From real-life investigations to heart-racing thrillers, many people find crime stories captivating.

At Manly Writers’ Festival, we’re bringing together the best in true crime and crime fiction—stories ripped from the headlines and those crafted from imagination.

Join award-winning journalists and investigators who have uncovered shocking truths in cases that have gripped the Northern Beaches and the nation.

Then, step into the world of crime fiction, where authors and journalists steeped in the politics of mysterious ways take us deep into the minds of detectives, good guys, bad guys, and the morally grey spaces in between.

Whether you’re drawn to the chilling reality of true crime or the adrenaline rush of a perfectly plotted mystery thriller, these sessions will leave you curious about the motivations of the criminals, concerns about justice and the legal system, and the thrill of solving a real-life whodunnit.

Manly Writers' Festival. A stage for big ideas. A place for real conversations.

True crime sessions will cover some of Australia's most notorious cases, including the wrongful conviction of Kathleen Folbigg and dramatic tales of escape and justice. For crime fiction fans, Blanche d'Alpuget launches The Bunny Club (28 March) while Tim Ayliffe and Michael Brissenden delve into politics and crime. Plus rising stars Hayley Scrivenor (a wollongong local) and Patricia Wolf explore Australia's landscape as a backdrop for mystery.

Don't miss this deep dive into crime, justice and storytelling. For more information visit the website here.