“Truth, destiny and a profound journey of discovery”
WAIRAKA POINT
The Paradox of Truth
‘Wairaka Point’ is a gripping narrative based on actual events. The subjects and settings are diverse: New Zealand, legal investigation, rabies, fathers, US Marines, heroic women, Maori, ambiguity, possum trapping, advertising, Zimbabwe, families, World War II, adolescence, Melbourne, military coups, rugby, Afrikaans history, literature, Ghana, infidelity, rescue missions, British colonialism, rural life, trading commodities, letters, The Acadians, Wellington, racism, forgotten islands, travel, war, memories, secrets, death, love.
However, these are just the subjects and settings. The plot and theme are a profound discovery of the nature of truth and destiny. Stella Rees is beautiful, smart and pragmatic, but still a hopeless romantic willing to risk her life travelling across a war-torn continent for a man she barely knows. It’s 1979, and her homeland of Africa is filled with turbulence and uncertainty – yet she is determined in her love for New Zealander Nick James.
Little does she know Nick and his family harbor a deep secret, leaving her to wonder if she truly knows the man she was destined for. Spanning half a century and five countries, delving deep into how family history shapes who we are, ‘Wairaka Point’ is a story about the truth and what it is to believe in something beyond doubt.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Trevor Watkin has lived in England, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. His background is in Commodity Trading, Publishing, and as a Company Director. His interests include history, philosophy, and mountain bike riding. He is the winner of the prestigious Thawley Essay Prize for 2016, on Australia’s future.
To contact author, email productresearch@bigpond.com
WHERE TO BUY
Contact your favourite bookstore or online retailer to purchase
ISBN: 978-1-77370-441-8 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 978-0-2288-1125-1 (Paperback)
ISBN: 978-1-77370-442-5 (eBook)
ISBN: 978-0-2288-1111-4 (Audiobook)
Reviews
Penny
“Loved this book. What a journey! Looking forward to more books.”
Reader’s favourite - Asher Syed
“Trevor Watkin does well in shaking up global politics, business machinations, and personal identity against a historically detailed backdrop in Wairaka Point.”
Reader’s favourite - Grant Leishman
“As a New Zealander, I was initially drawn to Wairaka Point by its setting in my homeland. However, there is much more to this story than just an old murder mystery that needs solving --- The mystery of the skeleton is the core of the story and readers will be making assumptions and guesses that may or may not be right. This is the sign of a well-thought-out and plotted story. The overarching theme of truth and whether knowing the truth, even at the risk of pain and hurt, is preferable was perfectly presented--- This is a wonderful adventure story, as well as a thoughtful philosophical exposition of a high moral principle; the supremacy of truth. A cracking good read, I highly recommend this book.”
Kirkus
“The plot seamlessly spans five countries and 50 years, weaving in elements of military history and colonial tensions --- Suspense builds throughout, driven by evocative writing and well-paced revelations, as Watkin effectively reveals how personal experiences are woven into broader societal shifts”
Amazon reader - Southern Cross
“A really evocative book, very well researched, and I enjoyed reading it.”
Kea Australia
“An unusual and compelling book. Those who have travelled and spent time across different continents will find it particularly relatable. The occasional footnotes explaining Māori, Australian, or Afrikaans slang gently transport the reader to these diverse settings. The seamless blend of historical accuracy with fiction lends the story a strong sense of authenticity and depth. The ending, on both ends of the spectrum, is beautifully crafted, prompting reflection on the nature of truth and what it truly means. A thoroughly engaging read!”
Indies Today - Nicky Flowers
“A fact-driven fusion of geopolitical tension, cultural convergence, and the lengths we go for love, Wairaka Point: The Paradox of Truth is a globetrotting adventure through verifiable history.”
The Book Review Directory
“Set from 1969 to 1992 in mainly Africa and Australasia, he affords the reader fascinating, educational glimpses into the geopolitical history of the regions and insights of their socio-cultural fabric. ---- A riveting family mystery rooted in WWII takes hold, and Watkin’s prose becomes more emotionally descriptive as he presents Nick with a life-changing moral dilemma. Although Nick undertakes a decision, The author has left an unusual ending for the reader, one in which they can rescind Nick’s choice. Watkin makes the reader privy to something Nick has decided to eschew, although it can be chosen not to be read. It’s an unexpected and thought-provoking move ---- Wairaka Point is a vivid, creatively crafted fusion of fact and fiction written with care and enthusiasm. The author has produced an entertaining, informative novel that takes the reader on a journey of deeper complexity than first imagined.”
Reader’s favourite - Carol Thompson
“Watkin masterfully combines vivid descriptions with historical context, immersing readers in his characters’ lives and diverse worlds --- Wairaka Point is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy multifaceted narratives rich in cultural and emotional resonance, leaving them with much to ponder about the paradoxes of truth and belief.”
Indie Reader - Craig Jones
"Author Trevor Watkin is excellent at scene-setting. The backstories of Nick and Stella unfold neatly and elegantly; expository writing of this calibre is hard to find."