The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
First of all, I fell in love with the title of this book. And, after reading the synopsis I just knew it was for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey with Arthur Pepper as he gets to know himself, his late wife, and his two kids while embarking on the adventure of a life time. An adventure that has him following one clue after another as he heals and discovers much more than he anticipated. Loved it! Phaedra has two other novels currently and I read those after this one.
I interviewed Phaedra Patrick on this website in June 2019. You’ll want to check that out too! –Camilla
Today we welcome Katrina Heart as we travel to the east of England and we learn how cats, magical meetings, daisy chains, and walks with her granddad are a part of Katrina’s past, present and how she marches to the beat of her own drum. Hear it? Let’s read on …
Tell us a bit about yourself. How many published books do you have and in which genre do you write?
Thank you for having me, Camilla. I’m Katrina but most people call me Katie. I live in the east of England with my two cats Smokey and Holly and my mum. I started off writing Epic- Fantasy and later discovered I enjoy writing romance. Currently I have published two full length fantasy novels called Finding Destiny released in 2015 and The Lost Town of Man’s Crossing released in 2019. I have also published a short story called The Naked Sleepwalker’s Christmas and two romance novella, Love in Little Snow and The Flower Angel.
What is the most crazy and inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?
The craziest and inspiring thing that has ever happened to me was meeting my boyfriend. See back in 2015 was the release of Finding Destiny by Pilrig press. It was my first book and so as an author I was discovering a whole new world of marketing including Goodreads groups. I joined one where authors could put their book in a pool and readers could pick one to read. To be honest I was very shy with how it worked, but looking down the pool, I got enchanted by a book called 3SISTERS. It really called to me so I chose to read it and enjoyed it, expressing that to the author. Later I read his other book and it was good too and he emailed me to thank me for the review I’d posted on Goodreads. After we got talking and we shared a lot in common, we loved to write, had a romantic side and were both creative. So that Christmas I wrote a story for him. It was the first time I’d written a story for someone and I remember I felt very shy sending it. But I was pleased he liked it and then he wrote me a letter asking me out and four years on we are still very much in love. It was magical because our books brought us together from different sides of the world. But since then I’ve had the pleasure of meeting his parents who came all the way from India and they are truly beautiful people. I feel blessed to know them. See releasing Finding Destiny brought me the joy of being a writer and meeting the love of my life.
If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do?
Hmm! Now this is a hard one, I can’t pick just one, so I’d have to hope I’d get to be two characters. First is Missy Talk A lot from Finding Destiny because she starts life in a dark place and has to fight for a life where I don’t think she truly knows if she’s good or not and then her life changes and she grows into a whole other person. If I were Missy Talk A Lot, I’d want to be gifted to someone who loves horror movies and just as the intense screaming scene starts jump up and say ‘Hello Cutie Pie, welcome to your worst nightmare!’
Secondly, I’d choose Suzy from The Lost Town of Man’s Crossing. Suzy has lived a human life and has a deep connection with the next one. She carries around guilt, pain and secrets and yet she is gifted with a crossing creature to give her a chance of redemption from the darkness in her soul. If I were Suzy, I’d go in to a dream with my crossing creature and watch one of my favorite memories with my Nan and Granddad and I play out from when my Nan was still on this earth as I miss her with all my heart.
If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?
I’d ask my cat, Smokey: 1) why don’t you like the Ginger cat that visits your garden? 2) Why do you like jumping at people when they are walking down the stairs? 3) Why do you only like one brand, one flavor of that brand of food?
What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?
My spirit animal would be a cat because they march to their own drum; they like people with good energy and can tell those not so friendly. When a cat gives you love, attention, or affection it’s because they see something in you worth their heart’s time and you can always trust a cat to be honest to you and be themselves without worry what others think of them. Like cats, I value those I love and believe in honesty.
What are you currently reading?
Sleigh Bells in the Snow by Sarah Morgan and a few other books.
What do you miss about being a kid?
I miss all the time I spent with my cat Fluffy. He would snooze in my dolls pram while I pushed it around the living room, and he used to snuggle with me all night. He was very special and had a way of always making me feel better and understood. I also miss making daisy chains and look about my Nan’s garden for fairies. Also walking with my granddad and his dog Max in the evening because spending time with those I love has always meant a lot to me.
Do you journal write or keep a personal diary? Has this helped with your published writings? If so, how?
I do write a personal diary and always have since a very young age. I feel it does help me with my novels because writing a diary helps open up my sense of emotions when writing. So when it comes to writing emotional scenes with my characters, I am able to better express their emotional reactions.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
Halloween was the last movie I watched. I chose to watch it because my boyfriend and I like watching horror movies on our movie night.
Tell us about your most recent book.
My latest novel, The Lost Town of Man’s Crossing, was published on 3rd March 2019. It’s an epic fantasy about a woman named Suzy and the crossing Creature that give her a chance to live again in the new world. But this world has many dark secrets to uncover. Suzy must face her past and discover those secrets before her stay in this new land runs out.
Thank you Katie for joining us on MTA! It was great to learn more about you and your writings. What a magical story of how you and your boyfriend met one another! Here’s to your continued success and a lifetime of love with your charming boyfriend. –Camilla
Blurb:
Would you cross a land of magic, dark creatures and hidden secrets to face your own deepest fear?
After being shot, Suzy and her friend, Bill, are offered a second chance at life in The Lost Town Of Man’s Crossing, a land to which the chosen few are transported by their personal Crossing Creatures. There, Suzy encounters the evil Cole, who is all-out to gain the highest power of the land.
But Suzy comes from a magical family: her grandmother, Miss Hollow, founded a coven called Hollow-Wings, and her grandfather left her a secret, life changing pouch. Soon, Cole craves that secret pouch more than anything.
It’s Suzy versus Cole – and one of them has met their match.
My name is Katrina Hart but my friends call me Katie. I live in the East of England with my family, my two cats–Holly and Smokey–and our dog, Jessie. They are a nutty bunch but I love them all the same.
I have always had a passion for reading. I could easily spend a whole lifetime
engrossed in a good book. In my twenties I joined an online writing class where I fell in love with writing my own stories.
Since I started writing I have discovered a new love for quotes. A quote that really inspired me was from Toni Morrison. Toni said: “If there’s a book you really want to read but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”
I came across this quote whilst I was studying. It was one of the many things that inspired me to begin writing Finding Destiny, my first novel.
In addition to Finding Destiny, I’ve written a number of other stories.
Snippet of a chapter from Katrina Hart’s latest release The Lost Town Of Man’s Crossing:
Prologue
I pressed the black button and waited to be let into Myths Retirement Home. I felt excited and nervous to see my grandad on his seventy eighth birthday. One of the frazzled looking carers pushed open the door and led me into a white waiting area.
“Your grandad has been talking about you nonstop, he can’t wait to see you!” she said, flashing me a reassuring smile. I followed the carer towards his closed door.
A bubble of excitement made its way to my heart at the thought of hearing grandad’s stories of the battles he had fought, and the adventures I should take. I slipped off my coat, and his carer pushed open the door to his room and announced that “I had arrived.”
I hurried inside grandad’s plainly furnished room. His high backed chair was facing a large window and for a moment I wondered if he could see the leafy man of spring, who he always told me appeared through the trees, like the face of a worldly man ready to see life start up again after the harsh deaths of winter. Grandad always told me he felt like the leafy man as he watched the world move around him from his chair.
“One hour, then you must go,” said his carer and she pulled the door shut, leaving us alone. I pulled out grandad’s present from my bag and walked round to stand in front of him.
“Grandad-happy birthday,” I said.
“Suzy, child, come sit. I have something to tell you,” said grandad. His wrinkled eyes met mine as I leaned down and gave him a hug, before taking the chair beside him.
“Child, you have to listen to me, and listen well. Today I have seen your life is about to change. Something dark has shadowed you since you were small. Now I can see it’s coming for you,” said Grandad. He coughed weakly and rested his travelled face in his hands.
“I know, grandad, but the black shadow been gone for a long time now,” I said, as he closed his eyes like he didn’t want to listen to me anymore.
I waited thinking of my life and how no-matter what I had touched unpleasant things were made to follow. I remembered the first night I had spent at grandad’s, he had sat me down and explained that I was born in a coven. On the night of the visiting dead. Shortly after that night, my mother had fled her coven family. I never knew if that was true or not as I had no memory of
those times. But grandad always swore his life to it whenever he told me the story.
“Child, could you get me that case from my desk over there?” said grandad, breaking me out of my thoughts.
I got up and laid his present on his lap and then went over to his desk. I picked up grandad’s worn brown case; as I did so I felt something sway from inside.
“Child, don’t be scared, you know I have always looked out for you.” Grandad stumbled to his feet and took his case from my hands, then he faced it towards me.
My heart skipped beats and my body and mind screamed “run.” But from what? Was there any point in running anymore? I tried to find my voice as the latch of the case clicked apart, and grandad’s fingers shook as he swung it open.
“I call Miss Cridwyn to join me in this room. I beg of her to gift Suzy with the last creature of new beginnings,” bellowed grandad.
My mouth opened and black and orange mist flew about the room like a tornado circling grandad. The room felt as hot as an open oven and sweat pooled down my back and face. The mist started to clear, and I could have sworn I heard growling, like a rampaged dog had been let in. Grandad’s face came back into view and the growling got louder and louder. I looked into the orange flashing eyes of the critter. Her pointed ears twitched and her blue and pink skin seemed to pulsate as she flapped her black wings.
“Child, Cridwyn is an outcast creature of death. We have loved each other for a long time. Now she is going to help you,” said grandad as he blew her a kiss.
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Today we welcome D A Nelson as we travel to Loch Lomond Scotland to learn how a big desk, a blackbird, knitting, Wacky Races, and Edith Nesbit play roles in D A Nelson’s life and imagination. Stretch out, get comfortable, and read on …
Where do you live and which genre do you write?
I live near Loch Lomond in Scotland.
I write both fiction and non-fiction for adults and kids. My kids’ books are the fiction fantasy trilogy DarkIsle, DarkIsle: Resurrection and DarkIsle: The Final Battle plus my non-fiction book, A Children’s History of Glasgow. For adults, I’ve got my adventure romance, Dusting Down Alcudia (this is the first in a series of novels starring a female archaeologist, the second one is due out this year), and the dark comedy, Everything She Wants.
How many published books do you have?
Six so far. Many more to come!
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?
The simple answer to that is when I learned to read. I’ve always loved books and reading, and have wanted to be a writer since I was about eight and realised this was something a person could do. As a kid I used to write and illustrate my own books. I’ve kept them all and they are funny to read. Let’s just say I am a much better writer than an illustrator!
What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?
Ooh, that’s an interesting question. Let me think. Well, I have a lovely big desk to write on, but don’t use it. Instead I prefer writing on our dining room table. I think it’s because there’s more room to stretch out – if you know what I mean. Plus I can keep a better eye on the kids!
What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?
My spirit animal would be a blackbird because I think they are such funny little birds with a beautiful song. We have some that nest in our garden and I love watching them as they hop about the garden.
What does your ideal writing space look like?
A huge library in an ancient castle packed full of leather bound books, large comfortable leather reading chairs and a huge fireplace where I would sit to stare into the flames and make up stories. My desk would be one of those large, antique desks with a comfortable chair. On top of the desk would be a bell which I would ring for the butler to bring me tea.
What are you currently reading?
A World Gone Mad, Astrid Lindgren’s wartime diaries. A really good and interesting book.
What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?
I take my dogs out a walk, I look after my kids. I’m currently doing an Open University degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, which I am loving, so that takes up a fair bit of time. In the evening, I like to knit in front of the television.
If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?
I would want a date with Edith Nesbit and I’d ask her where she got her energy from to write all the stories, articles and books she did. I loved E Nesbit books as a kid, I think I’ve read them all at least twice! I’d love to chat to her about reading and writing.
Do you journal write or keep a personal diary?
No, but I do keep an ideas book, which has some crazy ideas for stories in it.
What is the most inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?
I won the 2018 Royal Mail Book Awards for Scottish Children’s Books in 2018. It was for DarkIsle. I was really, really pleased to have won it, not just because of the winning, but because it was an award voted for by kids. I could hardly speak when I went up to collect my award, I was that surprised and emotional. Anyone that knows me will tell you I am never short of words!
You are about to speak publicly to a group and read from your latest book. What do you do to prepare yourself?
I get very, very nervous. I really don’t like being in the limelight like that, so I do a lot of deep breathing to calm my nerves.
What do you miss about being a kid?
Having no responsibilities and being able to read all day, every day.
If you were trapped in a cartoon world from your childhood, which one would you choose and why?
Wacky Races because I always wanted to be Penelope Pitstop. I thought she was so pretty when I was wee.
If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do?
I would turn into Morag from DarkIsle for the day because she’s immersed in a world of magic, with talking animals and wizards and witches. I think that would be fascinating.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
The new How to Train Your Dragon. I watched it because me and my kids love the series of films. I love the idea of dragons, so much so that there’s a dragon in my DarkIsle trilogy.
A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?
He would check the address with me and once I told him he was in the right place, he would whistle to his companions and all the Penguin Mariachi Band would enter my house. They would be there to provide the music for my Mexican themed party,
If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?
Do you love me or are you just sucking up because I feed you? What is it that you dream about? Is dog food as rank as it looks?
Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?
My imagination because without it I couldn’t write books. I have a pretty healthy imagination, which is why I don’t watch horror films or tv series – I would never sleep again if I did. Every bump, creak and swishing sounds would be a zombie or a serial killer trying to break into my house.
What’s your favourite place to visit in your country and why?
Glen Coe because it’s truly amazing and awe inspiring. You learn just how insignificant humans truly are when you are standing in the glen looking up at those huge mountains. You should go there some day, it’s beautiful.
Describe the perfect solo date you’d take yourself on … where, time of day, weather, place, etc.
I would take myself to Sir Walter Scott’s house in the Scottish Borders and spend a happy day wandering around his house. I’m a big fan of his novels. I’d then go for a nice lunch where I’d eat a delicious two course meal (three course would be just too much for me) and wine with a companion who loves books and reading as much as I do. So, we’d sit and discuss novels we were reading and finish the day with wine in front of an open fire at a five star hotel. Sorry, I know you said a solo date, but I hate to eat alone.
Tell us about your most recent book.
Everything She Wants is a new dark comedy starring the bored and put upon housewife, Susan. She decides there’s more to life than housework, her bullying husband and selfish teen daughter, so she runs away to join a Wham tribute act. There’s the chance of happiness with a new man, if only she could get around his huge ego.
Thank you for joining us on MTA! It was an incredible pleasure to learn more about you and your books! – Camilla
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Today we welcome Justin Newland as we travel to South West England to discover how supernatural forces, the ancient land of China, pillars of historical record, and The Bridge over the River Kwai become the foundation and walls of Justin’s writing. Take three deep breaths, we’re going deep into the secret history of the supernatural forces that shaped the modern world …..
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born during the last embers of 1953. I was awarded a Ph.D. in Maths from Imperial College, London, England in 1981 and I live with my partner in plain sight of the Mendip Hills, South West England.
In which genre do you write?
I write historical fantasy; in particular, secret histories in which historical events and people are guided and motivated by supernatural and numinous forces.
What books have you published?
My debut novel, The Genes of Isis (2018), is a tale of love, destruction, and ephemeral power set under the skies of Ancient Egypt. It is a secret history of the origins of the human race, Homo Sapiens Sapiens.
The Old Dragon’s Head (2018) is my second novel and is set in Old China during the Ming Dynasty against the background of a bitter war of succession for the Emperor’s throne; it narrates the secret history of the supernatural forces that shaped the modern world.
What inspired you to write The Old Dragon’s Head?
I have long been intrigued by the ancient land of China. I was fascinated by the Chinese people’s overriding belief in the supernatural, something that shot through the whole of their society from Emperor to wood gatherer. There’s the pervasive mystery of the Bagua, the mysterious eight trigrams of the I Ching, the book of divination. There’s the Tao, and its enigmatic adherent, Lao Tzu, riding on an ox. Then there’s the stoic wisdom of Mencius and Confucius. Into the mix, put the great religious beliefs of Buddhism, and all their colourful and obscure ceremonies. All in all, China remains an enigma, even unto its own people. And long may it remain so!
The Old Dragon’s Head is not fiction. It’s a real place. The Great Wall of China is home to a supernatural beast – the Old Dragon or Laolong. And just beyond the fortress of Shanhaiguan, the far eastern end of the wall protrudes into the Bohai Sea – that’s the Old Dragon’s Head or Laolongtou.
The fortress of Shanhaiguan, which means mountain-sea pass, was built by the Hongwu Emperor in the 1380, to bridge the gap between the Yanshan Mountains and the Bohai Sea.
The novel is not only about physical walls and boundaries; it’s about meta-physical, psychological and supernatural ones.
Curiously, my inspiration to write the book came after writing a short story, Vallum Hadriana, about another wall, this one much nearer to home – Hadrian’s Wall.
What are you currently working on?
The Coronation is my work in progress; it’s set during the Enlightenment and reveals the secret history of what is perhaps the single most influential event in modern times – the Industrial Revolution.
What are you currently reading?
The House of Spirits by Isabel Allende.
I like to base my books in the historical record. They become the pillars of reality around which I like to weave the fantastical, supernatural elements of the story. This format is quite close to Magical Realism, which is why I’m reading The House of Spirits.
What is the most enjoyable thing you’ve found through writing?
Meeting interesting and helpful people – this is most definitely an unexpected, but added bonus of being a writer. Through marketing and promotion of my work, I’ve met all sorts of people, all with their stories to tell, people I would never have met were it not for writing.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
The Bridge over the River Kwai directed by David Lean.
Alec Guinness won an Oscar for the portrayal of the lead character, Lieutenant Colonel Nicholson. I love the moral ambiguity of the Colonel’s actions: at one level, he is disciplining his troops, and following good British Army policy, on another, larger level, he’s actually thwarting the war effort of his own side. He is not unique; he is one of us, and to my mind his character reveals the moral dilemma of the human condition. At one level, we are doing just fine, on another level….?
Justin Newland with copies of his books. Picture: MARK ATHERTON
Thank you for joining us on MTA Justin! I find your books fascinating and am adding them to my ‘to be read’ list. It was a great pleasure and joy to learn more about you and your writing. -Camilla
Back cover blurb:
Constructed of stone and packed earth, the Great Wall of 10,000 li protects China’s northern borders from the threat of Mongol incursion. The wall is also home to a supernatural beast: the Old Dragon. The Old Dragon’s Head is the most easterly point of the wall, where it finally meets the sea.
In every era, a Dragon Master is born. Endowed with the powers of Heaven, only he can summon the Old Dragon so long as he possess the dragon pearl.
It’s the year 1400, and neither the Old Dragon, the dragon pearl, nor the Dragon Master, has been seen for twenty years. Bolin, a young man working on the Old Dragon’s Head, suffers visions of ghosts. Folk believe he has yin-yang eyes and other paranormal gifts. When Bolin’s fief lord, the Prince of Yan, rebels against his nephew, the Jianwen Emperor, a bitter war of succession ensues in which the Mongols hold the balance of power. While the victor might win the battle on earth, China’s Dragon Throne can only be earned with a Mandate from Heaven – and the support of the Old Dragon.
Bolin embarks on a journey of self-discovery, mirroring Old China’s endeavour to come of age. When Bolin accepts his destiny as the Dragon Master, Heaven sends a third coming of age – for humanity itself. But are any of them ready for what is rising in the east?
Where to buy the books:
Both books are available from Waterstones, and are available as paperback or e-books from good online bookstores such as Wordery or Amazon.
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Today we welcome Jane E James as we travel to Cambridgeshire countryside to learn how a farm, a huge bay window, long country walks, a rescue donkey, and the Yorkshire Moors are a part of Jane’s life. Get your walking shoes on, let’s go …
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a best-selling author, creating chilling reads that appeal to fans of psychological thrillers, mysteries and dark fiction. I love to weave tense and haunting tales that stay in the reader’s mind. All my books are standalone novels.
I recently signed a two-book publishing deal after my 2nd novel, The Crying Boy (a compelling suspense thriller inspired by actual events) became an overnight best seller on Amazon, knocking both Stephen King and Dean Koontz off the top suspense spot.
When I’m not writing (or reading) I enjoy living ‘the good life’ in the
Cambridgeshire countryside with my ‘all-action-super-hero’ hubby. Rebecca, Carrie, The Woman in Black and Wuthering Heights are among some of my favourite reads. You can catch up with me on facebook and twitter. But make sure you bring Monster Munch and wine…
In which genre do you write?
I am a writer of psychological thrillers, mysteries and dark fiction.
How many published books do you have?
Three standalone novels and a short story
When did you first realise you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?
As a girl, I loved all things books and would read for hours. The progression to writing was a natural one. Sadly, I didn’t receive much encouragement, even at school. My English teacher accused me of cheating and failed an essay of mine, claiming my writing was too advanced for my age. It was a set-back, but I didn’t let it put me off. The opposite was true. It made me want to prove everyone wrong.
What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?
I still work full time (on a farm, would you believe?) so I sacrifice most of my spare time to write. Luckily for me, my all-action-super-hero-hubby is in the army reserves so is away quite a lot and therefore I get plenty of time on my own to write.
What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?
I lost my little dog a month or so ago and still miss him dearly. Not having a dog curled up around my feet while I write feels alien to me. He was very old, almost blind and completely deaf and I would choose him as my mascot.
What does your ideal writing space look like?
Old-worldly. A library full of dusty books, leather furniture and a huge bay window overlooking parkland and woods. My actual space is very different although I do have a wonderful view of the countryside. Nothing but fields.
What are you currently reading?
Poison Orchids by Sarah Denzil and Anni Taylor. Sarah is a friend of mine and I am a big fan of her work.
What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?
In the winter I like to curl up in front of a log fire with a glass of red wine, that sort of thing and go on long country walks. I am a country girl at heart and always have been. I am most at home in muddy wellies, no make-up and a checked shirt. But I can glam up when needed. Lol.
If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?
I don’t even have to think about this one. I would have afternoon tea on the lawn at Manderley with Daphne du Maurier and I would ask her who she based Rebecca on.
What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?
I’ve toughened up since I wrote my debut novel. When I got my first bad review, I was so upset I didn’t want to get out of bed but now I cope much better. In fact, I welcome all kind of reviews as I think they lend authenticity to your ratings.
What’s the strangest thing you’ve done or experienced to help create a scene?
For The Butcher’s Daughter, I visited slaughterhouses and butcher shops to get a sense of what these places are like. What I saw and heard there changed my mindset forever. As a result, I became a vegetarian and after reading the first two chapters of my book, hubby quickly followed suit.
Do you journal write or keep a personal diary? Has this helped with your published writings? If so, how?
No to all the above. I am a note taker and take a little notebook with me everywhere. I keep it by my bed, with me at work, and even in the loo!
What is the most amusing, crazy or inspiring thing that has ever happened to you
Hubby adopted me a rescue donkey for Xmas and I was so touched, I cried for days. He’s a keeper. So is my donkey, Billy O.
You are about to speak publicly to a group and read from your latest book. What song do you listen to before speaking? Or, what do you do to prepare yourself?
I am usually a bag of nerves beforehand. Gives me the shivers just thinking about it…I don’t listen to music, that would put me off, I just keep rehearsing what I am going to say and remind myself that people are nice and want me to do well.
What do you miss about being a kid?
A sense of freedom and lack of fear. I used to ride wild ponies, climb trees and swim in rivers. I think I was always a bit of a loner though and would tramp the countryside for hours on my own with a trusty dog or two. I miss my parents too. You never get over the loss of them. I would give anything to go back for one more day.
If you were trapped in a cartoon world from your childhood, which one would you choose and why?
I would be Muttley from Wacky Races. People tell me I laugh just like him. I have included the link below so you can judge for yourself.
If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do?
Most of my female characters are not that nice, or they are nice but end up doing terrible things. The males tend to fair better! Hmm difficult one. I think I would have to choose Venetia from The Long Weekend. Poor kid. If I were to become her for a day, I would make that day count and make sure she had the nicest time possible to make up for all the bad stuff that happened to her.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
Mama Mia 2. Again! It’s my go-to feel good movie. Love a good singalong.
A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?
WTF? Okay roll with this one, Jane. Oh, I know. He would say ‘You did everything penquinly possible amigo,’ then hand me some tortilla chips.
Do you believe things happen for a reason? Do you have an example from your own life to share why you believe this?
No. I am afraid I do not. I think life is what you make it, made up of good choices, bad choices with some good and bad luck thrown in. Although my work often contains supernatural elements, I am not a believer.
Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?
I am not a quitter. I first wrote The Butcher’s Daughter ten years ago as a screenplay and it came close to being optioned, but in the end the producer decided to go with another project that became a big hit. Was I gutted? Of course, I was. But I didn’t give up. I turned the story into a novel instead.
What’s your favourite place to visit in your country and why?
The Yorkshire Moors. When I was a child, I spent most of my summers in Yorkshire or Wales (my mother was Welsh, and dad was a straight-talking no-nonsense Yorkshireman). I set The Crying Boy in Yorkshire and The Butcher’s Daughter in Wales. The Yorkshire moors are one of the most beautiful and most haunting places on earth.
Describe the perfect solo date you’d take yourself on … where, time of day,weather, place, etc.
A picnic in the woods in springtime with a good book and a chilled bottle of pinot grigio.
Tell us about your most recent book.
My latest book, The Butcher’s Daughter was published by Bloodhound Books on May 13th . It is a tense and haunting psychological thriller with some horror elements thrown in. It is my favourite piece of work to date and took two years to complete as it went through several re-writes.
Thank you Jane for joining us on MTA. It was great having you here and learning more about you and your writing style. –Camilla
Book Blurb:
When Natalie Powers returns home for the first time in thirteen years, she must convince everyone she has fully recovered from the mental illness, which has seen her institutionalised for most of her young life.
But instead of being welcomed back, Natalie enters a baffling world of deception. She must fight her way through the lies in order to discover the truth about her mother’s sudden disappearance sixteen years earlier. To do this, Natalie must also try to make sense of the hazy memories from the past that continue to haunt her.
In the village of Little Downey, everybody appears to harbour a mysterious secret, including her father, Frank, the village butcher, who refuses to discuss the circumstances surrounding Natalie’s mother’s disappearance, but who can Natalie trust if not her own father? Especially when it becomes clear her protector and confidante, Dr Moses, is not all he appears.
Meanwhile, a spate of unexplained clifftop suicides has seen the seaside resort go into decline. Are the villagers somehow involved or is something more sinister at work?
Determined to find out what happened to her mother, Natalie must make sure her own frailty and self-doubt does not catapult her back to the mental institution before she can uncover the truth…
Where to find the book.
Waterstones and other online bookstores as well as Amazon.
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Top Three Countries With the Most Traffic to Meeting the Authors in July 2019:
Thank you for taking the time to read more about these authors and sharing the interviews on this website. A great deal of work goes into these interviews by the authors and by me. Deep gratitude! –Camilla
Today we welcome Jennifer Bohnet as we travel to the Mediterranean coast in the depths of Finistere, Brittany in France discovering how a quirky cottage, a utility room, the Cote d’Azur, Coco Chanel, and Ernest Hemingway have roles in Jennifer’s life and imagination. We’re stepping into the jazz age with this one, let’s go …
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Villa of Sun and Secrets was published by Boldwood Books on 8th August.
In which genre do you write?
I write contemporary women’s fiction – sometimes with unexpected themes.
How many published books do you have?
Villa of Sun and Secrets is my 13th!
What does your ideal writing space look like?
Ooh this is fantasy right? I’d have one of those lovely wooden cabins you can buy now built in the garden and have it kitted out with lots of bookshelves, an old fashioned wooden desk with a leather top, comfy Lloyd Loom chairs, a bean to cup coffee machine and a really comfy dog bed for Django our collie and Gus our cat to snuggle up together in. In real life my writing space is in a converted room at the back of our quirky cottage that doubles up as a utility room.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading two books – one is a non fiction book about writing – The Science of Storytelling by Will Storr which I have to say is fascinating and informative. The novel I’m currently reading is Rosanna Ley’s, Her Mother’s Secret which is set in Brittany where I live but much further down off the coast of Morbihan.
What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?
I read, walk with my husband, Django our collie dog and Gus the cat, in the countryside around our cottage and I like having friends to lunch. But I mainly write!
If you could have a fantasy date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?
I’m fascinated by the history of the Cote d’Azur in the late 1920s and 30s so I’d like a party in the Provencal Hotel, Juan-les-Pins with guests from that period. Cole Porter, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, Picasso and all their friends. I’d interrogate them about what it was really like to be down there during the jazz age – lots of questions about the supposedly wild parties that were held. And then I’d write my definitive Riviera novel using all the gossip they’d told me.
Do you journal write or keep a personal diary?
I keep thinking I ought to start a journal – or at the very least a gratitude diary but somehow I never get around to it.
What is the most crazy and inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?
The most crazy thing I’ve – we’ve – ever done has to be getting on our bikes and riding down through France – and not going home. It has also turned out to be the most inspiring for my writing.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
My Old Lady starring three of my favourite actors – Maggie Smith, Kristen Scott Thomas and Kevin Kline. It’s set in Paris and has a brilliant script.
If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?
I’d ask Django 1. Why do you bark when there is nobody at the door? 2. Why do you steal my washing off the rack? 3. Why do you take up so much room on our bed every night. (Of course I already know the answers: because he’s an attention seeking collie puppy!
What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?
I love beaches and the seaside out of season. The old Port of Roscoff up on the north coast of Brittany is a favourite place to visit in winter.
Thank you Jennifer for being a part of MTA! Congratulations on your 13th book being published! I love that you and your husband went on a bike ride and never went home! HA! Brilliant! And now I’ve requested the Science of Storytelling and My Old Lady from the library. I adore Maggie Smith. All the best to you! –Camilla
Blurb for Villa of Sun and Secrets
Carla Sullivan’s 50th birthday is fast approaching when her whole world is turned upside down. Discovering her feckless husband is having yet another affair and following her mother’s death, she is in need of an escape. Finding an envelope addressed to her mother’s estranged sister Josette in the South of France gives Carla the perfect plan. Seizing the moment, she packs her bags and heads to Antibes to seek out the enigma known as Tante Josette. But as the two women begin to forge a tentative relationship, family secrets start to unravel, forcing Carla to question her life as she has always known it.
Where to find Jennifer’s latest book:
It’s available in all formats from Amazon and other book stores.
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Today we welcome James Gault as we travel to Bize-Minervois in the South-West of France, discovering how the local social group, Emily Bronte, being tone deaf, and the Western Isles in Scotland add a different twist to James Gault’s life and writing style. Leave your superstition at the door and let’s get this plane in the air …
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am Scot who worked for some time in Prague and I now live in a little village called Bize-Minervois in the South-West of France, near the historic town of Carcassonne, retired from work and enjoying the sunshine and writing.
In which genre do you write?
I have to own up to this – I’m a bit all over the place when it comes to genres. My first fiction book was a comic novel for teenagers (Teaching Tania) then I wrote a philosophical novel (Ogg), but my last two books were political thrillers (The Redemption of Ann Petrovna and Best Intelligence), and the one I’m working on now is a tragic love story with some political content. I don’t recommend this scatter gun approach, but I write what comes into my head, based on what is concerning me, and making money or even creating a following is not a big concern for me.
How many published books do you have?
4 novels, one book on literature and several English Language textbooks
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?
More than 60 years a ago, as a kid. In my previous careers I’ve always written something – letters to specialist magazines, articles, textbooks (as a teacher) or just reports on the work I was doing before that (It and management) When I retired, I found time to write more or less full time.
What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?
I have a kind of obsession about being DIFFERENT. I don’t see the point in doing just what others have done before you.
What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?
I’m not in any way superstitious – so I don’t have any idea. I guess that makes me a bit boring?
What does your ideal writing space look like?
A big big table where can I leave a mess but still find things – I’ve got a great ability to concentrate and shut things out when I’m working, so the actual physical environment doesn’t have much effect on me.
What are you currently reading?
Just finished rereading Of Mice and Men and started a detective novel by a Scottish author called William McIlvanney, who was a teacher at my old school and became a top name in Scottish Literature.
What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?
I’m on the committee of a local social group here in France for mostly ex-pats and do most of the IT for them.
If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Emily Bronte, and I would ask her if she really did have an affair with the Brussels professor on whom she based the character in Villette and to whom she wrote all those ‘love’ letters?
What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?
How hard it is to market yourself. I was brought up as a Scottish Presbyterian where the worst thing you could do is to boast, and I feel guilty talking about myself.
What’s the strangest thing you’ve done or experienced to help create a scene or plot?
??? I’ve had a quiet life. The strangest things happen in my head.
Do you journal write or keep a personal diary?
No, I am lazy. I just trust that inspiration will always come when I need it.
What is the most inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?
Two very best things – my first published book and winning a prize for a short story I wrote. Sorry, that’s not a very imaginative response from a writer but there it is.
You are about to speak publicly to a group and read from your latest book. What song do you listen to before speaking? What do you do to prepare yourself?
I’m tone deaf, so music doesn’t work so much for me. I just rehearse what I’m going to say over and over in my head, and then of course I say something completely different.
What do you miss about being a kid?
My gran. She was the one I would always go to with my problems ( and I had a lot then).
If you were trapped in a cartoon world from your childhood, which one would you choose and why?
I would be Dennis the Menace from the Beano – I like to stir things up and cause mischief.
If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do?
This is a total fantasy but I would choose the character Michael from The Redemption of Anna Petrovna. The novel is set in a post-communist country where corruption permeates all the business and ruling classes, and this character is the fixer who makes everything happen for the powers that be. He is also the one that gets the girl. He is nothing like me, but it would be nice to be so successfully manipulative and get away with it for just for one day.
What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?
It was a recent Star Wars movie I went to with my grandkids – The reaction of the children was more entertaining than the film, to be honest.
A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?
It’s too bloody hot in this country – Got any free space in your fridge, pal?
Do you believe things happen for a reason?
I believe events are a result of certain preconditions which logically lead to them. I also believe that often we don’t understand these preconditions, but I don’t turn to fantasy to replace them. Like I said before, I’m a bit boring.
Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?
The ability to concentrate although it drives my wife crazy.
What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?
In my home country of Scotland, any of the Western Isles (on a day when there’s no rain) for their beauty and tranquility. Here in France where I know live, Avingon during the festival in July for the music and drama.
Describe the perfect solo date you’d take yourself on … where, time of day, weather, place, etc.
I’d do something I used to do but I’m too old now. I’d take a little private plane from our local airport and pilot it myself to one of the Scottish Islands and enjoy a few days in the sun and on the beach before flying back.
Tell us about your most recent book.
The most recent is Best Intelligence. It’s political thriller with a big surprising twist at the end. The hero is a cynical Glasgow policeman who leaves his job and moves to France because he feels he is wasting his time. But he picks up a pretty girl hitchhiker and finds himself mixed up in a web of mystery and intrigue.
Thank you James for being a part of MTA. It was wonderful to learn more about you. I have a quirk about doing things different also and I, too, don’t say half of what I practice saying when speaking in front of others – HA! All the best to you! –Camilla
Where we can find it the book:
The e-book and paperback are available on Amazon at:
If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!
And if it feels the thing to do and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …
Super Genes by Deepak Chopra M.D. and Rudolph E. Tanzi Ph.D.
**Throwback to January 2016**
I first read about epigenetics several years ago in Bruce Lipton’s, “Biology of Belief”. This takes it even further with great information about the microbiome and inflammation. GREAT book.
