Derek Hansen was born in England, raised in New Zealand and now lives in Australia. He began writing novels at the conclusion of a long and successful career in advertising.

His first novel, Lunch with the Generals, was an immediate bestseller and provided all the encouragement he needed to continue. Hansen is the author of eight novels and three collections of short stories.

He divides his time between homes in Sydney and the Sunshine Coast, with as many diversions to New Zealand, Central America, North America, Europe, Asia and the UK as time allows.