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Between Two Wars
Inspired by the incredible true story of Warrant Officer Charles Young Watson, Between Two Wars is a sweeping work of historical fiction that follows one man’s extraordinary journey from the red dust of outback Queensland to the hellish battlefields of two world wars — and the enduring love that threads through them.
In 1917, sixteen-year-old Charles Watson leaves behind his foster family and quiet life in Woodstock, Queensland, driven by loyalty, courage, and a yearning for adventure. What begins as a boy’s dream of glory soon hardens into the grim reality of war — from the mud and blood of the Western Front to the heartbreak of survival. Amid the chaos, Charles finds love and hope, only to return home forever changed, haunted by the ghosts of those he left behind.
Through the interwar years, Charles battles the unseen wounds of his past while building a life with the woman who stood by him. His journey takes him from rural Australia to England, where he is honored with an invitation to a King’s coronation — a fleeting moment of pride before the world once again descends into conflict.
When global tensions rise anew, Charles answers the call — now a seasoned soldier and father. Sent to defend British Malaya during the Second World War, he endures the fall of Singapore and the unimaginable horrors of imprisonment at Sandakan. As the war nears its end, Charles is forced to lead the first of the infamous Death Marches through the jungles of Borneo, where courage, compassion, and endurance become his final acts of defiance.
Told with raw authenticity and emotional depth, Between Two Wars captures the spirit of a generation forged in hardship, bound by love, and defined by resilience. Based on true events and family records, Aaron Dryden’s debut novel is a powerful tribute to his great-grandfather's sacrifice, hope, and unbreakable will to endure.
In 1917, sixteen-year-old Charles Watson leaves behind his foster family and quiet life in Woodstock, Queensland, driven by loyalty, courage, and a yearning for adventure. What begins as a boy’s dream of glory soon hardens into the grim reality of war — from the mud and blood of the Western Front to the heartbreak of survival. Amid the chaos, Charles finds love and hope, only to return home forever changed, haunted by the ghosts of those he left behind.
Through the interwar years, Charles battles the unseen wounds of his past while building a life with the woman who stood by him. His journey takes him from rural Australia to England, where he is honored with an invitation to a King’s coronation — a fleeting moment of pride before the world once again descends into conflict.
When global tensions rise anew, Charles answers the call — now a seasoned soldier and father. Sent to defend British Malaya during the Second World War, he endures the fall of Singapore and the unimaginable horrors of imprisonment at Sandakan. As the war nears its end, Charles is forced to lead the first of the infamous Death Marches through the jungles of Borneo, where courage, compassion, and endurance become his final acts of defiance.
Told with raw authenticity and emotional depth, Between Two Wars captures the spirit of a generation forged in hardship, bound by love, and defined by resilience. Based on true events and family records, Aaron Dryden’s debut novel is a powerful tribute to his great-grandfather's sacrifice, hope, and unbreakable will to endure.
376 pages, Hardcover
Published March 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 6, 2026
Between Two Wars by Aaron Dryden is a fascinating exploration of the transformative years between World War I and World War II—a period often overlooked but crucial in shaping modern military aviation. Dryden skillfully brings to life the innovation, experimentation, and bold ideas that defined this era, showing how rapid technological development laid the foundation for the aircraft that would dominate the skies in the next global conflict.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance technical depth with engaging storytelling. Dryden explains complex aviation developments in a way that remains accessible to readers who may not have an engineering background, while still providing enough detail to satisfy aviation enthusiasts. The book highlights how designers, engineers, and military planners across different countries experimented with aircraft design, pushing the limits of speed, range, and combat capability.
What makes Between Two Wars particularly compelling is how it connects technological progress with historical context. The reader gains insight into how political tensions, economic pressures, and shifting military strategies influenced aircraft development during the interwar years. Instead of presenting aviation history as isolated technical milestones, Dryden demonstrates how these innovations were deeply intertwined with the changing geopolitical landscape.
Overall, Between Two Wars is an informative and engaging read that sheds light on a pivotal but sometimes underappreciated period in aviation history. Aaron Dryden’s clear writing style and thorough research make the book both educational and enjoyable. It is highly recommended for readers interested in aviation, military history, or the technological developments that helped shape the modern world.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance technical depth with engaging storytelling. Dryden explains complex aviation developments in a way that remains accessible to readers who may not have an engineering background, while still providing enough detail to satisfy aviation enthusiasts. The book highlights how designers, engineers, and military planners across different countries experimented with aircraft design, pushing the limits of speed, range, and combat capability.
What makes Between Two Wars particularly compelling is how it connects technological progress with historical context. The reader gains insight into how political tensions, economic pressures, and shifting military strategies influenced aircraft development during the interwar years. Instead of presenting aviation history as isolated technical milestones, Dryden demonstrates how these innovations were deeply intertwined with the changing geopolitical landscape.
Overall, Between Two Wars is an informative and engaging read that sheds light on a pivotal but sometimes underappreciated period in aviation history. Aaron Dryden’s clear writing style and thorough research make the book both educational and enjoyable. It is highly recommended for readers interested in aviation, military history, or the technological developments that helped shape the modern world.
December 15, 2025
Blurb: From the cattle fields of Queensland to the mud of the Western Front, and from the grandeur of a King’s coronation to the horror of the Sandakan Death Marches- this is the untold story of Charles Watson, a boy who became a soldier, a prisoner, and a symbol of endurance. Inspired by true events, this book traces one life lived between two wars, bound by love and scarred by sacrifice.
Aaron reached out to share the story of his great-grandfather and asked if I would consider reading an early copy. Once I understood what this story held, I knew I had to say yes.
Written in chronological order, the story was gripping and flowed with ease, making it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
Having visited Borneo, Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Kundasang War Memorial in 2024, I was able to truly picture the terrain, the climate, and the brutal conditions these soldiers were forced to endure — and that made this story hit with devastating force. Only six Australian soldiers made it home. The sheer brutality of what occurred there, and how little it is known/talked about, is staggering.
This book is written with heart, respect, and remarkable care. Charles was an extraordinary man who endured the very worst of war and loss, enlisting at just sixteen; a level of bravery that is almost impossible to fathom. Aaron’s meticulous research brings historical accuracy and depth to every page, ensuring this is not only a deeply moving personal story, but an important historical record. This is a story that deserves to be read, remembered, and shared. A legacy of courage, resilience, and quiet heroism — and one emotional, unforgettable read. One that will linger with me for some time to come.
Thank you to Aaron for an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Aaron reached out to share the story of his great-grandfather and asked if I would consider reading an early copy. Once I understood what this story held, I knew I had to say yes.
Written in chronological order, the story was gripping and flowed with ease, making it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
Having visited Borneo, Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Kundasang War Memorial in 2024, I was able to truly picture the terrain, the climate, and the brutal conditions these soldiers were forced to endure — and that made this story hit with devastating force. Only six Australian soldiers made it home. The sheer brutality of what occurred there, and how little it is known/talked about, is staggering.
This book is written with heart, respect, and remarkable care. Charles was an extraordinary man who endured the very worst of war and loss, enlisting at just sixteen; a level of bravery that is almost impossible to fathom. Aaron’s meticulous research brings historical accuracy and depth to every page, ensuring this is not only a deeply moving personal story, but an important historical record. This is a story that deserves to be read, remembered, and shared. A legacy of courage, resilience, and quiet heroism — and one emotional, unforgettable read. One that will linger with me for some time to come.
Thank you to Aaron for an early copy. All opinions are my own.
May 7, 2026
I picked up Between Two Wars by Aaron Dryden after meeting the author at a book signing, curious to see how someone else approached turning genealogical research into narrative. It’s not a genre I would usually gravitate toward—but I’m glad I made the exception.
What stood out most for me was the historical detail. The story brings the realities of the two world wars to life in a way that feels immediate and personal. The march from Sandakan to Ranau, in particular, was incredibly powerful—I felt like I was there alongside them.
The writing style is easy to read, and while there are a few slower sections, they serve to build the foundation of the story rather than detract from it. One of the book’s greatest strengths is how it transforms genealogical facts into a compelling and accessible narrative. It feels well-researched throughout, with any gaps handled in a way that remains believable.
There were a couple of minor moments of confusion, and I think the book would benefit from some light editing—particularly around layout and formatting. I also found myself wanting a little more closure at the end, especially regarding the family left behind.
That said, this is a moving and immersive read that I would recommend to anyone interested in real-life Australian history or genealogical storytelling.
I can’t remember the last time I was so moved by a human wartime experience.
What stood out most for me was the historical detail. The story brings the realities of the two world wars to life in a way that feels immediate and personal. The march from Sandakan to Ranau, in particular, was incredibly powerful—I felt like I was there alongside them.
The writing style is easy to read, and while there are a few slower sections, they serve to build the foundation of the story rather than detract from it. One of the book’s greatest strengths is how it transforms genealogical facts into a compelling and accessible narrative. It feels well-researched throughout, with any gaps handled in a way that remains believable.
There were a couple of minor moments of confusion, and I think the book would benefit from some light editing—particularly around layout and formatting. I also found myself wanting a little more closure at the end, especially regarding the family left behind.
That said, this is a moving and immersive read that I would recommend to anyone interested in real-life Australian history or genealogical storytelling.
I can’t remember the last time I was so moved by a human wartime experience.
January 13, 2026
Between Two Wars completely caught me off guard—in the best way. From the very first chapters, the writing pulled me straight into the brutal reality of war, not in a glorified way, but in a raw, unflinching, deeply human one. The author’s attention to detail is incredible; every setting, every march, every quiet moment before devastation is so vividly described that it feels like you’re right there alongside the characters.
The walk of death was especially haunting. It’s one of those scenes that stays with you long after you’ve closed the book—gripping, tragic, and painfully realistic. The way war and loss are portrayed feels honest and grounded, highlighting not just the physical toll but the emotional and psychological weight carried by those who survive.
And that ending… completely unexpected. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, it took a turn that felt both heartbreaking and fitting. Nothing about it felt cheap or rushed—it was earned, devastating, and powerful.
This is a beautifully written, emotionally heavy story that doesn’t shy away from the tragedy of war. If you’re looking for a historical novel that’s immersive, well-crafted, and unforgettable, this one is absolutely worth reading.
The walk of death was especially haunting. It’s one of those scenes that stays with you long after you’ve closed the book—gripping, tragic, and painfully realistic. The way war and loss are portrayed feels honest and grounded, highlighting not just the physical toll but the emotional and psychological weight carried by those who survive.
And that ending… completely unexpected. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, it took a turn that felt both heartbreaking and fitting. Nothing about it felt cheap or rushed—it was earned, devastating, and powerful.
This is a beautifully written, emotionally heavy story that doesn’t shy away from the tragedy of war. If you’re looking for a historical novel that’s immersive, well-crafted, and unforgettable, this one is absolutely worth reading.
April 1, 2026
This is not my usual genre of book, but I picked up Between Two Wars because it was written by someone I worked with and inspired by his great grandfather’s life - and I’m so glad I did.
I wasn’t fully prepared for how emotional it would be. Following Charles from outback Queensland into the brutal realities of both World Wars, the story feels incredibly raw and personal. The writing is vivid and immersive and it genuinely feels like you’re right there alongside him through it all.
What stayed with me most was the balance between the horrors of war and the quieter moments of love, resilience, and survival. Charles is such a compelling character - brave, broken, and deeply human - and the emotional impact of his journey really lingers long after you finish.
If you’re into powerful, heartfelt historical fiction (or even if you’re not like me!), this one is definitely worth picking up.
I wasn’t fully prepared for how emotional it would be. Following Charles from outback Queensland into the brutal realities of both World Wars, the story feels incredibly raw and personal. The writing is vivid and immersive and it genuinely feels like you’re right there alongside him through it all.
What stayed with me most was the balance between the horrors of war and the quieter moments of love, resilience, and survival. Charles is such a compelling character - brave, broken, and deeply human - and the emotional impact of his journey really lingers long after you finish.
If you’re into powerful, heartfelt historical fiction (or even if you’re not like me!), this one is definitely worth picking up.
January 5, 2026
I personally found Between Two Wars by Aaron Dryden to be a thoroughly enjoyable read. Aaron has done great justice to the inspiring true story of his great grandfather's bravery and achievements in two World Wars. He has researched his great grandfathers life, both personal and professional and blended historical facts with fiction, into a heartfelt, well written story of mateship, bravery, love and respect spanning the decades.
I believe this book would appeal to anyone who enjoys true stories of exceptional heroism, along with those who would enjoy a beautiful story of strength, love and family.
I believe this book would appeal to anyone who enjoys true stories of exceptional heroism, along with those who would enjoy a beautiful story of strength, love and family.
February 8, 2026
Are you a fan of war novels such as All Quiet on the Western Front, and are you ready to get hurt again (worse) reading one? Say no more - this is the book for you.
This was a truly compelling read, rife with depictions of PTSD, life on the frontline and life as a POW. I got very emotional reading this, knowing real people experienced these horrific events. This is such an important topic and I highly recommend reading this not only for the wonderfull written story but to learn more about the Sandakan Death Marches.
PLEASE check out the Author's Note at the end as well, for more details into this inspired by a true story.
This was a truly compelling read, rife with depictions of PTSD, life on the frontline and life as a POW. I got very emotional reading this, knowing real people experienced these horrific events. This is such an important topic and I highly recommend reading this not only for the wonderfull written story but to learn more about the Sandakan Death Marches.
PLEASE check out the Author's Note at the end as well, for more details into this inspired by a true story.
March 23, 2026
I have an in interest in war stories, especially when the research has been done on the historical timelines and events.
This is a wonderfully written story and knowing it was about the author’s great-grandfather’s war experiences made it more emotional. The description of the death march is intense and gripping, the last 60 pages really had me in a chokehold.
Would definitely recommend to anyone who liked The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
This is a wonderfully written story and knowing it was about the author’s great-grandfather’s war experiences made it more emotional. The description of the death march is intense and gripping, the last 60 pages really had me in a chokehold.
Would definitely recommend to anyone who liked The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
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December 17, 2025A page turner, very interesting subject not often spoken about. Highly enjoyable read no hesitation in recommending it to anyone.
February 3, 2026
Beautifully written book, I would highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews