Margaret Catchpole was a real historical figure, known for her adventurous spirit and her brushes with the law. Born in the late 18th century, she worked as a servant and later became infamous for her criminal exploits, including horse theft, which led to her transportation to Australia as a convict.Richard Cobbold's novel traces Margaret's life from her early years in Suffolk, through her dramatic escape from prison and recapture, to her eventual transportation to New South Wales. The story captures her resilience and resourcefulness, providing a vivid portrayal of the challenges faced by women in her era.