Boat Harbour author launches fifth book, ‘Delta’s Diamond’

LOCAL author Judy Parkinson will launch her fifth novel, Delta’s Diamond, at Salamander Bay Library at 3pm on Friday, 6 February.

Parkinson marks another milestone in a writing career that continues to explore the complexities of human behaviour.

Set against the contrasting backdrops of Tuscany and Sydney, Delta’s Diamond is a psychological thriller that delves into jealousy, intolerance and the destructive power of resentment.

The story follows Delta and Phillip Richardson, who travel to Italy with friends Julia and Graham Lamont for what is meant to be a two-week holiday.

Instead, simmering tensions quickly surface.

“From the beginning, there is conflict fuelled by jealousy, intolerance and selfishness,” Parkinson said.

“After a minor car accident, the relationship freezes and the holiday ends on a very sour note.”

Back in Australia, the fractures deepen.

Julia confronts Delta, demanding she retract earlier criticisms.

When Delta refuses, the hostility escalates into what Parkinson describes as “all-consuming hatred with a burning desire for revenge.”

Lies and accusations build towards a shattering climax in which, she says, “no one is spared the disastrous consequences.”

The idea for Delta’s Diamond grew from a combination of place, character and behaviour.

“All those three things combined sparked the idea,” Parkinson said.

Despite the suggestive title, the “diamond” itself is less symbolic than it first appears.

Delta’s diamond ring, Parkinson explains, is simply Phillip’s means of betrayal rather than a metaphor laden with meaning.

At the heart of the novel is the rapid deterioration of Delta and Julia’s friendship.

Parkinson was drawn to exploring the darker side of relationships that appear solid on the surface.

“Theirs was a very shallow friendship,” she said, “but neither recognised this until they spent close time together.”

Although the novel confronts betrayal, cruelty and revenge, Parkinson says she did not find the characters difficult to write.

“The dark side of many of us comes out when we’re under pressure,” she said.

“Writing about this is not a challenge.”

As her fifth novel, Delta’s Diamond reflects a writing process that has matured over time.

“My writing style hasn’t changed,” she said, “but I think overall, my plotting has improved.”

The European scenes are informed by Parkinson’s own travel experiences, lending authenticity to the Tuscan setting before the story returns to Australia for its most intense confrontations.

Launching the book at Salamander Bay Library holds particular significance for the author.

“The library is a great place to launch a novel,” she said.

“They are very cooperative and helpful.”

Ultimately, Parkinson hopes readers close the final page with a sense of resolution, even if the journey there is unsettling.

“I hope the reader will feel that justice has been done,” she said, “even though each of the players has suffered damage.”

The launch is open to the public, with Delta’s Diamond available for purchase on the day.

By Jacie WHITFIELD