The article shared Derek’s motivation to write his book that was inspired by his grand father’s story who fought in World War I. Derek shared that, in the process of writing, he realised that he was writing a series of love stories, set against the background of war.

‘Letters to Doberitz’ is the story of a family in Bristol and a soldier Germany. A web of lies passed on through letters to protect a loved one for four long years. A unique and compelling story that was passed on to generations for 100 years until Derek finally decided to pen it down.

Derek Payne has worked as an entrepreneur and inventor. He loves to write poetic versus and his poetry has appeared on television and radio broadcasts. ‘Letters to Doberitz’ is his debut novel.