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Ted Watts' Diary

The war changed him forever, in every way but one

Published by Big Sky Publishing
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

Ted Watts' Diary is a captivating coming-of-age love story that spans over 60 years. Set in early 1900s Sydney, orphaned Ted embarks on a tumultuous journey into manhood, then he meets and falls in love with Maddie ‘Dimples’.

Before settling down he decides to follow his destiny and fight in the Great War. Underage, he enlists, leaving behind a devoted Maddie who vows to wait for him indefinitely. He promises to return as a hero, with his life story detailed in the diary Maddie gifts him the day before he departs.

Years later, the promised diary resurfaces in Bremen, Germany, discovered by Gertie. As she delves into its pages, Ted's quest for heroism and his unwavering promise to recount his life story unfold. Through Gertie’s eyes, we follow Ted’s exploits and adventures from his early years and beyond, encountering larrikins, mateship, humour, heroes, villains, retribution, tears, laughter, thieves, spies, war, and tender love.

But how did the diary end up in Germany in 1960 and can Gertie return it to its rightful owner, Maddie Dimples?

Ted Watts' Diary takes readers on a riveting journey through time, delving into the triumphs and tribulations of the human spirit. It's a poignant reflection on love, sacrifice, and the indomitable will to fulfill one's destiny.

About The Author

Born in the UK in 1953, Steve Matthews migrated to Australia in 1985. After a successful career in commercial banking, he purchased a share in an industrial business before retiring at the age of 55 to write full time. Steve’s books for young, reluctant readers and his work in children’s literacy have been acknowledged in the NSW State Parliament and his adult books have mostly dealt with women’s issues. Now a best-selling author, published in nine countries and five languages, Steve continues to write full-time from the farm he shares with his wife Diane at Razorback, in NSW.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Big Sky Publishing (October 4, 2023)
  • Length: 400 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781923004269

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