Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
For many years I have mainly been a playwright, with productions in over 40 countries and 20 languages. I am well known in the USA, where my plays have appeared in almost every stock and amateur theatre, as well as on Broadway. However I have also written a novel every 15 years or so!! My first book, A RUSTLE IN THE GRASS, was a Hamlyn Book Of The Month publication and after several years I suddenly realised there had been a slow build-up of tremendous Amazon reader reviews. This helped to spur me on with my new and very different novel, which is about one of my greatest concerns.
I live between Bath in the UK, the South of France, and Australia – three of the most beautiful places on earth (and three of the most inspiring in which to write). How lucky I am!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST
The debate about Darwinism is always with us, but interest seems to be growing at present, when the world’s religious and philosophical beliefs are in such disarray. What are the origins of evil? What is the cause of man’s inhumanity to man? Evolutionary theory tackles these subjects and Darwin’s revolutionary concept is more relevant today than ever. This novel concerns its contentious premise, and its influence on the modern world scene. Read about it on http://sbpra.com/robinhawdon
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I can’t write for long sitting upright or at a desk. I have to recline with legs up on a sofa. Thank heavens for laptops! I write most mornings, and then spend the afternoons on admin, golf, or swimming. If I don’t have a project to work on I get very grumpy!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too numerous to name, but I love biographies of powerful or interesting people. (Edna Healey’s magnificent biog of Emma Darwin partly inspired my new book)
What are you working on now?
Promoting the book! I’d much rather be writing another one, but apparently needs must in the present climate.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m enjoying writing the blog www.charlesdarwinblog.com. Don’t know whether many are reading it though!
Ditto for Facebook and Twitter – but they are a bore really.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Revise, revise, revise. Your text is NEVER perfect.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Only work 4 hours a day. The rest of the time your mind will be working subconsciously and you won’t have nearly so much wasted stuff.
What are you reading now?
About five books at once. I dip in and out.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Another book. I have the glimmer of an idea, but it will be a long time formulating.
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?
NOT the Bible!
Books by John Fowles, Tolstoy, John Updike probably.
Author Websites and Profiles
Robin Hawdon Website
Robin Hawdon Amazon Profile
Robin Hawdon’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile