Books in the Oleanders series

In a town where gossip spreads like dust blowing in from the Mallee's canola fields, something unspeakable is about to happen to sixteen-year-old Lauren. It's bad enough she's losing her mum to a horrible disease and that her best friend is leaving town, but now the only person she thought she could trust, is about to betray her. She can't stay here. No one is going to believe the town cop could do such a horrific thing to his own daughter. There's nothing left to do but run. Especially after the fire.This mature YA coming-of-age story is filled with heartbreak, laughter and poignancy, unafraid to address the sometimes gut-wrenching complexities of growing up.*Suitable for a mature YA audience.*Contains swearing and themes of sexual abuse, mental health, suicide, self-harm, homophobia.*This book uses Australian spelling and grammar conventions.

It's been nearly two years since Lauren left her horrific memories in the dust of Wineera. But now, in this grungy Fitzroy pub, in walks Harry, the young musician from back home who won her teenage heart. Then smashed it. Harry's offering her a brighter life. He says he believes in her. Says she has a gift: a unique voice. Lauren wants to trust him. She wants to be like those other girls - confident, carefree, not giving a fork what anyone thinks. Can getting lost in the spotlight, in the music, in Harry's arms, help Lauren forget that awful night back home? Or will it bring her dark secret into bright focus? Maybe it's already happening ...This devastatingly honest YA+ novel explores the casual sexism and harassment young women face every day and how essential it is to speak up and find support when dealing with teen trauma.*Suitable for a mature YA audience.*Contains swearing and themes of sexual abuse, mental health, suicide, self-harm, homophobia.*Uses Australian spelling and grammar conventions.