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Forgotten Places
Van Diemen's Land, Australia. 1833
English settler Grace Ashwell flees an abusive lover in Hobart Town, with six-year-old Violet in tow. In her head, escape is easy: find work in the northern settlements and earn enough for passage home to London. But the terrain beyond the settled districts is wilder than Grace could ever have imagined. She and Violet find themselves lost in a beautiful but deadly land where rain thunders down the sides of mountains, the earth drops away without warning and night brings impenetrable darkness.
Deep in the wilderness, they find a crude hut inhabited by Alexander Dalton, an escaped convict long presumed dead. Hiding from civilisation in an attempt to forget his horrifying past, Alexander struggles to let Grace into his world.
When Violet disappears, Grace's fragile trust in Alexander is put to the test. And while she searches for answers, he will do anything to keep his secrets inside.
Inspired by the true story of the Macquarie Harbour bolters; one of the most horrifying events from Colonial Australia's bloody history.
English settler Grace Ashwell flees an abusive lover in Hobart Town, with six-year-old Violet in tow. In her head, escape is easy: find work in the northern settlements and earn enough for passage home to London. But the terrain beyond the settled districts is wilder than Grace could ever have imagined. She and Violet find themselves lost in a beautiful but deadly land where rain thunders down the sides of mountains, the earth drops away without warning and night brings impenetrable darkness.
Deep in the wilderness, they find a crude hut inhabited by Alexander Dalton, an escaped convict long presumed dead. Hiding from civilisation in an attempt to forget his horrifying past, Alexander struggles to let Grace into his world.
When Violet disappears, Grace's fragile trust in Alexander is put to the test. And while she searches for answers, he will do anything to keep his secrets inside.
Inspired by the true story of the Macquarie Harbour bolters; one of the most horrifying events from Colonial Australia's bloody history.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2017
313 people are currently reading
1607 people want to read
About the author
Johanna Craven
26 books92 followersA lover of old stuff, folk music, and dance, Johanna Craven bases her books around little-known true events from the past, often set in bleak and beautiful places. She divides her time between Australia and the UK, and can very easily be persuaded to tell you about the time she accidentally swam with seals on Holy Island.
Find out more at www.johannacraven.com.
Find out more at www.johannacraven.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 16, 2020
I picked this up as a break from my usual kind of reads and I was quite intrigued.
Johanna Craven has created a cast of fictional characters and built a story around actual historical events of the Australian Penal Colonies, during the early 1800s. The story was fascinating, distinctive and well written. Though I was out of my element, I couldn't resist the pull of this story. It is well written, well paced with an eerie atmospheric feel that just called to me.
This is not necessarily an easy read. The conditions and circumstances were brutal and at times, very shocking. It's a subject I knew almost nothing about and now I have a need to know more.
These characters were complex beings that gripped my heart, in spite of their flaws or maybe, because of them. They were not always likable but I was always in their corner rooting them on, even when I wasn't sure they were worthy. An escaped convict, Alexander and free settler running from unsavory circumstances, Grace have an unlikely meeting in the wilds of the Australian landscape. They must learn to trust and rely on each other despite the inherent distrust their lives have left them with.
I wasn't sure of this read at first but the further I read, the more I couldn't stop thinking about the characters and the events. While not quite a 5 star read, it was one that has staying power.
Johanna Craven has created a cast of fictional characters and built a story around actual historical events of the Australian Penal Colonies, during the early 1800s. The story was fascinating, distinctive and well written. Though I was out of my element, I couldn't resist the pull of this story. It is well written, well paced with an eerie atmospheric feel that just called to me.
This is not necessarily an easy read. The conditions and circumstances were brutal and at times, very shocking. It's a subject I knew almost nothing about and now I have a need to know more.
These characters were complex beings that gripped my heart, in spite of their flaws or maybe, because of them. They were not always likable but I was always in their corner rooting them on, even when I wasn't sure they were worthy. An escaped convict, Alexander and free settler running from unsavory circumstances, Grace have an unlikely meeting in the wilds of the Australian landscape. They must learn to trust and rely on each other despite the inherent distrust their lives have left them with.
I wasn't sure of this read at first but the further I read, the more I couldn't stop thinking about the characters and the events. While not quite a 5 star read, it was one that has staying power.
July 23, 2017
UNEXPECTED
The first few pages in the book pulled you into the story, but then it was a little slow, very descriptive, so well written you felt you were there in Van Diemen’s land Tasmania with Alexander and Grace. The flashbacks throughout the tale explained Dalton’s background and it was fascinating to read that his life was based on fact and trial evidence. However, hang on in there the end is explosive and came as a total shock – very clever.
The first few pages in the book pulled you into the story, but then it was a little slow, very descriptive, so well written you felt you were there in Van Diemen’s land Tasmania with Alexander and Grace. The flashbacks throughout the tale explained Dalton’s background and it was fascinating to read that his life was based on fact and trial evidence. However, hang on in there the end is explosive and came as a total shock – very clever.
May 31, 2017
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Atmospheric and gripping, based on a fascinating true story.
Atmospheric and gripping, based on a fascinating true story.
June 29, 2019
This story is based on true events that happened in Australia in the 1800’s. Focused around two very broken people, this story has a lot of time jumps and flashbacks so the beginning is a bit confusing, however, the story really picks up around after about an hour. When we are introduced to Grace, who has fled into the wilderness with her child in the hopes of escaping an abusive husband, the story takes a new angle. Finding shelter with a man who has secluded himself from society for 11 years, the two begin to depend on one another in order to find faith in humanity once again. Their lives are more entangled than either is willing to believe. When Grace’s daughter disappears, they must face the truth.
With beautiful worldbuilding, deep characters, and suspense, this is a very engaging audiobook that’ll hold you until the end. A story of love, loss, and tragedy, this is one that will stick with you long after you’ve finished reading.
The narration is spot on.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
With beautiful worldbuilding, deep characters, and suspense, this is a very engaging audiobook that’ll hold you until the end. A story of love, loss, and tragedy, this is one that will stick with you long after you’ve finished reading.
The narration is spot on.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
June 24, 2022
This is a historical fiction based on true events that happened during the 1800s in Australia (Tasmania). However, the author has kept the true incident intact and has blended her own story with reality.
Alexander Dalton is an escaped convict who has made the forest his home for a remarkable 11 years. He is the only survivor of the eight men who escaped from the deadly Macquarie Harbour, a place worse than hell. A horrific incident happens in the forest that haunts Dalton forever and therefore he chooses to live in isolation. He loves his own company until he meets another human for the first time in that place - Grace Ashley.
Grace works as a nanny for Mr. James Harris' twins Violet and Nora. After his wife's demise, Mr. Harris and Grace fall in love with each other. But, things don't go very well and she is sent to the deadly asylum in New Norfolk. She manages to escape and goes back to Mr. Harris' house to rescue his daughters from their evil father. But she only gets to take Violet and she is in a rut when she realizes that her plan to reach the eastern settlements did not seem as easy as she had imagined. They get lost in the forest until they meet Alexander Dalton.
There is a lot more to the story and I won't reveal all of it for obvious reasons. As I had mentioned earlier this is based on true events. The horrific incident that took place in the forest is unfortunately true. Although I won't reveal any spoilers here, if you are interested then you can look up the name Alexander Dalton on the internet for more details on the hideous crime and if you don't mind spoilers.
The story is intertwined with fictional characters as well. I loved the way the author blended reality with her imagination. She has done a good job in my opinion. The narrative is a bit slow jumping to flashbacks and the present time. This technique gives the thrills while reading and also creates curiosity quite well in the mind of the reader. The story is also unpredictable at times. What I thought would be the ending happened at about 50 percent of the book. And then there are more secrets revealed further in the story.
At some places, it may seem a bit dragged or slow but hang on, you will be hooked to it in no time.
Although I had a good experience with this book, I can not use the word 'enjoy' for it. It saddened me to know that what happened was part of the reality. That gruesome twist may stay with me for a long time. So if you are looking forward to reading it, I suggest surfing the internet about it and then maybe you can see if you are ready for it.
The blurb doesn't do justice to the story. So if are a person who only relies on blurbs, this may prove otherwise.
Overall a good discovery for me. I want it to be read by everyone but I can't recommend it to all. The reasons are stated above. But if you like historical fiction and do not mind a bit of gory stuff then this is for you.
Alexander Dalton is an escaped convict who has made the forest his home for a remarkable 11 years. He is the only survivor of the eight men who escaped from the deadly Macquarie Harbour, a place worse than hell. A horrific incident happens in the forest that haunts Dalton forever and therefore he chooses to live in isolation. He loves his own company until he meets another human for the first time in that place - Grace Ashley.
Grace works as a nanny for Mr. James Harris' twins Violet and Nora. After his wife's demise, Mr. Harris and Grace fall in love with each other. But, things don't go very well and she is sent to the deadly asylum in New Norfolk. She manages to escape and goes back to Mr. Harris' house to rescue his daughters from their evil father. But she only gets to take Violet and she is in a rut when she realizes that her plan to reach the eastern settlements did not seem as easy as she had imagined. They get lost in the forest until they meet Alexander Dalton.
There is a lot more to the story and I won't reveal all of it for obvious reasons. As I had mentioned earlier this is based on true events. The horrific incident that took place in the forest is unfortunately true. Although I won't reveal any spoilers here, if you are interested then you can look up the name Alexander Dalton on the internet for more details on the hideous crime and if you don't mind spoilers.
The story is intertwined with fictional characters as well. I loved the way the author blended reality with her imagination. She has done a good job in my opinion. The narrative is a bit slow jumping to flashbacks and the present time. This technique gives the thrills while reading and also creates curiosity quite well in the mind of the reader. The story is also unpredictable at times. What I thought would be the ending happened at about 50 percent of the book. And then there are more secrets revealed further in the story.
At some places, it may seem a bit dragged or slow but hang on, you will be hooked to it in no time.
Although I had a good experience with this book, I can not use the word 'enjoy' for it. It saddened me to know that what happened was part of the reality. That gruesome twist may stay with me for a long time. So if you are looking forward to reading it, I suggest surfing the internet about it and then maybe you can see if you are ready for it.
The blurb doesn't do justice to the story. So if are a person who only relies on blurbs, this may prove otherwise.
Overall a good discovery for me. I want it to be read by everyone but I can't recommend it to all. The reasons are stated above. But if you like historical fiction and do not mind a bit of gory stuff then this is for you.
December 27, 2018
At the end of the story, the author gives the historical facts that this book is based around. Johanna Craven creates a whole cast of fictional character and builds a story around an actual event in history. Amazing! The story takes place in the early 1800s in Australia. The main character, Grace Ashwell, moves to Australia with her lover and his two children to start a new life together. Soon after arriving, her lover has her committed to an insane asylum. Grace escapes and kidnaps one of his daughters, Violet, to rescue her from his abuse. She wanted to rescue both but wasn't able to. She would try to return later for Nora. They flee to one of the other colonies only to get lost in the bush. Instead of finding another colony, she finds an escaped convict who has been hiding in the woods for years. Alexander Dalton had been presumed dead. Once Violet goes missing in the night, Grace blames him for her disappearance. The truth is much darker and sadder.
Great job by narrator Rebecca McKerran. She does an excellent job telling the story and bringing the characters to life. I love all the accents as well!
Great job by narrator Rebecca McKerran. She does an excellent job telling the story and bringing the characters to life. I love all the accents as well!
August 3, 2017
I was intrigued by the novel and its premise, and it didn’t leave me disappointed. A historical story of a woman with a young girl on the run and a mysterious recluse man collide in a harsh environment where survival is of utmost importance. However, survival not only in a physical sense, but mainly psychological, as both characters are struggling to forget and forgive. They’re both tested regarding their past and future decisions. Although the novel is based on real historical events, the story mainly focuses on the fictional relationship between the characters. I enjoyed that, as it gave the story a private feel. I found the story and the way it was carried out very captivating and liked the striking mood.
September 13, 2017
This was a very atmospheric read, set in the days when Australia was a penal colony. The author transports you to a grim place where prisoners live a wretched life. Grace is not a prisoner but has chosen to relocate from London in search of a better life. The book opens with her being discovered in a forest by Dalton, an escaped prisoner who has been hiding in the wilderness for 11 years. They both have stories that are far darker and more complex than at first seems the case. The bleak surroundings are wonderfully described but it is the relationship between the two damaged central characters which kept me turning the pages, wondering how the story would progress. Full of twists at the end, this is both a great adventure story and a real insight into life in the early days of Australia. Highly recommended!
September 26, 2017
Forgotten places truly blew me away. It’s written brilliantly and pulls you in immediately. It’s written so clearly you can see it in your mind and experience the full weight and force of the characters who are carrying so many secrets. The more you read the more you wonder what’s going to happen now. The author does something that isn’t easy to do – she keeps you hooked, because with every turn of the page you just know something is happening and yet you can’t put your finger on it so you just have to keep on reading. My mind went wild with speculations and oh boy was I wrong. If you don’t need a lot of sleep at night, I recommend reading it because once you start you won’t stop. Well done.
August 20, 2017
A tremendously readable and more-ish historical novel, the story of a woman who leaves her husband and travels into the wilds of Van Diemen's Land with a small child in tow. Exhausted, starving, and hopelessly lost, they finally discover the camp of a man who has been living alone in the forest for the past several years, a man who either refuses to speak or is unable to do so.
Really, to tell more would be to provide spoilers. Suffice to say that the ground shifts beneath both the characters' and the reader's feet at regular intervals as new facts and background information is unearthed, continually providing surprises, indeed shocks, and shedding a new perspective upon matters. It certainly keeps you reading.
Both the place and the people are very real, there is no difficulty in conjuring up the imagery of the book in the imagination. The sense of place and the historical setting are very vivid. There are times when the characters' actions will make you want to shake them till their teeth rattle. But as the revelations continue, it becomes much easier to understand why they have behaved the way that they have.
This novel works its magic by carefully peeling away the layers of outward appearances to reveal what truly lies within. It is extremely well constructed and effective, and a fine read.
Really, to tell more would be to provide spoilers. Suffice to say that the ground shifts beneath both the characters' and the reader's feet at regular intervals as new facts and background information is unearthed, continually providing surprises, indeed shocks, and shedding a new perspective upon matters. It certainly keeps you reading.
Both the place and the people are very real, there is no difficulty in conjuring up the imagery of the book in the imagination. The sense of place and the historical setting are very vivid. There are times when the characters' actions will make you want to shake them till their teeth rattle. But as the revelations continue, it becomes much easier to understand why they have behaved the way that they have.
This novel works its magic by carefully peeling away the layers of outward appearances to reveal what truly lies within. It is extremely well constructed and effective, and a fine read.
January 14, 2018
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel. The story revolves around Grace, an English woman who moves to the new colonies in Australia with her lover and his two young daughters. However, things don't go to plan and Grace finds herself incarcerated in an insane asylum. She escapes, and retrieves one of the man's daughters, thinking she is saving the child from abuse. Grace is devasted that she couldn't rescue both girls and sets out for the next nearest settlement. Unfortunately, she gets lost in the forest and ends up meeting a convict that has been hiding out there for years. Starving and cold, she has no choice but to seek shelter with him. But then the child, Violet, goes missing. Did the man do something to her?
This story is about love, trust, loss and hope. The author does a good job of keeping up the mystery element of the story and the characters are well rounded. I didn't warm to the character of Grace very much until the end. The other main character, Alexander Dalton, was interesting as the reader/listener is never sure if he is a good or bad man.
The only small issue with this novel for me was that sometimes the POV would change without warning, which brought me out of the story. Otherwise, I really enjoyed listening.
The narrator did a good job of bringing the story and characters to life.
This story is about love, trust, loss and hope. The author does a good job of keeping up the mystery element of the story and the characters are well rounded. I didn't warm to the character of Grace very much until the end. The other main character, Alexander Dalton, was interesting as the reader/listener is never sure if he is a good or bad man.
The only small issue with this novel for me was that sometimes the POV would change without warning, which brought me out of the story. Otherwise, I really enjoyed listening.
The narrator did a good job of bringing the story and characters to life.
September 16, 2017
I picked Forgotten Places because I really enjoyed the author's previous novel: The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. This story also had dark characters and a dark story, but ultimately it was a slow-paced mixture of interesting and unsurprising. At times it transversed the world of Marcus Clarke and For the Term of His Natural Life, and I knew the story of the Macquarie Harbour escapees as well. Forgotten Places is quite slow-moving until a fair way into the narrative, and I found it easy to put it down and hard to pick it up again. At a point it became more interesting, and the last section was a good read.
December 6, 2017
Love a book where I didn’t see the end coming. I will definitely read more by this author.
June 1, 2019
•audiobook•
I was excited to get this in exchange for a review from audiobookboom.
I had listened to the sample and thought the narrator was a good fit. I read the description and was more intrigued. I browsed reviews on goodreads and couldn’t wait to start listening!
Lately, when I start off with eagerness or high hopes, I end up devastated and/or disappointed. But I keep my fingers crossed.
I’ll be the first to admit. The beginning of the book - was it during the entire Part 1?- I struggled. Time moved back and forth as we learn about the ‘back story’. I don’t think it really flowed for me. Then again, I prefer a beginning, middle, end.
Although told in third person, when the POV changed between Grace and Dalton, it also took me a while to readjust. Then, Grace calls him Alexander (his first name) and the narrator calls him Dalton (last name). Or so I thought. Maybe she was referring to Alexander Pearce. Or maybe I’m confused. Still.
So I did like Grace. A lot. Oh, how I’ve missed the strong, opinionated, speak what’s on your mind female leads. I’m so sick of snarky sarcastic teen mentality in an adult body.
But she was strong, less so when dealing with her internal struggles when she wakes up and finds out Violet is missing, which made her more real.
A lot of my friends live, have moved, or traveled abroad to both the UK and Down Under. The dialogue in this book is genuine. I love it. I can’t vouch for historical accuracy, but it sounds like when I’m on the phone with Corey or Gwen. I’m referring to vocabulary, slang. The narrator does have a natural accent, and it also added to the authenticity.
I did have an eye roll moment as our two tortured, lost souls find a common ground to cohabit. But WOW, I LOVED how this was handled.
This book about love, hope, brief violence, uncovered past abuse, betrayal, grief, waiting, desperation, living off grid in the dangerous desolate outback is a new depth of heartbreak, mending, and learning how to cope. It traverses through such raw emotions and bewilderment to a very unexpected, satisfying, heartwarming natural conclusion.
I sincerely hope Rebecca McKernan and Johanna Craven continue to team up for more dynamic audiobooks!
I was excited to get this in exchange for a review from audiobookboom.
I had listened to the sample and thought the narrator was a good fit. I read the description and was more intrigued. I browsed reviews on goodreads and couldn’t wait to start listening!
Lately, when I start off with eagerness or high hopes, I end up devastated and/or disappointed. But I keep my fingers crossed.
I’ll be the first to admit. The beginning of the book - was it during the entire Part 1?- I struggled. Time moved back and forth as we learn about the ‘back story’. I don’t think it really flowed for me. Then again, I prefer a beginning, middle, end.
Although told in third person, when the POV changed between Grace and Dalton, it also took me a while to readjust. Then, Grace calls him Alexander (his first name) and the narrator calls him Dalton (last name). Or so I thought. Maybe she was referring to Alexander Pearce. Or maybe I’m confused. Still.
So I did like Grace. A lot. Oh, how I’ve missed the strong, opinionated, speak what’s on your mind female leads. I’m so sick of snarky sarcastic teen mentality in an adult body.
But she was strong, less so when dealing with her internal struggles when she wakes up and finds out Violet is missing, which made her more real.
A lot of my friends live, have moved, or traveled abroad to both the UK and Down Under. The dialogue in this book is genuine. I love it. I can’t vouch for historical accuracy, but it sounds like when I’m on the phone with Corey or Gwen. I’m referring to vocabulary, slang. The narrator does have a natural accent, and it also added to the authenticity.
I did have an eye roll moment as our two tortured, lost souls find a common ground to cohabit. But WOW, I LOVED how this was handled.
This book about love, hope, brief violence, uncovered past abuse, betrayal, grief, waiting, desperation, living off grid in the dangerous desolate outback is a new depth of heartbreak, mending, and learning how to cope. It traverses through such raw emotions and bewilderment to a very unexpected, satisfying, heartwarming natural conclusion.
I sincerely hope Rebecca McKernan and Johanna Craven continue to team up for more dynamic audiobooks!
October 11, 2017
Is it possible to come back from Hell and start again?
Travelling to Australia was meant to be a grand adventure, but Australia is nothing what Grace Ashwell imagined it to be. Instead of an adventure, it becomes her worst nightmare.
Alexander Dalton had no choice about coming to Australia, but when the opportunity arose he escaped his bondage, and for the last eleven years he has hidden in the forest. The last thing he wants is a woman, who is running from an abusive lover, to intrude upon his solitude.
I opened this book, read the first paragraph, and I found myself smiling because from that short excerpt I knew this book was going to be great. Oh my days, was I in for a surprise because this book wasn't great it was fantastic! Forgotten by Johanna Craven was simply unputadownable. From that first paragraph, I was drawn into this desperate story of Grace and Alexander as they struggle to survive and find a purpose to their lives in the wild and unforgiving Australian outback. The pages flew by while I lost myself in this unforgettable story. In fact, I stayed up half the night so I could finish it, there was no way I was going to put this story down, I wanted to find out how it ended!
The story is incredibly well crafted, and it kept me guessing until the end. When I thought I understood where the story was going Ms. Craven threw a massive curve ball into the plot, which left me with my mouth open in surprise! I really wasn't expecting that!
Forgotten is inspired by a true story about the Macquarie Harbour bolters and it raises some interesting questions about that time and how prisoners were treated. It really brought this era to life.
If you are a lover of historical fiction then Forgotten by Johanna Craven really should be on your To Read list!
I Highly Recommend.
Travelling to Australia was meant to be a grand adventure, but Australia is nothing what Grace Ashwell imagined it to be. Instead of an adventure, it becomes her worst nightmare.
Alexander Dalton had no choice about coming to Australia, but when the opportunity arose he escaped his bondage, and for the last eleven years he has hidden in the forest. The last thing he wants is a woman, who is running from an abusive lover, to intrude upon his solitude.
I opened this book, read the first paragraph, and I found myself smiling because from that short excerpt I knew this book was going to be great. Oh my days, was I in for a surprise because this book wasn't great it was fantastic! Forgotten by Johanna Craven was simply unputadownable. From that first paragraph, I was drawn into this desperate story of Grace and Alexander as they struggle to survive and find a purpose to their lives in the wild and unforgiving Australian outback. The pages flew by while I lost myself in this unforgettable story. In fact, I stayed up half the night so I could finish it, there was no way I was going to put this story down, I wanted to find out how it ended!
The story is incredibly well crafted, and it kept me guessing until the end. When I thought I understood where the story was going Ms. Craven threw a massive curve ball into the plot, which left me with my mouth open in surprise! I really wasn't expecting that!
Forgotten is inspired by a true story about the Macquarie Harbour bolters and it raises some interesting questions about that time and how prisoners were treated. It really brought this era to life.
If you are a lover of historical fiction then Forgotten by Johanna Craven really should be on your To Read list!
I Highly Recommend.
July 9, 2017
‘Forgotten Places’ is a story of two broken people trying to survive in a brutal landscape. Inspired by true events, it thrusts the reader into Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) in the 1830s where convicts and British settlers have converged to begin a new life in Australia. An English nanny accompanies her employer, Harris and small twin daughters, Violet and Nora there after the death of Harris’ wife. They leave England on the Duchenfield to travel to Hobart Town. Later, Grace flees from her abusive, soon-to-be husband with Violet into the wilderness but becomes lost. She encounters Dalton, who has escaped into the remote Derwent Valley and isolated himself for eleven years with only his strange, carved life-sized dolls for company in his hut. Grace sees loss, suffering and shame in his eyes and clings to him. When Violet goes missing, their lives and the awful truth begin to unravel.
This is a gripping and powerfully told story with several unexpected and shocking twists. The wild landscape echoes the tangled lives and horrors the pair endure. The natural world is authentic and beautifully described. Craven has developed strong and many-faceted characters, who at times have you believing they are brutal savages, and at other times, make you empathise and care for them. Not only do they have to fight to survive but also deal with the social and class order that has followed them from England. I felt Grace’s anguish deeply at losing Violet and Dalton’s struggle to be human and distance himself from his horrific past. The story is compelling and has you glued to the pages to discover the unpredictable conclusion.
This is a gripping and powerfully told story with several unexpected and shocking twists. The wild landscape echoes the tangled lives and horrors the pair endure. The natural world is authentic and beautifully described. Craven has developed strong and many-faceted characters, who at times have you believing they are brutal savages, and at other times, make you empathise and care for them. Not only do they have to fight to survive but also deal with the social and class order that has followed them from England. I felt Grace’s anguish deeply at losing Violet and Dalton’s struggle to be human and distance himself from his horrific past. The story is compelling and has you glued to the pages to discover the unpredictable conclusion.
July 13, 2017
I loved all of Johanna Craven’s books for her outstanding storytelling skills and her distinctive voice that makes her stories even more riveting. “Forgotten Places” was no exception, taking me back in time to the early nineteenth century in Australia, where getting lost in the wild meant only one thing – a certain death. However, when Grace and her little companion Violette stumble across a man who must have spent years in the deadly Australian bush, she realizes that maybe now she has a chance to save herself. Running from the psychiatric asylum where she had been put by her lover, and hoping to get herself back to England Grace has no other choice but to trust the man who seemed to have cheated death, no matter how mistaken she might be in her choice.
The characterization in this incredible historical novel was simply outstanding. I was quite taken by both the secrecy surrounding Alexander’s story and by Grace’s life in London. As the plot unraveled and more and more details started shedding the light on what really happened to both, I couldn’t help but wonder what’s going to happen next. But I must say, Ms. Craven caught me completely unaware! Oh my God, the ending! Honestly, I would give the book five stars just because of it: I never saw such a plot twist coming! A perfect read not only for historical fiction fans, but for fans of the psychological thriller genre. Simply brilliant!
The characterization in this incredible historical novel was simply outstanding. I was quite taken by both the secrecy surrounding Alexander’s story and by Grace’s life in London. As the plot unraveled and more and more details started shedding the light on what really happened to both, I couldn’t help but wonder what’s going to happen next. But I must say, Ms. Craven caught me completely unaware! Oh my God, the ending! Honestly, I would give the book five stars just because of it: I never saw such a plot twist coming! A perfect read not only for historical fiction fans, but for fans of the psychological thriller genre. Simply brilliant!
May 11, 2019
In Forgotten Places by Johanna Craven, Grace goes to the wilds of the early settlements of early 19th century Australia, an English prison colony, to start life anew with her lover and two young daughters. With dreams of a new life and prosperity, things go badly, surrounded by poverty, punishment, hardship. Her lover, promised to be husband, is abusive and because of her resistance, he puts her into an insane asylum. She escapes, goes back and rescues one of the daughters, and flees into the harsh, thick, seemingly insurvivable forest where she encounters an escaped prisoner on the run for a dozen years, having himself escaped a hanging for murder and cannibalism. They survive together for a time, with mystery and doubt surrounding the girl's disappearance into the forest and the possible complicity of the prisoner. They survive for a time in the harsh forest, eventually returning to the settlement, and plan their further escape and return to London, all while the officials seek to capture and return them to their pre-escape status. While the plot may be a bit thin, the psychological relationships between characters are intriguingly developed. There are themes of love, dependency, trust, hope, and loss coupled with the ongoing mystery of the missing child. The fictional work is based on actual historical events, including the prisoners' escape and cannibalism, detailed by the author at the conclusion of the book. Four out of five stars.
August 8, 2017
A harrowing yet beautiful story with a great sense of time and place.
The story is inspired by the true story of Alexander Dalton. An Irish soldier/crminal sent to the colonies of Australia as his punishment. His temper and sense of justice are his worst enemies and things turn from worse to bad. But nothing prepared him for his "bolt" for freedom with a group of men who became infamous when it is discovered they turned to cannabilism of each other to survive the hostile bush of Australia.
Craven creates a wonderful story, where Alexandra runs off to survive in isolation for 11 years until his world is split apart by a young British woman unable to come to terms with her past.
An intriguing story which gave me insight to a period of British/Australian history I was aware of but never given much thought to. This is the 4th book I've read by Craven and while not my personaal favourite as always I was spell bound by her rich descriptions which bring all her books to life. Alexander was a wonderfully complex character.
Very enjoyable.
The story is inspired by the true story of Alexander Dalton. An Irish soldier/crminal sent to the colonies of Australia as his punishment. His temper and sense of justice are his worst enemies and things turn from worse to bad. But nothing prepared him for his "bolt" for freedom with a group of men who became infamous when it is discovered they turned to cannabilism of each other to survive the hostile bush of Australia.
Craven creates a wonderful story, where Alexandra runs off to survive in isolation for 11 years until his world is split apart by a young British woman unable to come to terms with her past.
An intriguing story which gave me insight to a period of British/Australian history I was aware of but never given much thought to. This is the 4th book I've read by Craven and while not my personaal favourite as always I was spell bound by her rich descriptions which bring all her books to life. Alexander was a wonderfully complex character.
Very enjoyable.
September 3, 2017
Sometimes I just want to thank Heaven for long train journeys.
You know how it is when life gets so busy that you don’t have time to read. It;s grim. It’s been like that. But I landed up on a train, with nothing to do but look out of the window (it was raining) or read. It was a no-brainer.
I’ve had Johanna Craven’s Forgotten Places on my Kindle for ages an, having loved the previous books of hers I’ve read, was delighted to get started. This one is slightly different to her others — a historical novel dealing with a real-life horror story set in deepest Tasmania back in the days of convict settlements. The coming-together of English settler Grace and escaped convict Alexander (long-presumed dead) is one set against a background of savagery but which unfolds as a gripping adventure — yet one which is sometimes both heartwarming and tender.
The writing is elegant, the scenes deftly set; the characters are complex and alive — and the story has twists and turns, at least one of which had me completely gobsmacked. A fabulous book.
You know how it is when life gets so busy that you don’t have time to read. It;s grim. It’s been like that. But I landed up on a train, with nothing to do but look out of the window (it was raining) or read. It was a no-brainer.
I’ve had Johanna Craven’s Forgotten Places on my Kindle for ages an, having loved the previous books of hers I’ve read, was delighted to get started. This one is slightly different to her others — a historical novel dealing with a real-life horror story set in deepest Tasmania back in the days of convict settlements. The coming-together of English settler Grace and escaped convict Alexander (long-presumed dead) is one set against a background of savagery but which unfolds as a gripping adventure — yet one which is sometimes both heartwarming and tender.
The writing is elegant, the scenes deftly set; the characters are complex and alive — and the story has twists and turns, at least one of which had me completely gobsmacked. A fabulous book.
December 11, 2017
This book is set in the 1830’s and inspired by a true story. An escaped convict hides out in the Van Diemen’s land bush (now Tasmania) after 11 years of hiding he has forgotten how to speak. Then into his silent world stumbles a young woman with a little girl in tow.
This was a great book that would also work as a stage play as most of the action is between the two main characters Grace Ashwell and Alexander Dalton. It feels quite claustrophobic as the two are enclosed by the unforgiving forest. She is not sure if she can trust him but needs him to survive. He is bewildered by having suddenly another human being around and isn’t sure what to do. He is also haunted by the ghosts of his dead comrades that escaped with him. Bit by bit it is revealed what happened to them both.
I was very surprised by this book as it didn’t go in the direction I thought it would and the second part was a real treat as the plot turned and twisted. Recommended if you like historical fiction or thrillers and ghost stories, there is plenty of story here to please a broad readership.
This was a great book that would also work as a stage play as most of the action is between the two main characters Grace Ashwell and Alexander Dalton. It feels quite claustrophobic as the two are enclosed by the unforgiving forest. She is not sure if she can trust him but needs him to survive. He is bewildered by having suddenly another human being around and isn’t sure what to do. He is also haunted by the ghosts of his dead comrades that escaped with him. Bit by bit it is revealed what happened to them both.
I was very surprised by this book as it didn’t go in the direction I thought it would and the second part was a real treat as the plot turned and twisted. Recommended if you like historical fiction or thrillers and ghost stories, there is plenty of story here to please a broad readership.
November 27, 2017
A powerful and well-written story. Based on other reviews, I was worried because I tend to shy away from "dark" stories, but I didn't find this story too dark. Granted, the characters experience untold sufferings, both physical and emotional. The author has an amazing way with words. Beautifully-crafted sentences and an acute sense of place and description. The first-third of the book had me hooked, and the last third of the book kept me breathless. The middle third was a bit slow for me--I must admit though, I am a plot-driven reader. And while I enjoyed the twist at the end--I didn't see it coming--I felt the surprise was more because the events didn't jive with one of the main characters. I can't say more, unfortunately. No spoilers! But after that revealing, I was kept on the edge of my seat about what might happen next. Will she do this? Will he do that? How will it end? I will definitely look at other books by this author.
July 10, 2017
This amazing story will stay with you long after you've turned the final page. Johanna Craven's crisp writing sweeps the reader to the Australian wilderness of the mid-nineteenth century. Dalton is a runaway convict living in the forest and trying to hide from the ghosts of his past, when he encounters Grace, an English nanny who fled into the wilderness with her lover's child, Violet. Slowly, Dalton begins to find his humanity, as Grace learns to trust the wild man enough to open up about her life. When Violet disappears and secrets unfold, the story progresses with an increasing sense of urgency and dread. What happened to the little girl? Is Dalton the monster he is rumored to be? I found myself reading past my bedtime in order to reach the unexpected, but very satisfying conclusion. This book is not to be missed!
October 19, 2017
Rich. Haunting. Historical fiction done right. I so thoroughly enjoyed this mesmerizing story. From the start I was drawn in and filled with questions. The setting comes to life with such atmospheric detail. The passages make it easy to imagine both the external places and the minds of the two leads Grace and Dalton.
The past haunts both characters, though how deeply is part of the unfolding layers that caught me by surprise. I never imagined how things would unfold and was blown away by the ending. The tension as things move forward is a slow build that wrapped tightly around me without me even realizing it until I was able to relax at the end.
My heart ached for everyone involved even beyond Grace and Dalton. I enjoyed the style and voice so much. The plot and pace were also perfect for the mood of the piece. I highly recommend this book.
The past haunts both characters, though how deeply is part of the unfolding layers that caught me by surprise. I never imagined how things would unfold and was blown away by the ending. The tension as things move forward is a slow build that wrapped tightly around me without me even realizing it until I was able to relax at the end.
My heart ached for everyone involved even beyond Grace and Dalton. I enjoyed the style and voice so much. The plot and pace were also perfect for the mood of the piece. I highly recommend this book.
August 24, 2017
A riveting tale of trust, betrayal, and survival in the Australia’s wilderness. The story had special meaning for me as I recently learned my ancestor was born in England, 1758, sentenced to prison and shipped to New South Wales, Australia to serve his sentence, eventually conscripted to America. The hardship described in the book were heartbreaking and made me see that anyone who could survive under those conditions were truly made of iron stock.
Once again Johanna Craven took me on an adventure I won’t soon forget. Forgotten Places straddles the genres of historical fiction and psychological thriller. I could not put it down.
“There was no anonymity in this land of new beginnings.” Craven, Johanna. Forgotten Places (p. 172). Kindle Edition.
Once again Johanna Craven took me on an adventure I won’t soon forget. Forgotten Places straddles the genres of historical fiction and psychological thriller. I could not put it down.
“There was no anonymity in this land of new beginnings.” Craven, Johanna. Forgotten Places (p. 172). Kindle Edition.
September 21, 2017
Having read one of Craven's other books I was glad to pick this one up and sit down to read it. Set back in the 19th century with the colonisation of Australia, the story starts with Grace in the middle of the bush, vying for safety for her and Violet. She's escaped an abusive lover and plans to go back for the other child later. Except then she meets Alexander and the plans change a little. The story was beautifully told, while it took me a while to get into the flow, that did not take away from my enjoyment because as things started to fall into place, with plot twists I didn't see coming, I was floored with how well the twists were hidden and presented. Excellent book and an author to watch, great Historical fiction and loved it!
July 16, 2018
I did not personally care for the content of this novel, but it was clearly researched and well-written. The undercurrent of romance is undeniable- a genre for which I have little patience- but I cannot very well detract stars for an author’s choice of theme. What led me to only award three stars was not the romance of the work, but rather the occasional stray from the storyline that failed to remain in step with other developments in the narrative. I understood, of course, by the conclusion of the story that the disarrangement was the author’s allusion to a decent to and ascent from madness, but did not feel it was expressed as well as it could be- again- personal preference. I did, however, learn something new from this work and am glad to have done so.
April 18, 2019
This book is based off of a true story but uses fictional characters. Johanna Craven does a fantastic job of blending her characters into their setting and giving readers a believable experience. Even though this is about the dark past of Australia I didn’t find the story to be too dark. Instead it focuses on two broken people who are struggling to become whole.
The story was very intense and drew me in right from the start. There is so much depth to this tale and I love how we get to explore both Grace and Alexander’s secrets. When you think you know how things will turn out you find out how wrong you were! The twist is not at all what you would expect!
I will be looking for more of this author.
The story was very intense and drew me in right from the start. There is so much depth to this tale and I love how we get to explore both Grace and Alexander’s secrets. When you think you know how things will turn out you find out how wrong you were! The twist is not at all what you would expect!
I will be looking for more of this author.
August 16, 2017
Forgotten Places is a novel I won’t soon forget. Why? Because it was well-written and riveting. The author’s gift for description and her wonderful turn of phrase had me hooked from page one. The storyline was nothing short of gripping. I mean, what can be more compelling than complex characterization amidst harrowing life-threatening circumstances? I normally indulge in lighthearted reads, but thanks to the talented Ms. Craven, I was drawn to the darkness. I was enthralled by the heart-wrenching twists and turns. Alexander and Grace will go down as two of my favorite characters of all time. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading other works by this author.
October 2, 2017
This marvellous story paints a vivid picture of people caught in the maelstrom of convict and early settler life in Tasmania. Haunted by past events Grace and Alexander endeavour to survive the savage bush, one day at a time, like lost souls in a world completely beyond their understanding. Five days walk from Hobart Town may as well be a light year.
She shivered. “It’s like you said, ain’t it. Got to stay together or we’ll die.”
The story meanders through the Tasmanian bush and lives interact like genetic code, providing the reader with a glimpse of what the arduous past was like. Highly recommended.
She shivered. “It’s like you said, ain’t it. Got to stay together or we’ll die.”
The story meanders through the Tasmanian bush and lives interact like genetic code, providing the reader with a glimpse of what the arduous past was like. Highly recommended.
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