Not My Father

by Julie Kay

Sometimes, family treasures hold the key to family secrets…

While packing up the family home, Danny’s daughter, Jules, finds a black box hidden at the back of his wardrobe. Danny suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome and has been in and out of psychiatric hospitals for years. The unexpected contents of his box take Jules and her sister on a journey to find out what really happened to their father in occupied Japan after the war.

What they discover is a love story about ordinary people—a man and a woman, a child and a father—who lived extraordinary lives. This is a tale of mateship, bravery and a romance that blossomed against all odds.

Paperback

First published January 22, 2019

Reviews

[Catherine Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It takes a special ability to write a good biography. Putting someone else's story on paper would be no mean feet especially when the content is as emotive as this. Julie does an amazing job of capturing the story of her father, the history and heartbreak of the war and integrates it all with her life both past and present.

Not My Father tells the story of Julie's dad Danny who suffers post traumatic stress syndrome bought on by his time in Japan during the war. It switches between first and third person in past and present day as Julie and her siblings try to unravel what happened to their father. The secrets they discover change their family forever.

[Tess Haddock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. I feel really honored to be able to read such a heart-rending part of the author's life. Thank you for sharing!

[Michelle Ham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this book is a bit like sitting with a good friend for hours and hearing the story of her family’s life, both past and present. Kay cleverly weaves multiple perspectives from today and yesterday with a genuine, down-to-earth approach. The Australian locations are familiar, which I enjoyed; I also lapped up learning about what life was like in Japan for the both Aussies and Japanese in World War 2 and beyond.

It is both devastating and beautiful to read about Danny’s PTSD, as his daughter Julie has created such a loving, honest testament to her beloved father and his extraordinary, challenging experiences. I am grateful and humbled to know more personal stories from those affected by the Japanese occupation.

Well worth a read; full of empathy, humour and love .

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical romance and this book hit the mark. I loved everything about it from the characters to the story line of lost love. I would highly recommend this book.

[Caitlin]

A deeply moving story which seamlessly interweaves the past and present, family and secrets. The descriptions of place and the horrors of war were equally beautiful and heartbreaking. A must read!

[Liz Purton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved everything about this book from the characters to the story line. Well done on your first book Julie Kay

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of family, war and forbidden love in a time not long forgotten. I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to the authors next work.

[Kim Robyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

a relatable story that takes the reader through an emotional journey. The unexpected discovery brings tears as you travel alongside those affected on their quest for answers. An engaging read that I couldn't put down.

[Aryani Siti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving story of love, family, and secrets — you won’t be able to put it down! GREAT read!!