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We Saw What You Started
OLDER READERS NOTABLE TITLE - 2026 CBCA BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Three deadly fires. One suspect. A thriller of surf and sea.
Otto was a star surfer back in California, but now he just wants a fresh start. When fires break out in Red Sands, the locals are suspicious. It's no coincidence that Otto's at the scene every time. Is it?
Milly isn't so sure. Small town talk isn't always right - especially when it comes to her 'perfect' brother, who doesn't deserve to become captain of the surf lifesaving club. What if the new boy is innocent?
Can Otto and Milly trust each other to find the truth behind the fires? And what happens when you do the wrong things for the right reasons?
'A suspenseful exploration of the boundaries of friendship, family and loyalty.' MARK SMITH, author of Three Boys Gone
'An action-packed, thrilling whodunnit with a side of first crushes - what's not to love?' AMY DOAK, author of Eleanor Jones is Not a Murderer
Advance reader reviews for We Saw What You
'An action-packed whodunnit from start to finish. I couldn't put it down.' - Oscar, 15 years old
'This is one the greatest books I have ever read, with characters I can relate to and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.' - Isaac, 13 years old
'This book is phenomenal! A fascinating book about Australian teens who aren't afraid to break the rules, solving a mystery that may change all of their lives.' - Sophia, 12 years old
'So much suspense! This book had a bit of everything - mystery, adventure and love. It had me hooked from the start and I couldn't put it down! The characters felt so real, and the story was super intense.' - Lucy, 11 years old
'This book was mysterious and suspenseful with lots of action. I really liked the Australian coastal town setting. I had a few suspects but didn't guess how it ended. A great crime and mystery book.' - Liam, 13 years old
'This book is epic! It's packed with mystery, adventure, suspense, friendships, and tonnes of action - I felt like I was right there, solving the mystery alongside the characters. Every chapter made me want to keep reading. If you love a thrilling whodunit, you must read this!' - Dray, 11 years old
'I didn't want this book to end - the dual perspectives were so captivating. This is an adventure-packed novel that kept me hooked from start to finish.' - Calico, 15 years old
'This is the best book that I have read in my life. Filled with suspense and mystery and a plot that changes with every page turn. From the moment I opened this book I was on the edge of my seat, hooked with every word.' - Alexander, 11 years old
Three deadly fires. One suspect. A thriller of surf and sea.
Otto was a star surfer back in California, but now he just wants a fresh start. When fires break out in Red Sands, the locals are suspicious. It's no coincidence that Otto's at the scene every time. Is it?
Milly isn't so sure. Small town talk isn't always right - especially when it comes to her 'perfect' brother, who doesn't deserve to become captain of the surf lifesaving club. What if the new boy is innocent?
Can Otto and Milly trust each other to find the truth behind the fires? And what happens when you do the wrong things for the right reasons?
'A suspenseful exploration of the boundaries of friendship, family and loyalty.' MARK SMITH, author of Three Boys Gone
'An action-packed, thrilling whodunnit with a side of first crushes - what's not to love?' AMY DOAK, author of Eleanor Jones is Not a Murderer
Advance reader reviews for We Saw What You
'An action-packed whodunnit from start to finish. I couldn't put it down.' - Oscar, 15 years old
'This is one the greatest books I have ever read, with characters I can relate to and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.' - Isaac, 13 years old
'This book is phenomenal! A fascinating book about Australian teens who aren't afraid to break the rules, solving a mystery that may change all of their lives.' - Sophia, 12 years old
'So much suspense! This book had a bit of everything - mystery, adventure and love. It had me hooked from the start and I couldn't put it down! The characters felt so real, and the story was super intense.' - Lucy, 11 years old
'This book was mysterious and suspenseful with lots of action. I really liked the Australian coastal town setting. I had a few suspects but didn't guess how it ended. A great crime and mystery book.' - Liam, 13 years old
'This book is epic! It's packed with mystery, adventure, suspense, friendships, and tonnes of action - I felt like I was right there, solving the mystery alongside the characters. Every chapter made me want to keep reading. If you love a thrilling whodunit, you must read this!' - Dray, 11 years old
'I didn't want this book to end - the dual perspectives were so captivating. This is an adventure-packed novel that kept me hooked from start to finish.' - Calico, 15 years old
'This is the best book that I have read in my life. Filled with suspense and mystery and a plot that changes with every page turn. From the moment I opened this book I was on the edge of my seat, hooked with every word.' - Alexander, 11 years old
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 3, 2025
Big thanks to Pan Macmillan for sending us a copy to read and review.
A coastal town and the ocean are central in this YA thriller where fires and vandalism create blame and suspicion.
Endorsements and accolades from young readers adorn the first pages which is not only refreshing but a testimony to nailing a plot that had them invested.
Otto a teen surfer hails from California and fits in perfectly with the surf culture of Red Sands.
Mysterious and illegal fires seem to happen when he is nearby.
Suspicion and accusations jeopardise his standing within the community.
Milly has an inkling that the crime spree might not be as obvious as she dons her sleuthing hat and cracks the mystery.
The teenage interactions and dialogue were written with such authenticity.
Teenage culture and reactions also enhanced a book that appealed to younger readers.
As an older reader I became invested quickly in the plot and formed my own suspicions with the bread crumb clues.
The value of reading and well written books speaks volumes.
A coastal town and the ocean are central in this YA thriller where fires and vandalism create blame and suspicion.
Endorsements and accolades from young readers adorn the first pages which is not only refreshing but a testimony to nailing a plot that had them invested.
Otto a teen surfer hails from California and fits in perfectly with the surf culture of Red Sands.
Mysterious and illegal fires seem to happen when he is nearby.
Suspicion and accusations jeopardise his standing within the community.
Milly has an inkling that the crime spree might not be as obvious as she dons her sleuthing hat and cracks the mystery.
The teenage interactions and dialogue were written with such authenticity.
Teenage culture and reactions also enhanced a book that appealed to younger readers.
As an older reader I became invested quickly in the plot and formed my own suspicions with the bread crumb clues.
The value of reading and well written books speaks volumes.
December 8, 2025
really enjoyed this aussie surf mystery and the characters were all amazing!
Read
September 27, 2025This twisty YA mystery had me guessing until the very end.
Great red herrings all the way through.
Set in the Aussie surf scene, I could almost smell the ocean and hear the waves in this entertaining YA novel.
Great red herrings all the way through.
Set in the Aussie surf scene, I could almost smell the ocean and hear the waves in this entertaining YA novel.
March 7, 2026
Content warnings: fire, theft, probably other stuff that I've forgotten already tbh
I......did not gel with this book at all and I honestly cannot articulate why. It might be that the voices of the two protagonists were too similar and so I kept having to flip backwards and forwards to check which of the two of them was narrating?
But it could also be because despite being an Australian who grew up going to the beach, I grew up going to the shallowest little baby beach that Port Phillip Bay has to offer and therefore never really experienced surf live saving culture or Nippers or anything that goes along with it, to the point where it took me about half the book to work out that these two kids were involved in SLS programs/competitions.
In summary: not for me, but I can definitely push it onto students.
I......did not gel with this book at all and I honestly cannot articulate why. It might be that the voices of the two protagonists were too similar and so I kept having to flip backwards and forwards to check which of the two of them was narrating?
But it could also be because despite being an Australian who grew up going to the beach, I grew up going to the shallowest little baby beach that Port Phillip Bay has to offer and therefore never really experienced surf live saving culture or Nippers or anything that goes along with it, to the point where it took me about half the book to work out that these two kids were involved in SLS programs/competitions.
In summary: not for me, but I can definitely push it onto students.
July 10, 2025
Thank you Pan Macmillan Australia & Carla Salmon for this read!
I love a thriller set in Australia and this YA thriller captured the beach vibes perfectly. It's small town drama, mystery about multiple fires starting and a few people tangled up in solving it.
This was heavily YA but I do love a YA thriller so it was enjoyable. It was really easy to binge, I knocked this one over in 2 small sittings because I needed to uncover the truth. I felt the pace was a slower burn but the suspense amps up towards the end where you can FEEL the reveal is happening soon. The ending was unexpected and I feel i wanted something more sinister - but it was still good.
Overall a short and sweet beachy YA thriller to add to your summer TBR!
3.5/5
I love a thriller set in Australia and this YA thriller captured the beach vibes perfectly. It's small town drama, mystery about multiple fires starting and a few people tangled up in solving it.
This was heavily YA but I do love a YA thriller so it was enjoyable. It was really easy to binge, I knocked this one over in 2 small sittings because I needed to uncover the truth. I felt the pace was a slower burn but the suspense amps up towards the end where you can FEEL the reveal is happening soon. The ending was unexpected and I feel i wanted something more sinister - but it was still good.
Overall a short and sweet beachy YA thriller to add to your summer TBR!
3.5/5
June 20, 2025
Visit Kids' Book Review for my full review of this riveting mg crossover thriller.
April 11, 2026
A compelling mystery combined with a relatable storyline exploring teenage friendships make this a fabulous read.
October 30, 2025
Billed as YA but felt skewed more toward middle-grade, We Saw What You Started opens with a series of fires in a small Australian town. Otto, an American living with his mother, just wants to surf with his new friends and help them win the upcoming lifesaver competition, but when he’s found at the scene of every fire, the police and townsfolk cast him as the main suspect.
Milly, the sister of one of Otto’s friends, seems to be the only one willing to help him find the truth—until chasing down the real culprits puts them both in danger. If you’re looking for a read with a realistic small-town setting, hints of first crushes, whodunnit plots, and living up to family expectations, this book has you covered.
Milly, the sister of one of Otto’s friends, seems to be the only one willing to help him find the truth—until chasing down the real culprits puts them both in danger. If you’re looking for a read with a realistic small-town setting, hints of first crushes, whodunnit plots, and living up to family expectations, this book has you covered.
July 27, 2025
“I feel the weight of the truth, heavy as I reach the top step. But I can’t tell him.”
There’s been a lot of hype around Carla Salmon’s debut novel, ‘We Saw What You Started’, and I’m happy to say it has lived up to expectations. It‘s got mystery, it’s got suspense and it will have you guessing right to the very end, probably incorrectly as well. You’ll be tossed around like a washing machine trying to figure out this one, so good luck!
Told from the alternating POV of our two protagonists, Milly and Otto, WSWYS is set in a small coastal town - a town that Otto is new to and that Milly and her family have strong ties with. With the annual surf carnival looming, and a huge influx of competitors and tourists in town, three suspicious and seemingly targeted fires threaten to tear Red Sands apart. Pointed fingers begin and Otto is the prime suspect. That’s usually the case when you are at the scene of each fire. But when Otto and Milly join forces and start to uncover missing clues, all is not what it seems and sparks start to fly - the romantic kind and the dramatic kind. Will Otto and Milly douse the rumours and find the true arsonist or will their investigation fizzle out and risk Otto’s immediate future?
It’s been days since I finished this book and I’m still thinking about it. For sure there is the growing whodunit suspense that will grip you and have you wanting more. But it's not just that. It’s the depth and complexity of the characters that stay with you. I found myself thinking about them days after and wanted to know more. Salmon delves deep into their minds, their insecurities, what drives them, and you become fully invested in their growth and journey. It’s a journey that involves rumours, rivalries and romance and you’ll be hooked from the get go. A captivating read for your more mature middle grader, Carla deserves all the applause for this one. Congratulations on a stunning debut!
There’s been a lot of hype around Carla Salmon’s debut novel, ‘We Saw What You Started’, and I’m happy to say it has lived up to expectations. It‘s got mystery, it’s got suspense and it will have you guessing right to the very end, probably incorrectly as well. You’ll be tossed around like a washing machine trying to figure out this one, so good luck!
Told from the alternating POV of our two protagonists, Milly and Otto, WSWYS is set in a small coastal town - a town that Otto is new to and that Milly and her family have strong ties with. With the annual surf carnival looming, and a huge influx of competitors and tourists in town, three suspicious and seemingly targeted fires threaten to tear Red Sands apart. Pointed fingers begin and Otto is the prime suspect. That’s usually the case when you are at the scene of each fire. But when Otto and Milly join forces and start to uncover missing clues, all is not what it seems and sparks start to fly - the romantic kind and the dramatic kind. Will Otto and Milly douse the rumours and find the true arsonist or will their investigation fizzle out and risk Otto’s immediate future?
It’s been days since I finished this book and I’m still thinking about it. For sure there is the growing whodunit suspense that will grip you and have you wanting more. But it's not just that. It’s the depth and complexity of the characters that stay with you. I found myself thinking about them days after and wanted to know more. Salmon delves deep into their minds, their insecurities, what drives them, and you become fully invested in their growth and journey. It’s a journey that involves rumours, rivalries and romance and you’ll be hooked from the get go. A captivating read for your more mature middle grader, Carla deserves all the applause for this one. Congratulations on a stunning debut!
July 15, 2025
I read this after my 13yr old son raved about it. Highly recommend for anyone with teens - it’s very accessible and has enough humour and action to keep any young teen (and older!) turning over the pages.
October 9, 2025
Wrote a longer review and it's now at Reading Time.
A fast paced mystery. Authentic representation of teen boys, and a welcome exploration of being a female in a male dominated (surf life saving) culture.
A fast paced mystery. Authentic representation of teen boys, and a welcome exploration of being a female in a male dominated (surf life saving) culture.
April 20, 2026
I received a copy of We Saw What You Started from Pan Macmillan Australia to review.
Rating of 4.25.
Prepare for some troubled fun in the sun with the fantastic 2025 Australian young adult fiction debut, We Saw What You Started by new author Carla Salmon.
Plot Synopsis:
Three deadly fires. One suspect. A thriller of surf and sea.
Otto was a star surfer back in California, but now he just wants a fresh start. When fires break out in Red Sands, the locals are suspicious. It's no coincidence that Otto's at the scene every time. Is it?
Milly isn't so sure. Small town talk isn't always right - especially when it comes to her 'perfect' brother, who doesn't deserve to become captain of the surf lifesaving club. What if the new boy is innocent?
Can Otto and Milly trust each other to find the truth behind the fires? And what happens when you do the wrong things for the right reasons?
We Saw What You Started was a compelling and exciting debut from Salmon, who provides a cool thriller narrative amongst youthful hijinks on a rural Australian coastline. Starting off with some immediate peril as the protagonist of the story, Otto, gets caught up in an apparently deliberate bushfire, you are quickly introduced to the small-town setting of Red Sands, as well as the dramas surrounding Otto and Milly.
Salmon effectively splits the narrative of We Saw What You Started between the perspectives of Otto and Milly, who grow close as the story progresses. However, with an important swimming and lifesaving contest on the horizon, things become complicated for both as a series of arsons take place around town, often when Otto is nearby. This naturally increases the drama of the plot, as Otto deals with suspicion from the Red Sands townsfolk, especially when his troubled past in America becomes known. At the same time, Milly, driven by her own desire for independence and respect from her father, becomes one of Otto’s only allies. The two start teaming up to investigate the arsons, resulting in some interesting moments of investigation, conflict and teenage rebellion, that play into the main plot extremely well.
The author does an exceptional job pulling together a great young adult crime fiction story in the second half of We Saw What You Started, loaded with high stakes and powerful dives into the protagonist’s traumatic past. The revelation of who is responsible for the arsons, and the big confrontation at the end, are nicely set up, and Salmon loaded up a ton of fun hints throughout the book that really pay off. Everything wraps up nicely, with the ongoing character struggles resolved and everyone getting their happy ending, allowing for a fantastic and heartfelt standalone read that did an excellent job of blending its crime fiction elements with the various personal problems of its intriguing young cast.
Overall, I felt that We Saw What You Started was an excellent debut novel that helped to showcase the Carla Salmon’s ability as a writer. Expertly combining an intriguing crime fiction narrative with some fantastic young characters and a striking Australian setting, We Saw What You Started that will appeal to a wide range of readers, especially it’s intended young adult audience, who can relate to Salmon’s protagonists and their struggles. This was a wonderful Australian novel and a great introduction to Carla Salmon, who looks set to continue her writing adventures in 2026.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2026/04/20/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
Rating of 4.25.
Prepare for some troubled fun in the sun with the fantastic 2025 Australian young adult fiction debut, We Saw What You Started by new author Carla Salmon.
Plot Synopsis:
Three deadly fires. One suspect. A thriller of surf and sea.
Otto was a star surfer back in California, but now he just wants a fresh start. When fires break out in Red Sands, the locals are suspicious. It's no coincidence that Otto's at the scene every time. Is it?
Milly isn't so sure. Small town talk isn't always right - especially when it comes to her 'perfect' brother, who doesn't deserve to become captain of the surf lifesaving club. What if the new boy is innocent?
Can Otto and Milly trust each other to find the truth behind the fires? And what happens when you do the wrong things for the right reasons?
We Saw What You Started was a compelling and exciting debut from Salmon, who provides a cool thriller narrative amongst youthful hijinks on a rural Australian coastline. Starting off with some immediate peril as the protagonist of the story, Otto, gets caught up in an apparently deliberate bushfire, you are quickly introduced to the small-town setting of Red Sands, as well as the dramas surrounding Otto and Milly.
Salmon effectively splits the narrative of We Saw What You Started between the perspectives of Otto and Milly, who grow close as the story progresses. However, with an important swimming and lifesaving contest on the horizon, things become complicated for both as a series of arsons take place around town, often when Otto is nearby. This naturally increases the drama of the plot, as Otto deals with suspicion from the Red Sands townsfolk, especially when his troubled past in America becomes known. At the same time, Milly, driven by her own desire for independence and respect from her father, becomes one of Otto’s only allies. The two start teaming up to investigate the arsons, resulting in some interesting moments of investigation, conflict and teenage rebellion, that play into the main plot extremely well.
The author does an exceptional job pulling together a great young adult crime fiction story in the second half of We Saw What You Started, loaded with high stakes and powerful dives into the protagonist’s traumatic past. The revelation of who is responsible for the arsons, and the big confrontation at the end, are nicely set up, and Salmon loaded up a ton of fun hints throughout the book that really pay off. Everything wraps up nicely, with the ongoing character struggles resolved and everyone getting their happy ending, allowing for a fantastic and heartfelt standalone read that did an excellent job of blending its crime fiction elements with the various personal problems of its intriguing young cast.
Overall, I felt that We Saw What You Started was an excellent debut novel that helped to showcase the Carla Salmon’s ability as a writer. Expertly combining an intriguing crime fiction narrative with some fantastic young characters and a striking Australian setting, We Saw What You Started that will appeal to a wide range of readers, especially it’s intended young adult audience, who can relate to Salmon’s protagonists and their struggles. This was a wonderful Australian novel and a great introduction to Carla Salmon, who looks set to continue her writing adventures in 2026.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2026/04/20/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
January 1, 2026
Otto's new life in a small Australian coastal town is a little different to California where he grew up. It was a turbulent childhood with an unreliable father who
then took their mother's savings and never looked back. The one thing that's the same however, is the surf. Making friends within the local Surf lifesaving club is essential to Otto's desire to fit in to his new home.
The reason he left the US races back to him as he smells smoke when out with his new friends. As they flee an Aussie scrub fire, his heart is pounding and his mind can't believe it's happening again. Fire!
When more blazes are reported, this time obviously deliberate, fingers are pointed at him as the new kid in town and the uncanny coincidence that he is nearby each one. While he avoids the local cop and tries to piece together the clues he gathers, he makes a friend in Milly. She's an accomplished lifeguard and competitor and the daughter of the man behind the Life Guard Club.
Both Otto and Milly want to win in the upcoming competition, but know they have to find out who is responsible for the devastating arson attacks on the town first.
Who is lighting the fires and why?
Written in two viewpoints, the reader meets Otto (the new kid in town), and Milly who is desperate to prove herself to her father, as he always favours her twin brother. Frustrated at his over-protection, she is keen to win the upcoming Ironwoman competition, and also prove the town wrong about blaming Otto for the arson attacks.
The clues are unravelled between each viewpoint chapter, letting the reader piece together the mystery along with them. Along the way, Otto and Milly get closer, and respect each other's determination to get the truth out in the open. But how do you do that without hurting the ones you love?
Perfect for those who love a real life, contemporary story, with no fantasy in sight. Authentic relationships and characters shine, along with interesting back stories that hold all the answers.
We Saw What You Started is also a celebration of Surf Life Saving in Australia, and a nod to the thousands of volunteers that save lives on Australian beaches every year. In the rear of the book are quotes from young life savers about why they love Surf Life Saving and a glossary of Surf Life Saving Competitions.
Author - Carla Salmon
Age - 11+
then took their mother's savings and never looked back. The one thing that's the same however, is the surf. Making friends within the local Surf lifesaving club is essential to Otto's desire to fit in to his new home.
The reason he left the US races back to him as he smells smoke when out with his new friends. As they flee an Aussie scrub fire, his heart is pounding and his mind can't believe it's happening again. Fire!
When more blazes are reported, this time obviously deliberate, fingers are pointed at him as the new kid in town and the uncanny coincidence that he is nearby each one. While he avoids the local cop and tries to piece together the clues he gathers, he makes a friend in Milly. She's an accomplished lifeguard and competitor and the daughter of the man behind the Life Guard Club.
Both Otto and Milly want to win in the upcoming competition, but know they have to find out who is responsible for the devastating arson attacks on the town first.
Who is lighting the fires and why?
Written in two viewpoints, the reader meets Otto (the new kid in town), and Milly who is desperate to prove herself to her father, as he always favours her twin brother. Frustrated at his over-protection, she is keen to win the upcoming Ironwoman competition, and also prove the town wrong about blaming Otto for the arson attacks.
The clues are unravelled between each viewpoint chapter, letting the reader piece together the mystery along with them. Along the way, Otto and Milly get closer, and respect each other's determination to get the truth out in the open. But how do you do that without hurting the ones you love?
Perfect for those who love a real life, contemporary story, with no fantasy in sight. Authentic relationships and characters shine, along with interesting back stories that hold all the answers.
We Saw What You Started is also a celebration of Surf Life Saving in Australia, and a nod to the thousands of volunteers that save lives on Australian beaches every year. In the rear of the book are quotes from young life savers about why they love Surf Life Saving and a glossary of Surf Life Saving Competitions.
Author - Carla Salmon
Age - 11+
December 26, 2025
Carla Salmon’s debut novel, “We See What You Started” is an excellent young adult novel. It is powered by a mystery, but also has some things to say about subjects like friendship, competitiveness, and family.
The novel is probably aimed at readers around 13-17, but could easily be enjoyed by those both younger and older. There are no themes or scenes which would be a problem for younger readers. As for the older ones, well, I found this entertaining and engaging and I’m well past my teen years.
My 12 year old co-reader really enjoyed this. The characters were her favorite part of the novel – she said that they were all relatable. What really hooked her, though, was Otto’s background. She found that intriguing, and it made her want to find out more about him.
I agree that characterisation is solid, although focused primarily on half a dozen characters. The characters in the foreground are fully rounded and believable. The teenagers in particular are very realistic, with their mixture of rebellion, responsibility, stupidity, and intelligence – sometimes all displayed by the same person in a few minutes.
The background of the surf lifesaving carnival is vivid, with enough explanation for anyone unfamiliar to follow what’s going on and why. It’s a pretty real reflection of how it could become important to teens in a coastal town.
Miss 12 found the plot interesting, although didn’t feel it was the most engaging she’d come across. The mystery plot reminded me very much of old school novels like Nancy Drew. Some elements of the plot are evident very early on, but others are trickier to work out till closer to the end. I think it will keep most young readers guessing and fully involved.
Overall, this was a well written and enjoyable read, marked by strong characterisation and a good sense of place. Miss 12 would recommend it to other young readers, and I think a fair range of older readers would also enjoy it.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
The novel is probably aimed at readers around 13-17, but could easily be enjoyed by those both younger and older. There are no themes or scenes which would be a problem for younger readers. As for the older ones, well, I found this entertaining and engaging and I’m well past my teen years.
My 12 year old co-reader really enjoyed this. The characters were her favorite part of the novel – she said that they were all relatable. What really hooked her, though, was Otto’s background. She found that intriguing, and it made her want to find out more about him.
I agree that characterisation is solid, although focused primarily on half a dozen characters. The characters in the foreground are fully rounded and believable. The teenagers in particular are very realistic, with their mixture of rebellion, responsibility, stupidity, and intelligence – sometimes all displayed by the same person in a few minutes.
The background of the surf lifesaving carnival is vivid, with enough explanation for anyone unfamiliar to follow what’s going on and why. It’s a pretty real reflection of how it could become important to teens in a coastal town.
Miss 12 found the plot interesting, although didn’t feel it was the most engaging she’d come across. The mystery plot reminded me very much of old school novels like Nancy Drew. Some elements of the plot are evident very early on, but others are trickier to work out till closer to the end. I think it will keep most young readers guessing and fully involved.
Overall, this was a well written and enjoyable read, marked by strong characterisation and a good sense of place. Miss 12 would recommend it to other young readers, and I think a fair range of older readers would also enjoy it.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
May 17, 2026
Otto has left a past secret behind him in America. A champion surfer, he slipped into the Surf Lifesaving life in Australia. His Aunt offered both a home and work for his mum as a second start to their lives.
Milly, the daughter of Red Sands Surf Lifesaving coach Mick. She's the sister of the club champion, Jasper. She trains hard and works hard, but she still feels overshadowed by her brother.
Training at Hawkes Point with Jasper and other members of Red Sands surf club, Otto hopes to make new friends and forget his past mistakes. When a fire breaks out on the point, he feels that the fire is too close to the memories he's running from. The last thing he wants is to be thought of as a firebug.
Milly takes on a part-time job at the local 7-Eleven. She doesn't want to get involved in the rumours about arson at Hawkes Point, or the pool, and is the doctor's surgery another coincidence? Otto appears to be the main suspect. The local policeman is on his case. At the store, a jerry can of fuel isn't paid for by 'Cooper', who's in the Surf Club team, too. He's also taken up with two redheaded jerks from the other team. The Crab brothers are causing accidents, like Alex being pushed down the stairs.
The opposition team has come to town, competitors, family and supporters. Milly and Otto join forces in trying to piece together who could be the arsonist. They discover a missing surfboard and a stolen Red Sands shirt, both Jasper's, given to him by his dad and not for general release. When the store is covered with malicious signs, it's the last straw. Someone is an arsonist and has gone too far.
Carla Salmon has got inside the skin of teenagers and the Surf Lifesaving movement. The description of the beachside surf club, the surfer's favourite surfing spot at Hawkes Point, which is a fire hazard, makes the reader smell the salt air. I didn't see the ending coming, which means it's a great book. Congratulations Carla!
Milly, the daughter of Red Sands Surf Lifesaving coach Mick. She's the sister of the club champion, Jasper. She trains hard and works hard, but she still feels overshadowed by her brother.
Training at Hawkes Point with Jasper and other members of Red Sands surf club, Otto hopes to make new friends and forget his past mistakes. When a fire breaks out on the point, he feels that the fire is too close to the memories he's running from. The last thing he wants is to be thought of as a firebug.
Milly takes on a part-time job at the local 7-Eleven. She doesn't want to get involved in the rumours about arson at Hawkes Point, or the pool, and is the doctor's surgery another coincidence? Otto appears to be the main suspect. The local policeman is on his case. At the store, a jerry can of fuel isn't paid for by 'Cooper', who's in the Surf Club team, too. He's also taken up with two redheaded jerks from the other team. The Crab brothers are causing accidents, like Alex being pushed down the stairs.
The opposition team has come to town, competitors, family and supporters. Milly and Otto join forces in trying to piece together who could be the arsonist. They discover a missing surfboard and a stolen Red Sands shirt, both Jasper's, given to him by his dad and not for general release. When the store is covered with malicious signs, it's the last straw. Someone is an arsonist and has gone too far.
Carla Salmon has got inside the skin of teenagers and the Surf Lifesaving movement. The description of the beachside surf club, the surfer's favourite surfing spot at Hawkes Point, which is a fire hazard, makes the reader smell the salt air. I didn't see the ending coming, which means it's a great book. Congratulations Carla!
August 20, 2025
Fire, it travels, it consumes and it destroys. Otto knows this all too well. His family had to leave California on the back of a fire disaster. And again he finds himself facing the flames.
Having made friends within the local surf lifesaving club in this small coastal Australian country town, he was hoping for a fresh start. When faced with smoke in the scrub his fears start rising, despite reassurance by friend Jasper that it was just a campfire. Alas, no.
A close call to escape the scrub fire, Otto finds himself in a front row seat to two more fires in town. Primary suspect number one, how can he prove it wasn't him, especially given his past.
Milly and Jasper competed for their clubs high honour, captain... Milly just knows it should be hers but her brother, being a boy, is likely to get given that job. She is more responsible, more reliable and has strengths they could see if only they would look. Starting a job at the local 7-eleven, she sees things that could prove Otto is not responsible, or at least she thinks so.
Between the three of them they need to figure out what is going on, what the grown ups do not see, and to still be the best they can be for the surf competition... the interlopers cannot win.
A fun read, if not a little cryptic at times.
Having made friends within the local surf lifesaving club in this small coastal Australian country town, he was hoping for a fresh start. When faced with smoke in the scrub his fears start rising, despite reassurance by friend Jasper that it was just a campfire. Alas, no.
A close call to escape the scrub fire, Otto finds himself in a front row seat to two more fires in town. Primary suspect number one, how can he prove it wasn't him, especially given his past.
Milly and Jasper competed for their clubs high honour, captain... Milly just knows it should be hers but her brother, being a boy, is likely to get given that job. She is more responsible, more reliable and has strengths they could see if only they would look. Starting a job at the local 7-eleven, she sees things that could prove Otto is not responsible, or at least she thinks so.
Between the three of them they need to figure out what is going on, what the grown ups do not see, and to still be the best they can be for the surf competition... the interlopers cannot win.
A fun read, if not a little cryptic at times.
May 10, 2026
Read as short-listed for CBCA awards for 2026 older readers.
Very relatable set in a beach side town where surfing and life savings clubs are the heart of the town.
Lots of teenage characters navigating friendship, family dynamics, competitiveness, and honesty.
Someone is fire bombing places in town - the pool kiosk, the clinic, the bushland and Jasper and Otto are always on these places when they happen.
So it is a bit of a solve the mystery kind of story, as Jasper, Otto and Milly try to find out who is causing their town problems.
The boys who are in question, Connor, Bailey and Wyatt, make the reader go to and fro about who is guilty.
Or is it the father Mick, or event the Cop Brad (is he legit or suss)
And there is a missing surf board - who took it?
So lots of clues to piece together to solve along the way.
Very relatable set in a beach side town where surfing and life savings clubs are the heart of the town.
Lots of teenage characters navigating friendship, family dynamics, competitiveness, and honesty.
Someone is fire bombing places in town - the pool kiosk, the clinic, the bushland and Jasper and Otto are always on these places when they happen.
So it is a bit of a solve the mystery kind of story, as Jasper, Otto and Milly try to find out who is causing their town problems.
The boys who are in question, Connor, Bailey and Wyatt, make the reader go to and fro about who is guilty.
Or is it the father Mick, or event the Cop Brad (is he legit or suss)
And there is a missing surf board - who took it?
So lots of clues to piece together to solve along the way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
I choose We Saw What You Started after meeting the author at Romancing the Stars on the Sunshine Coast. Carla’s explanation of how she developed and refined the novel was part of the appeal.
As a secondary English teacher, I am always on the lookout for texts that are authentic and will capture the attention of my students. The growing connection between Milly and Otto and their dual narrative was particularly engaging and I love the fact that the protagonists were a male and a female. I read the novel over two evenings and was utterly captured by the Red Sands community. A great YA mystery that I’ve already recommended to my classes.
As a secondary English teacher, I am always on the lookout for texts that are authentic and will capture the attention of my students. The growing connection between Milly and Otto and their dual narrative was particularly engaging and I love the fact that the protagonists were a male and a female. I read the novel over two evenings and was utterly captured by the Red Sands community. A great YA mystery that I’ve already recommended to my classes.
November 10, 2025
Otto, his Mum and brother have moved to australia for a new start. Immersed in the local surf life saving culture he is trying to fit in and belong. Twins Milly and Jasper are staying with their Dad and are both competing to be captain of the surf club, both for different reasons. When deliberately lit fires start occurring in their small town everyone becomes a suspect. But who is responsible and how are Otto and Jasper involved? Part mystery, part family saga - this book will grab you until you reach the answers.
May 8, 2026
A great YA Novel
I felt like I was a preteen again. It felt real & honest & like something that could actually happen.
Teenagers make mistakes and don't know what the right thing is to do, even if they have the right motives.
It was an easy read, that was not exaggerated or sensationalised just for the sake of story.
I love our Aussie beaches and remember the feelings of being a teen allowed to explore with your friends and all that comes with it. The essense of this captured in this book.
Recommend!!!
Themes & language appropriate for YA
I felt like I was a preteen again. It felt real & honest & like something that could actually happen.
Teenagers make mistakes and don't know what the right thing is to do, even if they have the right motives.
It was an easy read, that was not exaggerated or sensationalised just for the sake of story.
I love our Aussie beaches and remember the feelings of being a teen allowed to explore with your friends and all that comes with it. The essense of this captured in this book.
Recommend!!!
Themes & language appropriate for YA
September 23, 2025
My daughter and I loved reading this book together. The characters were so well thought out and my daughter (who is not a big reader) couldn’t wait to see what would happen in the next chapter. The kids in the book felt realistic, which was important to my daughter, and she could easily relate to what was going through their heads during some of the big moments in the book! Definitely recommend, loved it.
November 24, 2025
We Saw What You Started is a classic case of wrong place, wrong time. A teen new to the area is blamed for a series of fires. With the police, other kids and even his own mother mistrusting him, Otto must prove his innocence by finding the true arsonist. The teens in the book have lots of agency, which is exactly what younger readers look for. I'd place this as middle grade or the very lower end of YA.
May 2, 2026
I loved reading this book so much! Once I got into the novel and started reading and understanding the characters, it became fast-paced and so interesting! I did not want to put this book down, and absolutely loved the chemistry between Otto and Milly as well as the found family vibes that Otto, his brother and his mum found in the small town! Jasper and Alex’s friendship was such an interesting one and I adored the ending twists and suspense. Definitely one of the best mystery novel I’ve read!
May 31, 2026
I genuinely think this book was not bad,but not the great book.
Like some plots were interesting,but not as interesting as I thought it would be.
The whole book felt very subtle and not like super exciting.
But I did like the chemistry between the main characters like Otto and Milly.
And the culprit was very random in the book,like it came out of nowhere.
Overall I think its only a one time read for me.
Like some plots were interesting,but not as interesting as I thought it would be.
The whole book felt very subtle and not like super exciting.
But I did like the chemistry between the main characters like Otto and Milly.
And the culprit was very random in the book,like it came out of nowhere.
Overall I think its only a one time read for me.
January 20, 2026
This Book surprised me a lot,
I am sooo glad I ended up reading it because it was definitely worth it.
I loved the way Carla Salmon made us think it was one person the whole time,
until the end when she revealed it was actually someone completely different with just as big as a motive as anyone else.
I am sooo glad I ended up reading it because it was definitely worth it.
I loved the way Carla Salmon made us think it was one person the whole time,
until the end when she revealed it was actually someone completely different with just as big as a motive as anyone else.
May 24, 2026
*4.5 stars
Genuinely enjoyed this book so much and I was so invested the whole time omg!
i LOVE LOVED LOVED Milly and Otto like omg i will be thinking about this for a while, especially since the world just seems so familiar and tbh that made it feel like home!
Milly is such a brave icon i will continue to look upto her, but i am PRAYING for a sequel with more of Motto (like my ship name?)
Genuinely enjoyed this book so much and I was so invested the whole time omg!
i LOVE LOVED LOVED Milly and Otto like omg i will be thinking about this for a while, especially since the world just seems so familiar and tbh that made it feel like home!
Milly is such a brave icon i will continue to look upto her, but i am PRAYING for a sequel with more of Motto (like my ship name?)
June 4, 2026
I read this as a facilitator of a CBCA Older Readers Shadow Judging group, and honestly I did not enjoy it. Nor have the kids in our group who have read it so far.
Perhaps the two narrator's voices are too similar, or the action too bland, or the who-dun-it plot twist too predictable, but it felt like a real chore to get to the finish line.
Perhaps the two narrator's voices are too similar, or the action too bland, or the who-dun-it plot twist too predictable, but it felt like a real chore to get to the finish line.
June 7, 2026
Fabulous young adult suspense novel. Short-listed for the Older Readers CBCA 2026 Book of the Year. Otto and his family are new to the coastal town. When arson attacks start happening Otto becomes a suspect. His signing up with the local surf life-saving club helps him make friends, but who can he trust when another fire is started at the medical clinic. Gripping to the end.
August 9, 2025
Starts with strong action, but drags a bit. Nevertheless, young readers will probably enjoy this who-did it story. Told from two teen perspectives against the backdrop of surf lifesaving. Plot develops quickly but not much descriptive writing.
August 10, 2025
Solid early teen read. I found it very interesting and the plot was well constructed so it kept the pages turning. Solid mystery read. I wish there was a little bit more character development but overall it was a really good story. I liked the little bit of romance in there.
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