Local artist profile: Colin King

THIS week we chat with local writer and author Colin King

 

What initially motivated you to take the leap and become a writer?

I got to hone my writing ability as part of executive roles I held in government. So when I finally gave up work, I began writing for my own enjoyment, initially with feature articles in Bendigo Magazine. Novel writing aspirations remained deeply buried until I discovered the works of crime fiction author Peter Temple – intrigue wrapped in wonderful idiosyncratic portrayals of Melbourne and regional Victoria. It was an inspiring revelation that mysteries could be depicted among life as I knew it.

 

How would you describe your writing style?

I write novels set well and truly in regional Victoria. When it comes to place, little of where I write about is fictitious. Local readers will readily recognise particular towns, buildings, cafes and pubs as well as less obvious landmarks. Why create fictitious locales when there are so many outstanding examples on your doorstep? My first novel, A Vintage Death, is set in Bendigo and the wine growing region of Heathcote. My latest, Deep Down, takes place in and around the Grampians.

 

Which other writers inspire you and why?

There’s plenty. I’ve already mentioned Peter Temple, so I should include the writer I consider his Irish equivalent, Ken Bruen. Fellow Irishman, and Booker Prize winner, John Banville, is also a favourite for his wonderful prose. Other crime writers I always enjoy are Michael Connolly, Patricia Highsmith and Peter Corris.

 

What are the themes you normally like to feature in your work?

One common factor is history. Although my novels are present-day yarns, tentacles of the past usually make their way into the plots and reveal what I think is compelling history about the area. In Deep Down, colonial frontier massacres that occurred in the Grampians manage to rear their head. In that investigation, regular protagonist, Detective Sergeant Rory James, gathers a sidekick – young indigenous archaeologist, Tahlia Lock.

 

What are some highlights you have from your career?

After being in an endless COVID-like lockdown writing a novel, it’s wonderfully fulfilling to escape the cave with a book launch. My first book, A Vintage Death, was launched at the Bendigo Writers Festival by Max Allen, wine writer for The Australian. The latest, Deep Down, was held at the Bunyip Hotel in Cavendish, near where the story unfolds in the Grampians. This year also includes appearances at Clunes Booktown Festival in May and Dunkeld Writers Festival in August.

 

Where can people find your published work?

All three of my books are available from pretty much all the online book sellers. They can also be purchased on-line as eBooks. Deep Down was released in March and is currently in bookshops in Bendigo and around the Grampians, where the book is set. For a while now, A Vintage Death, which was published in 2013, has been popping up in op-shops.

 

What advice would you give to young regional people thinking of writing a novel?

I’m probably not qualified to answer that question, given that I didn’t begin writing novels until I was nigh on 60. But I guess you’re never too young. One thing I will pass on though is, I found it worthwhile to have my yet-to-be-published work assessed professionally. I reckon if you rely on family and friends, they’re usually far too kind.