Where did you grow up? What are some of your favorite memories growing up?
I grew up as a Palestinian in Beirut, Lebanon. I came to the United as a college student in 1961.
Did you have any fears/doubts while writing your first book?
No, I was not. I was and still am committed to my subjects.
What are some important things to remember when writing historical romance? How difficult it is to stay true to the facts?
Just like any other novel, it should be unique but plausible.
What inspired you to earn degrees in journalism?
My father. He was a journalist.
What are some responsibilities that come with being an activist? How do you think it has impacted your writing?
It has directly impacted my writing as the themes I chose for my books reflect the causes I fought to advance.
What inspired you to write the book, "Nad of Nadide´"?
The fact it combines the struggle for true love and the struggle against dictatorships.
Which of your characters do you relate the most to and why?
Fiona, because she was true to herself and filled in the character gaps in both Fareed’s and Nad’s.
"Replenishing the Sea of Galilee" became Amazon Best Seller in Historical Middle Eastern Fiction. How did you come up with this story?
I usually start with a theme which is important to me and then try to see if I have experienced knowing characters that lend themselves to enhancing the theme(s).
In this case, I used my father’s journalism career to be portrayed by Rasheed.
What is the first book that made you cry while reading it? Have any of your books ever made you cry?
Romeo and Juliet made me cry at the age of 13. Yes, Replenishing the Sea of Galilee made me cry at the disappearance of Natalia and the torment of Rasheed.
What are some of your goals and intentions when writing your books, and how well do you feel you've achieved them?
My primary goal is to advance the theme(s) of the book, themes I personally believe in.
What is the best review you've ever received? How do you deal with bad reviews?
It was for Nad of Nadide by Literary Titan where the reviewer preferred it to some of Shakespeare’s classics!
What are your plans for the future as a writer? Are you working on anything new?
Yes, I should be finished with third book in four months.
What's the most magical thing about life?
That it is made of regenerating experiences.
Got any advice for any aspiring writers out there? What is one writing tool/website/magazine/etc that you couldn't live without?
The New York Times.
What is your thought on book promotions through social media? Has AllAuthor been able to help at all in this aspect and would you recommend it to other authors?
Yes, AllAuthor has been helpful. As I am a social media low-tech person, I am challenged by what to do and how to react!
