An Australian classic set on the Murray River that has eerie echoes to today. The plight of the might Murray has a long and shameful history that has been documented in this incredible novel. This copy was bought for release or crossing.

Philadelphia Gordon is shipwrecked as a child and looses all her immediate family. Taken in by a wicked aunt and kindly uncle she grows up to be a beautiful and accomplished young woman. Living and working in Echuca she marries the captain of the paddle steamer she had invested in. This book follows her life and the lives along the Murray.

Nancy Cato has a way of evoking the essence of Australia that just floats off the page and into your nostrils. The very famous television mini series meant I couldn't get Sigrid Thornton's image out of my head as I read it, but that wasn't such a burden to bear.