Joanne is a writer who specialises in historical fiction set in Western Australia. Hawkeye Publishing released her debut novel, Black Wattle, in August 2025. Audible distributed an audiobook worldwide in September, and Read How You Want published it in a large-print format.
In 2024, her short story, Savage Daughter, received a long listing for The West Australian Yarn competition. A teacher of English and Drama, Joanne taught, including Harvey, Albany, Busselton, and Mandurah. Her last position was as the Team Coordinator for the English Learning Area at Shenton College. In 2010, she moved to England and worked for North Yorkshire County Council, teaching adult learners creative writing. Joanne holds a Master of Arts (with distinction) from York St John University (York, UK). Now back home, Joanne lives in Bridgetown. (regional Western Australia).
Joanne's second novel, The Last House in Augusta, is set to be released in 2027.
What inspired you to be a writer?
For many years, I have felt a strong need to share the stories of women. I wanted to reclaim their voices and ensure that people do not ignore or forget their struggles. I am also curious about living in the shadow of a long war.
What prompted you to write 'Black Wattle' and 'The Last House in Augusta'?
My grandmother, and the connection I have with her, are the subjects of my debut novel Black Wattle. This is the story of a couple who emigrate to Australia in 1924 in search of a better life and, for one of them, to leave a damaging secret behind. The tale recounts Western Australia's Group Settlement scheme, and beneath the historical facts lies a narrative of mothers and children.
My second book, The Last House in Augusta, delves into sisterly bonds and chronicles the lives of early 20th-century timber mill workers in Western Australia's South West. I explore the idea that traumatic events leave a mark on a place which people can feel for generations.
Do you have any more books in the pipeline?
I am researching an idea for a third historical fiction novel. I want to experiment with using different voices, letting fragments weave the story. I enjoy the research aspect the most, as it gives me permission to read lots of newspaper articles and firsthand accounts about past lives.
What is your professional background?
I taught English and Drama in Western Australian schools for thirty years. After early retirement I took a job as office manager for a psychiatrist in Perth. I moved to England in 2010 and taught adult education classes part time. I completed a Master of Arts (Creative Writing) at York St John University in York, England.
Any advice you’d like to give aspiring writers?
There is no right or wrong. Just write.
Who/what inspires you?
Oral histories and stories passed down through the generations. Extraordinary women with urgent stories to tell. I am preoccupied with landscapes.
What are your hobbies, interests and favourite books?
The lives of ordinary people fascinate me. I devour autobiographies and self-published memoirs. I am interested in the minutiae of daily life. Driven to discover the stories behind the faces on my family tree, I wonder what our ancestors dreamed about. Did they pay a price for love?
How can readers contact you?
Website: joannepatmoreauthor.com
