A Man Of Substance begins
Read Christian’s life, from thirteen to empire, a saga spanning decades.
January 1973. Inland heat, a belt on a hook, a jam sponge no one lights, Elvis on the telly, the river breathing like a second set of lungs. Christian Tambor turns thirteen in Wagga Wagga. He learns how to be quiet, then meets a girl who does not. This is the first step in a long life, written year by year, tender and unflinching.
What this is
A Man Of Substance is a lifelong novel told in yearly books, beginning with 1973. Each year stands alone, yet the shape of the man is only revealed across the decades. It is literary, queer, and fiercely human. Faith and friendship. Violence and care. Writing as witness. A boy who refuses to disappear.
How to read
Paid subscribers receive the full story here, with author notes and extras.
Founding members receive everything paid, plus a free eBook edition of 1973 and my a signed printed version.
If you would rather not wait, you can buy first book now and read the full first year, 1973, today.
Companion guides
For extra context, two companions sit beside each chapter, a guide to the Australian details and a history note on the headlines of the month the chapter takes place in.
Content care
⚠️ This work contains domestic and family violence, coercive control, and a child’s fear. Please read with care, take breaks when needed, and visit the Reader Care page if you want support.
Welcome in
Comment if something strikes you. Share the post if someone you love reads like this. Your support lets me release the whole life with patience and truth.
Start with January. New chapters follow in sequence. The rest of 1973 will roll out here over the coming weeks. If patience is not your flavour, buy the book and read the full year now.