New book – Sea Change

Sea Change is a novel is set in the present time in a small coastal New Zealand settlement

An earthquake followed by a large tsunami has devastated the small community. Mandated retreat is announced. This government decision has been manipulated by Adrian Stokes, a wealthy and powerful businessman who has designs on the mandated settlement for his own private development.

A resourceful and colourful collection of villagers decide to defy the order to retreat. They think they can make a go of it and persuade elderly reclusive Lorna, blind Toddy and the young, traumatised Eru to stay along with them as their properties are key to Stokes’ plans.

 Many difficult technical problems – fresh water, power. internet access – are solved in surprising ways. Stokes uses many ploys to dislodge them but is always thwarted by their ingenuity.

Sea Change is topical, dealing with managed retreat issues. It also highlights the difference between rich and powerful and poor but resourceful citizens in present times when ingenuity and clever solutions are needed.

Many in my family are accomplished tradespeople and DIY experts. I have once plumbed a whole holiday cottage from scratch. This novel is, in a way, a song of praise to such quirky characters.  New Zealand is rich in them.