Ada Cambridge 
The Three Miss Kings 
An Australian Story

Ada Cambridge’s novel, ‘The Three Miss Kings’, is a captivating narrative that delves into the lives of three independent sisters navigating the constraints of Victorian society. Cambridge’s prose is characterized by its descriptive richness and keen observations of human behavior, drawing readers into a world filled with conflicting social expectations and personal desires. Set amidst the backdrop of the late 19th century, the novel offers a poignant exploration of gender roles, family dynamics, and the pursuit of individual happiness. Through vivid characterizations and intricate plot developments, Cambridge skillfully illuminates the complexities of womanhood in an era defined by rigid conventions and evolving ideals. A compelling blend of social commentary and intimate storytelling, ‘The Three Miss Kings’ stands out as a timeless work of literature that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. Ada Cambridge’s own experiences as a clergyman’s wife likely inspired her to explore themes of duty, autonomy, and female solidarity in this thought-provoking novel. With its insightful portrayal of Victorian society and compelling narrative, ‘The Three Miss Kings’ is a must-read for those interested in feminist literature, historical fiction, and nuanced character studies.

About the author

Ada Cambridge (1844–1926), an English-born Australian writer, remains a notable figure in the landscape of colonial Australian literature. Her literary journey began when she moved to Australia after her marriage to a Church of England clergyman, George Frederick Cross in 1870. Cambridge’s writing, mainly novels and poetry, often delved into themes of love, marriage, and the position of women in society, reflecting her own life experiences and the larger dynamics of the English-speaking world in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Notable among her work is ‘The Three Miss Kings’ (1891), a novel characterized by its exploration of the roles and aspirations of women within the framework of an Australian setting. This book, like many of her novels, exhibits Cambridge’s insightful narrative style and her skillful portrayal of character development, with a sharp critique of social norms and the constraints imposed on women. Her writing style combined romanticism with realism, making her works enduringly appealing. As an author, Cambridge was prolific and achieved significant renown in her time; her work contributed to the canvas of female-centered narratives, illuminating the Australian colonial experience from a woman’s perspective. The literary significance of Ada Cambridge has been recognized with the annual Ada Cambridge writing prizes, which honor her legacy and contributions to Australian literature.