The Rhino Keeper

In 1740, Dutch sea captain Douwemout van der Meer’s life is about to change forever while in Calcutta India he meets Clara, an Indian Rhinoceros. A Rhinoceros hasn’t been seen in Europe in 200 years. To save Clara from doom, Douwemout, Clara and his adoptive son Zubin, travel Europe introducing her to royalty and peasants a life. They also meet trouble along the way when an overzealous priest sees idol worship. In 2022 Andrea Martin is a student studying abroad in Holland and comes across a historical mystery that intertwines with Douwemout.

Research & Writing

Jillian Forsberg did an excellent job of putting in the research & writing the novel. I know this is Jillian’s first novel, I felt as though I were with Douwemout & Zubin traveling Europe and meeting the actual historical people such as Maria Theresa, Marie Antionette’s mother, German royalty and even went to Rome. While I liked Andrea’s story and how her story fit with Douwemout, I was more invested in Douwemout’s story and the time and traveling throughout Europe. I also liked the scene where Maria Theresa, a devout Habsburg Catholic, even called Father Gregor out for his overzealousness.  I liked seeing Voltaire there too. The ending of course was a blend of emotions. I won’t spoil that part you will have to read it on your own.

Overall

If you enjoy historical fiction, especially about lesser known parts of history, I recommend pre-ordering a copy of The Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg coming out next month on October 22^nd! I am so excited about our Q&A too!