If you love contemporary fiction with a touch of magical realism, the latest novel by a Noosa author is for you.
Sometimes you have to clean up the past to move forward.
Julie Holland, a local contemporary novelist, addressed this premise in her new book, HERE-After.
“HERE-After is a story about love and betrayal, about faith and possibility,” said Julie.
“It explores the notion of the ‘afterlife’ – life after heartbreak, after loss and abandonment and grief, after major change – and the possibilities of not just an ‘afterlife’ but a happy afterlife.
“Yes, there is a ghost in the HERE after, but it’s not a paranormal story. I wanted to include a ghost in my storyline because after all, who didn’t love the Ghost and Sixth Sense movies.
“We were driving through South Melbourne a few years ago and I saw the perfect building to find HERE after. It has since been refurbished, but I still have the image of the facade of the original building. Of course, there is also the possibility of love and new friendships in the HERE after.”
Primarily, Julie’s contemporary novels focus on mature women faced with life-changing decisions, involving emotions, family, and location.
Their stories are heartfelt, humorous and inclusive.
Her first novel, That Summer In Nautilus Cove, which is loosely set in her hometown of Noosa, received rave reviews worldwide for its coastal literature vibe and “later life” premise.
Julie has worked in many industries: from advertising to travel, education to public relations. She is engaged in painting and photography, writes inspirational verse and is an avid reader.
She grew up in Melbourne before moving to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, where she writes and owns an art and homewares shop (Hearts and Minds Art) with her partner.
She has published a chapter book and several children’s books, as well as a book of inspirational verse, A Nest Twice Built, but contemporary women’s literature is her love.
Julie is currently working on her third novel.
HERE-After is available in e-book and paperback from Amazon, with printed copies available from Hearts and Minds Art and Village Bookshop, Hastings Street, Noosa Heads (heartsandmindsart.com.au).
