LOCAL author Ray Keipert has launched his fifth book in as many years, at a special event held during the Myall U3A Art Show on Saturday 4 October in Hawks Nest.
The self-published book, entitled “Beyond the Horizon”, is a collection of three novellas: “Into Thin Air”, “Surf Break” and “Retribution”.
Each title features different characters and settings, but all three epic tales and vital quests with similar strong common themes running throughout.
“After an event occurring somewhere in Australia, the main characters follow the trail to an overseas country, a different one for each story,” Ray told News Of The Area.
“Into Thin Air” centres on solving a cold case kidnap mystery, inspired by stories encountered while Ray was a teacher in English many years ago.
“Surf Break”, which also won first prize in the 2024 Port Stephens Literature Award, proudly supported by News Of The Area, is about a cheated wife and high-level embezzlement, inspired by a close acquaintance who was cheated on by a partner.
“Retribution” raises the stakes with an international terror plot, a story inspired by a true anecdote. A story once shared by a nephew at a family function. Art imitates life, and Ray’s latest book touches upon his time with the local Myall U3A Writers Group.
At the launch, amidst the Myall U3A annual Art Show, Ray thanked those who have helped and inspired him, including his sister Lissa and wife Léonie for their help throughout the writing and publication process.
“I have also dedicated this new book to Norm Hawkes, a dear and recently lost friend who had been a great inspiration over the years,” Ray announced.
More accolades are headed Ray’s way as he heads to the State Library of NSW, in November for his short story.
“‘Desperation’ is to be included in the 2025 Seniors’ Stories Volume 11 Book, making him one of the top 100 contributing authors using the theme ‘Then and Now’”.
“‘Desperation’ records a frantic April 1975 diplomatic dash through war-torn Saigon streets as the South Vietnamese regime collapses, contrasted with a calmer Anzac Day in Sydney 50 years later,” Ray explained the plotline.
There will be an official Volume 11 book launch held at the State Library of NSW in Sydney on Monday 10 November.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
