The Naturalist's Daughter - by Tea Cooper (Paperback)

About the Book

Two fearless women--living a century apart--find themselves entangled in the mystery surrounding the biggest scientific controversy of the nineteenth century: the classification of the platypus.

Book Synopsis

Two fearless women--living a century apart--find themselves entangled in the mystery surrounding the biggest scientific controversy of the nineteenth century: the classification of the platypus.

1808 Agnes Banks, NSW

Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rose must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers will forever alter the course of scientific history.

1908 Sydney, NSW

Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer, seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book. Determined to uncover the book's true origin, Tamsin agrees to join forces with him.

The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery of the book's authorship becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries emerge from the past with far-reaching consequences in this riveting tale of courage and discovery.

Review Quotes

'A breathtaking examination of women and science, Tea Cooper's THE NATURALIST'S DAUGHTER is a stunning entry on the roster of Australian historical fiction. With deftly crafted prose and a compelling cast of characters, this is a must-read for any fans of Marie Benedict or Tracy Enerson Wood. A true gem.'--Aimie K. Runyan, bestselling author of MADEMOISELLE EIFFEL and THE MEMORY OF LAVENDER AND SAGE

'Two women fight to reveal the truth about a scientific discovery in this crackling novel from Cooper (THE TALENTED MRS. GREENWAY) . . . The author keeps readers guessing as she connects the two plot strands, each of which abounds with exciting scenes, including a chase on a windswept moor that evokes THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES. This is one not to miss.'--Publishers Weekly Starred Review