Netflix's six-episode period drama My Brilliant Career, based on Miles Franklin's 1901 novel, follows aspiring writer Sybylla Melvyn (Philippa Northeast), who must find a wealthy husband to save her family from destitution caused by her father's debts. The series, which dropped on Netflix last week, ends with Sybylla turning down a marriage proposal from Harry Beecham (Christopher Chung) to focus on her writing.
Sybylla repays a debt
Sybylla is sent to work for the McSwat family as a governess and servant for a year to pay off her family's debts. She struggles with the drudgery but resolves to wait it out. During this time, she writes to Harry, who is roving to earn money to reclaim his estate, Five Bob, but receives no reply.
Sybylla's big twist
After the year ends, Sybylla learns she must stay another 12 months due to further debts incurred by her father. She devises a plan with the McSwats' eldest son, convincing his parents they are a couple, which threatens his chances with a more eligible lady. Horrified, they agree to remove her debts on condition she leaves immediately and never speaks of the supposed romance. Sybylla returns to her family at Possum Gulley, telling them they are debt-free and that her father can no longer borrow from the McSwats.
Harry eventually returns after roving for a year and plans to marry Sybylla, but she turns him down, saying they would both be miserable and that she must focus on her writing. Sybylla ends up with no one, choosing herself.
Sybylla and Frank
Earlier, Sybylla broke off her engagement to Frank Howden (Jake Dunn) after realizing she would have to change entirely to be accepted by his family. He told her that only when they were together could they completely be themselves. However, the other reason for ending the engagement was her discovery that Harry was no longer with Blanche Derrick (Ines English). Sybylla left her engagement party and had a steamy encounter with Harry, confessing their love. After deciding to marry, Harry lost his fortune and went roving, telling Sybylla not to wait for him—but she did, then later changed her mind.
Meanwhile, her aunt Helen (Genevieve O'Reilly) goes to Sydney to work after her uncle Julius (Alexander England) takes control of the farm. Her sister Gertie (Ella Oliphant) may soon marry and improve her financial position, after Sybylla failed to make a match. My Brilliant Career is streaming on Netflix now.
