"He sparked me off with the kernel of the story."
The true part of the tale involves our Mr Magenta, a young Tauranga banker who got into trouble by forming what they then called "an unfortunate attachment" to someone else's wife.
The book is largely set in Tauranga and Auckland. Trade up and down the coast was brisk. "Even in the 19th century the two towns were arguing over which had the best port." The Tauranga district was a popular through-point for tourists heading for the famous Pink and White Terraces, which meant a bone-shaking coach ride to the Hot Lakes - the old term for Rotorua.
The novel has many threads. Lindsey says she was fascinated by the thought of what needs might have driven the lovers together, and what might have happened to her cast of characters afterwards. "The book is as much as about the power of long-lasting friendship - especially between women - as it is about lust."
Lindsey Dawson is speaking about 19th century life and loving - and Scarlet & Magenta - at a wine-and-cheese fundraising evening at Athenree Homestead on September 13 at 7pm. To book, phone Val New - 07-863-4673 or 021-977-825.
the fine print
What: Book launch for Scarlet & Magenta
Where: Athenree Homestead
When: Tuesday, September 13