Q & A

How and when did you start writing?

I started getting lost in stories in high school, but it was another ten years or so before I really got serious about writing—only to discover that I couldn’t decide what kind of book to write. Gothics, science fiction, paranormal, contemporaries, I think I tried them all. Then in my late twenties I wrote my first historical novel, a romance set in the Regency period, and knew I’d found what I was looking for. 

What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

Creating stories and characters that readers remember (hopefully!) long after they’ve finished the book, and hearing someone say that they adored my hero or that one of my stories made them laugh or cry. That’s the best kind of feedback a writer can get.

I’m also thankful for the friends I’ve made along the way. Writing is a solitary business and sometimes you just need to get together with people who share your passion and understand how this crazy business works. I’m happy to say that I’ve met some incredibly talented and truly remarkable women since selling my first book, and they are friendships that endure to this day. 

What do you like least about being a writer?

Feeling that the finished book is never good enough. I constantly revise, but I’ve yet to read one of my published books and find something I haven’t wanted to change. And self promotion. It’s never been a natural fit for me and it’s the reason I’m not “out there” more. But I am working on it!

Where do your ideas come from?

Interestingly enough, they usually spring from a single thought. A chance meeting on a boat. An older man falling in love with a younger woman. An incriminating letter going astray. Once I grab hold of the thought, the idea begins to develop and the characters spring to mind—and once I have my characters, I’m off to the races!   

You’re multi-published in the historical genre. Any desire to try other things?

I wrote two contemporary paranormals for Berkley, which were a lot of fun, so I wouldn’t mind turning my hand to something like that again. But I really enjoy the historicals and have a few projects in mind that really excite me.  

What are some of your favorite books (with authors)?

The Thirteenth Tale - by Diane Setterfield
A Discovery of Witches - by Deborah Harkness
Sunshine and Shadows - by Tom and Sharon Curtis
Winter Solstice - by Rosamunde Pilcher
Harry Potter, the entire series - by J.K. Rowling

What are some of your favorite movies?

Pride and Prejudice - (Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle version)
Love Actually - (because it demonstrates so beautifully, the many wonderful aspects of love) 
The Thomas Crown Affair - (Pierce Brosnan/Rene Russo version)
The Abyss - (because it feeds my fascination with the depths!)

Where is the most romantic place you’ve ever traveled?

Italy. There is a sensuality about the country that cannot be denied. Warm evening breezes on open air terraces, excellent wines, amazing food, and spectacular countryside. And Venice was breathtaking.

Besides writing, what other talent would you most like to have?

The ability to play the guitar like Jesse Cook. The man has magic fingers!

What is the one thing you've always wanted to do, but never had the courage to try?

Hang gliding. I’ve love to experience the sensation of flying, but I don’t know about taking that first step off the mountain…

If you weren’t a writer, what would you be?

Frustrated. 

What quote or personal saying do you live by? 

Live, love, laugh. I’m not sure who said it, but I think it encapsulates what’s important in life.