Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Based in Melbourne, Australia, I write dark tragedies focused on broken characters as they make their way in a deeply cinematic world.
My debut novel, The Devil in the red dirt has just released. I’m track to release my second, The Man From The Black Valley at the beginning of ’22
In everything I, and everything I writes, I try to give a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Devil in the red dirt. It’s a gritty criticism of how society treats the vulnerable and basically an epic case study into how cruelty creates cruelty.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
This book took me eight years to complete. I hope that isn’t usual for me going forwards.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m an odd one. Much of my favourite writing in pre-20th century. I think I was a pretentious teen and unfortunately it just stuck. Joris Karl Huysman and Thomas De Quincey are my favourites.
What are you working on now?
The Man From The Black Valley. An Australian Neo-Western with magical realism peppered throughout.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still figuring that out to be honest.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep writing. Never stop. Take years off if you need to. But keep on hitting those keys.
What are you reading now?
I’m writing so I’m afraid I don’t have a lot of time for reading right now. Mainly new born baby advice forums given my little girl is usually at home making a lot of noises I don’t quite understand, and some I wish I didn’t.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Get a second book out, and a third, and a fourth. And hopefully paythe rent.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Confessions of an English Opium Eater
A’ Rebours
The Brothers Grimm collection
Edgar Allan Poe’s poetry
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Smith Website
Michael Smith Amazon Profile
Michael Smith’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile