MY BOOKS
Paint, Passion and Promises
A new novel by Steve Castley coming in August 2026
Paint, Passion and Promises is set in outback Queensland in the fictional town of St James. Three relationship narratives are interwoven throughout this novel. The story of Bess Willer, a famous Australian artist and her lifelong partner, Anne Samson, a successful lawyer, is one of these narratives. The relationship between their gay nephew, Joe Willer and his partner, Ali is a second thread and the third is that of St James local identity, Birdie Watson. This saga spans seventy-five years from 1940 to 2015.
Two Poofs and a Poodle
The Search for Unconditional Love
After a whirlwind romance Steve and Bayu move in together choosing to believe the differences in their ages, languages, religions and cultural backgrounds won’t really matter. How wrong they were. A year in, they’re still together and they decide to adopt Rina, a white miniature poodle. She becomes the love of their lives, their confidant and a witness to the ups and downs on their gay relationship. This tale of unconditional love is told from the poodle’s quirky perspective and you’re guaranteed to laugh and cry from beginning to end. If you loved The Art of Racing in the Rain, you’ll love this book.
Tales From Paradise
The search for understanding
A banquet of stories and delicious anecdotes exploring the ways of Bali and Indonesia. In twenty-five delightful pieces, Steve Castley shares humorous, heartfelt encounters with culture, travel, and a warm-hearted cast of characters—often with limited success in keeping him in check. A journey that’s sometimes tasted, sometimes swallowed whole, and always leaves you wanting more.
No More Dogs!
The Search for Unconditional Love
Devastated by the death of Rina, their miniature poodle, Steve and Bayu harden their hearts to the possibility of adopting another dog. Steve declares, “No more dogs,” and Bayu agrees but with less conviction. Will the plight of abandoned dogs allow them to love again and adopt new dogs?