The Rhino Keeper
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 22nd! I am so excited about our Q&A too!