Diamonds in the Dirt - Paperback

by Sara Powter (Author)

Lockleys of Parramatta Series Book 3 (re-edited 2026)

A brilliant mind. An empty pocket. And a heart left stranded in the dirt.

Clean Historical Fiction set in Parramatta, in the early 1840s and 50s.
An adventure in search of gems and himself, but there is more to life than wealth.

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As the youngest Lockley sibling and one of the first students at Sydney's new university, Luke Lockley should have the world at his feet. Instead, he has no job, no money, and a shattered heart after learning his beloved Ellen has married another. Stranded without direction, he turns to the only thing he has left: faith.

Ellen Miller has loved Luke since their childhood, refusing to consider marrying anyone but him. Yet, for the past four years, Luke has ignored her. She cannot understand what drove him away.

When Reverend William Clarke seeks helpers for a mineral expedition, he invites Luke to join.

Seizing this opportunity, Luke suddenly finds himself face-to-face with Ellen.

Will they resolve their differences before Luke departs on this long adventure?

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'Diamonds in the Dirt' is the third book in a 100-year family saga of Colonial and convict Australia. Set in the post-convict era of Parramatta.

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If you love Australian Colonial history, you will love Sara Powter's 'Diamonds in the Dirt.'

A clean historical tale of love, adventure and enduring friendships.

Buy 'Diamonds in the Dirt' to discover if Luke will achieve his dreams of finding his lost love as well as diamonds.

(The author's convict family history loosely inspires this saga.)

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Tropes

Clean Historical Fiction

Second Chance Romance

Coming of Age

The Expedition/Quest

Faith and Guidance

Convict Legacy

adversity to advantage

Family Saga

Faith-based Fiction

Happily Ever After

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The family saga continues with Charlie, the eldest son's story.

It is found in the next volume, "The Earl's Shadow."

The legacy of one man can change an Empire.