Austin Burke’s debut novel, ‘Crazy on the Waltzer’, is capturing hearts and memories in Whitley Bay
Whitley Bay: A local man has just released his first novel. Austin Burke, 50, got inspired during lockdown. He thought he could write a better story than what he saw on Netflix.
His book, ‘Crazy on the Waltzer’, is a mix of crime and romance. It follows Paul Docherty, a man whose father was murdered. Paul faces a tough choice: stay in crime to find answers or go straight for love.
Austin shared how it all started. He was watching Netflix with his girlfriend. He jokingly said he could write a better story. She encouraged him, and soon he was writing. Nine months later, he had a book!
He wanted to create something real, unlike the shows he watched. The title comes from a Dire Straits song, which mentions Whitley Bay. The song is about a guy working at a fairground ride, looking for a girl.
Austin even sent a copy to Mark Knopfler, the lead singer of Dire Straits. He also reached out to Brian Johnson from AC/DC. Sadly, he hasn’t heard back from either.
He chose Whitley Bay as the setting because it’s his hometown. The story takes place in the bars and clubs that used to be there. Many locals love the nostalgia it brings back.
His book has received great reviews, boasting 4.8 stars on Amazon. Readers appreciate the memories of the 90s and 2000s nightlife in Whitley Bay.
Some even compare him to famous crime writer Martina Cole. Austin was thrilled by that compliment! He doesn’t read much fiction, believing it helps him write freely.
He’s also giving back. Ten percent of his book sales go to NE Youth, a charity supporting local kids. He hopes it helps keep them out of trouble.
Austin has a fun twist in his book. He’s hidden a fake gold bar as a treasure hunt. If someone finds it, they can win real gold! But there’s a three-month limit to find it.
Publishing wasn’t easy for him. He tried to get agents but decided to self-publish on Amazon. Now, you can buy his book online or at local shops.
He’s already working on a second book, aiming for a trilogy. He has a standalone crime story idea too, set in Whitley Bay.
You can grab ‘Crazy on the Waltzer’ at local shops or online. It’s a great read that brings back memories!
