Hands Upon The Anvil

By Sara Powter

Description:

A love story in more ways than one
Parramatta, in the 1830s, is a small town where convicts and ruffians abound. But for those who are willing to work for it, there are opportunities around every corner. The Lockley family are determined to embrace every one of them.

Charles Lockley quickly becomes a trusted member of the community. After helping quell a mutiny on the long journey from England, he is granted a Ticket of Leave and becomes the Government Stores Keeper in Parramatta whilst also running an Inn with his wife, Sal.

As their family's future, and their faith, is intertwined with their new homeland where the class system of old is almost non-existent, their second son Eddie, a hard-working blacksmith and will become the unassuming hero.

Book Takeaway:

Hopefully, a little bit of how the early colony way and the strong faith many of the convicts and early settlers had.
It's a heartwarming, feel-good story of hope and resilience.

Why the author wrote this book:

I started this in homage to my great-great grandfather, who was also the son of a convict and became a blacksmith in Parramatta. His life inspired me to learn more about living in that era. They were strong Christians, and the impact the family had on the community inspired the story.