Former elite soldier Mark Wales is under scrutiny for his novel 'Outrider,' depicting a hypothetical Chinese invasion and civil war in Australia.

The book emphasizes the theme of civil war driven by societal splits, akin to those experienced during the pandemic, rather than focusing on racial conflict.

Defense experts in Australia do not consider a Chinese invasion probable, highlighting the novel's speculative nature.

'Outrider' underscores Australia's values of free speech and artistic expression amidst a sensitive geopolitical climate.

The novel raises debates on societal division, self-censorship, and the boundaries of freedom of speech in a democratic society.

Mark Wales, now a political candidate, hopes his district's significant Chinese Australian demographic values the liberties his book exercises and represents.