AustLit

'Devastated by his wife's death, John Sinclair is working obsessively in an attempt to mask his grief when he suffers a health crisis. His doctor advises country 'Rest and Relaxation.' 'The Retreat', an up-market guest house in the picturesque Southern Highlands of New South Wales, seems ideal. After a less than auspicious introduction to the other guests, four widows who see him as a desirable 'catch', an elderly violinist, and two troubled ladies escaping domestic problems, one of whom fancies him, John resolves to leave the next day. Then Susan arrives, an attractive woman seeking to come to terms with a failing marriage. They meet in the garden. Intrigued, John decides to give 'The Retreat' a second chance. He quickly becomes involved, weaving about Susan a fantasy in which she re-creates the happiness he once enjoyed. Susan, however, hopes to 'find herself', to rethink her future. Two needy souls use each other. On her he can lavish the love he has been unable to express; he is the willing listener upon whom she can unburden her resentment and doubts. As the week progresses more confidences are shared and their friendship blossoms until, suddenly, the holiday is drawing to a close and John is spurred to act. Sinclair's Retrea' has humour and joy, sorrow, jealousy and passion. It is a compelling insight into the myriad complexities of human relationships.' (Publisher's blurb)