Promotional Information

A groundbreaking portrait of an ordinary English gentlewoman who would go on to become one of Australia's most significant, if little known, historical figures.

About the Author

Michelle Scott Tucker owns and operates a management consulting company, and lives on a small farm in regional Victoria with her husband and children. Elizabeth Macarthur is her first book.

Reviews

'The triumphs and trials of Elizabeth Macarthur, a capable businesswoman and dedicated wife and mother, are given their due in this impressively researched biography.' -- Brenda Niall
'An intimate portrait of a woman who changed herself and Australia...Michelle Scott Tucker makes Elizabeth Macarthur step off the page.'
-- David Hunt * author of Girt *
'Finally, Elizabeth Macarthur steps out from the long shadow of her infamous, entrepreneurial husband. In Michelle Scott Tucker's devoted hands, Elizabeth emerges as a canny businesswoman, charming diplomat, loving mother and indefatigable survivor. A fascinating, faithful portrait of a remarkable woman and the young, volatile colony she helped to build.'
-- Clare Wright
'Tucker's great achievement is to have scraped back the familiar historical material to uncover a fresh and compelling portrait of Elizabeth Macarthur in her own words and the words of those who knew her.' * Australian *
'This carefully researched history is a highly interesting read that highlights the importance of women in the settlement of New South Wales.' * Otago Daily Times *
'Tucker expertly details the trials, tragedies and triumphs of the early settlement of NSW...This book is an important historical memoir documenting the incredible life of an Australian pioneer and her role as the matriarch of one of Australia's first agricultural dynasties.' * Countryman *