The Exiles by Christine Baker Kline

A naive governess in love is thrown into Newgate Prison for stealing an heirloom ring. Pregnant and alone she is then sentenced and put on a convict ship bound for Australia. The women who befriend her, the doctor who does his best and a crew member who has it in for her all shape her story. Meanwhile, a young aboriginal girl is taken from her island home to live with the Governor and his wife as a social experiment. The appalling lack of humanity the British had for the native population and the convicts is jaw dropping. A fascinating story that doesn't try to glorify or romanticize the treatment of both convicts or the islanders and another winner for Christina Baker Kline. For fans of THE THORN BIRDS and THE FORGOTTEN GARDEN, this is an illuminating story in Australia's history.   4 stars