"a meticulously researched account of an unexpected and utterly fascinating woman.”
Emeritus Professor Lucy Frost, The University of Tasmania.


“The Journal of Madame Callegari … is a fascinating story from start to finish: not only the very notion that the true identity of Madame Callegari has remained hidden until now, but also the incredible story of Madame Callegari’s life and travels. … the author’s choice to write the journal in the first person adds greatly to the pace and personal nature of the story and draws the reader in from the very beginning. ... Astute readers … will no doubt be delighted to now be able to read the full story of Madame Callegari and her incredible life. This complete account is meticulously researched and a valuable and important contribution to the literature in the area of French-Australian Studies, given the time that Madame Callegari spent here and in the surrounding region. Readers everywhere can be very grateful that Douglas Wilkie came across Madame Callegari’s true identity, that he has set the record straight, and that he has shared her fascinating story with us.”
Dr Kerry Mullan, Senior Lecturer, Coordinator French Studies, RMIT University.


"He is to be congratulated on his achievement.”
Elaine Lewis, Author Left Bank Waltz, (Vintage 2006); Co-editor The French Australian Review.