‘Vikki Petraitis’s voice is strong and witty, and her gaze unflinching. The Unbelieved is a must read.’

—Sulari Gentill, author of the Rowland Sinclair series

‘Gripping read; couldn’t put it down. Great final twist.’

—Anonymous Casefile Host

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vikki Petraitis is best known for her true crime books including the bestselling book The Frankston Murders about serial killer Paul Denyer, and her first book, The Phillip Island Murder, which has been featured in several TV shows and podcasts. In her true crime books, Vikki has covered everything from police dogs to Lawyer X, the Russell Street bombing and sex crimes. Her expertise lies in interviewing police and victims to create compelling narratives. In recent years, Vikki has made two hugely successful podcast series with Casefile Presents, which have topped charts around the world and been downloaded millions of times. She is now working with the Casefile team developing new true crime projects. Vikki began a PhD in Creative Writing at La Trobe University in 2017 in order to continue to expand her writing skills. She brought thirty years of true crime writing and investigating to create her first work of fiction, The Unbelieved. In a parallel career, Vikki is also a teacher with a Master’s degree in IT Education. She runs creative writing workshops and short courses in schools and local libraries. She is also a popular presenter, well known for her compelling true crime talks and keynote addresses.

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to my mum,

Helen Burke,

my first and always reader and champion.

And to all the other strong women in my family—

Stacy, Michele, Vanessa, Carol, Kym, Trish, Ella, Lily, Lina and Dainora.

When life is brutal, may we all have the courage to knee it in the groin.

EPIGRAPH

‘Beware, for I am fearless and therefore powerful. I will watch with the wiliness of a snake, that I may sting with its venom. Man, you shall repent of the injuries you inflict.’

MARY SHELLEY, FRANKENSTEIN

PROLOGUE

PROLOGUE

10 YEARS AGO

Sally’s husband, Herb, was ready at dawn for the round-up. He headed outside while she got started in the kitchen. The whiny sound of his dirt bike followed by the thunder of small hooves always brought her to the verandah. The breeze was blowing inland and she could smell the sea. Their farm bordered a national park that boasted a convergence of cliffs known as the Devil’s Corner. Jagged rocks and a current that swirled and writhed beneath a deceptively calm surface. Over the years, the area had snared many a fishing boat, dragging strong men to early graves, but for Sally and Herb the rugged beauty of the sweeping Deception Bay coastline was often ignored for more pressing duties, like sheep.