Author(s): Susan Duncan

Fiction

A page-turning, mysterious, funny and delightful story by the bestselling author of Salvation Creek, The Briny Caf and Gone Fishing. When five couples pool their resources to live in a house located where a turquoise lagoon meets the sea and silver branches of mangroves glow in the moonlight, the quirky little offshore community of Cook's Basin is shocked. How will ten people-one in a wheelchair and one with a hauntingly familiar face-cope with the physical challenges of living where the only way in or out, is by boat? Their worst fears are confirmed when a member of the household is found floating face down in the bay soon after they take up residence. The police insist the death was accidental but the bizarre circumstances-factoring in tides and weather-have locals scratching their heads. Former journalist turned caf owner, Kate Jackson is curious to discover why a group of retirees in their late 70s have chosen to live in such a difficult and isolated location. Kate finds their secrecy disturbing until a throw-away line in an old magazine story opens a Pandora's Box of intrigue and mystery. And once opened, everything becomes more complicated and spirals out of control. Wrapped in the colourful culture of a boat-access-only community that prides itself on taking care of its own, Sleepless in Stringybark Bay celebrates having a go at any age, revels in the magic of the bush, and explores the fragility of relationships, old and young.