“When I decided to read this book I was expecting an adventure story about about migration from Ireland to Australia in the 19th century. However, this book is much more than that. It is a very well researched social history of that time & quite an eye opener. Like many Australians I have a strong family connection to Ireland & knew that many Irish men & women fled Ireland during & after the Potato Famine. Before I read this book I had no idea how severe that poverty was for some. The central character, William, is only15 years old when he is forced to leave home & has to learn to make his way in a hostile world on his own. The author uses William’s many learning experiences to highlight aspects of the lives of people in the less fortunate classes in the 1850’s. I look forward to reading the next book in The William Stewart Saga.”
Maggie Creedy. 6 Nov 2020
“A great tale of adventure and hardship along the way. A very worthwhile read. Looking forward to the next three books that I understand are in progress.”
David Hughes. 12 November 2020
“Loved the drama of the book and how we are caught you up into the emotions of William being separated from his family and learning how to manage on his own and the many months of hardship sailing to Australia. I am very excited and cant wait for Williams next adventures in Australia.”
Virginia. 2 January 2021
“Peter Clarke brilliantly combines two conflicts – man versus man and man versus nature. Yet, it has a simple plot line about a young man hoping to find better fortune elsewhere, but the unpredictability of his fate during the voyage induces your curiosity. Even before William boards the ship, there are already intense scenes that pit William against his immediate vicinity and also that of his family. This novel is about the appalling yet hopeful experience of finding your luck in a big, scary world, and if this is what you like to read, An Ocean Away is the book for you.”
9 May 2021
“Peter, I have enjoyed perusing your new website & found it to be of a very professional standard. I really liked the two old sketches/water colours displayed on your Gallery page, you should endeavour to put up more art work from that era. The background information about William & his family was also of interest & helped to flesh-out his character. I really enjoyed An Ocean Away so I am looking forward to reading Gold Rush & learning more about Williams adventures. Wishing you every success with remaining books in your saga.”
Margo Creedy. 7 December 2021