Page 57 - Reader's HouseMagazine - Issue 62

P assionate, detailed, and suspenseful, this novel delivers unforgettable characters, emotional depth, and
a captivating romance that lingers long after reading..
An ambitious, emotionally layered debut blending romance, intrigue, and cultural tension. Elizabeth’s independence and Prince Michael’s conflicted charm create compelling chemistry. Vivid settings and cross-continental contrasts enrich the narrative, while suspense adds tension, occasionally competing with the romance. Engaging prose and high stakes make it a dramatic, immersive read that promis- es further intrigue in the series for eager returning readers.
Your novels travel across continents and cultures. How important is setting in shaping the emotional and dramatic tone of your stories?
It’s important to me that people feel the enjoyment as well as the fears and adventures of travel. For instance, there are scenes ranging from danger and suspense in the wintery Alps, to tragedy and mysteries in Africa, to fun and awakening in tropical Trinidad, and a mix
of everything throughout different parts of Europe.
As this is your first novel series, what was the most challenging part of writing and publishing your debut work?
It is most challenging to carve out time in between family, work, friends, travel, and a social life. It took me decades of researching and writing to put out the first two books in the series. I have the third and fourth books underway, but it should take a lot less time than the first two books did. After researching what it takes to get a traditional publisher, and also after hearing from many fellow frustrated authors, I decided not to expend my time and energies trying to get an agent, etc. I, instead, spend it on researching and writing the rest
What advice would you give writers who want to create emotionally compelling stories that explore relationships and personal sacrifice?
Live your fullest life. Engage with people. Listen to their stories. Help whenever you can, you too will be the beneficiary. Even if things go wrong, you will still learn something. Feel your feelings with passion. Don’t act as though you are better than everybody, but sure as hell, remember, nobody’s better than you!
How important is perseverance and passion when pursuing a creative career such as writing?
You have to persevere, and be passion-
ate about your work. There will always be distractions, some devastating, even shocking tragedies. But you have to rely on your inner strengths to continue because your creativity
is a healing outlet. Hopefully, not just for
you, but for many of your readers. You can’t always rely on the support of others, and it’s not always your fault. “A prophet is not always recognized in their own home.”
What writing tips would you share with aspiring authors who want to begin crafting their own novels?
Steal time for yourself. Play music before you write to get inspired if you need it, but then get in front of your computer in complete quiet so that the thoughts in your head can explode into stories.
What overall advice would you offer to aspiring writers who hope to publish their work and build a lasting career as an author?
Have faith in yourself and your talent. Be authentic, come from your heart. Expect criti- cism, but don’t let it deter you. It may be com- ing from someone who has been burned and is indulging in bitterness or is just plain envious. There are times you have to grow a thick skin, even though it’s against your inherent nature. “Despite everything, Love reigns above all.”
of my series. Marketing, of course, is always challenging.
“I LOVE PEOPLE... MY CHARACTERS NATURALLY REFLECT THAT NUANCE.” Reader ’s House II 57
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