Lingering Doubts - the first year of publication

A lovely surprise when these certificates arrived today from the State Library of Queensland. Although Lingering Doubts didn't win, to have our grandfather's story recognised and shortlisted was for us the ultimate reward. We wholeheartedly congratulate the People's Choice winner, Kellee Slater (How to do a liver transplant: Stories from my surgical life) and we thank most sincerely all family, friends and supporters who voted for us.
For two previously unknown authors, these SLQ certificates are the finishing touch to what has been an unforgettable year. Many people - from Charleville to Maroochydore and down to Victoria - are now informed about the true facts behind Brisbane's 1947 'Arcade Murder'. We have travelled far and wide speaking and presenting this story and copies of our book are now with the libraries of the Qld. Police Service and Supreme Court. 
Lingering Doubts was launched in March 2014 at the Regatta Hotel (click on the pages above to see more about the launch and the family's connection to this landmark hotel). Our publishers John, Lily and Beth McRobert ensured this was an event we would always remember. Veteran investigative reporter and author, Bob Bottom OAM, travelled from NSW to be our guest speaker, addressing approx. 240 guests. But the real highlight of the evening was the fact that the two surviving children of Reg Brown, Ian (Deb's 86 year old Dad) and Val (Jan's 85 year old Mum) were able to be present. They waited many years for the release of our book and during this time had suffered various health problems. But nothing would keep them from the launch of Lingering Doubts. 
Just four months later Ian required urgent heart surgery. Tragically during or after this procedure he suffered a major stroke which prevented him returning home and to his fiercely independent way of life. Both Ian and his wife (Deb's Mum) have now reluctantly moved into a care facility. All the readers of Lingering Doubts feel they know Ian and Val personally and many have expressed their sadness at this turn of events. Ian continues to grieve for his home, no doubt just as his father, from behind the bars of a prison cell, grieved for his.
Thank you for your kind thoughts and to all the people who have, in so many ways, supported us and our book Lingering Doubts.
Wishing all a very Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy and happy New Year.

Deb and Jan