Ms Hampson has been a professional writer for more than 20 years and was the author of two non-fiction books and novels, The Olive Sisters, Two for the Road, The French Perfumer and The Yellow Villa.

Ms Hampson's latest novel follows three women Maggie, Fran and Rose who left Australia for London in 1978.

When the three friends were about to turn 60 they each had a growing sense of dissatisfaction with their lives as well as a feeling that time was running out to fulfill their own expectations.

Maggie was overwhelmed by the responsibilities of work and a demanding family. Fran never married and the latest in a long line of disappointing men seemed about to let her down. Rose married a brilliant academic who was driving her mad and she yearned to be free.

The three women decided to retrace their footsteps backpacking through Europe in an attempt to recapture the sense of freedom and purpose they once possessed.

Ms Hampson grew up in rural New Zealand but she spent her early twenties travelling then finally settled in Australia in 1979 and she now lives in Sydney's Northern Beaches.

In researching Sixty Summers, Ms Hampson embarked a European trip to retrace her own youthful journey from the 1970s.

Ms Hampson will speak at Orange City Library at 5.30pm. People can book online through Eventbrite.com or call 6393 8132.