Cirrus@Austlit

'This is the dangerous story of Trilby Moffat, who took on one of the most treacherous jobs of all time. Well . . . outside of time, to be precise. For fans of Nevermoor and Lemony Snicket.

'You're reading the back of this book - good for you! But before you open it, you should know: this is NOT just any old book. THIS is a legal document. It contains a truthful record of how Trilby Moffat was accidentally promoted to the most important job that ever existed. The job of Time Keeper.

'A mystery illness is making people speak ancient languages and bake old-fashioned cakes. It is because of this strange illness that Trilby Moffat and her mother find themselves sitting on a train.

'Behind them are a number of things they will never see again, including a comfortable home, Trilby's school, a regular job and all the people they consider friends. Ahead of them is a surprise relative, an unusual inheritance, an opportunity that will never be repeated and a man in a top hat who will try to kill Trilby . . . more than once.

'This is the story of how Trilby Moffat flees to a fabulous island where time doesn't exist and takes on one of the most treacherous jobs of all time. Well . . . outside of time, to be precise.

'This is the dangerous business of being Trilby Moffat.' (Publication summary)

'With the past safely restored to the past, Trilby Moffat is looking forward to sitting down to a big slice of cake and a good crossword puzzle. But she's about to find out that the job of Time Keeper is never done and the future has other plans for her . . . extremely perilous plans.

''This looks dangerous,' said Trilby, who was tied to an antique parlour chair teetering on the edge of a rocky cliff.

'The man in the top hat arched one prickly eyebrow. 'Children can be so ungrateful. This will be the trip of a lifetime!' he said, pointing to the endless dark water below.

Trilby Moffat is in grave danger, again. When she arrives on a secret island outside of time, in search of her missing mother, she knows she's in trouble. A strange festival is about to take place and Trilby is the guest of honour.

'Travellers from all over time are flocking to this mysterious carnival with its treasure markets, floating cupcakes and a terrifying surprise. Now Trilby and her friends must race against time (literally) to reveal the dark truth lurking beneath their beautiful island. Friendship will be tested. Loyalty is stretched to the limits and a skittish prehistoric bird named Anton will destroy Trilby's favourite jumper.

'Just when she thinks time is on her side, Trilby is about to get a perilous promotion.' (Publication summary)