Where everybody knows everyone, how can somebody just disappear?
A missing girl. Decades of silence. A secret too big to bury.
1987: It’s late summer and a time of change when 17-year-old Tess Dawes leaves the local shopping centre in the sleepy town of Lowbridge and is never seen again.
Tess’s unsolved disappearance is never far from the town’s memory. There’s those who grew up with Tess, and never left. And those who know more than they’re saying…
It just takes an outsider to ask the right questions.
2018: Katherine Ashworth, shattered by the death of her daughter, moves to her husband’s hometown. Searching for a way to pick up the pieces of her life, she joins the local historical society and becomes obsessed with the three-decades-old mystery.
As Katherine digs into that summer of 1987, she stumbles upon the trail of a second girl who vanished when no one cared enough to see what was happening in plain sight.
Her trail could lead right to Katherine’s door.
In a town simmering with divisions and a cast of unforgettable characters, Lowbridge is a heart-wrenching mystery about the girls who are lost, the ones who are mourned and those who are forgotten.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
There’s nothing better than a gripping Australian rural noir and Lucy Campbell’s Lowbridge certainly delivers. A decades-old unsolved mystery just waiting to be solved. A small town full of large characters. The book explores some dark themes, which means this may not be for everyone. However, overall a fabulous debut and I look forward to more of Lucy Campbell’s work. Imogen, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge was a wonderful read. The characters were great as I found myself having flashbacks to “My Senior High School Year of 1987”. The story flowed well with the unexpected twists creating an “OMG” moment. Loved it!! Annette, QLD, 5 Stars
Lucy Campbell’s debut novel Lowbridge is riveting from the very first page. The novel shifts between 1987, when a young 17-year-old school girl mysteriously goes missing, and 2018, as a woman tries to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Campbell weaves an unforgettable mystery together in the small country town setting of Lowbridge. The tension simmers and then boils as Katherine becomes determined to discover the truth behind a young girl’s disappearance while dealing with her own grief. This atmospheric thriller keeps the reader turning the pages in a desperate need to find answers. Genene, SA, 5 Stars
I’m a sucker for outback crime novels, and if it has a dual storyline, even better! I knew from the first page I would devour this book, and I did indeed, only slowing the pace so I didn’t finish it too soon. Erin, QLD, 5 Stars
I was intrigued by the sound of the story in Lowbridge; I’ve always liked a mystery/who done it? and I wasn’t disappointed! Lowbridge is a gripping tale of how far some people are willing to go to keep their secrets just that, no matter the cost! A story that keeps you guessing at each turn, as you anticipate what could possibly happen next. Across the timelines within the story itself, it covered many issues that are still relevant today and continue to be greatly debated by many… A great read!! Kelly, VIC, 5 Stars
I love mysteries with dual timelines and stories set in Australia. Lowbridge kept me engaged and turning the pages. A heart-wrenching novel. Told from the views of the teenage Tess, and Katherine who has moved to Lowbridge to pick up the pieces in her life after the death of her daughter. Tess’s story deals with the dynamics of a trio friendship group. In contrast, Katherine is dealing with grief and moving on with her life. Katherine joins the local historical society and becomes obsessed with the three-decades-old mystery of Tess’s unsolved disappearance, and she stumbles upon the trail of a second girl who vanished. It just takes an outsider to ask the right questions and that is exactly what Katherine delves into. It was a story with an ending that I did not expect. Teresa, VIC, 5 Stars
An Australian mystery with lots of heart! Decades after schoolgirl Tess Dawes disappears from the small town of Lowbridge, newcomer Katherine Ashworth begins asking questions about what really happened. But while her digging helps distract her from mourning her own loss, it also stirs up old secrets and resentments. I definitely recommend this book. Great characters, unique voices, friendships and enmities, social commentary, and a thumping good puzzle at the heart of it. It’s not so much a thriller as it is an exploration of characters structured around a mystery. The story is told in dual timelines and I was completely invested in both. The 1986-87 narrative is around the teenage girls, including Tess, capturing their dreams and dramas beautifully. Katherine’s 2018 narrative shows a woman going through the motions after losing her own daughter. The author sensitively portrays her grief, guilt and hope as she reenters the world. Be warned, there are some big issues in here, but while some scenes were gut-wrenching, the novel overall left me feeling uplifted and hopeful. Lisa, QLD, 5 Stars
Other than the prologue, where Tess goes missing never to be seen again, this book starts off slowly, taking a while to get into the action, but once it got going it was good. Lowbridge was an enjoyable read from a new voice in Australian fiction, and I’m looking forward to reading more from Lucy Campbell. Helen, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge is a thought-provoking and emotional story that deals with love, loss and grief against the backdrop of “small-town” Australia. The dual timeline is full of interesting, flawed and damaged characters. The sense of place and time was well developed and it was easy to get caught up in the mystery. Lowbridge is a brilliant debut novel about small-town secrets by Lucy Campbell that could be turned into a fantastic movie/mini-series. Janelle, NSW, 5 Stars
Lowbridge reeled me in from the first page. I literally could not put this book down! The way Lucy sets out her characters makes you feel as if you’re present in the room, on the journey with them. The storyline, the plot and the ending resonate with real-life relatable people. The way she portrayed Katherine and those close to her and their progression to try to find peace in their lives pulled on the old heartstrings. I can’t wait for her next novel, thank you for the captivating read! Casee, VIC, 5 Stars
With so many twists and turns in the plot, I found I couldn’t put this novel down. Set in the Australian countryside, Lucy Campbell weaves a tale of intrigue and history in this tale of a lost teenager who disappeared. Katherine, an outsider to the region who is broken by her own daughter’s death, finds an outlet for her grief in looking into the history of the girl’s disappearance. The plot is about how easily a rural community can be deceived and manipulated and how appearances are not always what they seem. Things that look a certain way are sometimes exactly the opposite especially in terms of class in a small town. I enjoyed the character development, especially of the main characters, some of whom were shaped and changed forever by the past. Some of the story is set in the mid-late 1980s and this took me right back to that time with all the behaviour and embarrassment of teenagers and their lives, as well as the controversial women’s centre that was opening during that time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend to anyone. Debra, NSW, 5 Stars
Small-town Australia is the setting for secrets buried for over 20 years that will be unearthed in an unexpected way. The teenage girls of 1987, Tess, Luisa and Sim, are focused on boys, parties and rebellion against their parents. Campbell realistically conveys their friendship but slowly reveals the secrets in their lives and the lives of others associated with them. When Tess disappears, everything changes. The novel convincingly moves between 1987 and the lives of those who live in Lowbridge in 2018. Katherine has just moved to her husband’s hometown, trying to come to terms with the death of their daughter. Her involvement with the local historical society leads to her interest in Tess’s disappearance and the realisation that another girl had disappeared at the same time. Issues of class division, women’s health and safety, coping with death and personal relationships are interwoven through the lives of the characters, while all the time slowly leading to the revelation of the disappearances. Campbell keeps us guessing right to the end in a conclusion that ties all the strands together in a most satisfying way. Thoroughly recommended. Frances, NSW, 5 Stars
Wow, what a book! I loved every minute of this fantastic debut novel by Lucy Campbell. I really had trouble putting this one down. Set in 1987, the story explores the disappearance of a local teenager from the small town of Lowbridge. The relationships between friends, families and the political landscape of the town at that time are all beautifully explored and interwoven. Switch to 2018 and a grieving mother moves to Lowbridge following the death of her daughter. With barely any will to live herself, she stumbles across the local historical society and becomes fascinated by the history of the town, including the unexplained disappearance of Tess Dawes. I love a good mystery and this story is full of twists and turns. But it also has so much heart. The characters are developed so beautifully that you can’t help but empathise with them. I was unexpectedly teary at the conclusion of the story and it takes a lot for me to cry when reading a book! A fantastic novel. I can’t recommend it highly enough and I very much look forward to the next one! Michelle, TAS, 5 Stars
Lowbridge reels you in from the first page and it’s hard to stop. An intense yet mesmerising read. Just when you think you know what will happen, you don’t. It just pulls you in even deeper and connects you with the characters. Incredible, five stars. Kylie, SA, 5 Stars
WOW! Thoroughly engaged with this small-town mystery. The dual timeline of the mid-80s to 2018 flowed so well. Tragedies of two girls 30 years apart. I loved the friendship of the girls – Tess, Sim and Luisa. My heart was with Katherine, as she navigated her grief. All done with feeling – the good and the not-so-pretty. I didn’t want the story to end, even though I wanted to know what happened to Tess. Lucy Campbell’s first novel is stellar. Her descriptive writing had me feeling chills and heartache, topped off with the resilience of the familes and friends of the girls. Caroline, QLD, 5 Stars
An amazing read! It truly captured small-town Australia and lured you into the characters’ intertwined lives, slowly unraveling the personal battles and secrets held. Excellently written and keeps you wondering what’s next. Emma, QLD, 5 Stars
This is the first book by a new author. I found it a little hard to get into the characters at first but then I could not put it down. It is a mystery novel set in a town in the country in the summer of 1987 where past and present collide and it actually takes an outsider to ask the right questions to get to the bottom of the mystery. It also brings into play women’s rights and safety, and friendship and friends caring for each other. I would certainly highly recommend this book as a great read and I especially loved the characters of Katherine and Tess. Well done Lucy and I look forward to your next novel. Thank you also to Better Reading for allowing me the opportunity to preview this book. Anne, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge is an outstanding novel, I can’t believe that this is Lucy Campbell’s first work. With a debut like this, I can’t wait to see where she takes us next. This novel was heartbreaking, suspenseful and hopeful. I could not put it down. Well done! Dianne, SA, 5 Stars
I loved this book! The style of writing was clever and easy to read. I enjoyed the theme throughout the book, and it was such a page-turner – constantly kept me guessing and wanting to read more. Katrina, TAS, 5 Stars
Loved this Aussie debut! A gripping novel set in the small town of Lowbridge. Growing up in a country town in the 80s, I could picture the scene perfectly. A mystery that will have you guessing until the very end entwined with heartache and hope along the way. Justine, NSW, 5 Stars
What a fantastic read. To have the story go from Tess to Katherine made it gripping. Set in Australia in a rural country town where gossip is on everyone’s lips made the story really like you were there. The characters like Margaret and Colleen are really believable and likeable. The killer was a real shock for me. Lorraine, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge is a complex story set in a typical small Australian country town where everyone knows everyone else’s business. Or do they? Katherine and her husband move to Lowbridge to overcome their own personal tragedy and come across an historic mystery that is full of intrigue. This book has a lot of strong, supportive women characters and has a gripping storyline. A well-written book and a great read. Gai, NSW, 5 Stars
Katherine is seeking oblivion from guilt and grief with sleeping pills and vodka. She has returned with her husband to his sleepy hometown of Lowbridge, an hour’s drive from Sydney, distancing themselves from the family tragedy that occurred there. Jamie’s threat of rehab finally gets her out of the house, slowly and incrementally, to the Historical Society where her interest in the local lore becomes troubling for Jamie. Is Jamie’s concern for fragile Katherine, or is he afraid of the past? Lowbridge High, 1986: pranks on teachers, grape bubblegum, liquid paper painted fingernails. How to sneak out of home to party with bad boys is the high drama of naïve year 11 classmates Tess, Sim and Luisa’s lives. Establishment of the controversial and divisive Women’s Centre, by Sim’s parents, ushers in a darker side. There are death threats, and an awakening to the true horrors of DV, the class divide, stealing and dealing. The girls are pushing boundaries, and someone with something to hide is pushing back. In Lowbridge, the 80s colour sets the scene with entertaining realism (and some top-class nicknames). The dual timeline storytelling teases out this small town’s secrets with finesse. Anita, QLD, 5 Stars
When Katherine Ashworth and her husband move to his family home in Lowbridge in 2018 following the death of their daughter, she becomes involved with the local historical society. Katherine is drawn to the story of the 1987 disappearance of local girl, Tess Dawes, which remains unsolved. It becomes apparent that Tess was not the only girl in the town to go missing at that time and Katherine sets out to solve both these disappearances. Lowbridge is a tightly plotted mystery set amidst a small town where everyone knows everyone and events of the past are never far away from its present. Katherine’s research makes the residents question what they know about one another, and for some keeping silent on events leading up to the disappearances is becoming more difficult. It is a compelling read with plenty of twists and a well-drawn cast of characters. Holly, WA, 5 Stars
The town of Lowbridge is a sleepy country town that could be anywhere in rural Australia. In 1987, a teenage girl goes missing and is never found. In 2018, a damaged woman mourning her daughter’s heartbreaking death comes to her husband’s hometown of Lowbridge. To keep herself busy she joins the local historical society and here she learns of the missing teenager. She starts asking questions that the locals don’t like. The author is very clever in how she manages the two time frames seamlessly, as the mystery unravels. This is a wonderful novel that portrays the hopes and ambitions of young people in a small town. I could vividly picture the town and the personalities who lived there. Merry, TAS, 5 Stars
Thank you for the opportunity to read the debut novel Lowbridge by Lucy Campbell – this book was a great page-turner and was set in two time frames: the late 80s when Tess disappears from a small country town and 2018 when Katherine and her husband Jaime, who grew up in Lowbridge, come back to try and get their life back after suffering their own personal loss. The two stories intertwine and I found this book hard to put down – well done Lucy. Fiona, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge was a fantastic page-turner. I love a good mystery and this book didn’t disappoint. Great characters who were realistic and an intriguing mystery. I highly recommend to all. Susan, NSW, 5 Stars
A girl goes missing in the first few pages of this novel. From then, the story is told via a mixture of past and present. Lucy Campbell has given us a wealth of strong characters and backstories. A mystery with lots of twists and turns but also a symbol that women need to fight not only for their rights but also to feel safe in what is now a hectic world. I thoroughly enjoyed Lowbridge and look forward to more of Lucy Campbell’s work. To sum up: gripping, atmospheric and full of twists and turns. Chris, SA, 5 Stars
An Australian crime book, written as a dual timeline story set in 1987 and 2018, 30 years later. It is a small-town mystery that keeps you guessing till the end. What happened to the missing girls? What is the town hiding? Why all the secrets? And what does her husband know? I didn’t want to put it down. The dual timeline was brilliantly written with an exciting conclusion. Natalie, VIC 5 Stars
This story evoked so many emotions in me and I read it in a couple of days. It is an exploration into human frailties, grief and small-town secrets. Jumping between 1986 and present-day flowed easily once the characters became known to the reader. Attitudes of the 80s were typical of the time to sensitive topics and the silence surrounding sexual abuse was shocking and destructive. Tess, Sim, Jac and Luisa were described so beautifully as someone we all went to school with and Katherine, looking to salvage her life and marriage after such loss, proved to be so strong. Many tears were shed reading this book and I am so glad I read it. Now I can shout about this new author and eagerly await her next work. Shelley, QLD, 5 Stars
Drawing parallels between the impact and devastation suffered by two families and communities upon the loss of young women, decades apart, this book draws you into the sadness, guilt, confusion and despair that ensues. It explores the emotional impact and the differing ways that people try to move on with their lives. An engrossing tale that really taps into the heart and soul – definitely recommend. Lee, ACT, 5 Stars
A really engaging read, broken into two stories, about Tess, young girl gone missing, and Katherine, who learns the history and has her own personal demons to deal with. Read this quickly as it was so good, very descriptive, written well, just wanted to keep page-turning. I would highly recommend this read. Julie, NSW, 5 Stars
I really enjoyed Lowbridge as I love the outback, little country towns, murders, mysteries, history and solving problems. This is an all-in-one novel for me that I could not put down and highly recommend to other readers who love a good mystery. Sheree, NSW, 5 Stars
What a fabulous debut novel for Lucy Campbell. The storyline caught my attention from the get-go and it was indeed a page-turner as the front cover suggests. The jumping from past to present was easy to follow and the realistic character depictions enabled you to connect with them, albeit liking some but disliking others! Campbell has developed her main characters well and enables the reader to develop a realistic understanding and empathy of who Tess and Katherine are. Such a clever story, I had no inkling at all how it would end, despite being an avid reader of crime and mystery novels and often predicting the outcome. If you like mystery novels, be prepared to inhale this one! I found it so hard to put down. Thanks so much to Better Reading for my advanced copy and the opportunity to review this 5-star book! Phillippa, TAS, 5 Stars
I got immediately immersed into the book from the first page. It seems the town knows more, but they just turn away. When the secret starts to open up, some of the town try to stop her. Great book. Bridget, VIC, 5 Stars
WOW! Loved this mystery story told by Tess, a teenager in 1987 who goes missing, and Katherine, whose teenage daughter is killed by a hit-and-run driver. Katherine seeks healing in her husband’s hometown and becomes involved with the history society, and plans an exhibition commemorating a bush fire and a fundraiser for the fire service. Her next project is for International Women’s Day but there is pushback from Angus who was involved in helping set up a women’s centre. Katherine was hoping to include details of Tess’ disappearance in hopes of finding details pertaining to what happened to Tess and another girl who seems to be missing… Angus seems hell-bent on stopping her and making her leave town. Will she bend and leave? Or will the exhibition go ahead? Glenys, NSW, 5 Stars
A great mystery that builds up gradually, without ever being slow. Suspects are skilfully introduced and eliminated, with increasing twists and turns in the plot. The two time periods are well integrated, with flashbacks revealing more about the past as it relates to Katherine’s investigation. Explores themes of friendship, motherhood, judgement and how well we really know someone. Would appeal to fans of Christian White. Katie, NSW, 5 Stars
Lowbridge is a whodunit set in a sleepy Australian country town where nothing exciting ever happens. Or is there a sinister figure making young girls disappear? Never to be heard from again. Some make headlines and have people speculating for decades whilst others not deemed suitable to be cared about are forgotten. It resonates with me as I grew up in a small country town. People have secrets but the truth comes out eventually, shocking the town. It’s a very relevant plotline given the amount of missing persons each year. I really enjoyed the plot twists. It really kept you guessing till the final pages. Janet, NSW, 5 Stars
Moving to the small town of Lowbridge, where her husband came from, Katherine Ashworth is consumed by grief after the death of her daughter and is finding it hard to function normally. She makes a list of things that she needs to do and one is “go for a walk”. She walks into the town and while sitting on the steps of the Historical Society she meets Margaret Graham, who invites her in for a cup of tea. While explaining to her about the society and the history of the local area, Katherine becomes interested and offers to help with cataloguing. She comes across the 30-year-old disappearance of Tess and another girl and becomes obsessed. This is a story of teenage girls, both living in a small town, and how two girls could disappear without a trace. Liz, VIC, 5 Stars
Australian small-town crime mystery at its best, even more so as this is Lucy Campbell’s debut novel. The book was split between past and present chapters and easily moved between the eras. It commences with the disappearance of Tess, a teenager. Fast forward 30 years and her disappearance still remains a mystery. Katherine and her husband Jamie move to Lowbridge, his childhood town, to try and manage their grief over the loss of their own daughter in an accident. Katherine joins the local Historic Society and commences investigating Tess’s disappearance and uncovering many hidden town secrets. I was totally enthralled in the first few pages and couldn’t put it down. I will definitely be looking out for more novels written by Lucy Campbell. Julie, QLD, 5 Stars
What a brilliant debut by Lucy Campbell. The twists and turns that weren’t predictable and the clues peppered here and there made it hard to put down, eagerly reading to see where the clues were leading to. Emma, VIC, 5 Stars
A truly thrilling book! You think you know what’s coming and then you’re taken down a completely different path. Following Katherine and Jamie back to his hometown after just losing their daughter and being in a spiral herself, Katherine stumbles upon the historical site and learns about the mysterious disappearance of Tess three decades ago. While looking into the past, she stumbles upon information that is unknown and may be just what’s needed to crack the case. I could not put this down and can’t wait for another one from Lucy. Sarah, QLD, 5 Stars
Lucy Campbell weaves her murder/mystery/empowerment story brilliantly around a fictional town in NSW. It took me a while to get into the style of writing. Once adjusted, I loved the setting of the small town as it reminded me of my past, and I liked the diverse range of characters. The use of nicknames added life and presence to the characters, adding to the feeling of a “no class” system of Australia. Lucy’s description of the town’s landscape made me at times think I was actually there, such was the smell of the rainstorm. The characters felt very real and believable and I enjoyed their development as the story developed. Looking back, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it. I look forward to the next Lucy Campbell novel. Mark, SA, 5 Stars
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I previewed Lowbridge, but it captured me from the first page! The characterisations were so believable, especially those of the three girls… they transported me back to my teenage years. I thought that the constant change from the 80s to the present would annoy me but it didn’t… the unfolding story kept a great pace. This is a fairly well-worn theme, a disappearing child – every parent’s nightmare. Katherine, a stranger to Lowbridge, came to stay with Jamie, her husband who was brought up there. They had a fragile relationship after losing their own daughter. Katherine unearths the mystery of a missing girl while finding her own way out of her trauma by joining a historical society in the town. As she delves deeper, there are a number of secrets exposed that locals want to remain hidden (including her husband!) Katharine’s determination to expose the truth and find the girl results in her also finding her way through her own grief. I will definitely look out for Lucy Campbell’s work in the future. Helen, SA, 5 Stars
An absolute ripper. When I started reading this my expectations weren’t high – there are some excellent writers in the Australian crime noir genre and a swag of new books every month. But I was blown away by Lowbridge. Combining modern themes around women’s rights and the environment with a well-paced, then-and-now narrative, it was intellectually interesting and, at the same time, gripping. The 80s setting (“then”) was so accurate – lots of cultural references that Gen X readers will relate to. And, somewhat unusual for the genre, I found myself crying at the ending. A brilliant read and I can’t wait for her next! Yvonne, NSW, 5 Stars
There are so many amazing Australian crime stories around at the moment, and this debut by Lucy Campbell certainly deserves a read if you enjoy the genre. The small-town setting and realistic characters are brought to life on the page with some great writing, and the dual timeline brings the pieces of the puzzle together beautifully. Lowbridge isn’t just a mystery, it also tackles some serious social issues, including women’s rights, poverty and bereavement. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking out for future books by Lucy Campbell. Lee, VIC, 5 Stars
I am delighted to have found this debut novel. Thank you Better Reading. Whilst I don’t normally enjoy books that jump timeframes, this certainly works well in this case. Taking readers between the 1980s and 2019, the story revolves around Tess who goes missing in the 80s, and the impact her disappearance has, and Katherine, who moves to the town after her 15-year-old daughter has been killed by a drug driver. Filled with rich characters, and a well-developed storyline, it is a very emotional read, and it certainly kept me guessing right through to the end. Jacqueline, WA, 5 Stars
If you are a fan of mysteries, small-town stories and just great writing, then you must read this book. It surprised me so many times where the story went, and I was engrossed. Realistic and not always likeable characters, fabulous scenery, and a clever story, this book has it all and was easily five stars for me. Claire, VIC, 5 Stars
A rollicking good read which I couldn’t wait to finish. The story deals with a lot of sensitive issues in a very open and honest way without getting sentimental or maudlin. I have a new author to add to my list of favourites. Jane, QLD, 5 Stars
Katherine, struggling to manage her grief over her daughter’s death, finds solace researching in the local historical society about a missing young girl some years ago. Delving into the past makes her unpopular with some locals who are intent on leaving the past alone. Katherine becomes more involved rather than leaving to rest an untold mystery and gradually historic events become clearer and mysteries unravel, revealing more of the locals’ history than they’d like. A gripping read with twists and turns along the way. Wendy, SA, 5 Stars
30 years have passed since the shocking disappearance in broad daylight of a 17-year-old schoolgirl on her way home from the shopping centre. The story begins by fleshing out some of the key people who were in the life of the missing girl at the time, including three of her best friends at Lowbridge High, and deftly switches between when it occurred in 1986 to the present. Although the mystery has never been solved, those residents who have remained in Lowbridge and have moved on with their lives are finally being forced to face long-buried secrets. This is thanks to a younger woman who comes to stay in her husband’s hometown, while struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of her own teenage daughter in a recent car accident. The people she meets make her feel compelled to shed light on what happened so long ago and solve the mystery once and for all. While you may think a lot of similar stories abound, this one has been written with great flair and is so superbly paced, it will keep you guessing the outcome right to the very end! A great read. Carel, VIC, 5 Stars
Read it in two days – til 2am one night. Dual timeline, current and 1980s, with a mum suffering from depression having lost her child, moving back to her husband’s small town. She gets involved in the local historical society and starts investigating a disappearance from the 1980s. The dual timelines work really well, with enough detail for interest. I had no idea of the solution – great twist. Great writing too. Kept me hooked. Dorothy, NSW, 5 Stars
In her debut novel, Lowbridge, Lucy Campbell takes readers on an immersive journey through a small town where secrets lie buried deep within the hearts of its residents. This captivating tale explores the complex relationships and hidden desires that intertwine the lives of its characters, leaving a lasting impact. Campbell’s writing style is exquisite, effortlessly painting vivid landscapes and creating a palpable sense of atmosphere. The town of Lowbridge comes alive, with its quaint streets and worn-down buildings serving as a backdrop to the engrossing story. The author skillfully weaves together multiple narratives, each one drawing readers deeper into the intricate web of mystery and intrigue. The characters in Lowbridge are the heart and soul of the novel. From the enigmatic loner to the troubled teenager, each person is expertly crafted, their flaws and vulnerabilities adding depth and authenticity. As their stories intertwine, the reader becomes emotionally invested, eagerly turning the pages to uncover their intertwined fates. At its core, Lowbridge is a tale of human connection and the enduring power of community. Campbell’s exploration of themes like love, loss, and redemption is both thought-provoking and deeply moving. With its lyrical prose and well-paced plot, the novel keeps readers engaged until the very last page. Lowbridge is a remarkable debut from Lucy Campbell, showcasing her talent for storytelling and her ability to create unforgettable characters. This book is a must-read for lovers of literary fiction, as it leaves a lasting impression and prompts reflection on the intricacies of human nature. Melissa, VIC, 5 Stars
I’m going to be frank and first off say I loved this book! The story, told through two different timelines, 30 years apart, centres around the small country town of Lowbridge. We meet Katherine, who has moved with her husband (who used to be a local) to work through the grief of losing her daughter. 30 years prior, we meet a teenage Tess and her two close friends. They all share a strong bond but individually are working through issues and secrets of their own. It soon becomes apparent that Lowbridge is not only a town of secrets and mystery but of tragedy, loss, grief and violence. Once Katherine starts getting involved with the locals, she realises that not all is as it seems and, with new eyes, starts looking into the mystery that haunts the town. Lucy Campbell brings us a story of twists, turns and shocks but shows what can happen when you bring people together to work together. However, in the darker scenes it also shows that women, of every age and background, need to work together to ensure that their voices are heard. Diane, SA, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The depiction of the teenage kids’ naïveté, innocence and hardship was well done. In the present day, Katherine’s pain was real and her recovery slow. I liked how the two time frames intertwined, the mystery was solved, and there was hope and closure. The subplots of poverty, consequences of one’s actions, women’s rights and social status were handled well, especially the story of Jac. Lyn, VIC, 5 Stars
A great read set in a small Australian town not far from a capital city. Made it easy for me to create the setting in my mind. Switching between the 80s and present day, the accounts of high school friendships and wider dynamics certainly resonated with me, and I could think of some girls who were Jacs to me. I liked how Katherine was drawn out of her dark place but going down the town rabbit hole with all its hidden twists and turns. Enjoyable. Lisa, NSW, 5 Stars
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. It kept me guessing until the very end and had a few surprises in the last few chapters. Almost every character has a secret and the characters are flawed individuals but I think this made them more interesting and relatable. This book also shows the spirit of humans and how they rise above their backgrounds to survive in this world. A great debut novel by Lucy Campbell. Rhonda, VIC, 5 Stars
Lowbridge is a blend of mystery and emotion that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book weaves together a poignant exploration of loss and grief with an amateur detective narrative, making it an easy read that leaves a lasting impression. Katherine, grappling with her own personal tragedy, shines as a beacon of resilience amidst her pain. The anguish of losing her own daughter creates a deeply moving backdrop against which the search for the missing girl, Tess, unfolds. This emotional complexity adds layers of depth to the narrative, elevating the story beyond a mere mystery. One of the novel’s features is the switching between timelines. The skillful handling of the past and present timelines adds intrigue and suspense, as the reader delves into the lives of the characters and unravels the secrets that link them together. If there is one minor critique, it is that the development of the story may feel a bit slow. However, it hardly dampens the overall enjoyment of the story. Lowbridge is a great debut novel that showcases Lucy Campbell’s talent for crafting gripping narratives. She has certainly established herself as an author to watch. Jess, QLD, 4 Stars
I’m a sucker for a dual timeline and Lowbridge delivered. At the end of each chapter, I was hanging out for the next. Lucy Campbell wove a story that had me on the edge of my seat one moment, and in tears, my chest heavy with grief, the next. The story follows Katherine Ashworth and her husband James. They moved to James’ hometown following the death of their daughter. Katherine finds a renewed purpose in life when she meets the women of the historical society and investigates the mystery disappearance of Tess Dawes in 1987. Alicia, QLD, 4 Stars
Good read. Found it a little slow at first but once I got into it, I enjoyed it. Would recommend for fans of Australian crime/mystery books. Donna, VIC, 4 Stars
Who doesn’t love a small-town mystery? Engaging characters drove this story set in an Australian country town that made me nostalgic for the road trips of my childhood. Rose, VIC, 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. The dual timelines were so great, possibly one of the best uses of two timelines I have seen. Revealing in 2018 how the events and prejudices of 1987 have profoundly impacted so many lives is really powerful. The mix of heartbreaking outcomes and resolution for the characters felt really satisfying. Towards the end, the different narrative strands felt like they were all woven a bit lumpily, but I was so invested in the characters and finding out what happened I didn’t really care. The main character Katherine is a compelling and sympathetic narrator and I liked the way the author wasn’t shy about showing her flaws. Or the flaws of the other characters. As a struggling outsider, I really felt taken along on Katherine’s journey to uncover the secrets of the small town. It felt like the best elements of crime fiction and domestic drama were combined to make a really entertaining read. I read it really quickly as I struggled to put it down until I knew what had happened. Rebecca, QLD, 4 Stars
Lowbridge tells a story of a missing 17-year-old who was never seen again in a small country town. Many years later, Katherine moves to the small town, and to overcome the grief of losing her own child joins a historical society group and starts asking questions about the missing teenager. This is a fantastic mystery story that will keep you intrigued right to the end to see if you find out what happened. Heather, NSW, 4 Stars
What a fantastic debut novel! This was a very engaging story that had plenty of interesting, interconnecting storylines. The main characters were quite relatable with their strengths and flaws and I felt invested in their challenges. The author was able to portray the attitudes and conversations of the teenagers and adults in an authentic way. It was hard to put down as I really wanted to see how the author was going to bring the story to its conclusion. I would definitely recommend this book. Kim, NSW, 4 Stars
This is a compelling story spread over thirty years, linking some original residents of a country town with some new members of the town . The new residents also have their own history to deal with and the two factions link together coincidently. I found the stories, although running parallel, were compelling to follow and while knowing their stories were going to run together, the outcome was very well disguised. A good read, with very current topics. I highly recommend this book. Crystal, TAS, 4 Stars
A new entrant in the categories of both rural and domestic noir, I enjoyed this mystery by Lucy Campbell. The flashbacks to the 1980s seemed real and absolutely of their time, as were the characters, and I loved the addition of the historical society to the mix. Perhaps the ending wrapped up a little too neatly, but in some ways it seemed required to soften the emotional load of the story. I look forward to future novels by the author – and interesting to see if more can be found in Lowbridge! Katie, NSW, 4 Stars
Haunting is a great word to describe this novel. After a personal tragedy, Katherine and her husband move back to his hometown. At first, Katherine struggles to get out of the house, until she finds purpose in studying and promoting local history. She then gets interested in a decades-old missing persons case. There are a lot of rough edges on this novel so it’s no surprise that it’s a debut but it also has a passion that carries the reader along effortlessly. I loved the distinct, realistic characters, especially the teenagers who felt very realistic, not always the case with adults writing teens. The central mystery of Tess’s death is a lesser storyline to what happened back in the day and why nobody wants to talk about it and Katherine’s determination to learn the truth is the better, more fulfilling part of the novel. Recommended to mystery fans, people who grew up in small towns and anyone in need of a fast but rewarding read. Richard, VIC, 4 Stars
Set in the small, unassuming town of Lowbridge, this novel gives the reader a richly woven tapestry of characters, intricate storytelling, and powerful themes. Campbell’s book leaves a lasting impression. Lowbridge seems to be an ordinary place, but as the story progresses, it becomes apparent that there is more to this town than meets the eye. Campbell skillfully introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own personal struggles and dreams, making them relatable and endearing to readers. From the resilient local baker to the enigmatic artist, their stories intertwine, revealing a hidden world filled with secrets, love, and redemption. Campbell’s masterful storytelling is what sets Lowbridge apart. The vivid descriptions allow readers to be immersed in the quaint streets and the town’s charm. The narrative flows seamlessly, balancing moments of suspense, romance, and introspection with precision. The pacing is just right, keeping readers turning the pages, eager to uncover the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. Leslie, NSW, 4 Stars
Lowbridge was a thrilling read filled with unexpected twists and characters that you could sympathise with and be drawn into the setting. Lucy Campbell’s book showcases the importance that relationships can hold in small-knit communities, good or bad. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Kaela, NSW, 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read, kept me interested and I finished it within a few days! I liked the back-and-forth between the “then” and “now” and was sure that I had figured out the ending many times throughout the book but didn’t, which is always fun. I would definitely recommend this book to others. Rebecca, VIC, 4 Stars
I found this to be a very interesting read and I enjoyed it. A mother, Katherine, whose daughter died in a hit and run. A daughter, Tess, who 30 years before went missing. Katherine’s desire to regain her life leads to her desire to solve the disappearance of Tess. A story about relationships, small towns, power, secrets, innocence, grief and learning to move on. I liked the way the chapters alternated between the past and the present. It also kept me guessing and I like that in a story. Denise, SA, 4 Stars
I found this a highly enjoyable read involving the circumstances around the disappearance of two teenaged girls told through two timelines, which I always seem to enjoy. However, I did not particularly connect with the main character as I felt we did not receive enough of her backstory to build empathy with her situation. Sad though it was! A couple of good twists along the way kept the story entertaining enough to keep me interested to learn the outcome. Sue, NSW, 4 Stars
The past and present become one. The story effortlessly switches between the two, in an enjoyable read. Based in and around a small town, Katherine moves back to her husband’s town, to try to cope with the death of her daughter. She soon becomes part of this small-town community, then discovers it is anything but a ‘’sleepy country town.” It has a past. One which people have tried to forget. Katherine had her flaws, yet her tenacity to discover the truth was the fight she needed. The characters evolved throughout the story, until the past and present became one and the outcome became clear. Cheryl, VIC, 4 Stars
Lowbridge is a confident debut from a talented Australian writer. Lucy Campbell spins a tale of tragedy, pain and healing across two timelines, each as engaging as the other. The characters are brilliant, and the ending was moving. Overall a great new mystery novel. Inessa, NSW, 4 Stars
This novel from Lucy Campbell revolves around the disappearance of two very different young women from a country town in the late 80’s. We learn of the events from the perspective of those there then and from a newcomer to the town, Katherine, some twenty years later, as she struggles with a raw personal grief. I found the opening pages delivered a real sense of place and atmosphere and in that stream of the story I could relate to the teens as they navigate the rapid changes those years bring. Over time we are introduced to a group of friends and acquaintances I could identify with, but just who goes missing is part of the mystery and a good plot device to keep those pages turning. I found Katherine’s story less engaging, perhaps because I found her interest in the earlier events came on a bit suddenly although the description of the social upheaval and very divided opinions, is a timely reminder of how far we have come (or have we?) I also found the reveal, though sound, a little rushed. I received a copy of this debut novel from Better Reading and think it will appeal to a wide audience. 3.5 stars rounded up – I look forward to seeing more from Ms Campbell. Helen NSW 4 Stars
Put simply, this is a very strong debut crime novel that I recommend. Although fictional (of course), it has a very believable storyline with great characters, not only the main players but the ‘supporting cast’ as well. Rolling the two stories/tragedies into one story made for some great reading. Can hardly wait for the next novel by Lucy. Well done!! Dallas, NSW, 4 Stars
I really enjoyed reading Lowbridge. It’s a story with not just one mystery but many, with interesting moving parts, and distinct well-drawn female characters. I particularly liked the sympathy the author engendered in me for ‘bad girls’. This story kept me up when I should have been sleeping, but it was worth it to know the ending. Kim, WA, 4 Stars
I enjoyed reading this novel and for once didn’t pick who the ‘bad guy’ was! The story is told in flashback from 1986/87 to 2018 in a country town where teenagers get up to all kinds of mischief. Not much different from city kids but where it’s thought the country is safer because everyone knows each other. I loved the easy style of writing Lucy has. She has painted the teenagers extremely well and I got drawn up into their stories. One of the teenagers goes missing and 30 years later, the story of her disappearance interests a newcomer to the town who realises that another girl has gone missing around the same time. Lowbridge was easy to read and I wished there was more when everything came to an end. There was a twist which I didn’t see coming and of course ‘who dun it’. Not a thriller but a good mystery that draws you in. Sharon, ACT, 4 Stars
Lucy Campbell’s Lowbridge is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of family, identity, and self-discovery. The story follows the life of a young woman who moves to the small town of Lowbridge to escape her troubled past. As she uncovers long-buried family secrets and discovers the truth about her past, she grapples with her own sense of identity and place in the world. The vivid descriptions of the small town and its inhabitants bring the setting to life, while also providing insight into the characters’ inner lives. The pacing of the story is well-executed, with just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep readers engaged from start to finish. The plot twists and turns are unexpected, yet believable, adding depth and complexity to the story. Overall, Lowbridge is a captivating and insightful novel that transports readers to a charming town filled with secrets and rich character development. Amanda, VIC, 4 Stars
An absolutely excellent read in what is becoming a popular genre: outback/small country town with an interesting history. The dual timelines between Kat (present day) and the three teenagers (past) worked well and kept me guessing. There is a brief look at abortion rights, how women were/are treated with regards to sexual assault (i.e., how they dress, how much they have drunk), but nothing is too laboured. The ending happened really quickly and wasn’t as suspenseful or thriller-like as I had thought it was going to get, which is also a good thing as I don’t like being too worried about the characters. Emily, VIC, 4 Stars
Set in two timelines, 1987, when Tess Dawes disappears from Lowbridge, and 2018, when Katherine Ashworth joins the local historical society and stumbles across the mysterious, unsolved disappearance. We come to know Tess’s friends and their circumstances as well as the reasons why Katherine has come to Lowbridge with her husband. Class, feminism and violence against women are some of the themes of this novel. Marketed as a mystery, this book takes over 100 pages to actually get to the heart of the matter which to my mind is way too long. However, once it does it progresses at a rollicking pace and is tied up quite satisfactorily at the end. Barbara, SA, 3 Stars
This historical crime novel by Lucy Campbell, set in an Australian country town, follows a dual storyline, which I found effective. Katherine Ashworth, struggling to cope with the death of her teenage daughter, has moved with her husband back to his family home. A chance meeting outside the local Historical Centre leads to a mild obsession with a decades-old missing girl case. Or make that two missing girls… one well publicised, from the right side of the tracks, the other from a disadvantaged background who seemed to slip through the system. I enjoyed reading about the schoolgirls from the 80s. The backgrounds rang true and the furor about a women’s centre being built (along with all it entailed) was believable. The resolution just seemed a little forced and unbelievable. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the storytelling and look forward to the next offering. Lesley QLD 3 Stars
In this dual timeline mystery, we follow Katherine and Jaime, who moved to Lowbridge following the death of their daughter. Struggling with grief, Katherine accidentally becomes involved in the work of the local Historical Society and is fascinated by the story of a missing girl. The first half of the book moves at a fast pace and had me hooked. However, I felt the second I felt the second half became bogged down in details. Kathryn, NSW, 3 Stars
A gripping novel involving the past disappearance of a young girl that sets a spark in a current grieving mother to try and uncover more about how and why she disappeared. Although this is a dark read in some places (involving grief) it is a fast-paced and well-written read. Cathy, NSW, 3 Stars
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