Fremantle-based author and playwright Howard McKenzie-Murray has released his debut novel, This is Where We Say Goodbye, bringing a story centred on family, memory and grief to readers through a setting closely connected to the city.

The novel follows 21-year-old Maud Tarkington during a single day when she has to attend the funeral of her favourite brother. Set in Fremantle, the story explores the experience of dealing with loss while also examining the complicated relationships and memories that shape family life.

Although the story deals with a difficult event, the novel has been described as funny, quirky and bittersweet. Its focus is not only on grief but also on the unexpected ways people try to hold themselves together when circumstances have fallen apart.

McKenzie-Murray's connection to Fremantle is reflected directly in the setting of the novel. Rather than using the city simply as a background, the story takes place across Fremantle during the course of one day, giving the location an important role in the narrative.

The book was published by Fremantle Press in May 2026. Before becoming a published novel, the manuscript had already attracted recognition after being shortlisted for the 2024 Hungerford Award.

The debut has also received positive attention from readers and other writers. Marty Donald described the book as a remarkable and emotionally powerful work, highlighting its combination of humour and heartbreak.

McKenzie-Murray's work extends beyond novel writing. He is also a playwright, and the new book represents another part of his writing career. His background in writing for different forms has contributed to a debut that combines a tightly focused setting with a story centred on character and relationships.

The novel's structure is particularly concentrated, with the story unfolding over one day. This gives the book a strong sense of place and allows the events surrounding Maud and her family to develop within a limited period.

At its centre is the relationship between Maud and her favourite brother, whose funeral brings the character into a situation where memories and family connections become especially important. The story uses this event to examine the ways people respond when confronted with loss and the complicated emotions that can emerge within families.

For Fremantle, the novel adds another literary connection to a city that has a long association with arts, writing and independent creative work. The setting allows readers to experience the story through locations and surroundings associated with the Western Australian port city.

The release also marks an important step in McKenzie-Murray's career as a writer. Moving from a shortlisted manuscript to a published debut represents a significant milestone, while the novel's Fremantle setting gives the work a strong local identity.

The book is available through bookstores and online through Fremantle Press. Its publication provides readers with a new work from a local writer whose debut combines family relationships, memory, humour and loss within a distinctly Fremantle setting.