The Centre by Hannah Tunnicliffe

Bound by tragedy, sisters Annie and Clover share an unbreakable bond, and Clover welcomes Annie with open arms after a personal crisis. Annie has just broken up with her boyfriend and is jobless, and with her sunny nature, Clover is exactly who Annie needs at this time in her life.

But everything changes when Clover starts attending the workshops at the Centre for Personal Excellence. This exclusive wellness centre excites Clover, and she's eager to learn what she is finding out there. Annie can’t afford the fees, but she becomes concerned when she sees her sister looking gaunt and unhappy. Clover sees personal growth, while Annie sees control and danger. Things reach a crisis point when Clover disappears and cuts off contact with her, and later Annie finds she is now living at the Centre permanently. Annie begins investigating, with the help of an old friend, Jack, and they discover dark secrets behind the glossy exterior. Annie is determined to fight to get her sister back.

Meanwhile, the elusive Lumelia is there under false pretences, carrying a past of trauma and a desire for accountability. The situation is quickly becoming a matter of life and death for everyone.

This well-written novel explores an interesting area where well-being turns to control, and the community becomes a cult. At the heart of the story are the sisters Clover and Annie. Will their bond survive the challenges and manipulation they face?

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Ultimo Press