After 44 Years in Education, Local Educator Publishes First Novel Inspired by the Eastern Townships

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS, June 26 2026 — After spending 44 years teaching in the Eastern Townships, local educator and weather enthusiast Andrew Retchless is beginning a new chapter with the release of his first novel, The Sneaky Chronicles – Where Time Stands Still, a story inspired by the region’s landscapes, villages, and close-knit communities.

Retchless says the idea for the book began about 18 months ago while creating fictional characters for his weather website, Wretchless Weather Services. What started as short stories set in the fictional village of Sneaky Hollow gradually developed into a full-length novel exploring themes of belonging, home, and the slower pace of small-town life.

Set against a backdrop inspired by the Eastern Townships, the novel blends mystery, humour, and magical realism while drawing on familiar scenery, including lakes, forests, and rural communities. Retchless says he wanted to create a story that captures the character of the region while remaining relatable to readers beyond Quebec.

Where Time Stands Still is the first book in a planned series, with a second novel (Book Two: Backpool) already in development and scheduled to release in 2027.

Readers can learn more about the book, pre-order signed copies, and follow future releases by visiting SneakyHollow.ca, where Retchless also shares character profiles, interactive features, and information about upcoming book launch events. Physical copies are expected to release and deliver within the coming weeks.

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