Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in Williamstown, in Australia. My rather eclectic career included service as a national industry leader, corporate senior executive, business owner, semi pro-footballer, actor and media commentator. I was elected to the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia during unprecedented times in the 1990s, giving my books added authenticity.
There’s a political story everywhere. As a political insider, I recognise the tribalism, the warped egos, the ruthless power and the lonely insecure life of a politician, therefore writing thrilling character driven stories about this exotic, mysterious world.
I am presently writing three series.
The Democracy Trilogy provides insight into the ruthless nature of the politics and the politicians doing whatever it takes to get what they want.
The Referendum Series examines the social dilemmas within a community with government seeking to hear from the population via referendum. Contemporary issues are examined, such as First Nation rights in Forgotten People, euthanasia in Kill Bill, and water rights in The Mallee.
Jack Hudson MP is a 10 book series beginning with Horrible People and follows the power struggles and personal challenges of a novice member of parliament’s career seeking to reach the ultimate leadership role of Prime Minister.
I live above a pub, opposite a church with his wife in the small bayside village of Williamstown, overlooking Melbourne, Australia.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Forgotten People is the first of the referendum series and addresses the very important issue of Aboriginal Sovereignty in Australia which has never been ceded.
Australians want to listen to Aboriginal voices but unless the issue of sovereignty is addressed there will always be angst between the First Nations and the colonialists.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write every day, usually in the afternoons for around five hours or 2,000 words, whatever comes first. I complete a 15-20,000 word structure plan before starting and then work on a new chapter every day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am interested in all books and have followed the popular authors such as Archer, Baldacci, Childs, Grisham, Patterson and others. Australian authors I follow include Harper and Hammer. Of course the classics have influenced me such as Chekov and I enjoy delving into Shakespeare.
What are you working on now?
I have various titles in different stages of development and the current writing project is the first episode of the 10 episode series of Jack Hudson MP called Horrible People.
It’s Jack’s first entry into politics and the horrible people that influence his days.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The best method of promotion for independent writers is building a subscriber list. It is something indie writers need to do and it requires constant collation.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Bum Glue – sit down and write, its the most productive and learning method.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Join writers groups and listen and learn from others who work the words.
What are you reading now?
Survivors by Jane Harper.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Completing the Jack Hudson series within three years. It will be difficult to achieve but that is the plan.
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?
Complete works of Shakespeare.
How to build a boat.
Cultivating food on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Richard Evans Website
Richard Evans Amazon Profile