Synopsis

In 1959 an earthquake in central Vancouver Island devastated the lakeside community of Pyrite Ridge. The seismic event triggered landslides that isolated the town and killed sixteen people, while a geological anomaly known as a segue caused the lake to drop an astonishing 150 meters. Perched at the precipice of an abyss and cut off from the world by tons of rubble, Pyrite Ridge became a place of myth and lore.

Travis Sivart, an Air Force officer struggling with PTSD, finds a single-page newspaper attached to a red balloon that appears to have originated from Pyrite Ridge, now called The Segway. The headline story about the sighting of a large sea creature in the lake compels Travis to set off on a quest to find the enigmatic town. After an arduous journey he stumbles upon the secluded settlement, which is home to a group of delightfully quirky residents. Travis spends a week in the town, learning of its remarkable history and interacting with the unforgettable inhabitants. Everyone has their own fascinating story of how they came to The Segway, creating an extraordinary tapestry that causes Travis to question his own sanity. Is there a connection between the source of his trauma and the tragic earthquake that struck the region decades earlier? Solving the mystery may be the key to overcoming his personal demons.

Life at the Precipice is a unique blend of drama, mystery, and humour that will have readers wanting to extend their stay in The Segway.