Authors OnLine -

Richard A Collins, Hong Kong based scientist and author of 'Under A Blood Red Sky' recently found himself in the media spotlight when terrorists in New Zealand claimed to have released the same virus used in Richard's book into a rural environment, in an effort to extort money from the government. The newspapers quickly sought Richard out for his comments on this disturbing turn of events. Richard has sent us the clipping below from the Grimsby Times. Officials were however at pains to point out that they considered the whole thing to be a hoax and no evidence of any released virus was ever found.

Meanwhile Richard also writes "The response (to the publication of Under A Blood Red Sky -Ed) in Hong Kong where I live was very positive. As soon as the news appeared in the local paper I was invited to join a live radio phone-in to discuss it in detail. Subsequently, and because of my background in virology, I was invited back to host a live radio discussion on health topics. The book was picked up for local distribution by Dymocks - the leading book seller in Hong Kong. They hosted a launch part for me which was very well attended."

Nice one Richard, it's good to hear you are getting some good publicity, just don't let too many terrorists loose in New Zealand with copies of your book, I'm hoping to visit my daughter and grandchildren over there soon! I think I'll leave my copy behind in the UK- Ed