This is a contemporary novel about a group of young adults who have just finished school and are taking part in ‘leavers’ or ‘schoolies’ week.

When the police close the town of Jurien Bay, denying all access to ‘leavers’, our group is forced to change plans on the fly. They eventually find themselves on Brink, a little uninhabited island that is used by a group of reclusive individuals who live off the grid.

The title is also aptly named because the three protagonists who narrate the story are all on the brink of major change in their life, and this week may prove the sparking catalyst.

Leonardo lives with crippling anxiety exacerbated by a smothering mother. He has panic attacks, and his self-confidence is below zero. He was not even meant to be with this group.

Mason is the football star, confused about his sexuality, slowly coming to terms with the fact he is gay. Kaiya is best friends with the most popular girl in school, used to being second best, living in her shadow. All the typical archetypes are represented. The alpha male and his queen, the stoner, the camp gay.

For me, this was an enjoyable read, although a little pedestrian until about the halfway point. The group are imprisoned on the island by a psychotic local, ‘machete’ Max, who blames them for the death of his friend. The novel takes a dark twist, with the group splintering and turning on each other. Suddenly, what is supposed to be the biggest party of their lives turns into a week they may not survive.

Sheppard has delivered the reader a dark tale, full of tension and deep, complex characters.

Reviewed by Neale Lucas

Age Guide 16+