Shorncliffe’s streets are getting a fictional shake-up in local author John Sayles’ debut novel, The Cabbage Tree Creek Caper.
Set in the North Brisbane suburbs of Shorncliffe and Sandgate, the book brings a distinctly local flavour to the world of crime fiction.
John said the novel follows Johnny Blakemore, a local actor who stumbles upon a drug smuggling operation involving a prawn trawler.
“With the help of a new friend, Cherie, Johnny sets out to uncover the truth, navigating a tangle of corruption, chaos and murder that turns the peaceful suburb on its head,” he said.
Well-known in the local arts scene, John has spent years in community theatre and radio and currently co-hosts It Takes 2 with Suzy on 99.7 Bridge FM every Sunday night.
He said his passion for the area played a major role in shaping the story.
“The love of the area I live in inspired me to write a novel set in Shorncliffe and Sandgate,” he said. “I am sure locals will recognise the places in my novel and hope that others are encouraged to visit the area.”
From Stage Scripts to Page-Turning Plots
Described by John as a “cosy crime” novel, The Cabbage Tree Creek Caper blends intrigue with humour and community charm. The book also marks a new chapter for John, who has been involved in adapting works such as David Copperfield and The Vicar of Dibley for the stage.
“Writing a novel was probably the next logical step,” he said.
The novel’s cover art is a collaboration with local artist Liz Peters, who created a painting based on one of John’s photographs.
“I have known artist Liz Peters for a little while and when I asked her to create an artwork from a photo of mine, she was thrilled to collaborate with me,” he said.
Those who enjoy John’s first foray into fiction writing won’t have to wait long for the next instalment. He said he was already 60% of the way through a second novel featuring the same characters and setting.
Published by Clark & Mackay in Acacia Ridge, the novel is available online.
The novel is also available to purchase at IMAGEM, 210 Brighton Terrace, Brighton.
John is also planning to promote The Cabbage Tree Creek Caper at various festivals and events around the region.
Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here:
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- Spes Bona, a Sandgate home
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- Tracing the History of Fitzgibbon
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