Sara Powter

Sara Powter’s journey into the world of historical fiction began as a labour of love alongside her mother, Sheila Hunter. Together, they delved into their family tree and unearthed the remarkable, untold histories of four convicts. Realising these stories were far too powerful to be forgotten, Sheila penned an evocative Australian Colonial Trilogy. Following Sheila’s passing in 2002, Sara ensured her mother’s legacy was published—but one vital story remained unfinished.

Stepping into her own as a writer in 2020, Sara’s debut year was nothing short of spectacular. Her co-authored novel, Dancing to Her Own Tune, and her solo debut, Hands Upon the Anvil, both shot to #1 in their genres.

Sara writes raw, deeply moving historical fiction that avoids graphic depiction while refusing to shy away from the harsh realities of colonial Australia. Her narratives cast a necessary light on the unvetted assignment of convict women—many of whom faced unimaginable vulnerability and adversity, only to be cast back into prison walls if they fell pregnant due to violations.

Turning Adversity into Triumph

Today, Sara continues to breathe life into the history of these resilient women. Weaving meticulous historical fact with sweeping fiction, she honours the intrepid souls who shaped modern Australia. Torn from their loved ones in England for petty crimes, these women turned adversity to advantage. Earning their 'Tickets of Leave', they rose to become leading citizens of Sydney, Parramatta and Emu Plains.

Central to their survival and triumph was a profound Christian faith—a legacy of love and resilience passed down through generations. The inspiration for her beloved characters, Charles and Sal, stems directly from Sara's great-great-grandparents, John Ellison (great-nephew of John and Charles Wesley) and Sarah Watkins, as well as from Joseph Huff and Amelia Harlow, who were faithful congregants of St John’s Church in Parramatta.

In an incredible twist of history, the convict transport ship Wanstead arrived in 1814 carrying Mary Amelia Harlow and Catherine Lattimore. They were cellmates on the voyage, and later, assigned to households just two doors apart in Windsor. Seven generations later, their direct descendants met and married—Sara and her husband.

NB The spelling in the books is Australian /English.