When does fiction become prophecy, and when does prophecy turn to reality? Can the future be changed by learning from the past?

Five years from now, a gas pipeline explodes in Northern Australia. The government calls this an accident. But four Australians know the truth is far more dangerous.

An aging senator works towards Australia’s military neutrality and new role as an international peacemaker.

A glamorous current affairs journalist discovers that her complex ancestry demonstrates the folly of war.

A “can-do” Aussie adventurer faces danger to expose the risks implicit in Australia’s military allegiances.

And a young research officer is forced to confront her own ambition, discovering humility, compassion and the strength of unity.

Together, they must battle apathy, deceit, and the shadowy forces that threaten Australia’s future.

Part political thriller, part cautionary tale—this is the story of what happens when silence is no longer an option.

Reader’s Favourite Review – Reviewed by: Keith Mbuya Review Rating: 4 Stars

“Using dynamic prose, which alternates between moments of introspection and tension, and balancing narrative with historical details, Johnston hurls readers into a world of espionage and geopolitical intrigue. The story is grounded in the game of chess. From the brief definitions of specific chess moves at the beginning of each chapter to the character names and the way the story is structured, reading the story felt like playing chess. The chess pieces assigned to each character are fitting and will help learners or prospective players of the game gain a better understanding of it. Aurora—the white queen—is powerful yet vulnerable. She wields immense power, enough to trigger major changes in the government. Yet, she faces hurdles, which, without her allies and their help, will impede her very own power. Lovers of geopolitical thrillers blended with suspense will find Queen’s Pawn to D4 by Rod Johnston an enthralling read.”

Reviewed by: John Hibbard – International Communications Expert and Consultant, traveller in approximately 120 countries

“Fantastic, couldn’t put it down. Made great for me since I have been to many of places in it and exposed to much of the history written about. And the references are most useful. Well done … My sort of book.”

Reviewed by: Guy Vickerman – Road safety advocate

“… should make a ‘present’ of book and flag to all federal ‘pollies’ at least. That should get some of them thinking … keep up the good work …”

Reviewed by: Greg Kemmis – Retired software engineer

“… For an engineer who spent many years writing specifications and procedures your writing style is easy to read. I enjoyed the story and admire the amount of research you must have done … I totally agree with you that there are no winners from warfare … Peace is something that most people would aspire to, but unfortunately the devious devices of the nasty guys seem to suck the populace in.”