Why read The Soldier's Curse?

Book cover of The Soldier's Curse

Book description

A fast-paced, witty and gripping historical crime opener to The Monsarrat Series from Tom Keneally and his eldest daughter Meg

In an Australian penal colony at the edge of the known world, gentleman convict Hugh Monsarrat has risen from convicted forger to trusted clerk of the settlement's commandant.

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Why read it?

2 authors picked The Soldier's Curse as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

David Cairns

Author

This is right up my street, set in colonial Australia. I love the way real-world events are intertwined with the fictional story and the way the characters (both heroes and villains) are developed.

I spent a lot of time researching the lives of my wife’s forbears who were transported as convicts to Van Diemen’s Land in the 1830s, so a lot of what is described here rings true to me. It is a period poisoned by injustice and enriched by the power of resilient characters who triumph over adversity. This book recreates the emotions and images of this period and…

From David's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

David Cairns

Author

This is a gripping, suspenseful, atmospheric mystery set in colonial Australia with an enigmatic pairing of a convict and a housekeeper who investigate a series of murders in the penal colony of New South Wales.

It has an intricate plot that keeps the reader guessing and is built upon a historical foundation that adds authenticity to the tale. The brutality of the transportation system contrasts with the humanity and tenacity of those who rail against it.

As my stories all have a colonial Australian focus, with a commitment to accurate history, this book rings a bell for me. There is…

From David's list on The best books that capture 19th century murder, mystery and mayhem.