Holtermann’s Nugget


When mining magnate, pioneer photographer and public benefactor, Bernhardt Holtermann died prematurely at the height of his success, the speculation and rumours started.

Some who knew Bernhardt closely had guessed the true nature of his relationship with Victoria, his children’s beautiful governess. They enjoyed the lavish parties and genteel soirĂ©es given by Harriet – Mrs Holtermmann, but some believed they detected an edge of tension under the formal cordiality between herself and Bernhardt.

Had she tired of being patient with her husband’s attentions to Victoria, or had Victoria tired of waiting for the divorce which would release her lover to become her husband?

Holtermann’s Nugget is an historical novel based on the life of the successful 19th century miner and businessman, the pioneer photographer, Bernhardt Holtermann. Bernhardt came to Sydney as a young man, to avoid conscription and the restrictive life of Hamburg in the 1850s.

Having made his fortune in gold mining at Hill End, Holtermann became famous as one of the most successful businessmen in Sydney during the early 1880s. His tireless drive for building his new country and showing Australia off to the world with magnificent panoramic photographs took him to international trade fairs in Philadelphia and Paris.

Bernhardt’s untimely death on his 47th birthday adds romance and intrigue to this novel of an adventurous life. Holtermann’s main bequest to the nation are his magnificent photographs which won for him international acclaim, and for Australia, international recognition.

2000, 168pp
Paperback, 216 x 138 mm
ISBN 0 9585805 5 3
Historical fiction, 1st Edition
RRP $aud 20.85
ISBN-13 978 0958580557

The Author
Gunter Schaule was born in Germany and, like his hero Bernhardt Holtermann, migrated to Australia to live a different life and make his career in a new country. Gunter has travelled widely, and maintains close friendships with people in all continents. He still manages his own successful business, but allows time for writing and enjoying his life.

Gunter’s previous books, all non-fiction, are all selling successfully internationally. Holtermann’s Nugget is his first novel, and the first of his books to be published by Indra. Gunter lives in Sydney with his wife, Marianne.

One Response to “Holtermann’s Nugget”

  1. Gunter Schaule Says:

    Thank you so much for getting my book out there!

    Kind regards,
    Gunter