The harsh beauty of rural South Australia conjures up heartbreaking memories for Sally Smith. Having escaped the clutches of a brutal master she is forced to abandon her young son to an orphanage. To do so in the late 1800s was a grave decision. For a single mother, not to do so, even graver.

Sally’s tough, pioneering spirit prevails and her son Patrick is never far from her thoughts. But will she ever unite with him again? Will she find a man that deserves her love, strength and tenacity?

This Australian family saga of epic proportions will stir your heart with its authentic Aussie action, adventure and romance. It will sweep you through Australia’s toughest times and reveal a cast of characters whose enduring courage and warmth will captivate every reader’s imagination.

How does a young orphan with an unorthodox upbringing survive the changing face of a nation? Will the horror and menace of World War I keep the adult Patrick from his one true love?

For the Love of Patrick is part one in a new series of classic Australian historical writing by Doreen Slinkard.

With a heavy heart and one final kiss, Sally leaves baby Patrick on the convent step.

Adelaide - Australia 1892 Sally Smith, daughter of an ex-convict, then finds her way into Adelaide City. A chance encounter with a shy but caring young lawyer may offer a new beginning, but if her past is revealed would it ruin the chances of her newly found happiness?

Key characters soon come into play, all of whom add controversy, colour and a pacey narrative.

Part - one offers the foundation and opportunity that provides Patrick with his true family and the platform to begin his longed-for army career.

In part - two, the reader is swept halfway around the world in this turn of the century, family saga. Taking in the lifestyle and sights of Hawaii, to majestic England, ending with The Light Horse battles in the Middle East.

For the Love of Patrick is filled with love, lust, untapped ambition and intrigue.