Lovers of twisty mysteries are in for a treat as author January Gilchrist steps out from behind the page to meet readers in person at Chermside Library this month.
Brisbane City Council’s free event, part of the Lord Mayor’s Writers in Residence series, will give readers a chance to learn more about the inspiration behind January’s new novel, The Final Chapter.
January said the idea for the book came during a writing residency in “an isolated house with complete strangers”.
“A couple of years ago, I was fortunate enough to receive a spot at Varuna Writers’ house in the Blue Mountains, while I was writing a gloomy historical gothic novel,” she said.
“The setting was just too perfect to let go of – a Queenslander that hadn’t packed any properly warm clothes, the excitement and fear about a looming snowstorm (which I missed by half a day!) a haunted house and the pressure of sitting alone in a room all day with nothing to do but write. It was enough to make you go mad and murder someone…”
Library Event Promises Mystery, Writing Insights, and Juicy Behind-the-Scenes Stories
Attendees at the Chermside Library event can also expect January to share insights about her writing process.
“I love hearing other writers share information on their research and writing process, so I’ll start there,” she said. “I have some juicy tea to share about my own writing process of The Final Chapter, which, as I suffer from a chronic condition called Can’tkeepasecretitis, I’ll spill at the hint of interest!”
She shared her admiration for libraries and the important role they play.
“I LOVE libraries!” she said. “They are not just about books; they are community hubs. After attending so many author talks myself, it will be a real thrill to be on the other side of the metaphorical table. Library readers are well-read, intelligent communicators who ask interesting and thought-provoking questions.”
As for her influences, January said she preferred the slow, creeping dread of British thrillers over the action-packed style of their American counterparts, with Agatha Christie’s ‘locked room’ scenarios being a standout inspiration.
“What’s richer than a group of people thrust together who don’t like or trust each other?” she said. “It’s just like every Christmas with your in-laws.”
Meet January Gilchrist
- Thursday, 14 August, 6pm-7pm
- Chermside Library
- 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside
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