Picture a Welsh-born Canadian weaving tales of financial intrigue and martial arts mayhem—meet Ian Hamilton! This former journalist and diplomat turned mystery writer has captivated readers with his Ava Lee series, a thrilling saga of a Chinese-Canadian forensic accountant chasing bad debts across the globe. With a knack for blending cultural insights and pulse-pounding plots, Hamilton has carved a unique niche in crime fiction.
From his early days in government to penning bestsellers, Hamilton’s journey is as fascinating as his heroine’s adventures. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this award-winning storyteller who proves numbers can be as thrilling as a high-stakes chase.
The Making of Ian Hamilton
Born in Chirk, Wales, in 1946, Ian Hamilton’s early life spanned continents. Educated in Scotland and Canada, he settled in Ontario, where his career took diverse turns. Starting as a journalist with the Regina Leader-Post, he later joined the Canadian government, serving in roles like Director of Communications for The Company of Young Canadians and Canadian Consul in New England. His global experiences, especially in Southeast Asia, shaped his storytelling. A health scare in 2009 sparked his writing career, birthing Ava Lee from a hospital recovery room.
Ian Hamilton’s Unforgettable Stories
Hamilton’s Ava Lee series, launched with The Water Rat of Wanchai in 2011, redefined crime fiction. Ava, a sharp-witted, lesbian Chinese-Canadian forensic accountant, recovers massive debts with brains and bak mei martial arts. The series, spanning 16 books by 2024, blends financial intrigue with vivid settings from Hong Kong to Shanghai. Standouts include The Disciple of Las Vegas, shortlisted for the Barry Award, and The Wild Beasts of Wuhan, a Lambda Literary Award nominee.
Hamilton’s style is sleek and immersive, weaving complex scams with cultural nuance. His prequel, The Dragon Head of Hong Kong, introduces a young Ava navigating the underworld, while The Fury of Beijing (2024) marks the series’ finale. He also penned the Uncle Chow Tung series, exploring Ava’s mentor. Hamilton’s knack for fresh plots keeps readers hooked, earning praise for Ava’s fierce yet relatable persona.
Why Ian Hamilton Matters
Hamilton’s impact transcends genre. His portrayal of a strong, queer Chinese-Canadian heroine resonates with diverse readers, particularly in Chinese-Canadian and lesbian communities. The series’ global scope and adaptation for television highlight his influence. Recognized by BBC Culture as a must-read mystery writer, Hamilton’s work elevates Canadian crime fiction, blending accessibility with depth. His ability to craft compelling characters ensures his stories endure.
- Born: May 24, 1946, Chirk, Wales
- Key Works: The Water Rat of Wanchai, The Dragon Head of Hong Kong, The Fury of Beijing
- Awards: Arthur Ellis Award (2012), Barry and Lambda Literary Award shortlists
- Fun Fact: Hamilton wrote his first four Ava Lee novels in just eight months!
Snag The Water Rat of Wanchai and dive into Ian Hamilton’s thrilling world of crime and culture!