Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been writing for over three years and have managed to complete six books, four of which I have since self-published. Three of the published books are in the White Rose series, and the fourth, Seeing Red, is a New London book. I have another book coming out in May, which is also a part of the New London books. I like to write about the military and law enforcement, and tie it up with romance. It allows me to draw on my experiences in the Australian Army Reserve and the Royal Australian Air Force, and my love of love!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My upcoming book, Secrets Within, is the second of the New London books and follows on from Seeing Red. This series was inspired by my favourite movie – The Hunt for Red October. While I love the on-board action, I wondered about the families left behind and the other side of the Navy. That brought the characters of Nell and James to life and Seeing Red was the result.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know that I have an unusual writing habits, but I certainly like to drink lots of tea when I’m writing! I do like to have the window open when possible as I love fresh air.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve always loved reading both romance and crime related books (thrillers, mysteries, etc.). When I started to write I didn’t have any particular genre in mind—I simply wrote what I wanted to. It wasn’t until I’d finished my first story that I realised I’d combined the two and written a romance suspense. The ‘Death in…’ books by MM Kaye have probably had the most influence on my writing as they are a great example of romance suspense stories.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the third of the New London books. I wasn’t going to write any more for the series, but when I got to the end of Secrets Within I knew I couldn’t leave it there! This will definitely be the last in the series, especially as I have several more books planned for the White Rose series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find that word of mouth is good. I’ve had many people tell me they want to buy my books because someone they know has read one and told them about it.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up. That is the most important thing to remember. The second most important thing is to allow yourself to write a terrible first draft. Get it down, fix it up later.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Whatever you do, use a professional editor. Best advice by miles!
What are you reading now?
I’m current reading Night School by Lee Child and a Georgette Heyer regency romance (told you I liked to mix the two genres!).
What’s next for you as a writer?
Next up I need to finish the third New London book and then edit the fourth of the White Rose books. There’s not enough hours in the day!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Death in the Andamans by MM Kaye, Precious Time by Erica James, The Hunt by James Phelan, and a book on building canoes from palm fronds which I would use when I wanted a new book to read!
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