A gripping middle-grade mystery from Australian author Sue Whiting, in which a small coastal town is torn apart by more than just a bushfire

One year on from a devastating bushfire, the small coastal town of Wangaroo Bay is still reeling. Fletch’s family lost their home, and his best friend Immie lost her beloved dad, a volunteer firefighter. Throughout it all, Fletch and Immie have had each other …

Immie’s grandparents push for the Bayfire investigation to be reopened, but Fletch’s mum, dad and elder brother Cooper want to put the past behind them. And when a local, one of their own, is charged with arson, emotions flare, sides are taken, and promises – and secrets – are at stake.

The fire has already destroyed Wangaroo Bay, now its aftermath threatens to destroy Fletch and Immie and their families too.

Details

ISBN13: 9781760658649
Format: Paperback / softback
Number of Pages: 304
Edition:
Publication Date: 01 Sep 2025
Publisher: Walker Books Australia
Publication City, Country: Newtown, Australia
Dimensions (cm): 19.8(H)x13(L)221
Weight (gm): 221

Author Biography

Sue Whiting is an award-winning children’s and YA author, editor and former primary school teacher. Sue writes for many age groups, from picture books through to YA, including the bestselling Missing, the acclaimed The Book of Chance and several CBCA Notable Books. Sue’s latest books are Tilda a historical novel for readers 10+ and the second book in her middle grade fiction series, Pearly and Pig and the Lost City of Mu Savan. As a storyteller and schools’ performer, Sue has informed, inspired and entertained thousands of kids across the country. Sue is passionate about the power of story and is an advocate for reading and writing for pleasure.

Reviews

Whiting draws on themes of climate change, grief and community recovery, weaving in a respectful nod to First Nations cultural burning practices. While the mystery maintains intrigue and the emotional stakes are well developed, aspects of the final twist may feel less convincing to some readers. Nonetheless, Promises and Other Lies is an engaging read for children aged 10+ who are navigating a world shaped by crisis and resilience. -- Katie Haydon * Books+Publishing *
Sue Whiting’s Promises and Other Lies is a compelling middle-grade novel that explores the lingering impact of disaster on a close-knit coastal community. Whiting draws on themes of climate change, grief and community recovery, weaving in a respectful nod to First Nations cultural burning practices * Katie Haydon, Books+Publishing *