Join us at Queanbeyan Library to hear about Julie Bennett's debut novel, The Understudy.

Immersed in the underbelly of the theatre world in the gritty streets of Sydney in 1973, this addictive debut will have you wondering just how dangerous ambition – and love – can be. Perfect for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid and Fiona McIntosh.

It's opening night. The stage is set, the houselights have dimmed and the handsome male lead is waiting. This is your time. Your chance to prove you are so much more than the understudy.

You have worked so hard and would have done almost anything to get here. But not what they are accusing you of – never that. It’s simply bad luck that Australia’s darling of opera has gone missing, throwing the spotlight on you just as the whole world is watching history in the making.

But the show must go on and it’s all down to you. Take a deep breath and get ready to perform the role of your life.

Julie Bennett was born in New Zealand and migrated to Australia after her father was offered a full-time role as a tenor in the Australian Opera Company. Her first novel, The Understudy, was inspired by her experience performing as a child extra in the Australian Opera Company’s 1973 production of War & Peace. She lives in Sydney with her husband and gorgeous kelpie cross cattle dog, Riley.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase on the day.

Bookings essential through Eventbrite.

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