AUSTRALIAN crime writer Chris Hammer says there is no better place to launch a book than a library.
Mr Hammer will visit Cleveland Library on October 7 to launch his latest novel, Full Circle – his first stand-alone thriller after a string of successful crime novels since 2018.
“A library is more than just books. It’s the cornerstone of an Australian community,” he said.
“It offers books, but it also offers so much more.”
Mr Hammer said libraries provided a safe and welcoming place for children and older residents, with internet access, air conditioning and free events.
His Cleveland appearance, from 10-11am, will give readers a chance to hear about the new book and meet the author.
“This time is useful to me,” he said.
“I write in deafening solitude, and this is a chance to meet my readers and get feedback.”
Full Circle is set at the palace-like Montechino estate, inspired by the prestigious mansions of Sorrento on Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay.
“It is a bit of a wealthy enclave with Melbourne’s old money,” Mr Hammer said.
“I thought this was a good stage to set the novel.”
The thriller begins with the financial practice of shorting shares – betting on a company’s price falling.
“I thought that there would be a lot of enemies around losing money,” he said.
“I had a few people killed and there was a plot.”
Mr Hammer said he does not map out his novels in detail before writing, instead allowing the story and characters to develop through successive drafts.
Before his Cleveland appearance, Mr Hammer will discuss Full Circle with author Jane Caro at the Island Storytellers Festival on Lamb Island at 11am on October 4.
The book is released on September 29.
