The local historian and author has spent the past 12 months researching and writing his latest novel detailing the early period of Australia's colonisation and it's impacts on two contrasting characters.

Harriet's Boy is the story of a convict from the slums of London who arrived on the First Fleet and, following a series of traumatic events, managed to become one of the richest men in Australia.

The novel contrasts the story of the convict with that of an Indigenous boy who, over the same period of time, sees his way of life destroyed by colonisation.

Richard, who is one of the foundation members of the Port Macquarie Historical Society, said the story is a work of fiction that has been inspired by real people and events.

"This story isn't based in Port Macquarie, but is more about history in general," he said.

"I have always been interested in history and telling the stories that are important."

Richard was inspired by the true story of convict Samuel Terry who was transported to Australia as a criminal, where he became a wealthy landowner, merchant and philanthropist.

"With this novel, I wanted to follow the story of a convict and write about someone who grew up in the slums and became wealthy. The story of Samuel Terry was my inspiration," Richard said.

"I also wanted to detail what this period of history was like for a young Indigenous boy.

"The two stories of the convict and Indigenous boys overlap and show the different stories and histories of convict settlement."

Richard has spent the past 12 months working on the book and said he hasn't decided whether he's going to write another one.

"I've had fun writing it and at my age I feel very blessed and lucky to be able to write a novel," he said.

Locals can purchase a copy of Richard's latest book at Book Face, located at Port Central.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: