The Quiet Spectacular — Laurence Fearnley

Funny and moving, this novel subverts notions of 'man vs. wild' while showcasing women's strength and purpose, and the power of friendship and laughter. Loretta is a school librarian, who embarks on compiling The Dangerous Book for Menopausal Women while waiting to collect her son from after-school activities. Chance is a teenager, who discovers an unusual creative outlet to offset the strain of her controlling mother. Riva is dedicated to the wetlands sanctuary she created, who is seeking a way to fulfil her promise to her dying sister to do something 'absolutely spectacular'. Within a clearing in the woods by a lake stands a den, a secret sanctuary and eventual meeting place for all three women . . .