The Drowning author to discuss crime mystery

BITTER adult sibling rivalries and the many ways in which family inheritances can turn nasty are themes to be explored as author Fiona Lowe heads to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to discuss her new book The Drowning.

The best-selling author will be in conversation with fellow writer AJ Lyndon on Tuesday evening 21 April, exploring the inspirations and themes at work in the new crime mystery in which a body is found on a beach and a tricky inheritance situation then threatens to rip a family apart.

“People often ask me where I get my book ideas from and I say the world that swirls around me,” Lowe said ahead of the BMI talk that will take place from 6pm on Tuesday.

The Victorian-based writer noted for her authentically Australian writing style referenced a recent article, about a succession-style sibling feud over a Melbourne billionaire’s estate, that appeared in a major daily newspaper.

“Just in the last two days this article and this email have come to me and, really, they are a derivation of what I’ve written in The Drowning, but hopefully without the dead body. Can anyone relate to the sibling stuff?” asked the former midwife, sexual health counsellor and family support worker-turned author.

Lowe’s stories are often triggered by a secret or mystery, and explore themes of family, community and second chances.

Described as gripping, thought-provoking, heart-warming and ultimately uplifting, her books have been praised for their emotional depth.

Tickets to Tuesday evening’s talk are available through the BMI website and from the BMI library.

All proceeds go to the institute to support the staging of its ongoing author events.