Chris Allen

Chris Allen, an Australian author residing in Wollongong, is recognized for his contributions to the thriller genre. His writing is deeply informed by a varied career that includes service as a paratrooper in the Australian Army, an exchange posting with the New Zealand Army, and service with the British Army's 5 Airborne Brigade, from which he retired due to injuries. Following his military service, Allen held significant security roles, including managing security for an international aid agency in Timor-Leste and serving with the Australian Protective Service. He also held high-level positions within the New South Wales government, notably as Head of Security for the Sydney Opera House and as Sheriff of NSW. His professional experience also encompasses senior executive roles in Australian and New South Wales government departments, including positions related to classification and venue management, and service on the Classification Review Board.

Allen's literary career began with self-publishing his debut novel, 'Defender of the Faith,' in 2011. He subsequently secured publishing contracts, leading to the release of multiple books within his 'Intrepid' series. The film and television rights for this series have been optioned. Allen has announced plans for new works, including a trilogy within the 'Intrepid' series and a new standalone thriller, with intended publication in the 2022-2023 timeframe. Reviews frequently note how Allen effectively integrates his extensive professional and life experiences into his narratives, with characters and plotlines often reflecting his own background.

Chris Allen's literary output is significantly shaped by a diverse and extensive professional history. He served in the Australian Army as a paratrooper, undertaking an exchange with the New Zealand Army and later with the British Army's 5 Airborne Brigade before sustaining injuries that led to his military retirement. Post-service, Allen transitioned into high-stakes security management. He led security operations for an international aid organization in East Timor in 1999 and later worked within Australia's government protective security and law enforcement sectors. His career included a notable appointment as Head of Security for the Sydney Opera House and serving as the Sheriff of New South Wales from 2008 to 2011. Further governmental roles include senior executive positions within the Australian and New South Wales governments, such as Director and Assistant Secretary of Australian Classification, Chief Operating Officer of Venues NSW, and Director with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment. He also contributed as a member of the Classification Review Board from 2018 to 2022.

Chris Allen's journey as a published author commenced with the self-publication of his first novel, 'Defender of the Faith,' in 2011. This was followed by publishing agreements with Momentum, Pan Macmillan's digital imprint, which resulted in contracts for several books, including a novella. His 'Intrepid' series has garnered attention, with its film and television rights being optioned. Allen has indicated future projects, including 'The Dark Heart Trilogy,' a new installment in the 'Intrepid' series, and a new thriller featuring a different protagonist, planned for release between 2022 and 2023. Critical reception of Allen's work generally highlights his adept use of his own extensive life and career experiences. The protagonist of the 'Intrepid' series, Alex Morgan, shares Allen's background as a former army Major, and the plots often echo elements of Allen's professional journey. Reviewers have noted his detailed knowledge of weaponry and aircraft, as well as his ability to authentically depict the settings in which his stories unfold.