Can you ever really leave your past behind? It's Melbourne in 1980 and eighteen-year-old Annette's world is spiralling out of control. That seems set to change when she meets a charismatic, young man. Can the future he promises fill the void in Annette's life and fix that broken part of her? Her chance at happiness starts to unravel though when disturbing secrets are exposed. Secrets that will take Annette on a journey of discovery, down into the depths of hypocrisy and betrayal. Sometimes, to get the life you want, you have to face your darkest fears. Praise for The Cankerworm "The Cankerworm is an absorbing and startlingly insightful book that explores the fallout of betrayal on a young woman's emerging sense of identity, self-worth and knowledge of who and what to value and trust in others and herself. It is beautifully written, evoking a rich impression of growing up in the 1980's.The story draws you in, willing you to turn the next page. At times dark, yet also alive with streaks of light that illuminate the possibility of hope, connection, repair and growth. A satisfying and thought provoking read." -Ursula Benstead