A page-turning, mysterious, funny and delightful story by the bestselling author of Salvation Creek, The Briny Café and Gone Fishing.
When five couples pool their resources to live in a house located where a turquoise lagoon meets the sea, 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 – survive where the only way in or out is by boat?
When a member of the household is found floating face down in the bay, the police insist the death was accidental but the bizarre circumstances have locals scratching their heads.
Former journalist turned café owner Kate Jackson is curious to discover why a group of retirees in their late seventies would choose such an isolated location. Then a throw-away line in an old magazine story leads to shocking revelations.
Wrapped in the colourful culture of a boat-access-only community, 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.
Sleepless in Stringybark Bay is a charming novel. From its very first pages, it provides the perfect escapism to welcoming place where we feel like we know everyone and everybody knows our name.
Admittedly, I’m new to bestselling author Susan Duncan’s work. Whether this is your first introduction to her writing, or you’re a die-hard fan, you’ll feel the inclusivity in her storytelling. You quickly feel like you’re spending time with old friends with the likes of Ettie, Kate and the adorable Sam. The setting feels like an Australian Doc Martin, but the storyline is more Midsomer Murders.
The arrival of two limousines leaves our lovable locals mystified as a handful of silvertails take up residence in a remote house. Amongst the group are cheese makers and an ageing actress – with more than a dash of Norma Desmond. And there’s also a bright-eyed Daisy, who may be in a wheelchair, but she’s still more than happy for fireman Sam to lift her up the stairs. In many ways, Sam is the story’s hero.
Complications ensue, and one of the newcomers ends up dead. The novel is great fun in its solving of the mystery whilst continuing the lives of our mainstay characters. Add in a cyclone, births and another death, and you’re in for a lot of intrigue as well as heart-warming fun. This is a real treat.
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