Author: Lizzie Pook
Publisher: Simon Schuster
Released: June 14, 2022
Received: NetGalley

If you love historical fiction with a dash of feminist literature, then the odds are good that you’ll appreciate Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter by Lizzie Pook. It’s certainly worth the read, especially if you’re hoping to learn something new.

Eliza Brightwell and her family have finally made shore. Their new home? Bannin Bay, Australia. It’s a bit of a change from what they’re used to, but they’re hoping that this change will be exactly what the family needs to thrive.

The pearls that drew Eliza’s family to these shores have now been the cause of a great personal tragedy. Following her father’s death, Eliza quickly learns that the pearl industry is not as shiny and kind as it may appear on the surface.

Wow. Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is a rich and intense read. One that isn’t afraid to show us the pain human nature can cause. It hits home at many points, even when telling a story that most of us can only imagine.

Eliza’s character is, without a doubt, the shining piece of this tale. Her journey is powerful, and I can see why this book was described as a feminist tale – because of her. She made this book worth it for me.

Okay, I also enjoyed learning about the history a bit. The pearling industry during that time was something I knew nothing about. Now I know a bit more, though I’m sure that my knowledge still pales in comparison.

Historical fiction fans will almost certainly enjoy this peek into the past, so I recommend they read Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter.

Thanks to Simon Schuster and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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