First published 2023
Dolly Maunder grows up poor on a farm in country New South Wales as the nineteenth century ends. She watches society's barriers against women begin to shift, but only slightly. Born clever and determined, Dolly refuses to accept the narrow path expected of her. She pushes against every limit placed before her, fighting to create possibilities in a world designed to contain her. Her energy drives her forward even when the cost grows steep. Dolly works her way through obstacle after obstacle, carving out space for herself in a society that offers women few choices. Her struggle opens doors not just for herself but for the daughters and granddaughters who will follow. Kate Grenville draws on family memories to imagine her grandmother's life, bringing to vivid existence a woman who might otherwise be forgotten except for faded photographs and old recipes. This is the story of one woman's battle to build a life she can call her own.
Genres: historical-fiction, 20th-century, biographical-fiction, 19th-century, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: female-protagonist, overcoming-obstacles, social-commentary
Setting: New South Wales
Period: 19th Century
210 pages · Kindle Edition · Text