FOOTHOLD
REVIEWS FOR FOOTHOLD
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Well-written historical fiction
Reviewed in Australia on 31 December 2024 - 4.0 out of 5 stars - Rachael H
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It is a well written story based on historical fact. The characters are relatable and live off the pages. While the women are of their time, they have agency and some influence, but not at the expense of accuracy. Thoroughly enjoyed this read.
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Wonderful detailed herstory of the early days of Brisbane white settlement
Reviewed in Australia on 15 December 2024 - 5.0 out of 5 stars - Kristina Challands
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This story is a must for any family history researchers with Brisbane roots. Trish has recreated the early days of Brisbane with riveting detail. It's fabulous to hear this story from a female perspective and the characters and their relationships are so believable. I would love to read more history from a female perspective like this. Trish has brought the past to life and created an easy summer holiday read.
A wonderful historical tale of hardship - resilience and overcoming impossible odds - loved it
Reviewed in Australia on 26 November 2024​ - 5.0 out of 5 stars -
A wonderful historical tale of hardship - resilience and overcoming impossible odds - loved it
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A captivating tale of Queensland's settlement, told through the eyes of a determined young woman. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, the richly drawn characters, the historical depth, and how it transported me to that time and place! Stayed up way past my bedtime as I kept wanting to know what happens next :-)
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Riveting
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Reviewed in Singapore on 29 November 2024 - 5.0 out of 5 stars - Wendy Yeap​
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I have not read a novel which totally captured my attention in a long time. Trish Purnell-Webb is truly a gifted writer. Foothold is a story of love and strength in the midst of tragedy and hardship. It also highlighted the plight of women trapped in domestic violence and how as a community, we need to protect the vulnerable.
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About the Book
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Bridget’s headlong rush into adulthood throws her into a marriage with a man she barely knows, a dangerous and traumatic journey, and a battle to change societal norms or risk her own destruction.
Sailing into Moreton Bay in 1824, Bridget and her fellow army wives face extreme hardships, not least of which is their powerlessness as the property of their husbands while facing the brutal realities of living in a newly established penal colony in the middle of nowhere.
Bridget understands they must learn to not only survive but thrive, give birth, raise children, form a community, and fight for their rights or die.
Along the way she is forced to confront her own naivety and develop a ruthlessness that enables her to find a way to lead in a man’s world in order to ensure her own survival.
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About Trish
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Trish has always had a keen interest in writing, and has previously published short stories, book chapters and a work of non-fiction before writing her first novel 'Foothold'.
Trish’s professional work as a Clinical Psychologist and Couple Therapist has led her to develop a deep fascination in the extraordinary lives of ordinary people. This knowledge and experience are evident in the richness and authenticity of the characters in her writing.
Trish lives on the Gold Coast with her husband, Mark. They spend their spare time enjoying the beach, their three children and partners, and their six delightful grandchildren.
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Purchase a copy
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E-Book version can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DNY9LR97
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Paperback version can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1763810208
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