A historical novel set in 1788
by Phil Page
This historical novel story commences in Portsmouth, England, in 1787 and finishes on Norfolk Island 12 months later.
Elizabeth lives with here surgeon father, William, and her mother, Ann, in a large house overlooking the outer harbour. She has just finished her homeschooling and is looking for something different in her life. Her father seems to be having difficulty coping these days. After a few awkward business and family situations, she finds out that there is a fleet being assembled that will be travelling to New South Wales, Australia. She convinces her parents to consider the trip.
In the meantime, a Marine Sergeant, Richard, is transferred from one job to another and he experiences several changing situations that make him think of other opportunities. Joining the same fleet seemed a solution.
Elizabeth and her family sail on one ship and Richard on another. The eleven-ship fleet sailed from Portsmouth with about 800 convicts aboard heading for Australia. The actual eight month long voyage is not included in this story and it takes up again when the fleet finally arrives in Botany Bay.
Two weeks after that the opportunity to join HMS Supply sailing on its first voyage from Sydney Cove to Norfolk Island became available. Both Elizabeth and her family, and Richard, joined a small band totaling twenty two on their way to settle the island. The two of them first meet on this two-week voyage and they cautiously become romantically involved as the settlement finds its feet.
Due to be published on 31st August 2023
Email Contact: phil.page@beagle.com.au
Website: whentimesweretough.com
When Times Were Tough 