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This was Sue Williams’ second historical novel, following her best-selling fiction debut with Elizabeth & Elizabeth. This time, it’s the fascinating story of Governor Bligh’s ‘firebrand’ daughter, Mary, a powerful and determined young woman.
After an horrific six-month sea voyage from Britain, Mary proves she is as strong-willed as her bloody-minded father, the newly appointed Governor William Bligh, he of Bounty mutiny notoriety, and the pair immediately scandalise Sydney.
But despite being bullied, belittled and betrayed, Mary remains steadfast, even when her desperate father double-crosses her time and time again in his desperate attempts to cling onto power.
Publishers Allen & Unwin say, “Sue Williams returns to give a voice to the previously untold stories of the women in colonial Sydney. Sue is known for her meticulous research and fascinating narratives. That Bligh Girl is no exception.”
Sue says, “When I came to live in Australia, 32 years ago, I was startled that so many Australians didn’t know much of their own fascinating history either. So I started studying it and, inspired, started looking for exceptional characters I could write about.”
The Bligh Girl was released in May 2023 by Allen & Unwin as a print book, e-book and audio book. It was also chosen by the National Trust of Australia for an official launch at the heritage-listed Old Government House, Parramatta.
Reviews
“That Bligh Girl is a rollicking read about a dramatic part in the life of one woman and the entire Colony of NSW.”
Ingeborg van Teeseling
Australian Explained
“This is such a great story, filled with history, it is so well written, Sue Williams has done a lot of research for this one, I loved Elizabeth and Elizabeth and was excited to read this one and was not disappointed, I knew bits and pieces of history about William Bligh but nothing about his daughter, Mary and I am glad I got to read about her.”
Helen
Goodreads
“I really enjoyed reading That Bligh Girl by Sue Williams, Mary she was a strong and capable women, I admired how she adapted to living in Australia and New South Wales, sadly Mary’s husband John suffered from consumption and she nursed him and while she putting up with her father being demanding and difficult.”
“The highlight for me was Mary’s relationship with Meg Hill who was a convict, servant and her best friend. The perfect choice for those who are interested in what it was like to live Colonial Australia and Sydney in the early 1800’s and five stars from me.”
Karren Sandercock
Goodreads
“Well written and interesting, That Bligh Girl is an engaging historical novel about adversity, courage, friendship, and love.”
Book’d Out
“This was a fantastic read. I have never ever thought about Mary Bligh before and to meet such a brave, fortitudinous, courageous and stubborn woman lurking in the history pages was incredible! What a woman! What a story! I don’t know enough early colonial Australian history so it was wonderful to have the opportunity to get to know the people behind the suburbs and streets..just an incredible reading experience. Completely recommend.”
Anna Loder
Goodreads
