Revised Version of An Attractive Naivety now available
In response to suggestions from several readers, I have spent the summer producing a revised edition of An Attractive Naivety: Australia as new nation in a complex world, complete with a family tree, maps and photos. As this was my first historical novel, published a couple of years ago, I took the opportunity to tighten the narrative and correct some small inaccuracies. Nothing essential has been altered, the story line remains the same, but the changes and additions do enhance the reader's experience. I am quite proud of this version and must thank my wife, Sara, for being such a diligent reader and sharp critic.
The revised edition is currently available as an e-book (Kindle on Amazon or EPUB file, compatible with Kobo e-reader and Google Play Books at my online shop (https://nihilalienum.au/shop) The launch of the Paperback format is scheduled for 25 February 2026 and will be available from my online shop as well as local and major bookshops and online stores.
Am very pleased that my latest book, Ashes and Sakura, is getting a lot of favourable attention, as is An Attractive Naivety. I would like to thank all of you who have posted ratings and reviews on my two books on Goodreads. That is much appreciated. If you haven't yet left a review and rating, I would encourage you to do so as it is helpful for promotion. It only takes a minute or so. See Goodreads for links to my two books.
Also another Woodender, Paul Burke, will be having an author's talk on his latest historical book, Rails of Gold, at the Woodend Library on Saturday 7 March 2026 at 10.30 am to 11.30am. This is a very important work on the building of the Bendigo and Ballarat railways and the labourers' fight for the eight-hour day. See his website at https://vicstory.au/ or register below.
A huge thank you for your support,
David Gormley-O'Brien
Author talk at Woodend Library 10.30 am on Saturday 7 March 2026
Place: Woodend Library, Woodend, VIC
Date and Time: Saturday, Mar 7, 2026 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Overview
Paul talks about one of early Victoria's most significant industrial actions.
The building of the Bendigo and Ballarat railways and the fight for the eight-hour day, 1852-1864.
In the winter of 1861, along the stretch of track between Woodend and Malmsbury, hundreds of workers put down their tools in one of early Victoria's most significant industrial actions. Meet historian Paul Burke as he brings this story to life in his book Rails of Gold. For lovers of history, social justice and really good stories.
BOOKINGS REQUIRED
Latest blog: The Bridge jumpers
A few days ago it was the 84th anniversary of the sinking of the Vyner Brooke by Japanese bombers near Banka Island, Netherlands East Indies. On board were civilians and Australian nursing sisters escaping from Singapore, just before it fell. My book, An Attractive Naivety, tells the story of what happened to these nursing sisters. One sister stands out, Vivien Bullwinkel, an enormously courageous woman. You can read more about her in my blog.
Books and blogs by David Gormley-O'Brien
Exploring the human aftermath of war, migration, and Australian national identity through historical fiction.