The Natural History of Love is based upon the true story of 19th century French explorer naturalist and diplomat the Count de Castelnau and his lover Madame Fonceca; a sweeping historical narrative set in the wilds of Brazil salons of Paris and the early days of Melbournes settlement. When Melbourne lawyer Nathan Smithson takes on the case of mad wealthy Edward Foncecas inheritance trial against his ruthless brother in 1902 he must unearth long-buried family secrets to have any chance of winning. Brazil 1852: Francois the Count de Castelnau and French Consul to Bahia falls dangerously ill on a naturalist expedition and is delivered by a rainforest tribesman to the Fonceca household. Carolina Fonceca is 16 years old and longing to leave the confines of her familys remote Brazilian sugar plantation. With a head full of Balzac and dreams of Parisian life she is instantly beguiled by the middle-aged Frenchman. What Carolina doesnt know is that Francois has a wife and son back in France. Desperate for a new life she makes a decision that will haunt her forever.
