About
Dr David Gormley-O'Brien is an independent researcher who enjoyed a long career as university lecturer in history of ideas and religions in Late Antiquity. Having graduated from the University of Oxford with the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in 2005, his research interests include ancient philosophical conventions of self-sufficiency and friendship. David and his partner, Sara, live on a small-holding in Woodend, Victoria, and try to live out these ideals (see Three Acres and a Cow).
In recent years, David's intellectual interests have expanded to include modern Australian social history and identity. Through the use of historical fiction, he uncovers how the turbulent period of the first half of the 20th century influenced the ways that everyday Australians understood themselves and others.
His first historical novel - An Attractive Naivety - was published in July 2024.
Ashes & Sakura is the sequel to An Attractive Naivety will be published in September 2025.
Both books are available in paperback (Amazon Print on Demand and Kindle e-books). Audiobooks will be become available in the near future.