Acclaimed Australian crime writer Michael Robotham will visit Coffs Harbour next month to discuss his latest novel, Tell Me Something True, a deeply personal story more than 40 years in the making.
Hosted by Coffs Harbour Libraries, the event at Yarrila Place on Wednesday, 11 November, will give readers an insight into the inspiration behind the bestselling author’s latest work, which combines mystery, romance, tragedy and coming-of-age storytelling.
Set in a small Australian town, Tell Me Something True explores themes of love, loss, heartbreak and murder, drawing on Robotham’s memories of growing up in regional Australia.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the popularity of crime fiction reflected readers’ appetite for compelling storytelling, relatable settings and complex characters.
“People have a real appetite for crime fiction because it combines mystery and suspense with stories that feel close to home. Readers enjoy trying to solve the puzzle, but they’re equally drawn to the characters, communities and human dramas at the heart of these novels.”
Williams said Robotham’s visit would be a highlight for local readers and writers.
“He is one of Australia’s most accomplished and respected authors, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from a master storyteller,” she said.
Before becoming a bestselling novelist, Robotham worked as a feature writer and investigative reporter in Australia, Britain and the United States, collaborating with clinical and forensic psychologists involved in complex criminal investigations.
His debut thriller, The Suspect, sold more than one million copies worldwide and introduced readers to clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin, whose stories later inspired a major television series.
Robotham is the only Australian author to have won the United Kingdom’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for Best Crime Novel twice, establishing an international reputation for psychologically complex and emotionally compelling crime fiction.
In a Q&A published on his website, Robotham revealed the origins of his latest novel, which he first began writing at the age of 22.
“Officially it’s my 20th novel, but it is also my very first because I began writing it when I was 22 years old,” Robotham reveals.
“Much of the story is autobiographical. It is set in the small Australian town where I spent my childhood, although I’ve given it a different name.
“For 40 years, this forgotten manuscript has remained in my bottom drawer, referred to occasionally, mockingly, as the ‘greatest ever Australian unpublished novel.’ Well, that all changes now. It has been rewritten and reimagined by an author, who is older, wiser, and hopefully a better writer for it.”
City of Coffs Harbour Libraries Service Leader Karen Rowe-Nurse said securing an internationally recognised author for the event was a major opportunity for the local literary community.
“Robotham spoke at Yarrila Place two years ago, as did fellow Australian heavyweight crime writer Chris Hammer – and these events proved very popular,” Rowe-Nurse said.
“Whether guests are longtime fans or discovering Robotham’s work for the first time, the event promises a fascinating look behind the scenes of a novel the author has been waiting 40 years to tell.”
The event, An Evening with Michael Robotham, will be held in the River Oak Room on Level 3 of Yarrila Place from 6pm to 7.30pm on Wednesday, 11 November.
Light refreshments will be available from 5.15pm, with book purchases and signings following the presentation.
Tickets cost $10 and bookings are essential. Those unable to attend are encouraged to cancel their booking to allow others to take their place.
Bookings can be made through the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
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