Geoff Parkes shares the inspiration behind When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole

Where did the idea for the book come from?

Primary was a desire to write a novel set in the area where I’d grown up. Next came the idea to ground the novel in and around a shearing gang, where I’d had first-hand experience, and then gradually, I wove the crime plot into that.

Who was your favourite character to write?

Probably Neville Hanigan, the farmer who owns the land where the shearing gang is housed during their working season. He’s a nasty piece of work so I’m not sure what that says about me, but he was fun to write!

What kind of research did you do for the book?

Because the book is so heavily steeped in my own lived experience, almost none.

Are there any books/authors/artworks that influenced your writing?

I tend to read more non-fiction than fiction and while I do enjoy reading crime fiction, I’m probably more conscious of trying not to sound or look like anyone else as opposed to being influenced by a particular writer.

What’s your #1 tip for aspiring authors?

Almost always, the work improves the more touches it receives – from yourself as a writer or from an experienced editor. It can be very frustrating to think something is finished but when you go back into it – either on your own or with an editor’s notes – invariably, it is made better by doing so. So… write and keep writing, but also, re-read and re-write as often as you can.

A fact or tidbit you think might help readers understand your book better?

Early 1980s small country-town life in New Zealand and Australia was very different to the life many of us know now. While the book portrays a heavily male-dominated society, and casual attitudes to things like racism and drunk driving, the intent is never to pass judgment, but merely to provide a snapshot of the times.

What surprised you most about the publishing process?

The level of support from the whole team at Penguin Random House has been wonderful. So, in that sense, the surprise has been how easy and enjoyable the whole process has been.

What advice would you give to someone who’s currently working on their own debut novel?

Try to find that sweet spot between having a distinctive voice and something that sets your novel apart, while at the same time taking care to fit the conventions of the particular genre you’re writing in and producing a book that is marketable for the publisher.