Jacksons Creek Series #1
Finalist for 2012 CALEB Prize for Fiction.
Purchase here.
It is the time of Australia’s harsh rogue-filled gold rush of the 1850’s when Miss Penelope Worthington suddenly finds herself orphaned, isolated and alone. With a large sheep station to run single-handedly, she has little option but to enlist the aid of a mysterious, but sinister stranger.
But who is the more treacherous? Gus—the scruffy, trespassing, ex-convict who co-incidentally shows up looking for work just when she desperately needs a farmhand or Rupert—the handsome, wealthy neighbour who would willingly marry her at the drop of a hat and solve her apparent dilemma?
Repeatedly, her faith is tested as she faces the unforgiving elements, deceit, lies and uncertainty. But where and how will it all end? But…is it the end? Will vengeance return or will Penny’s faith prevail?
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING…
“In Ellenvale Gold, Amanda Deed has brought to vivid life the hardships and romance of the Victorian gold rush era. I loved the clever way she wove together the lives of her characters with our country’s fascinating past.This book will give you an appreciation for the spirit of our pioneer ancestors.”
Paula Vince, award-winning author of Best Forgotten.
“Amanda’s story has the authentic feel of the Australian outback. There is great insight into the gold rush days and the lure of gold, and also about the reality of living in isolated and tough conditions on Australian properties. The characters are rich and believable and the story line has it all; romance, suspense, skullduggery, and a happy ending. What more could you want.”
Carol Preston, author of Mary’s Guardian
Romancing The Rock 
I’ve just finished reading Ellenvale Gold and greatly enjoyed the story. Your characters were believable and I especially delighted in reading of both Penny and Gus’s faith journeys. To have the Christian religion woven within the pages of this romantic novel gave much creedence to the thought of God in our lives no matter what the era. Faith in all its guises is often removed from a good story and you have given it pride of place and more importance than many a writer. Thank you for your writing. I wonder what else will happen in the lives of this young couple?
Hi Jane,
So glad you enjoyed Ellenvale Gold. Thank you for your encouragement. Blessings, Amanda.