Johannesburg-based writer Kay Brown has penned Treading Water, a self‑published work that deserves attention - deeply moving and beautifully written, this is an exploration of grit, family bonds, and resilience of the human spirit.

Set between South Africa and Texas, the novel follows Alison, whose life is upended by betrayal and a devastating accident that leaves her wheelchair-bound. Struggling to care for her children, she turns to her half-sister Bridget for help. What unfolds is a compelling story of two women navigating fractured relationships, daily battles, and the possibility of rediscovering strength in each other.

Beyond its central story of challenge, Treading Water reflects on themes of belonging and the strength of family ties. It is a thoughtful novel that invites readers to consider perseverance and the complexities of relationships.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After raising her family, Kay Brown pursued her passion for writing, earning an MA in Creative Writing from the University of the Witwatersrand with distinction. Her work has appeared in magazines, journals, and anthologies, and she was awarded the Van Heerden Award for creativity in 2009 for a co-authored film script. Kay will be adapting this into a new novel – due to be self-published towards the end of the year. She’s still an active member of her long-standing writers’ group.

WHY THIS BOOK MATTERS

Treading Water is self-published, a bold choice that reflects Brown’s commitment to bringing her vision directly to readers. In a publishing landscape often dominated by large houses, supporting self-published authors is vital to ensuring diverse voices and stories reach the public.

South African media has a unique opportunity to champion homegrown talent like Kay Brown - writers who craft world-class literature outside traditional publishing channels.

Treading Water is a novel that lingers long after the last page — a testament to courage, sisterhood, and the power of storytelling.