When Japan launches a devastating invasion of Australia, Isla’s world shatters. Her husband is sent to the frontlines, leaving her with nothing but a promise—to protect Morey, the rescue dog she never wanted. As evacuation trains arrive, the Army refuses to let Morey on board. Torn between her vow and survival, Isla makes a choice that changes everything. Turning her back on safety, she flees north, crossing paths with Eugene, a young man running from his past. Together, they take shelter in her family’s abandoned farmhouse in rural Victoria. As days turn into weeks, survival creates a bond between them that neither expected. But as their fragile sanctuary begins to crumble, Isla must make an impossible stay true to the promise she made, or follow the pull of her heart. In a world on the brink, her promise might be the one thing that saves them all. Will Isla keep her word… or was Morey always destined to be another casualty of war? —- Set in a reimagined world with an alternate ending to WWII, Private Morey’s Jacket is the debut novel from Australian author Kate Broadway. A stirring tale of love, loyalty, and what it means to keep a promise when the world is falling apart.
Author
Kate Broadway lives in Melbourne with her husband and enjoys quiet afternoons with a good story—be it a book, movie, or TV series—and a cup of tea. A lifelong dog lover (Western Bulldogs included), she finds joy in simple moments, exploring local markets and eating nachos on her own with zero shame. With a background in theatre, Kate brings her stories to life through atmosphere, character, and emotion—creating layered, vivid worlds that feel deeply real. Her debut novel, Private Morey’s Jacket, was inspired by her beloved dog Murray, who passed away in early 2025. Kate blended her love of history (passed down from her dad), dogs, and rural Victoria to craft the book’s setting and soul. She began writing Private Morey’s Jacket by hand during summer camping trips with friends and completed it during Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, editing it alongside her dad. Connect with Kate on Instagram @kate.broadway.author for behind-the-scenes glimpses, future releases, and the occasional bookish ramble.
