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The Silk Merchant's Son

By Peter Burke
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Silk Merchant's Son by Peter Burke delves into the life of a young man in a historically rich period, where family expectations and personal desires collide. Trapped between upholding his father's silk business and pursuing his own dreams, he navigates a world of societal pressures and opportunities. This tale intricately explores the complexities of identity, legacy, and the courage it takes to forge one's own path.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This gripping historical fiction immerses you in a richly detailed narrative that intertwines family, ambition, and the complex world of trade. You might enjoy this book if you are fascinated by intricate personal dramas set against the backdrop of historical events, love tales of personal growth and familial duty, and enjoy diving into the life challenges of characters in culturally vibrant eras.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The road to hell is paved with good intentions, silk and sermons.

In 1846, linguistics professor Fabrice Cleriquot is despatched from Lyon to the Swan River Colony, sent away with a box full of silkworms to stop him from bringing more disgrace upon the family. Accompanying him on board the Elizabeth are twenty-eight mismatched and misguided Catholic missionaries including Dom Salvado, who seeks to create a Spanish Benedictine monastery deep in the bush, and the Irish Sisters of Mercy, who are fleeing a dreadful famine.

Given the job of distributing a huge donation from a wealthy benefactress, Fabrice bears witness to the folly of his travelling companions whose presumptuous attempts to rescue the colony and the original inhabitants from themselves can only lead to tragedy.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Silk Merchant's Son guides readers through the intricate landscapes of colonial ventures, highlighting the challenges posed by missionary endeavours in new territories. The author’s insightful satirical approach combines with empathy to explore the complications and consequences of well-meaning actions, crafting a compelling narrative.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760991678

Publisher: Fremantle Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 May 2023

Country: Australia

Imprint: Fremantle Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 38.0mm

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 526g

Pages: 400

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Fiction General Fiction Historical Fiction Penguin Books Peter Burke

About the Author

Peter Burke is a Perth doctor and writer of Western Australian historical fiction, his novels being enjoyed for their filmic quality and humour. Professionally, he divides his time between Murdoch University medical clinic and the hospitals of the Kimberley region of the North West.

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