Napoleon's Last Island

Explore the richly woven narrative of 'Napoleon's Last Island,' a captivating historical fiction novel by Tom Keneally. Set against the backdrop of St Helena, this compelling tale delves into the extraordinary life of young Betsy Balcombe, who became entwined with the infamous Napoleon during his exile. Witness how a child's friendship with one of history's most iconic figures transforms into a journey of resilience and survival. This B-format paperback edition, published in 2016 by Random House Australia, features 448 pages of masterful storytelling that uniquely intertwines the lives of ordinary individuals and historical legends. Perfect for fans of historical novels or those intrigued by the dramatic life of Napoleon Bonaparte, this book promises to keep readers engaged. Discover how Betsy navigates the complexities of her life, from her time spent on the island of exile to her eventual relocation to the Australian bush. Keneally’s insightful portrayal of friendship, betrayal, and courage shines through as you follow Betsy’s coming-of-age story, layered with the rich history of Australia’s beginnings. Don’t miss out on this free shipping offer, though please note combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Allow up to 10 days for delivery.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780857984623
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2016
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE AUSTRALIA
Pages: 448


Description:
Whilst living in exile on St Helena, Napoleon exerted an extraordinary influence on young Betsy Balcombe. How did she get from Napoleon's side to the Australian bush?

When Tom Keneally discovered by chance at the National Gallery of Victoria that Betsy Balcombe, a young girl living on St Helena while the Emperor Napoleon was exiled there, had become the Emperor's 'intimate friend and annoyer', and had then emigrated with her family to Australia, he was impelled to begin another extraordinary novel, exploring the intersection between the ordinary people of the world and those we deem exceptional.

Betsy Balcombe moved as a child with her family to St Helena, 'that high mid-Atlantic rock of exile'. Ten years later her family befriended, served and were ruined by their relationship with Napoleon. To redeem their fortunes William Balcombe, Betsy's father, betrayed the Emperor and accepted a job as the colonial treasurer of New South Wales, taking his family with him. After enduring a profound tragedy on the voyage out, and never quite recovering from the results of his association with Napoleon, William's life deteriorated; however, his family struggled and survived in Australia.

Tom Keneally recreates Betsy's friendship with The Great Ogre, her enmities and alliances with his court, and her dramatic coming of age during her years with them on the island. With his ability for bringing historical stories to life in the most brilliant and surprising ways, Keneally vividly shares this remarkable tale and the beginning of an Australian dynasty.

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.