Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I’m a creative soul. My art has taken many routes through the years, but I’ve always loved writing. Journaling and writing poetry have helped me through some very difficult times. I started writing fiction seriously when I had to retire from my work as a floral designer due to continued disability from multiple sclerosis. Even though I have limitations and wrote most of my books on an iPad with one finger, I poured myself into writing my series, By the Light of the Moon. In a way, it’s been therapeutic. The fourth book, Harvest Moon, releases this November.
I have a background in library science, cultural missions, music, and psychology. I am also a wife, mom of two grown sons, and a grandma. My husband and I, along with our pet Yorkie, Ruby, live in Wisconsin in the U.S.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘SILVER MOON’ book?
I knew next to nothing about Canada’s involvement in WWI. Using some valuable websites and books, I researched as the story of the characters unfolded. My impared physical abilities are always a challenge, as well.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Being a voracious reader, I have encountered many styles of writing, but I’d have to say that it goes back to my reading as a girl with the Anne of Green Gables series, by L.M. Montgomery, which touched my heart and inspired me in many ways.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite location in the U.S. is by Lake Superior. My love affair with the Great Lake began when I was a girl and visited my uncle, who lived by the lake. I would join him, strolling along the shore, searching for agates, which he made jewelry from.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I establish the point of view and a premise and begin. After that, it’s all about listening to the characters as they present themselves and researching as necessary.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘SILVER MOON’ book?
I finished the rough draft in a few months and after did some major editing and chopping of scenes. Initially Silver Moon was over 500 pages.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘SILVER MOON’ book to buy?
At this time, on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle. You can also purchase by request at independent book stores. In November 2020, I plan on going wide with distribution for the ebook, and readers should be able to find it wherever ebooks are sold.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘SILVER MOON’?
I had the idea of three soldiers in silhouette with poppies, to represent WWI remembrance, and my book cover designer put it together. The orangish-gray sky represents a depiction of the ravages of war and what the gas clouds may have looked like during some of the battles. The moon is part of the series name but also represents a constant in many of the scenes throughout the book and a story told by a character, which highlights the title, “Silver Moon”.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Momentum plays a big part in writing. When I can hear the characters and keep asking myself where the story is going, writing rolls along smoothly for me. When I’m tired or don’t have time to write like I want to, it can be a challenge. I think of myself as a reader when I write and try not to duplicate anything that I’ve read but give afresh what I can, to the best of my ability as a writer to my readers.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Well, I can’t give anything away, but it does have a twist at the end.
Book Is Available On Amazon
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