I could not have asked for a better book launch!

The day was sunny and crisp and the view over the valley perfect. For two hours 60 guests enjoyed a sumptuous high tea of pastries and delicacies in the Salon Du The at the Hydro Majestic Hotel. The MC was the always witty Randall Walker with a warm welcome from Director of the Escarpment group and co-owner of the Hydro, Ms Huong Nguyen.

The book was launched by my brilliant agent Selwa Anthony. I then gave a talk on my history research for the novel including the story of the Hydro itself and the internment of German-Australians in WWI. This was followed by book signings.

The wonderful audience included good friends Sandy Beaches, Janet Rushforth, Margaret Davis and Kathryn Hibbert, local luminaries, author and fashion curator Ms Charlotte Smith, jazz singer Ms Penelope Sai, and Blue Mountains Grammar School headmaster Mr Trevor Barman. And of course my glamorous novelist-wife, Claire Corbett, my beautiful daughter and my mum.

Image: courtesy of David Hill, Deep Hill Media.