Christian Writers Downunder is a diverse group of writers, editors, bloggers, illustrators. As a group we support each other through our Facebook page and blog.
Today's blog will highlight some of the recent releases of our members from November 2023-August 2025
Recent Releases
Historical Fiction
River Song
River Song
by Jeanette Grant Thomson
Shy Claire braves university and befriends flamboyant Vivien. The girls hope to find husbands – but what is wrong with Viv’s boyfriend? And will Mark ever make that commitment? Amid the cultural revolution of the sixties, shadowed by the Vietnam War, relationships become tangled. Will a calamity sort it all out?
Jeanette Grant Thomson is a Moreton-based author who has had all sorts of writing published since her childhood. This is her seventh published book-length work. You can find her books at www.facebook.com/jeanette.grantthomson
Jeanette Grant Thomson is a Moreton-based author who has had all sorts of writing published since her childhood. This is her seventh published book-length work. You can find her books at www.facebook.com/jeanette.grantthomson
Stones of Wrath
Stones of Wrath-The Twins
by SJ Ratcliffe
Professor Mikkel Jacobsen smuggles an ancient artefact from England to Argentina. It is now 1943, and the Nazis hunt the artefact in Argentina, putting Mikkel and his twin daughter Ruby in jeopardy. Meanwhile, Christian, Ruby’s twin, is in Denmark helping the Jews escape across the sea to Sweden.
SJ Ratcliffe is a christian fiction author. ‘Stones of Wrath’ won the 2025 Pencraft Award. In 2024, she appeared on BBC Radio, US podcasts and was recognised by the NSW parliament.
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com.au/Stones-Wrath-Twins-Book-Two/dp/B0F7Y8Q45D/
Hearts Unknown
Hearts Unknown
by Dienece Darling
After this London season, not the boy next door. Clarence has loved Edith for as long as he can remember. What will it take for Edith to notice him? One bird, one ball, and a pesky street preacher.
Dienece Darling is a former Georgia Belle who now calls Australia home with her husband and two sons. She writes inspirational historical fiction, and her first name is pronounced Denise. https://www.dienecedarling.com
Buy link: https://books2read.com/heartsunknown/
First Fleet Convict Era Trilogy 1788-1800
by Sara Powter
Her dreams lead to unexpected outcomes. An Australian First Fleet story with the descriptions taken directly from the Journal of Doctor Arthur Bowes Smith was the doctor on board the Lady Penrhyn.
Annie Soames is a girl beloved by the community but not afraid to voice her desires. That leads to trouble, illicit love, and transportation to New South Wales as a convict. When her former employer, Oliver Quilpie, recently widowed Marquess, goes searching for her, will nAnnie want to see him?
Long-listed in the Historical Fiction Company Competition 2024
https://mybook.to/GentleAnnieSoames
The Emancipated Potter
https://mybook.to/GentleAnnieSoames
The Emancipated Potter
Not all felons are convicts, and not all convicts are felons.
Colin Osborne’s serene life as a talented potter is crushed by a self-important peer. A single punch sends Colin across to the other side of the globe. Aggie Gibbs is a young convict girl being hunted by a wayward soldier. The two find themselves in a town of criminals and lecherous men but an unlikely mentor. Can they build a decent life for the convicts destined to live out their lives in the penal town?
Paternity Unknown
Connie Waterson is attacked and traumatised when the convict women were landed in the colony. She finds herself expecting an unwanted child. Along with her friends, she must learn to cope with the challenges of their new environment while protecting the life growing within her. Can those who attacked her?
YA Speculative Fiction
Keeper of the Archives
Keeper of the Archives
by Lynne Stringer
After their home burns to cinders, Eden Fittell gets work in the government’s Archives to support her family.
But the city is being stalked by a crime boss who is using a freak to kidnap people off the street. And he usually snatches government employees.Is Eden safe?
Lynne Stringer began writing professionally as a journalist and was the editor of a small newspaper (later magazine) for seven years, before turning her hand to screenplay writing and novels.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynne_stringer_author/
a buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Keeper-Archives-Lynne-Stringer-ebook/dp/B0D7W7314J/
by Lynne Stringer
But the city is being stalked by a crime boss who is using a freak to kidnap people off the street. And he usually snatches government employees.Is Eden safe?
Lynne Stringer began writing professionally as a journalist and was the editor of a small newspaper (later magazine) for seven years, before turning her hand to screenplay writing and novels.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynne_stringer_author/
a buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Keeper-Archives-Lynne-Stringer-ebook/dp/B0D7W7314J/
Signal Erased
Signal Erased
by Adele Jones
As time is running out, she seeks help from the last guy she ever thought she’d ask—a guy who has been all but invisible to her, until now. Will he, or anyone, understand what’s happened before she disappears forever?
Adele Jones is an Australian author of "Science fiction for the real world". Writing YA fringe and near sci-fi stories, she tackles complex teen issues including self-worth, disability, loss, domestic violence, youth crime and more, drawing inspiration from her passion for family, faith, friends, music and science.
For more visit www.adelejonesauthor.com
When Mistrelle Evanspay is overtaken by a storm and her frightened horse throws her, she is discovered by the enigmatic Ewarn Skylander, Morgran’s Chief Mage and councillor. Her head warns her not to get involved, but her heart yearns for a different life than the one her parents have in mind for her. Will she follow the check in her heart, or the wild romance Ewarn can offer?
Memories of the aliens have faded and life is good for the sky-born, until the day a group of mercenaries come looking for a fugitive. Queen Freya wants to locate him before the mercenaries get to him, clearly an impossible task. But when he locates them first and issues a dire warning, Freya realises they have all been asleep to the perils still lurking on Tara.
Kingdom of Longing
Kingdom of Longing (Prequel to Bethloria series)
By Elizabeth Klein
26th March, 2024
Elizion Fractured Books 2 & 3
Elizion Fractured book 2
by Elizabeth Klein
Published 22nd Jan. 2024
The story explores the challenges of surviving in a hostile environment. The plot follows the lives and destinies of Freya, newly crowned queen, the earth-born Fin, and several key sky-born characters as they face increasingly difficult challenges on Tara’s surface.
Elizion Conspiracy book 3
by Elizabeth Klein
Published 5th September 2024
In 2015, Elizabeth and her husband left Sydney to travel in a caravan full time. Besides having written many short stories, articles, plays and poems, she’s also authored YA and junior fiction books, as well as educational books and has 100 published works to date. You can find out more about her books here:
https://www.elizabethkleinauthor.com/
https://www.elizabethkleinauthor.com/
Stepping Sideways
Stepping Sideways: Stories of Steampunk and Dystopia
Editors Emily Larkin and Lynne Stringer
Rhiza Edge
A circus is not all it seems. A monster… and opportunity… waits in ocean mists. A friendship is out of time. A group of kids escape scavenger dogs in a brutal world. A water sprite is far from home. And a machine generates romance. These stories and others await in this steampunk and dystopian anthology by Australian authors, sure to transport you into worlds of danger and wonder.
Authors include Lynne Stringer, Emily Larkin, Annaliese Hudson, Linsey Painter, Shaye Wardrop, Andreas Katsineris-Paine, Adele Jones, Elizabeth Klein, Jeanette O’Hagan, Rachel Denham-White, Jennifer Horn and Bianca Breen.
Time’s Key by Emily Larkin, shortlisted for Best Young Adult Short Story in the 2024 Aurealis Awards.
In a League of Her Own by Jeanette O’Hagan, winner of the Best Young Adult Short Story in the 2024 Aurealis Awards
Rhiza Edge
Authors include Lynne Stringer, Emily Larkin, Annaliese Hudson, Linsey Painter, Shaye Wardrop, Andreas Katsineris-Paine, Adele Jones, Elizabeth Klein, Jeanette O’Hagan, Rachel Denham-White, Jennifer Horn and Bianca Breen.
Time’s Key by Emily Larkin, shortlisted for Best Young Adult Short Story in the 2024 Aurealis Awards.
In a League of Her Own by Jeanette O’Hagan, winner of the Best Young Adult Short Story in the 2024 Aurealis Awards
Buy Link: https://wombatrhiza.com.au/stepping-sideways-stories-of-steampunk-and-dystopia/
Jeanette O'Hagan has spun tales in the world of Nardva from the age of eight. She enjoys writing fantasy, sci-fi, poetry, and editing. Her Nardvan stories involve shapeshifters and magic. Others include space stations and cyborgs. She has published the Under the Mountain Series (5 books) the Akrad's Legacy series and numerous short stories, one of which recently won the 2024 Aurealis Award for YA Shorty story category.
Memoirs and Biographies
Unravelling: loving my parents through dementia
Unravelling: loving my parents through dementia
by Claire Belberg (aka Claire Bell)
Unravelling is the story in prose and poetry of a daughter accompanying her parents on the journey of dementia. It’s raw, honest, sometimes disturbing. This book was written for those who want company on a similar journey, and those who want to gain understanding of those who travel this way.
Claire Belberg personal story of her parents' dementia was released in September 2024.
Claire Belberg writes to understand, which typically includes reflections on nature. She has published poetry, fiction and non-fiction. She blogs occasionally at The Character Forge (clairebelberg.wordpress.org).
Buy - e-book at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unravelling-claire-belberg/1146288051 and print book direct from author (cheapest option!) at bellwriting@gmail.com (postage within Australia only)
Claire Belberg writes to understand, which typically includes reflections on nature. She has published poetry, fiction and non-fiction. She blogs occasionally at The Character Forge (clairebelberg.wordpress.org).
Buy - e-book at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unravelling-claire-belberg/1146288051 and print book direct from author (cheapest option!) at bellwriting@gmail.com (postage within Australia only)
Treasure Island
by Josephine Petrovic
Josephine Petrovic is finally an author, two years off eighty! Happily married, she’s Mum to five, Nanna of nine, and a born storyteller who loves to inspire and bless others.
Holdfast Books / jopetrovic.author@gmail.com
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com.au/Treasured-Island-Exploring-Delights-King-ebook/dp/B0FHWZPB49/
An armchair traveller’s delight, this little brightly coloured book relates how our family ‘discovered’ King Island in Bass Strait, Tasmania, lived and worked there, and shared our experiences. It is well researched and includes numerous fascinating backstories, a gallery of amazing photographs and an extensive visitor’s guide.
Josephine Petrovic is finally an author, two years off eighty! Happily married, she’s Mum to five, Nanna of nine, and a born storyteller who loves to inspire and bless others.
Holdfast Books / jopetrovic.author@gmail.com
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com.au/Treasured-Island-Exploring-Delights-King-ebook/dp/B0FHWZPB49/
Christian Life and Reflection
Swansong
Swansong: start creating your legacy of life-giving words today
by Jo-Anne Berthelsen,
Authentic Media UK
In Swansong, Jo-Anne Berthelsen issues a gentle challenge to consider carefully how God’s words and the words of others have impacted us and how the words we in turn speak and write on a daily basis can best honour God and build others up.
Jo-Anne Berthelsen is a Sydney-based author of seven novels and four non-fiction works. She holds degrees in Arts and Theology and has worked in teaching, editing and local church ministry.
Buy link: www.jo-anneberthelsen.com
God Moments: 101 little lessons for life’s journey
God Moments: 101 little lessons for life’s journey
by Jo-Anne Berthelsen, Authentic Media UK
In God Moments, Jo-Anne Berthelsen shares personal experiences of how apparently mundane events in daily life have created unexpected ‘God moments’. Grounded in Scripture, these 101 uplifting devotions will encourage you to open your heart to God and look out for him as you go about your daily life.
Buy link: www.jo-anneberthelsen.com
Messages from the heart of God - Volume 3
by David Hollis
Messages from the heart of God – Volume 3” is a collection of 40 short devotional chapters that lead the reader on a journey of inspiration, encouragement, and hope, especially in the difficulties, trials and uncertainties of our daily lives.
David Hollis lives in the far north of New Zealand on the rocky coastline of East Bay. He’s been writing prose and poetry for five years and published three books.
www.facebook.com/breadonthewaters
Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/author/davidhollis777
10 Blessings of God You Won’t Want to Miss
10 Blessings of God You Won’t Want to Miss
by Susan Barnes
Susan Barnes has thirty years of experience in pastoral ministry and a degree in Christian ministry. She has published hundreds of devotional articles, sharing her experiences of trusting God.
https://www.facebook.com/susanannebarneswriter
Buy Link: Options for print and ebook: https://www.susanbarneswriter.com/10-blessings-of-god/
From the Prison to the Palace
From the Prison to the Palaceby Karen Roper
August 2024
Have you ever wondered how Joseph in the Bible felt with not only being sold into slavery but being separated and betrayed by his family?
He took the same journey that most of us will take in our lives. What journey am I talking about? Our emotional journey through life.”
Karen Roper is passionate about seeing people live their lives the way God intended and to fulfil the purpose and plans that God has for them.
Instagram link is: https://www.instagram.com/roper.karen/
Buylink: From the Prison to the Palace: A Journey of Emotional Healing : Roper, Karen Faye: Amazon.com.au: Books
Comfort Zone: A 40-day Devotional
Comfort Zone: A 40-day Devotional on the Father of All Comfort
by Nola Lorraine
Armour Books, 2025
In this 40-day excursion into the heart of the Father, Nola Lorraine uses personal reflections and scriptures to show how God comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can then share his love and comfort with others.
Nola Lorraine writes fiction, nonfiction and poetry that weave words of courage and hope. She would love to connect with you through her website: www.nolalorraine.com.au
Buy link - https://koorong.com/product/scattered-nola-lorraine_9781925380859
by Nola Lorraine
Armour Books, 2025
Nola Lorraine writes fiction, nonfiction and poetry that weave words of courage and hope. She would love to connect with you through her website: www.nolalorraine.com.au
Buy link - https://koorong.com/product/scattered-nola-lorraine_9781925380859
Congratulations to all our members for your milestones and achievements.
Jeanette O'Hagan
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