There are two sides to every story.

Or perhaps even three…

Arabanoo lives with his family on the shores of Sydney Harbour when one day, eleven large canoes mysteriously emerge like ghost ships through misty rain.

Among those on board the traveling vessels, are Captain Watkin Tench and Captain John Hunter – both men recent veterans of America’s Revolutionary War.

With a world of difference between Arabanoo, the soldier Tench, and the sailor Hunter, common ground may be something of a challenge to be found between them.

A factually based historical novel that weaves its way through one fascinating incident after another in the early days of the Sydney colony.

Focusing on the relationship between the British and the First Nations people, it plants the seeds that gradually grow to its gripping and dramatic climax.

"With exhilarating time jumps, multiple narratives, and a keen yet unforced overtone balancing the parallels of 18th century Enlightenment with the hard realism of military orders, Stewart manages to capture a snapshot of early colonial Australia often whispered with the delicate pseudo-apologetic tone told through the lens of present-day hindsight ... ‘A Soldier, A Sailor and Arabanoo’ is unique from similar efforts in that it offers something more, and inspires – as any good history novel should – readers to go on researching once the final page is closed. This may fill the gaps in readers’ knowledge for a nation that was - and could have been - if only more of our founding fathers were alike the solider, the sailor, and Arabanoo." 5 Stars, Sam, Goodreads reviewer

“A thought-provoking story, well written and paced. A very enjoyable read…” Hayley, Readalot reviewer

"An engrossing and informative experience... thoroughly researched" The Hon. Linda Burney