Driving Three Kings: Fifty Years of the Waterhouse Family Serving the Kingdom of Tonga

by Louise Waterhouse

532 pages, Hardcover

Published September 19, 2025

Reviews

[Andreas Raedler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating insider’s memoir of Pacific diplomacy from an Australian's diplomat.
Driving Three Kings draws on fifty years of personal relationship with the Kingdom of Tonga and the author’s close relationships with three successive monarchs. Rather than policy theory, this book offers lived experience: trust and friendships built over time, private moments behind public ceremony, and a clear-eyed look at Australia’s often-misunderstood relationship with the Pacific.
The writing is accessible and engaging, supported by striking personal photographs. For readers interested in diplomacy, the Pacific, or simply highly entertaining anecdotes - this is a rewarding read.

[Mele Taufa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating memoir that traces fifty years of the relationship between Australia and the Kingdom of Tonga, Easy to read, brings to life the people, culture and ceremonies of Tonga.

[Yanni Marathocabitis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well-written read that jogs along and beautifully illustrates the history between the Waterhouse family and Tonga. Loved it!

[Jacob Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunningly written memoir, captivating the history of Australia and Tonga's relationship and the influence of the Waterhouse family.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent read that beautifully articulates the history of Tonga and the influence of the Waterhouse family. An excellent read!

[Parisa Marathocabitis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely fell in love with this book, what an excellent narration to guide the reader through the story of Tonga and the fascinating history.