The Keeping Place is a science fiction novel by Australian writer Isobelle Carmody, set in a post-apocalyptic world.

After a kidnapping, the Misfit community at Obernewtyn is forced to join the rebellion against the totalitarian Council, using their extraordinary mental abilities.

Yet Elspeth must also seek out clues left by a long-dead seer, Kasanda, necessary to her quest to destroy the Beforetime weapon machines.

When one is hidden in the past, Elspeth must travel the Dreamtrails, stalked by a terrifying beast, with Maruman, her cat, as guide and protector.

The west coast, however, remains occupied by the Council after a traitor spreads news of the rebellion to the Herder Faction.

Elspeth learns about Dragon's fateful past, and realizes that the cause of her delirium lies in the loss of her beloved Mother, the Red Queen.