving food and wine industry. This offering from Fraser is set in 1896 in Robe, South Australia.
Let Fraser's writing transport you back in time. As a reader you will feel like you are the one travelling the dusty roads between Robe SA and Casterton VIC on horseback – right down to the sore backside!
In 1896, the era of traditional, notorious bushranger gangs was largely over across Australia, including South Australia. The year 1896 specifically saw a newspaper report mentioning a "bushranger at large" in South Australia, which indicates isolated criminal activity referred to by that term at the time. Although, there was one man, John Francis Peggotty, known as the "Birdman of the Coorong", who was active in the late 1890s. He was an eccentric figure, reportedly committing hold-ups while riding an ostrich and wearing stolen gold jewellery. True Story!
Now although this story doesn't have bushrangers riding ostriches; it does have bushrangers and it does have some wonderful historical connectivity to SA at the time. Like the right to vote for women. The legislation granting women this right was passed in 1894 and became law in 1895, allowing them to participate in the general election for the first time in April 1896. South Australia was the first Australian colony to grant women's suffrage and the first place in the world to give women both the right to vote and the right to stand for parliament. This right applied to all adult women, including Aboriginal women, without restrictions based on age, marital status, or property ownership (unlike some other places where limited suffrage existed). The first election in which women could cast a vote was held on April 25, 1896, and the turnout among eligible women was reportedly slightly higher than that of men.
Miss Elsa Goody has been running their family's small farming holding by herself of late as her father Curtis has been unwell; when a letter arrives in the post informing the family that George Goody (Elsa's brother) had passed away. The letter, signed by a man called Ezekiel Jones, went on to tell the family that he buried George on his own property, alongside the graves of his own late wife and son. He writes that he is holding George's few personal effects with him until the family can arrange to collect them. Together, Elsa and her sister Rosie, travel to Casterton to find Mr Jones and visit the gravesite of their dearly departed brother. However, things didn't go as planned and the journey there is fraught with danger.
Historically well researched, and, combined with wonderfully written characters this story jumps to life from the pages as you read.
If you like your books to come with mystery; a strong female lead; a handsome debonair hero; and just a dash of romance, then this will be the book for you.
December 29, 2020
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Elsa Goody, Bushranger by Darry Fraser. (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel; published 18 May 2020**
It's 1896 in Robe, South Australia. Elsa's brother and father have just died, and she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor, Elsa flees to Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. Their quest is leading them to Ezekiel, the last man to see their brother alive. But on the way the women are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion the women are mistaken as being accomplices. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear to him she can do no wrong. But with everyone chasing her and violence on the horizon, life is increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves?
While I regularly enjoy historical fiction, it is normally from the first World War onwards. So when I saw this one was going back a bit further than that, I wasn't sure if I would be able to get into it. But I'm happy to report that actually I really enjoyed it! It did start off a bit slow for me but then I got right into it, and was eagerly following the storyline wondering what would happen for everyone in the end. Elsa and Rosie felt like family by the end of the book, and I particularly admired Elsa's spirit. I didn't really like Rosie to begin with and then she grew on me as we learnt more about her situation. The widowed Ezekial was a great male lead and his young children sounded adorable, especially the youngest. With multiple perspectives included, it was good to get an all round view of several characters and what their thoughts and motivations were.
I think those that enjoy Australian historical fiction with a touch of romance would really appreciate this novel.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Elsa Goody, Bushranger by Darry Fraser. (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel; published 18 May 2020**
It's 1896 in Robe, South Australia. Elsa's brother and father have just died, and she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor, Elsa flees to Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. Their quest is leading them to Ezekiel, the last man to see their brother alive. But on the way the women are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion the women are mistaken as being accomplices. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear to him she can do no wrong. But with everyone chasing her and violence on the horizon, life is increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves?
While I regularly enjoy historical fiction, it is normally from the first World War onwards. So when I saw this one was going back a bit further than that, I wasn't sure if I would be able to get into it. But I'm happy to report that actually I really enjoyed it! It did start off a bit slow for me but then I got right into it, and was eagerly following the storyline wondering what would happen for everyone in the end. Elsa and Rosie felt like family by the end of the book, and I particularly admired Elsa's spirit. I didn't really like Rosie to begin with and then she grew on me as we learnt more about her situation. The widowed Ezekial was a great male lead and his young children sounded adorable, especially the youngest. With multiple perspectives included, it was good to get an all round view of several characters and what their thoughts and motivations were.
I think those that enjoy Australian historical fiction with a touch of romance would really appreciate this novel.
June 5, 2020
Darry Fraser has done it again, taken me on a wonderful journey back in Australian history this is a story of determination of strength and courage and the hard times that these people lived and of course love, a love that shines and brings hope and smiles to a lot of people, I do hope that you will pick this one up and be transported with this page turner.
Elsa Goody lives in Robe South Australia and is doing it tough on the family farm with her very ill father, she has a sister Rose who is married and living in the town and her brother George is off on an adventure, when a letter from a Mr. Ezekiel Jones arrives with news that her dear brother George has passed away and within a day their father passes as well, Rose and Elsa decide that they need to search for a tin that George had on him worth a lot of money this is all that will save them both so they pack up and start their journey to Victoria.
What a journey this turns out to be the trip is rough going, someone else is also trying to find George’s fortune and when they are caught up in an armed hold up by bushrangers and accused of being part of the robbery things could turn very dangerous for them, but they are taken in by a group men living tough, to find out that one of her saviors is the brother of Mr. Ezekiel Jones the man she is trying to find.
I loved Elsa and her strength her wish to be one of the first woman voters in South Australia and the way she stands up for herself, she is caring and has such courage and meeting Ezekiel is the best thing that happens to her, of course in these times lives can be lost very easily and danger is around every corner but helping each other has Zeke and Elsa falling in love. There are so many wonderful characters in this story The Jones brothers and even though Rose can be very hard on Elsa she showed her love and Zeke’s children are so very good.
I would highly recommend this book, it is fast paced filled with action, it is moving and emotional and a darn good read, thank you MS Fraser for another keeper.
Elsa Goody lives in Robe South Australia and is doing it tough on the family farm with her very ill father, she has a sister Rose who is married and living in the town and her brother George is off on an adventure, when a letter from a Mr. Ezekiel Jones arrives with news that her dear brother George has passed away and within a day their father passes as well, Rose and Elsa decide that they need to search for a tin that George had on him worth a lot of money this is all that will save them both so they pack up and start their journey to Victoria.
What a journey this turns out to be the trip is rough going, someone else is also trying to find George’s fortune and when they are caught up in an armed hold up by bushrangers and accused of being part of the robbery things could turn very dangerous for them, but they are taken in by a group men living tough, to find out that one of her saviors is the brother of Mr. Ezekiel Jones the man she is trying to find.
I loved Elsa and her strength her wish to be one of the first woman voters in South Australia and the way she stands up for herself, she is caring and has such courage and meeting Ezekiel is the best thing that happens to her, of course in these times lives can be lost very easily and danger is around every corner but helping each other has Zeke and Elsa falling in love. There are so many wonderful characters in this story The Jones brothers and even though Rose can be very hard on Elsa she showed her love and Zeke’s children are so very good.
I would highly recommend this book, it is fast paced filled with action, it is moving and emotional and a darn good read, thank you MS Fraser for another keeper.
June 29, 2020
What an amazing novel by an author I have not read before and had I not received an ARC, would not have discovered.
Set in 1896 in Robe, South Australia, Elsa Goody and her father are struggling to cope with drought, financial difficulties and life in the late 1800s. Events change forever when they receive a letter declaring son and brother, George, has died.
The news brings on the death of their father and without any rights or claims (woman in South Australia are about to vote for the first time in history), Elsa and her unhappily married older sister, set off for Casterton, Victoria to find Ezekiel Jones, the person who kindly buried George on his property.
The trusty work-horse Pippen, some nasty bush-rangers and an encounter with a Cobb & Co coach highlight the dangers they face on the journey; and then they discover they are not the only ones looking for George. The Jones brothers are an excellent addition to the saga, as are Zeke's children.
A far more interesting, fast-paced historical fiction novel than I would ever have expected and I have no hesitation in recommending this excellent book.
With thanks to publisher Haper Collins and Sarana Behan for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
#ElsaGoody,Bushranger #HarperCollins
Set in 1896 in Robe, South Australia, Elsa Goody and her father are struggling to cope with drought, financial difficulties and life in the late 1800s. Events change forever when they receive a letter declaring son and brother, George, has died.
The news brings on the death of their father and without any rights or claims (woman in South Australia are about to vote for the first time in history), Elsa and her unhappily married older sister, set off for Casterton, Victoria to find Ezekiel Jones, the person who kindly buried George on his property.
The trusty work-horse Pippen, some nasty bush-rangers and an encounter with a Cobb & Co coach highlight the dangers they face on the journey; and then they discover they are not the only ones looking for George. The Jones brothers are an excellent addition to the saga, as are Zeke's children.
A far more interesting, fast-paced historical fiction novel than I would ever have expected and I have no hesitation in recommending this excellent book.
With thanks to publisher Haper Collins and Sarana Behan for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
#ElsaGoody,Bushranger #HarperCollins
July 18, 2021
Elsa Goody lives on a farm near Robe in South Australia, her father Curtis is unwell, Elsa has been running the small holding by herself and she has two older siblings. Her brother George doesn’t like farming, he's left and traveling to Victoria. Rosie her sister, is married to tight Frank a baker and they own a busy business in Robe.
A letter arrives from a man called Ezekiel Jones, he lives in Casterton in Victoria, he informs the family that George has sadly passed way and he’s been buried on his property. After receiving the bad news, Elsa goes to Robe to tell her sister Rosie and when they both return to the farm their father Curtis has died. Elsa has no idea that Rosie isn’t happy in her marriage, she has a plan to leave Robe, start again and wants Elsa to go with her.
Curtis Goody found a tin of gold sovereigns, Rosie and George knew about the fortune, after searching the farm the sisters can’t find the tin and they wonder if George took it with him. Two women traveling by horse and cart on country roads will attract attention, the sisters travel on back roads and hide at night. One day, the sisters are driving a long a track, when a Cobb & Co coach comes out of nowhere, traveling at a fast speed and at the same time bushrangers decide to rob the coach. During the confusing, the coach driver thinks the bushrangers used the women as a decoy and are part of the robbery. Elsa's accused of being a bushranger, which is just downright silly, now the law is looking for them and Rosie's husband?
Elsa arrives at Ezekiel Jones farm, he’s not at all what she’s expecting, and he’s a widower and a father of three adorable children. He explains that he found George wounded, he lingered for a few days, and sadly he passed away and with only a few small items in his possession. With everyone chasing her, a violent man posing as her father, a broken foot and life is extremely complicated for Elsa. She finds Ezekiel Jones to be an honest and very attractive man, she needs to help Rosie solve the mystery of the missing fortune, make sure she’s not wanted by the law and then she will be free to follow her heart.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is an action packed adventure story, set in the Australian bush, it has a cast of likeable characters, with elements of mystery and romance. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
A letter arrives from a man called Ezekiel Jones, he lives in Casterton in Victoria, he informs the family that George has sadly passed way and he’s been buried on his property. After receiving the bad news, Elsa goes to Robe to tell her sister Rosie and when they both return to the farm their father Curtis has died. Elsa has no idea that Rosie isn’t happy in her marriage, she has a plan to leave Robe, start again and wants Elsa to go with her.
Curtis Goody found a tin of gold sovereigns, Rosie and George knew about the fortune, after searching the farm the sisters can’t find the tin and they wonder if George took it with him. Two women traveling by horse and cart on country roads will attract attention, the sisters travel on back roads and hide at night. One day, the sisters are driving a long a track, when a Cobb & Co coach comes out of nowhere, traveling at a fast speed and at the same time bushrangers decide to rob the coach. During the confusing, the coach driver thinks the bushrangers used the women as a decoy and are part of the robbery. Elsa's accused of being a bushranger, which is just downright silly, now the law is looking for them and Rosie's husband?
Elsa arrives at Ezekiel Jones farm, he’s not at all what she’s expecting, and he’s a widower and a father of three adorable children. He explains that he found George wounded, he lingered for a few days, and sadly he passed away and with only a few small items in his possession. With everyone chasing her, a violent man posing as her father, a broken foot and life is extremely complicated for Elsa. She finds Ezekiel Jones to be an honest and very attractive man, she needs to help Rosie solve the mystery of the missing fortune, make sure she’s not wanted by the law and then she will be free to follow her heart.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is an action packed adventure story, set in the Australian bush, it has a cast of likeable characters, with elements of mystery and romance. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
May 26, 2020
An absolutely fantastic story about family and mystery set in Robe in South Australia. I was delighted to see that my hometown of Casterton is part of the story also. Absolutely loved it. I couldn't put it down.
June 14, 2020
Copy received from Harper Collins Australia for an honest review
I am really into Australian historical tales at the moment, and Darry Fraser is quickly becoming a favourite in the genre.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is a story of strong, independent and fierce women in a time when this was not the norm. When events strike the Goody family, Elsa and her sister Rosie go on a 19th century road trip full of tensions, mystery and a bit of mayhem at times. These ladies are full of grit and determination.
Ms Fraser has drawn on important issues at the time - the suffragette movement is a big part of Elsa's tale.
Elsa is the kind of woman we should all be. Strong, independent and with a loyal streak a mile wide.
I was drawn right into this adventure, and I look forward to what Ms Fraser brings us in the future.
I am really into Australian historical tales at the moment, and Darry Fraser is quickly becoming a favourite in the genre.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is a story of strong, independent and fierce women in a time when this was not the norm. When events strike the Goody family, Elsa and her sister Rosie go on a 19th century road trip full of tensions, mystery and a bit of mayhem at times. These ladies are full of grit and determination.
Ms Fraser has drawn on important issues at the time - the suffragette movement is a big part of Elsa's tale.
Elsa is the kind of woman we should all be. Strong, independent and with a loyal streak a mile wide.
I was drawn right into this adventure, and I look forward to what Ms Fraser brings us in the future.
August 17, 2020
I'm a big fan of Darry Fraser's historical fiction novels, she has a way of transporting you back in time so that you just about feel that you are there with the characters. In Elsa Goody Bushranger, I was definitely travelling the roads from Robe, South Australia to Casterton, Victoria in 1896. This was not an easy time or an easy journey for Elsa and her sister Rosie, and there were many times I didn't want to go any further with them because I was so worried about the outcomes.
It is a time where women don' t have a great deal of rights, but in South Australia women are just about to be able to vote for the first time and make history in Australia. For Elsa, this is of mighty importance, but her sister cannot understand this at all. We take our right to vote to be a given these days, I wonder if we would have fought for that right back then.
When Elsa and her sister Rosie are thrown together after their brother and father die, the two must get to know each other properly for the first time and travel a dangerous road to find out what happened to their brother. Things don't go as planned, what was supposed to be an uneventful journey becomes fraught with danger from more than one direction and Elsa becomes wanted for helping to hold up a coach.
Hearts are also on the line for both sisters and for the three Jones brothers. I enjoyed getting to know the two sisters and the brothers, all so different from the other and all with lessons to learn about what they want in life and what is important. I really liked Ezekiel Jones and his children, who were just gorgeous, and I loved the way they took to Elsa.
This was a journey and a half and though it had me stressed out at times, I found this to be another great read from Darry Fraser. I certainly would not have survived back then, that is a definite.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a copy of this novel in return for an honest review.
It is a time where women don' t have a great deal of rights, but in South Australia women are just about to be able to vote for the first time and make history in Australia. For Elsa, this is of mighty importance, but her sister cannot understand this at all. We take our right to vote to be a given these days, I wonder if we would have fought for that right back then.
When Elsa and her sister Rosie are thrown together after their brother and father die, the two must get to know each other properly for the first time and travel a dangerous road to find out what happened to their brother. Things don't go as planned, what was supposed to be an uneventful journey becomes fraught with danger from more than one direction and Elsa becomes wanted for helping to hold up a coach.
Hearts are also on the line for both sisters and for the three Jones brothers. I enjoyed getting to know the two sisters and the brothers, all so different from the other and all with lessons to learn about what they want in life and what is important. I really liked Ezekiel Jones and his children, who were just gorgeous, and I loved the way they took to Elsa.
This was a journey and a half and though it had me stressed out at times, I found this to be another great read from Darry Fraser. I certainly would not have survived back then, that is a definite.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a copy of this novel in return for an honest review.
June 26, 2020
A little bit slow moving and predictable romance but the outback Australian setting and depiction of the hardship of the life was well done.
3.5 stars
Main character Z - Ezekiel "Zeke" Jones
3.5 stars
Main character Z - Ezekiel "Zeke" Jones
June 8, 2020
Darry Fraser has written some fabulous Aussie historical fiction and her latest offering is no different - great adventures in the outback. Once more there are colourful characters with an engaging dynamic and storyline. Darry will take you from tough farming life and country communities, to wagons on the road where bushrangers rove. It’s fun and exciting with danger and some unpredicted consequences.
‘You’re a scheming witch, Elsa,’ she said, a light in her eyes. ‘I never knew you to be so ...’ ‘Practical, inventive,’ Elsa finished for her, and stepped around the fallen man. ‘All this talk of bushrangers has made me quite daring.’ ‘Elsa, the bushranger,’ Rosie said in wonder ...’
The leading lady on this occasion, Elsa Goody, is strong and feisty but also caring and honest - the absolute star of this story. I particularly enjoyed Darry shining the spotlight on votes for women and Elsa’s earnest desire to be one of the first women to vote in South Australia. Supporting Elsa is a strong cast of characters from her sister and leading man, to a range of secondary characters who all in their way add to the story. I particularly enjoyed Ezekiel’s character as Darry made him multidimensional with his interactions not only with Elsa and his brothers but his softer side in the care of his children.
‘But having a vote means we can change the way things are, change the way the world sees us because we now have a voice.’
The storyline of this book has many layers which is what lifts it to another level. From the votes for women (and indeed treatment of women as property) to the harsh day to day life on the land. Covering themes of domestic abuse, grief, female independence, family love - all tied together with a buried treasure - there is much to enjoy here. Love is the underlying motivation whether it be familial or romantic and it was good to see that this also was presented in more than one form.
If you enjoy good Australian historical drama/romance then you will appreciate a few hours in this story Darry offers. I found it to be her best yet - it’s lots of fun.
‘Elsa squared her shoulders. ‘None of that. We are strong women, and we will find our way out of this.’ She raised her chin higher. ‘We are the Goody sisters.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘You’re a scheming witch, Elsa,’ she said, a light in her eyes. ‘I never knew you to be so ...’ ‘Practical, inventive,’ Elsa finished for her, and stepped around the fallen man. ‘All this talk of bushrangers has made me quite daring.’ ‘Elsa, the bushranger,’ Rosie said in wonder ...’
The leading lady on this occasion, Elsa Goody, is strong and feisty but also caring and honest - the absolute star of this story. I particularly enjoyed Darry shining the spotlight on votes for women and Elsa’s earnest desire to be one of the first women to vote in South Australia. Supporting Elsa is a strong cast of characters from her sister and leading man, to a range of secondary characters who all in their way add to the story. I particularly enjoyed Ezekiel’s character as Darry made him multidimensional with his interactions not only with Elsa and his brothers but his softer side in the care of his children.
‘But having a vote means we can change the way things are, change the way the world sees us because we now have a voice.’
The storyline of this book has many layers which is what lifts it to another level. From the votes for women (and indeed treatment of women as property) to the harsh day to day life on the land. Covering themes of domestic abuse, grief, female independence, family love - all tied together with a buried treasure - there is much to enjoy here. Love is the underlying motivation whether it be familial or romantic and it was good to see that this also was presented in more than one form.
If you enjoy good Australian historical drama/romance then you will appreciate a few hours in this story Darry offers. I found it to be her best yet - it’s lots of fun.
‘Elsa squared her shoulders. ‘None of that. We are strong women, and we will find our way out of this.’ She raised her chin higher. ‘We are the Goody sisters.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 22, 2020
1896: Robe, South Australia
With her older sister married, one older brother dead and a younger brother out exploring the wiles of Victoria, Elsa Goody has been caring for her ill father and the family farm. She receives a letter from an Ezekiel Jones that her brother has died, and when her father follows soon after, Elsa sets out with her sister Rosie to thank Mr Jones and find out more about what happened to her brother George.
It's an escape of sorts for both. For Rosie it's the chance to escape the doldrums of her loveless, married life and, as she confides in Elsa, the opportunity to locate thirty sovereigns hidden somewhere safe that only George and their father knew the whereabouts of. For Elsa it's the opportunity of seeing life beyond the farm gate, determine what happened to George and find the sovereigns, and avoid multiple unwelcome suitors.
Not long into their travels they encounter a band of bushrangers attempting to rob a stagecoach. During the confusion Elsa and Rosie are mistaken as part of the band of bushrangers. What follows is a journey for both the women in more ways than one - in terms of their own relationship, the legacy of their brother and the fortune that might change their lives forever, and two men that cause each to reconsider their original plans.
Elsa Goody: Bushranger is a story about an earnest, honest and strong woman seeking something more than the life she was living. She's of strong opinions and intending to cast a vote in the upcoming elections, something that is unheard of for a woman of the time. It's a story about the lives she touches as she travels the countryside, including those of the Jones family and their immediate neighbour who find their ways, very quickly into her heart. But life is never that simple or straightforward and Elsa has choice to make.
Darry Fraser has written a marvellous novel of historical fiction. The characters are colourful and full of life, the dynamics between them rich and varied. There is adventure aplenty from country farms and huts, wagons and swags in the bush, and saloons in the small country towns. There are troopers, bushrangers, bawdy saloon girls and men's men who seem to be marshmallow when it comes to a couple of little children and a couple of strong, matter of fact women. There is excitement, danger and heartache.
If you love Australian historical romance this is one you will want to grab.
Thank you to Darry Fraser and Harper Collins Australia for sending me a free copy of this book.
1896: Robe, South Australia
With her older sister married, one older brother dead and a younger brother out exploring the wiles of Victoria, Elsa Goody has been caring for her ill father and the family farm. She receives a letter from an Ezekiel Jones that her brother has died, and when her father follows soon after, Elsa sets out with her sister Rosie to thank Mr Jones and find out more about what happened to her brother George.
It's an escape of sorts for both. For Rosie it's the chance to escape the doldrums of her loveless, married life and, as she confides in Elsa, the opportunity to locate thirty sovereigns hidden somewhere safe that only George and their father knew the whereabouts of. For Elsa it's the opportunity of seeing life beyond the farm gate, determine what happened to George and find the sovereigns, and avoid multiple unwelcome suitors.
Not long into their travels they encounter a band of bushrangers attempting to rob a stagecoach. During the confusion Elsa and Rosie are mistaken as part of the band of bushrangers. What follows is a journey for both the women in more ways than one - in terms of their own relationship, the legacy of their brother and the fortune that might change their lives forever, and two men that cause each to reconsider their original plans.
Elsa Goody: Bushranger is a story about an earnest, honest and strong woman seeking something more than the life she was living. She's of strong opinions and intending to cast a vote in the upcoming elections, something that is unheard of for a woman of the time. It's a story about the lives she touches as she travels the countryside, including those of the Jones family and their immediate neighbour who find their ways, very quickly into her heart. But life is never that simple or straightforward and Elsa has choice to make.
Darry Fraser has written a marvellous novel of historical fiction. The characters are colourful and full of life, the dynamics between them rich and varied. There is adventure aplenty from country farms and huts, wagons and swags in the bush, and saloons in the small country towns. There are troopers, bushrangers, bawdy saloon girls and men's men who seem to be marshmallow when it comes to a couple of little children and a couple of strong, matter of fact women. There is excitement, danger and heartache.
If you love Australian historical romance this is one you will want to grab.
Thank you to Darry Fraser and Harper Collins Australia for sending me a free copy of this book.
May 11, 2020
Darry Fraser’s novels are always enjoyable to read, so I wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity to read and review this one prior to publication with thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Australia.
Elsa Goody is a woman on a quest for buried treasure - and her own freedom. A thrilling historical romance adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
This book is beautifully written, the characters were so real and the research into the history of the time superb. As I read, I was able to sit back and escape allowing my imagination to flow with every word.
I highly recommend this one, it is perfect for lovers of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction.
Elsa Goody is a woman on a quest for buried treasure - and her own freedom. A thrilling historical romance adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
This book is beautifully written, the characters were so real and the research into the history of the time superb. As I read, I was able to sit back and escape allowing my imagination to flow with every word.
I highly recommend this one, it is perfect for lovers of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction.
May 23, 2020
I love Darry Fraser’s ability to sweep readers away from our busy modern lives and into an earlier time in our history. Elsa Goody, Bushranger does just that as it takes us back to the end of the 19th century, to difficult times in rural South Australia and Victoria, where hardship comes in the form of illness and poverty.
I was so taken with Elsa, a strong woman who was willing and able to both care for her ailing father and farm their tiny allotment ensuring that even with no stock left there would be something on the dinner table. I also loved her passion and determination to be the first woman to vote in her town. Clearly Elsa was a woman determined to make her mark and in this novel she surely does. I was swept away with her grit in the face of the challenges she faced, both losing the last of her three brothers and then her father in quick succession and in seeking out the stranger who had cared for her brother in his last hours.
While this story is largely Elsa’s, and thank goodness there was Zeke to bring some happiness into her life, it is also peppered with other lively characters. Her sister Rosie is largely a burden born with grace, while Zeke and his children are bright shining lights. The characters very much make this story and I found myself utterly invested in them and their lives.
Late 19th century rural Australia offers a far from easy lifestyle and I certainly sat up and took a hard look at my own life in comparison to how it was in those times. This book, while fictional, certainly provided what I believe to be a very accurate picture and one that I found utterly fascinating.
I was so taken with Elsa, a strong woman who was willing and able to both care for her ailing father and farm their tiny allotment ensuring that even with no stock left there would be something on the dinner table. I also loved her passion and determination to be the first woman to vote in her town. Clearly Elsa was a woman determined to make her mark and in this novel she surely does. I was swept away with her grit in the face of the challenges she faced, both losing the last of her three brothers and then her father in quick succession and in seeking out the stranger who had cared for her brother in his last hours.
While this story is largely Elsa’s, and thank goodness there was Zeke to bring some happiness into her life, it is also peppered with other lively characters. Her sister Rosie is largely a burden born with grace, while Zeke and his children are bright shining lights. The characters very much make this story and I found myself utterly invested in them and their lives.
Late 19th century rural Australia offers a far from easy lifestyle and I certainly sat up and took a hard look at my own life in comparison to how it was in those times. This book, while fictional, certainly provided what I believe to be a very accurate picture and one that I found utterly fascinating.
May 30, 2020
I LOVED having a new Darry Fraser to read! I love Australian colonial fiction, so I knew I would love this novel even before I started it and I was right. I loved the feisty, independent, opionated Elsa.. she is such a strong, determined protagonist for the novel. I want my niece to read it for her integrity and grit alone. I loved the quest this book encompasses, the adventure and the mystery, the search for buried treasure was so much fun. I also loved seeing their day to day lives. I particulars; the food and drink, the underwear and what they did with wet clothes...I loved that she was so excited to vote, I would have been exactly the same. It tackles big issue; grief, domestic abuse, and independence and self determination. But it is also just a great feel good romance, and it was so nice to see genuine love reflected in a family setting, father and children, and the bonds of siblings. I mustn’t often see that because I really appreciated it.
Read
July 8, 2020Darry Fraser is an auto-buy author for me, I love her pacing, her rich characters, the intertwining plots and I always get a kick as a reader when I discover things the characters are yet to find out, and wait eagerly to see how it unfolds. Also loved that this story was set in Robe and Casterton, places that are in my stomping ground and very familiar to me. Highly recommend to anyone who likes gutsy women and tough but kind men.
May 26, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read of this author and I now intend to go ahead and read everything she has written. I reserve 5 stars for books that move me and change the way I think about the world. I can’t say this book did that but I just bloody enjoyed it, I thought it was a great story so well written. Thanks so much for sharing this story, very enjoyable x
February 21, 2021
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is a historical story about the adventure of young Australian women in 1896. Elsa Goody and her sister Rosie became homeless after their father and brother died. Due to an unwanted suitor who wants to marry Elsa, Rosie and Elsa decided to go on an adventure to find their brother's money to save the family farm. However, on the way, Elsa accused of being an accomplice when they became involved with a group of bushrangers, and Elsa needs to flee. The readers of Elsa Goody, Bushranger, will continue to follow Elsa to find out what happens.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is the first book I have read of Darry Fraser. I was impressed with the way Darry Fraser's included the social issues that affect women in Australia during this period. I enjoy Darry Fraser's writing style that engaged me with the plot from the first page. I will read another book by Darry Fraser. I love Darry Fraser's portrayal of Elsa Goody, Bushranger and how they intertwine throughout this book. Elsa Goody, Bushranger was well written and researched by Darry Fraser. I like Darry Fraser description of Elsa Goody's settings, Bushranger, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Elsa Goody, Bushranger, will learn about women's problems who live in absolutive relationships in the eighteen hundreds in Australia. Also, Elsa Goody's readers, Bushranger, will understand the hardship women living on rural properties during the eighteen hundreds.
I recommend this book.
Elsa Goody, Bushranger is the first book I have read of Darry Fraser. I was impressed with the way Darry Fraser's included the social issues that affect women in Australia during this period. I enjoy Darry Fraser's writing style that engaged me with the plot from the first page. I will read another book by Darry Fraser. I love Darry Fraser's portrayal of Elsa Goody, Bushranger and how they intertwine throughout this book. Elsa Goody, Bushranger was well written and researched by Darry Fraser. I like Darry Fraser description of Elsa Goody's settings, Bushranger, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Elsa Goody, Bushranger, will learn about women's problems who live in absolutive relationships in the eighteen hundreds in Australia. Also, Elsa Goody's readers, Bushranger, will understand the hardship women living on rural properties during the eighteen hundreds.
I recommend this book.
August 5, 2021
A rip-roaring colonial story, resurrecting bushrangers, forthright women, and romance with a handsome landowner. Sadness and loss sit heavily on the main characters struggling to make ends meet after losing loved ones. Elsa, the eponymous heroine, loses two family members in a short space of time. Farmer Ezekiel finds Elsa’s brother George dying, eventually buries him, sending condolences to Elsa.
Elsa and her sister Rosie (who does a runner) decide to visit George’s grave. And what of the family inheritance wayward George absconded with? If there is one. Some highly dubious people start to sniff around for the missing thirty sovereigns. Today’s value of an 1896 sovereign is approx AU$581.89 x 30 = AU$17,456.07 so in past centuries that amount of money was definitely worth killing for.
I enjoyed the ebb and flow of Elsa’s story, she is a feasible character, naïve as befits the era, and adamant she will vote in the first Australian State Election to allow women the vote. A true fact, unusual at the time, so it is a nice marker in history. Prior to that, alarming complications come in the form of rugged roads, an accident and injury, a deluded suitor, and a mystery stranger tracking Elsa and Rosie.
Stirred through this rollicking tale are Ezekiel’s young family and his brothers Judah and Nebo who get their fair share of bloodshed and sex scenes. Widowed neighbour Lily is a lovely character who shines in tense moments. I noticed a couple of plot lapses, but tolerant horses, intolerable troopers, tough countryside and tougher country folk create a read that kept me going to see if the two sisters find happiness.
Elsa and her sister Rosie (who does a runner) decide to visit George’s grave. And what of the family inheritance wayward George absconded with? If there is one. Some highly dubious people start to sniff around for the missing thirty sovereigns. Today’s value of an 1896 sovereign is approx AU$581.89 x 30 = AU$17,456.07 so in past centuries that amount of money was definitely worth killing for.
I enjoyed the ebb and flow of Elsa’s story, she is a feasible character, naïve as befits the era, and adamant she will vote in the first Australian State Election to allow women the vote. A true fact, unusual at the time, so it is a nice marker in history. Prior to that, alarming complications come in the form of rugged roads, an accident and injury, a deluded suitor, and a mystery stranger tracking Elsa and Rosie.
Stirred through this rollicking tale are Ezekiel’s young family and his brothers Judah and Nebo who get their fair share of bloodshed and sex scenes. Widowed neighbour Lily is a lovely character who shines in tense moments. I noticed a couple of plot lapses, but tolerant horses, intolerable troopers, tough countryside and tougher country folk create a read that kept me going to see if the two sisters find happiness.
June 3, 2020
“Elsa Goody, Bushranger” is historical fiction from an author who knows her period and region well, and combines this with strong characterisation to tell a lively story.
Elsa Goody lives in South Australia and is looking forward to the day she – and all South Australian women – can vote for the very first time. It’s not likely to make an immediate difference to her life, but having her voice heard is important to her.
It’s not surprising why. She lives alone with her ailing father, caring for him and trying to keep their small farm going. Her three brothers are gone; two dead and one adventuring. Her sister lives in the township, running a bakery with her husband and feeling quite free to tell Elsa what to do at any opportunity. Voting may be the first time Elsa ever feels that her opinion is valued.
And then dreadful news arrives: her brother George is dead, shot by bushrangers. Elsa’s sister almost forces her towards George’s final resting place, hoping to find the family savings George took with him. But it’s not an easy path, not least because a misunderstanding soon has Elsa and Rosie labelled as accomplices to bushrangers.
I found the first half of this novel a relatively slow read. I’m not sure why, because there was no appreciable difference in pacing, plotting or characterisation between the two halves of the novel. Perhaps it just took a while to build momentum for me.
I also had just a little trouble with Elsa’s reaction to the letter announcing George’s death. I found the implied romantic connection to a man she’d never met or even heard of before (Ezekiel), through one brief and blunt letter, a little hard to credit. However, each character was quite distinctive and believable, and the same goes for all the relationships in the novel – Elsa’s with her sister Rosie, and with Ezekiel when they meet; Rosie’s with Elsa, with her husband, and with those she meets on their journey; Ezekiel’s with his brothers and children.
There’s history here, subtly woven into the story. Fraser has a good sense of time and place, and conveys both vividly. The history is somewhat incidental to much of the plot, but it’s an interesting sidelight.
I particularly admired Fraser’s ability with characterisation. Ultimately, this novel works because of the well drawn characters. Most readers will come to care quite a lot about what happens to the characters (at least, the more pleasant of them). I enjoyed reading about characters who felt real, and in many cases, likeable.
For me this was an enjoyable novel, although not a favourite. However, this is solid and well written, with characters who really engage a reader. Lots of people are going to enjoy and appreciate this.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Elsa Goody lives in South Australia and is looking forward to the day she – and all South Australian women – can vote for the very first time. It’s not likely to make an immediate difference to her life, but having her voice heard is important to her.
It’s not surprising why. She lives alone with her ailing father, caring for him and trying to keep their small farm going. Her three brothers are gone; two dead and one adventuring. Her sister lives in the township, running a bakery with her husband and feeling quite free to tell Elsa what to do at any opportunity. Voting may be the first time Elsa ever feels that her opinion is valued.
And then dreadful news arrives: her brother George is dead, shot by bushrangers. Elsa’s sister almost forces her towards George’s final resting place, hoping to find the family savings George took with him. But it’s not an easy path, not least because a misunderstanding soon has Elsa and Rosie labelled as accomplices to bushrangers.
I found the first half of this novel a relatively slow read. I’m not sure why, because there was no appreciable difference in pacing, plotting or characterisation between the two halves of the novel. Perhaps it just took a while to build momentum for me.
I also had just a little trouble with Elsa’s reaction to the letter announcing George’s death. I found the implied romantic connection to a man she’d never met or even heard of before (Ezekiel), through one brief and blunt letter, a little hard to credit. However, each character was quite distinctive and believable, and the same goes for all the relationships in the novel – Elsa’s with her sister Rosie, and with Ezekiel when they meet; Rosie’s with Elsa, with her husband, and with those she meets on their journey; Ezekiel’s with his brothers and children.
There’s history here, subtly woven into the story. Fraser has a good sense of time and place, and conveys both vividly. The history is somewhat incidental to much of the plot, but it’s an interesting sidelight.
I particularly admired Fraser’s ability with characterisation. Ultimately, this novel works because of the well drawn characters. Most readers will come to care quite a lot about what happens to the characters (at least, the more pleasant of them). I enjoyed reading about characters who felt real, and in many cases, likeable.
For me this was an enjoyable novel, although not a favourite. However, this is solid and well written, with characters who really engage a reader. Lots of people are going to enjoy and appreciate this.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
September 29, 2021
Review originally posted on A Keyboard and an Open Mind 30 September 2021:
I don’t know whether I just wasn’t in the mood for this book or what. I went into it fully expecting to like it but ended up just feeling quite frustrated.
I have to admit that for the most part, I could tell exactly how the story was going to go, even if I wasn’t sure exactly how it would get there. Sometimes predictability is okay, but it didn’t work for me this time.
I also found that for a piece of adult fiction, the romances were very heavy on the insta-love trope. I can accept that in YA fiction, though I still roll my eyes a bit. It felt very strange reading things like “she was awakening feelings in him he hadn’t felt in a long time” when the characters have literally known each other a couple of hours felt out of place when both the characters and the intended readership are all adults.
Still, Elsa Goody and Ezekiel Jones were likable characters and I stuck with the book because I wanted to see exactly how things turned out for them. I did wish that Elsa’s sister Rosie had a bit more of her own character arc. I felt she was just as selfish at the end as she had been at the start, despite everything they’d been through.
This was my first Darry Fraser book and while it’s clear she’s done a lot of good historical research, I don’t know if I’ll pick up any more of her books.
This review is part of my 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge. Click here for more information.
I don’t know whether I just wasn’t in the mood for this book or what. I went into it fully expecting to like it but ended up just feeling quite frustrated.
I have to admit that for the most part, I could tell exactly how the story was going to go, even if I wasn’t sure exactly how it would get there. Sometimes predictability is okay, but it didn’t work for me this time.
I also found that for a piece of adult fiction, the romances were very heavy on the insta-love trope. I can accept that in YA fiction, though I still roll my eyes a bit. It felt very strange reading things like “she was awakening feelings in him he hadn’t felt in a long time” when the characters have literally known each other a couple of hours felt out of place when both the characters and the intended readership are all adults.
Still, Elsa Goody and Ezekiel Jones were likable characters and I stuck with the book because I wanted to see exactly how things turned out for them. I did wish that Elsa’s sister Rosie had a bit more of her own character arc. I felt she was just as selfish at the end as she had been at the start, despite everything they’d been through.
This was my first Darry Fraser book and while it’s clear she’s done a lot of good historical research, I don’t know if I’ll pick up any more of her books.
This review is part of my 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge. Click here for more information.
October 12, 2020
A Historical romance is not my normal read but this one is set in Robe South Australia and I have strong ties to this state. The book showed the tough times for families on the land in the 1800 hundreds. It was a tough existence during the Depression for men and wives and families. I enjoyed the store line, my only disappointment was the story didn’t finish with Elsa and Ezekiel, returning to his farm and his children. But that is the romantic in me.............
October 15, 2022
Darry Fraser has definitely become one of my favourite Australian Authors. This was another very well written and well researched book that had me fully immersed in the story and the era it was based. This is the fourth Darry Fraser book I've read and look forward to reading another!
April 30, 2020
In her latest offering, Elsa Goody, Bushranger, Darry Fraser has done it again. Another fabulous book. I have read and loved every one of Fraser’s books so when I had the opportunity to read and review this one ahead of the publication date I of course jumped at the chance.
With Elsa Goody, Bushranger, Fraser continues her writing of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction with strong female protagonists who embrace the legislative changes allowing women, including married women, to own property in their own right, and as in this book, exercise their right to vote for the first time in the South Australian Election of 1896.
The story begins in Robe, a small coastal town in South Australia. Once vibrant the town has fallen on hard times and the farm held by Curtis Goody is barely making ends meet. Curtis is at the end of his days, an affliction of the pancreas is slowly ebbing his life even as Elsa, the only child still at home endeavours to nurse him. Curtis’ wife and mother of the children, Kitty, died when Elsa was still quite young, leaving Elsa with her most treasured possession, a locket containing a photo of Kitty, and a lock of her hair.
Elsa is the youngest of the Goody children. Unmarried at 24, she risks being in danger of being left on the shelf. The oldest, Rosie, married the baker, Frank Putney, at 16, the year Elsa was born, but yet remains childless. In between were three brothers, the two eldest dead before they had a chance to marry, the youngest, George, now also dead and buried according to the letter in Elsa’s hand.
Elsa is a girl who knows her own mind, although unmarried she does have interest from two local men. Pete Southie is a boor of a man, friends with Frank Putney, Rosie’s husband, he is despised by Elsa who has no doubts that his intentions are not in the least honourable. Then there is the smithy’s son, Henry Benson, who sets her heart aflutter, but at nineteen she considers he is but a child and too young for her. The thing that keeps her going is knowing that this year, 1896, will be the first year that any woman in Australia, will be entitled to vote after South Australia passed legislation enabling women whose registered address was in South Australia to vote in the upcoming state election. Elsa is determined that she will be exercising her legislated right to vote.
George’s death, purportedly by bushrangers, followed shortly after by their father Curtis’ death, results in Elsa and Rosie heading towards Casterton where according to the letter received from Ezekiel Jones George is buried. There they hope to discover what has happened to a tin containing thirty sovereigns, enough money to free Rosie from a loveless marriage and ensure that Elsa is not forced into one, and still be back in Robe in time to vote.
As Elsa and Rosie flee cross country from Robe to Casterton Victoria they are unknowingly pursued by Southie, who strangely remains convinced that Elsa would be more than happy to marry him.
On the way they are caught up in an incident with bushrangers, leading to accusations of being accomplices in a crime. Rescued after the incident by what appear to be a bunch of outlaws Elsa discovers that there is more to George’s death than she could have ever imagined.
Will Elsa’s eventual meeting with Ezekiel Jones bring her the closure she is looking for, will she be able to find the money to save herself and Rosie or will the increasing violence erupting around her stymie everything she wishes for and holds dear?
Many thanks to Harlequin Mira and Net Galley for the opportunity to read Elsa Goody, Bushranger, ahead of it’s publication date in return for an honest review.
Highly recommended for lovers of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction.
With Elsa Goody, Bushranger, Fraser continues her writing of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction with strong female protagonists who embrace the legislative changes allowing women, including married women, to own property in their own right, and as in this book, exercise their right to vote for the first time in the South Australian Election of 1896.
The story begins in Robe, a small coastal town in South Australia. Once vibrant the town has fallen on hard times and the farm held by Curtis Goody is barely making ends meet. Curtis is at the end of his days, an affliction of the pancreas is slowly ebbing his life even as Elsa, the only child still at home endeavours to nurse him. Curtis’ wife and mother of the children, Kitty, died when Elsa was still quite young, leaving Elsa with her most treasured possession, a locket containing a photo of Kitty, and a lock of her hair.
Elsa is the youngest of the Goody children. Unmarried at 24, she risks being in danger of being left on the shelf. The oldest, Rosie, married the baker, Frank Putney, at 16, the year Elsa was born, but yet remains childless. In between were three brothers, the two eldest dead before they had a chance to marry, the youngest, George, now also dead and buried according to the letter in Elsa’s hand.
Elsa is a girl who knows her own mind, although unmarried she does have interest from two local men. Pete Southie is a boor of a man, friends with Frank Putney, Rosie’s husband, he is despised by Elsa who has no doubts that his intentions are not in the least honourable. Then there is the smithy’s son, Henry Benson, who sets her heart aflutter, but at nineteen she considers he is but a child and too young for her. The thing that keeps her going is knowing that this year, 1896, will be the first year that any woman in Australia, will be entitled to vote after South Australia passed legislation enabling women whose registered address was in South Australia to vote in the upcoming state election. Elsa is determined that she will be exercising her legislated right to vote.
George’s death, purportedly by bushrangers, followed shortly after by their father Curtis’ death, results in Elsa and Rosie heading towards Casterton where according to the letter received from Ezekiel Jones George is buried. There they hope to discover what has happened to a tin containing thirty sovereigns, enough money to free Rosie from a loveless marriage and ensure that Elsa is not forced into one, and still be back in Robe in time to vote.
As Elsa and Rosie flee cross country from Robe to Casterton Victoria they are unknowingly pursued by Southie, who strangely remains convinced that Elsa would be more than happy to marry him.
On the way they are caught up in an incident with bushrangers, leading to accusations of being accomplices in a crime. Rescued after the incident by what appear to be a bunch of outlaws Elsa discovers that there is more to George’s death than she could have ever imagined.
Will Elsa’s eventual meeting with Ezekiel Jones bring her the closure she is looking for, will she be able to find the money to save herself and Rosie or will the increasing violence erupting around her stymie everything she wishes for and holds dear?
Many thanks to Harlequin Mira and Net Galley for the opportunity to read Elsa Goody, Bushranger, ahead of it’s publication date in return for an honest review.
Highly recommended for lovers of Australian Historical Romance/Fiction.
January 20, 2021
Whatever expectations I had (mostly due to the title), this novel wasn't it. I realised that while we do have a romanticised views of bushrangers, the reality is so much coarser and violent so that really wouldn't work, would it?
I do like Elsa Goody as a character and especially, her romantic interest, Ezekiel Jones. Both lovely characters who found their way to be together (it's not a spoiler because it's a romance novel!). While I enjoyed the setting and certain romantic gestures, this novel did not draw me... I just didn't feel the urgent need to finish. It took me over a month of plodding a few chapters a day so unfortunately, it's probably not one for me.
Thank you Harlequin Australia via Netgalley for the e-copy of this book in exchange of my honest thoughts
I do like Elsa Goody as a character and especially, her romantic interest, Ezekiel Jones. Both lovely characters who found their way to be together (it's not a spoiler because it's a romance novel!). While I enjoyed the setting and certain romantic gestures, this novel did not draw me... I just didn't feel the urgent need to finish. It took me over a month of plodding a few chapters a day so unfortunately, it's probably not one for me.
Thank you Harlequin Australia via Netgalley for the e-copy of this book in exchange of my honest thoughts
May 30, 2020
Definitely Darry Fraser’s best ever book. I loved this book soo much.
May 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this one, the storyline was good. It's a nice easy read. I enjoy this era and felt this one did have a little air if mystery not everything was easily predictable.
August 6, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read by Australian author Darry Fraser although I have seen a few in the past. Australian historical fiction is something I haven’t read a huge amount of (although I do read quite a bit of historical fiction) and this is set in the late 1800s, starting in Robe, South Australia. Elsa is the youngest in her family – her elder sister is married, her two oldest brothers are dead, her mother has also passed and her third older brother George went seeking adventure. They receive news from a kindly stranger that George has died in Casterton, down in the Western Districts of Victoria. The news seems too much for their ill father, who passes almost immediately after. That leaves Elsa and her sister, whom she has never been close to. Rosie’s husband Frank is a lazy and cruel man and Elsa knows she’ll be vulnerable to marriage with a man she very much doesn’t want if they do not have a way to establish themselves as independent. Elsa decides to travel to Casterton to search for a rumoured tin of gold sovereigns that her brother had – if he had with him in Victoria, they need to claim it as part of his belongings. And in leaving, Elsa can escape the man who wishes to marry her. She also wants to seek out Ezekiel Jones, the man who wrote to them of her brother’s death, feeling a connection to him through the letter that she cannot really explain.
I really enjoyed this – I felt like Elsa was a really strong character, easy to connect with. She has a lot of mental fortitude, having to deal with the death of her beloved brother, followed almost immediately by their father and also, her sister Rosie. Almost 15 years separates Rosie and Elsa and they’ve never been close. Rosie is at first, against the idea of travelling to Casterton, especially as they’ll be two women travelling a significant distance on their own. Rosie swings between combative and supportive, she’s often short tempered and resentful. She was married at sixteen and it seems she’s probably never been happy in her marriage and I think she possibly resented the fact that Elsa did not marry and had reached her mid-twenties without being forced into it. She seems to feel that Elsa was cosseted and spoiled as the baby of the family, although it seems that Elsa was working the family farm for a significant period of time, after George, who was never interested in the farm, left. Their father was not well enough to work it. It’s mostly Elsa that keeps them going on the journey, although things do take a turn when they are not far from their destination and they are inadvertently caught up in a bushranger hold up on a coach.
I enjoyed the way the story was told, split between Elsa and her situation in South Australia and also Ezekiel on his farm in Casterton, which gives the reader the chance to understand his situation, meet his family and become familiar with them before the two stories merge when Elsa and Ezekiel meet. Ezekiel is a man who has known grief – who still experiences it and he has a lot on his plate. He is raising children on his own, he’s concerned about both of his brothers, for different reasons. His brother Nebo is an interesting man, who at first glance, seems like he might not be the sort of man you want to know. But there’s more layers to him than that, even though he has done things in the past, and plans things in the future, that are not really ideal. And Judah, the other brother, is even more grief-stricken than Ezekiel has been, taken to wandering on his own, leaving his property almost abandoned. But he’s back now and perhaps the brothers can finally work together.
Ezekiel and Elsa do have a connection right away – for Elsa, she was drawn to him from the writing of the letter, but for Ezekiel, it begins when she arrives on his property. I really liked all of their interactions and the way in which she immediately connects with his children as well, who are vulnerable in different ways. It’s obvious that all of them have felt the strain of losing their mother, but in particular, I feel the youngest two definitely showed more of that loss. Ezekiel was doing the absolute best he could and it was obvious how much he loved them and wanted the best for him. I enjoyed all the brothers in the end (even Nebo) and the ways in which they let people into their lives.
I enjoyed this glimpse into rural Australia in the late 1800s. Fraser wove women’s suffrage into the story with South Australia allowing the female vote, which Elsa is determined to do. I’d definitely be interested in reading future novels and might explore her backlist as well.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
I really enjoyed this – I felt like Elsa was a really strong character, easy to connect with. She has a lot of mental fortitude, having to deal with the death of her beloved brother, followed almost immediately by their father and also, her sister Rosie. Almost 15 years separates Rosie and Elsa and they’ve never been close. Rosie is at first, against the idea of travelling to Casterton, especially as they’ll be two women travelling a significant distance on their own. Rosie swings between combative and supportive, she’s often short tempered and resentful. She was married at sixteen and it seems she’s probably never been happy in her marriage and I think she possibly resented the fact that Elsa did not marry and had reached her mid-twenties without being forced into it. She seems to feel that Elsa was cosseted and spoiled as the baby of the family, although it seems that Elsa was working the family farm for a significant period of time, after George, who was never interested in the farm, left. Their father was not well enough to work it. It’s mostly Elsa that keeps them going on the journey, although things do take a turn when they are not far from their destination and they are inadvertently caught up in a bushranger hold up on a coach.
I enjoyed the way the story was told, split between Elsa and her situation in South Australia and also Ezekiel on his farm in Casterton, which gives the reader the chance to understand his situation, meet his family and become familiar with them before the two stories merge when Elsa and Ezekiel meet. Ezekiel is a man who has known grief – who still experiences it and he has a lot on his plate. He is raising children on his own, he’s concerned about both of his brothers, for different reasons. His brother Nebo is an interesting man, who at first glance, seems like he might not be the sort of man you want to know. But there’s more layers to him than that, even though he has done things in the past, and plans things in the future, that are not really ideal. And Judah, the other brother, is even more grief-stricken than Ezekiel has been, taken to wandering on his own, leaving his property almost abandoned. But he’s back now and perhaps the brothers can finally work together.
Ezekiel and Elsa do have a connection right away – for Elsa, she was drawn to him from the writing of the letter, but for Ezekiel, it begins when she arrives on his property. I really liked all of their interactions and the way in which she immediately connects with his children as well, who are vulnerable in different ways. It’s obvious that all of them have felt the strain of losing their mother, but in particular, I feel the youngest two definitely showed more of that loss. Ezekiel was doing the absolute best he could and it was obvious how much he loved them and wanted the best for him. I enjoyed all the brothers in the end (even Nebo) and the ways in which they let people into their lives.
I enjoyed this glimpse into rural Australia in the late 1800s. Fraser wove women’s suffrage into the story with South Australia allowing the female vote, which Elsa is determined to do. I’d definitely be interested in reading future novels and might explore her backlist as well.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
June 26, 2020
Book blurb...
Elsa Goody is a woman on a quest for buried treasure - and her own freedom. A thrilling historical romance adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
'Outstanding prose that flows and ripples through every page.' Starts at 60
My thoughts…
PLOT
Centred around the lives of the Goody family in the Late 19th century rural Australia, Darry Fraser is meticulous in her character and story development, starting with a hook and ending with a sigh of satisfaction.
PACE
Darry manages to fill her pages with authentic descriptions of the era, the landscape, and the characters while still maintaining reader engagement and a page-turning novel.
LANDSCAPE
This is one of the key areas of enjoyment for me as I have travelled through the story’s location in current day. Regardless of when I travelled the region, Darry Fraser was able to show me, through her storytelling, what the area was like in late 19th century Australia.
CHARACTERS
Women with grit combined with major conflict is the recipe for great characters and while I connected and enjoyed a few, I fell in love with Ezekiel. I almost wish I had lived in his time period - almost!!! (I’d still want my Kindle!)
OVERALL FEELINGS ABOUT THE STORY
This is an enchanting romantic adventure that drew me in from the beginning and did not release me until days after I finished the story.
This review is also published on http://www.readroundoz.wordpress.com
Elsa Goody is a woman on a quest for buried treasure - and her own freedom. A thrilling historical romance adventure from a bestselling Australian author.
1896 Robe, South Australia
When Elsa Goody's father and brother George die in quick succession she and her sister Rosie are in trouble. Pursued by an unpleasant suitor with dubious motivation, Elsa leaves for Victoria on the hunt for a fortune in gold coins that her brother has hidden. If Elsa can find it she will be able to save Rosie and herself from married slavery.
Their quest leads them on a cross-country journey to find the last man who saw her brother alive, Ezekiel Jones. But Elsa is not the only one looking for buried treasure. She and Rosie are beset by bushrangers and in the confusion Elsa is accused of being an accomplice. Luckily not everyone believes that Elsa is a criminal. When she finally catches up with Ezekiel, it's clear that for him she can do no wrong.
But with everyone chasing her and bloody violence on the horizon, life is becoming increasingly complicated. Will she and Rosie ever manage to solve the mystery, find the gold and free themselves from a dark future?
'Outstanding prose that flows and ripples through every page.' Starts at 60
My thoughts…
PLOT
Centred around the lives of the Goody family in the Late 19th century rural Australia, Darry Fraser is meticulous in her character and story development, starting with a hook and ending with a sigh of satisfaction.
PACE
Darry manages to fill her pages with authentic descriptions of the era, the landscape, and the characters while still maintaining reader engagement and a page-turning novel.
LANDSCAPE
This is one of the key areas of enjoyment for me as I have travelled through the story’s location in current day. Regardless of when I travelled the region, Darry Fraser was able to show me, through her storytelling, what the area was like in late 19th century Australia.
CHARACTERS
Women with grit combined with major conflict is the recipe for great characters and while I connected and enjoyed a few, I fell in love with Ezekiel. I almost wish I had lived in his time period - almost!!! (I’d still want my Kindle!)
OVERALL FEELINGS ABOUT THE STORY
This is an enchanting romantic adventure that drew me in from the beginning and did not release me until days after I finished the story.
This review is also published on http://www.readroundoz.wordpress.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews