More Precious Than Gold

Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions.

Can you tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

Like many authors, I started out as a voracious reader. Years ago, I was discussing books with a physician I worked with and he mentioned that Harlequin was always looking for writers. And I started to wonder if I could write the type of book I love to read – one that sweeps you away into another world. And then I wrote A Secret Hope: A Novel of Ancient Ireland.

Tell us a bit about your writing process.

Butt glue, mostly. Just have to keep at it. Doing historical research helps. Sometimes I will discover some fascinating tidbit and I just have to work it into a story.

Tell us about your novels. Why should everyone buy them?

If you love to read a well-researched historical tale that beams you up into another world, then you might like my historicals. Most of my stories center around themes of forgiveness and restoration.

What is your all-time favourite novel/book? What makes it special?

It’s a toss-up between Shogun by James Clavell, Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry, and Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. Probably Shogun would win. It’s the type of book I try to write. In this case, it immerses you in Feudal Japan in the 1500s.

What author would you love to have dinner with?

Anya Seton. But she’s no longer with us. Her novel Katharine is my favorite of her books.

What do you do when you’re not writing? Do you have any hobbies or passions?

I collect pottery and genie bottles, and I love mid-century modern, I love to antique and go to flea markets. I sell on Ebay and I’m starting an Etsy shop soon to sell vintage Christmas ornament wreaths. I love vintage Christmas!

How important is it to have your facts right and are there any instances when you bend history to fit your story?

I strive for historical accuracy. In my first two early historicals set in the 5^th Century and inspired by writings of St. Patrick, I used actual discovered archaeological objects in the stories. On my website, in the Inspiration Galleries, you can see some of them. So far I really haven’t had to bend history in my books.

What are you reading at the moment?

I’ve just finished The Dressmakers of Auschwitz. The true story of women who sewed to survive, by Lucy Adlington.

Can you give novice writers some tips (do’s/don’ts)?

Oh my goodness. So many. But probably the best advice I could give would be: Develop a thick skin. Be prepared to accept constructive criticism and learn from it.

What are your future plans as an author?

To write more books!

Thank you…