The Nine Lives of Kitty K

By Margaret Mills

“Colonial survivor, farmer’s wife and horse whisperer Kitty

Kirk is the central figure in this historical novel that looks at

her colourful life. She lived from 1855 to 1930 during the

turbulent period of the goldfield’s history in Central Otago.

She became a legend in her own lifetime, but while some

praised her as being a heroine, others accused her of being a

harlot.

The narrative begins with her young Irish mother being forced

into a shotgun marriage and sent to New Zealand to escape

the family shame. It follows Kitty’s life from a young girl to

mature woman, with happiness turning into tragedy several

times over – and with Kitty supporting herself as a woman

alone for long periods of her life.”

"Author Margaret Mills is as extraordinary as her central

character, Kitty Kirk, having her first book published at age

91. It’s wonderful that Kitty Kirk’s story is now available for the

general public to read. The Nine Lives of Kitty K. is a well-

researched and fascinating read.”

Reviewer: Karen McMillan booklovers.co.nz