Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live on the stunning Isle of Wight and was Teacher of the Deaf. Now each morning I walk my dog on beaches or downs, whatever the weather. Then I write , eat, write , eat, check the internet and look after the family. I like to think of myself going to Pilates and swimming and in reality I like to watch films , read and eat.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my book is ‘Free to Be Tegan’. It was inspired by my upbringing in a strict religious sect and research into the effects of an upbringing in High Demand Groups. The setting is inspired by a holiday in the wonderful Cambrian Mountains in Wales.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Probably the most unusual habit I have is creeping out of bed in the middle of the night,( trying not to wake my husband) rummaging around for my glasses ,and then going into another room to write down ideas that have come to me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I enjoy to read books with strong characters such as Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice ; a good detective such as a Wexford by Ruth Rendell ; one that can me into someone elses world and experience, like Sarah Dunant ‘Sacred Hearts ‘, The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult or The Island by Victoria Hislop,; or somtimes I just need a laugh and re read a P G Woodhouse. I guess , without me realising it, all these must influence me in dofferent ways!
What are you working on now?
I am writing my second novel set in Wales, in Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula. The theme is secrets and lies.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am very new to this. So far the most effective methid has been word of mouth, this includes many, many e mails and distributing post cards about my book to anyone looking my way!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Find time to read books in the genre you are writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I think the best thing I was told was to write about characters and subject matter you really care about. This will sustain you through the long haul that is novel writing.
What are you reading now?
I am reading The Two of Us by Andy Jones
What’s next for you as a writer?
I think next will be book number three!
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?
If i was on a desert island I would want novels I could escape into like Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin or The Rector’s Wife, by Joanna Trollop, the Miss Marple collection by Agatha Christie ( that might be cheating) and I think a book of poetry by Dylan Thomas.
Author Websites and Profiles
Mary Grand Amazon Profile
Mary Grand’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account