‘A pearl has a glow like a fire or a lamp. It is a siren song in the shape of a stone, sending men to lengths they never dreamed they would go.’
1886, BANNIN BAY, AUSTRALIA.
The Brightwell family has sailed from England to make their new home in Western Australia. Ten-year-old Eliza knows little of what awaits them on these shores beyond shining pearls and shells like soup plates – the things her father has promised will make their fortune.
~~~
Ten years later and Charles Brightwell, now the bay’s most prolific pearler, goes missing from his ship while out at sea. Whispers from the townsfolk suggest mutiny and murder, but headstrong Eliza, convinced there is more to the story, refuses to believe her father is dead, and it falls to her to ask the questions no one else dares consider.
But in a town teeming with corruption, prejudice and blackmail, Eliza soon learns that the truth can cost more than pearls, and she must decide just how much she is willing to pay – and how far she is willing to go – to find it . . .
Press & reviews
“I loved it: a gritty plot, exquisite prose, and a vivid evocation of a dangerous time and place. Wonderfully researched and realised.”
– Rosie Andrews, author of The Leviathan
“Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter is a gorgeous debut. Both a breathtaking adventure story and a moving testimony to the lengths we go to for the…”
– Emma Stonex, bestselling author of The Lamplighters
“Immersive storytelling, a rollicking mystery and a take-no-prisoners heroine.”
– Stylist Magazine
“Tense and vividly atmospheric, with a determined, independent heroine intent on the truth . . . beautifully written, unflinching and brimming with adventure.”
– Jennifer Saint, bestselling author of Ariadne
“A stunning debut . . . paints a memorable picture of ambition, sacrifice and corruption while exploring personal loss as driving force.”
– Charmaine Wilkerson, New York Times bestselling author of Black Cake