What
made you want to become an author?
I
wrote so many short stories during my school years but after I took a different
direction as a career path. I woke up every day hating what I did and decided
to make a change. I began to study history then came up with an idea for my
first book. At that moment I once again found that desire and passion that
I had growing up. I was always told to follow my dreams and even though it was
later than I had wanted, I did just that.
Why
historical fiction?
History
is my passion and one of my many inspirations. I set out to bring different
aspects of it to life for my readers. We can learn so much from the past and if
I can teach others a small part of it then I have succeeded in achieving one of
my goals.
What else inspires you?
I am
very close to my family and even though I had the confidence and willingness to
undertake such a change in my career, they were there alongside me every step
of the way. Their love and support
drives me to take things every further. I collect antiques and holding an
object in my hand and thinking about how much history is attached to it also
inspires me to write.
What
do you think sets you apart from other historical fiction authors?
One of my many goals I set for myself when I wrote
my first book was to bring different aspects of the past to life. I wanted to
be unique and I believe the writing style I use will confirm just that.
How
do you come up with story ideas?
Sometimes
ideas come to me in an instant and sometimes I will study a particular period
of history in depth to come up with a storyline. At present I have made notes
about many other ideas for future books. A few times I have been approached
from people who have a family story they want me to write.
Cecilia
House deals with a very sensitive subject, have you dealt with any criticism
because of that?
As a writer you have to be prepared to deal with a
certain amount of criticism however there have been certain people and
organizations who don’t want some aspects of the past to be spoken or written about.
This particular subject was upsetting to write but someone needed to be their
voice and speak for them when long ago not many were willing to do so. If I
provided only a small portion of the research I conducted to those who question
my motives, I am sure most of them would change their way of thinking.
What
was the most difficult thing you encountered when writing this book?
I knew once I decided to write it I would come
across some disturbing stories and I was absolutely correct in my assumptions.
The children who suffered at the hands of those whose responsibility it was to
care and protect them were scared beyond belief while it was occurring but they
were just as afraid many years later. You can look into the eyes of a sad child
in one of the many very old photos of them from the 1930s and you can
immediately see the pain and sadness in their eyes.
Was
it easier to write a book that was based near your hometown?
It was easier from the standpoint of the research
because I was able to visit the town and meet the locals. The beginning of the
book is set from a city about 15 minutes from me and I grew up spending a lot
of time there so I already knew so much about the history of it. Being able to
drive through the streets and seeing the old homes helped me provide my readers
with a glimpse into life in the late 1930s.
What
have you given up to become a writer?
I gave
up living the life most people do, I invested most of my money to publish my
first book. My social life ended and it took 8 years before I was able to take
a holiday. It made me a better person and I regret none of it.
What
advice would you give to young writers?
Be
in it for the long haul, nothing happens overnight. Believe in yourself and use
any negative feedback you receive to help you become a better writer.
Are
you available for events such as book signings and book clubs?
Sure! I love getting out there and meeting with new
people and talking about my books. Unfortunately like everyone else I have been
confined to my home but with the wonders of technology I use Skype, WhatsApp
and Facebook to connect with my readers.
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