Local crime writer launches latest book in Beechworth

A WELL-KNOWN local fiction crime writer captivated a 65-strong audience of book lovers at Beechworth library recently. Beechworth author and playwright Margaret Hickey delivered a talk about her latest new chilling mystery novel ‘The Creeper'. The new release follows Margaret’s successful books - 'Cutters End', 'Stone Town' and 'Broken Bay' with a Penguin publishing contract for a further three novels until 2027. Beechworth Books teamed up with the library to hold the event with co-owner Charles Dean interviewing Margaret. The author gave insights into writing processes, her writing experiences, use of landscape for settings as well as into the world of publishing. The novel is set in the small mountain town of Edenville in Victoria’s high country haunted for last the 10 years by the horrific murders of five hikers on Jagged Ridge, until the local detective constable Sally White is drawn into the dark world by a notorious family. Margaret said one of the most important aspects about the book is she penned it close to where she lives in Victoria’s high country. “It is a place I know very well, and I have written about a completely new character which was difficult at first, but turned out to be an absolute joy,” she said. “I always write from the point of view of landscape, and I always start with a setting that I know well, and usually a landscape that I love”. Now working on her fifth book set in the panoramic horizons of the Wimmera, the author said she was thrilled to have a contract for a further two books after this one. “It offers a bit of stability, and it means you can make a living off your writing,” she said. “It’s rare, I'm very lucky, and I love my craft." Beechworth’s Lyn Thomas was excited about reading Margaret’s latest novel. “It's the sense of landscape, being in the high country and being a hiker,” she said. “Marg brings lovely energy, creativity and fun to Beechworth,” she said. Beechworth Book’s Charles Dean said Margaret's passion for writing and love for books shines. Librarian Julie said the library with Beechworth Books had launched Margaret’s four novels. “It's really important for the library to support local authors and Margaret is an incredibly popular writer,” she said. “People really love hearing the insights into the writing process. “They're fascinated and intrigued by the publishing and the all the steps involved in it gives them more depth and understanding for the books. “I think supporting a known writer such as Marg Hickey, people are very proud that we have a well-known author in the district and her books are really enjoyable. “People love crime fiction.”

Local crime writer launches latest book in Beechworth

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