Number 1 Flint Hill

1 Flint Hill by Melissa Brown



A historical narrative based in Colonial Victoria at the turn of the century.



1898, Ararat, Victoria



Doctor Charles Lawler believes he has witnessed the worst of humanity in his job treating patients on the Ballarat Goldfields - until he steps through the doors of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum.



His new position as the asylum's medical superintendent comes with introductions to high society ... and also to Miss Celia Loddon. Captivated by Celia's beauty and innocence, Charles decides to make her his wife.



Celia is similarly smitten, but as she ventures behind the asylum walls - all in the name of assisting Charles with his work - she discovers that the lives of the inmates are far worse than she could have imagined.



But Celia also discovers that she is brave ... and certainly not as innocent as Charles believes. When an unprecedented act of violence triggers a series of mysterious and horrific events, Celia risks her marriage and happiness to fight for justice.



With Colonial Victoria stripped bare, lovers become strangers.



Are Charles and Celia now allies or enemies? Can they forgive one another their many trespasses?



Or will Celia's quest to reveal the truth entrap her forever on the wrong side of the asylum walls?