Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi I am a writer of historical fiction. So far, I have self published two books, as part of a saga called A Celtic Trilogy. The first Elen, is set in the early 19th century and tells of a woman convict who has been sent to Van Dieman’s land. The second book, Alice’s Secret, tells of the next generation of the family. I am currently writing the third book, set to be released March/April 2017.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Alice’s Secret was written initially as a sequel to Elen, but has a standalone quality to it. Alice and Tommy Jameson live on their farm in Tasmania with their three children when their eldest daughter Sara goes missing. This has a profound effect on the family, and was inspired by a magazine article I read on the subject of missing persons and the people that are left behind to grieve.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love to write with the TV playing in the next room (not loud tho). Writing can be an isolating profession, so I like knowing that the world is still existing outside the world of my books!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love Stephen King. He is a master a character formation. Also, Elizabeth Gilbert’s book The Signature of All Things had an impact, and I loved Hannah Kent’s Burial Rites.
What are you working on now?
My third book in A Celtic Trilogy. Its leads up to WW1 and is set in England and France, and is the next generation of the family. Its to be called Harry’s Game although that may change !
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use my blog and Facebook at the moment, but am always looking for different means of promotion.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I think the best advice is to just write, write and write again, Writing every day is ideal as it keeps the creative juices flowing. Also, always have a pen and paper handy next to your bed for unexpected ideas.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To believe in yourself, even on days when you doubt your ability. I find family and friends are good to bounce ideas off, but never think that their advice is everything; get inspiration from everywhere!
What are you reading now?
I have just finished Hop Farm by Peggy Frew which I loved. The next one on my shelf to read is The Invitation by Lucy Foley.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to finish the Third book in A Celtic Trilogy, and I’m also writing a murder mystery set in my home town in south Wales (where I’m originally from). I also have lots of notes on my mother’s childhood stories during WW2 which I’m thinking of making into a work of fiction
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?
I would take the Narnia stories by CS Lewis, a couple of Stephen King’s plus a mix of historical fiction works (Philippa Gregory, Fiona MacIntosh, Tracey Chevalier). I also like crime thrillers such as Michael Robotham, Val McDermid…. I think that’s more than enough, I’ll need a suitcase!
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