The Three Miss Kings: An Australian Story

by Ada Cambridge

"The Three Miss Kings: An Australian Story" by Ada Cambridge is a novel written in the late 19th century. It follows the lives of three orphaned sisters—Elizabeth, Patty, and Eleanor King—who find themselves alone in the world with limited financial means after the death of their parents. The story explores their struggles and aspirations as they decide to leave their isolated childhood home to start anew in Melbourne, seeking independence and a broader understanding of life. At the start of the narrative, the sisters reflect on their newfound independence and the choices that lie ahead. They debate potential plans, from traveling to Europe to simply settling in Melbourne, showcasing their varying personalities; Patty is impulsive and eager for adventure, while Elizabeth is more cautious and pragmatic. The depiction of their home environment, including the picturesque yet lonely setting by the Southern Ocean, emphasizes their sheltered upbringing. The challenges they face highlight their naiveté, but also their resilience as they prepare for the transition into a bustling urban life, ready to embrace the unknown that awaits them.