Where have you spent most of your childhood days?
I spent my childhood in Ontario, Canada. My folks emigrated here in 1967 from our home near Liverpool, England. Dad's job was in demand, so it meant he could work anywhere,, and we moved several times when I was little. Eventually, we ended up in Brantford; I have been there. Once or twice a year, we would travel back to England to see the family.
Who is the most supportive person in your life when it comes to your writing?
The most supportive was my mom, whom I lost in 2020. She is the person behind my book, Rose's Tale. She thankfully could see her story in print before she passed away. That I am forever grateful for.
What are the best places to go in Canada?
Canada has so many beautiful places, and friendly, warm, loving people. It's really hard to pinpoint a place. Western Canada and the Rocky Mountains are beautiful. I have not been out east, only as far as Montreal. It is on my bucket list to travel out there one day soon. What does one like to do, and wants to see, is the deciding factor. BC is popular for skiing (Whistler), Vancouver is a huge tourist area with people visiting and those boarding cruise ships for other destinations. Alberta is famous for camping, its spectacular lakes, and West Edmonton Mall. Saskatchewan and Manitoba are farming provinces. Where I live in Ontario, there are so many things one can do. Niagara Falls is a huge tourist destination, people from all over the world go there. One can go hiking, fishing, camping, go on wine tours, or head up to our capital city, Ottawa. Toronto is very popular with people. It is another tourist attraction. People go there to see a Broadway play or take a ride up the CN Tower. There are museums and different cultural restaurants. Venues for sports, including soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball.
What do you like about the mystery tales?
I love the suspense, trying to figure out who is the antagonist. It has always been my favourite genre to read.
How much time did it take you to finish your first book?
My first book, Rose's Tale, took me approximately three months to finish. Each day, I would drive over to my mom's house three blocks away. We would sit at her kitchen table, and she would tell me her story.
What inspired the plot of your first book, Reese and Marble?
My publisher wanted to put a book together with a compilation of stories about our pets. I wrote about my guinea pigs. It was so hard to write as I'd just lost the two of them months before. Debi read the story, cried she told me, and offered me a contract to publish it. That's how it came to fruition.
What challenges did you face while writing your memoir, Rose's Tale: The Strap - The Wooden Compass - The Endless Abuse at School?
My mother's health was deteriorating, so that made it harder. Usually, I would spend an hour or two getting the information from her. I didn't want to tire her out too much.
How hard it was to write a book on your two adorable little male guinea pigs, Reese and Marble?
The words flowed out of me so easily. I loved "my boys", and couldn't wait to share them with the world and immortalize them. I cried writing it, that is the truth.
Do you need to know how a novel ends before you begin writing it?
No, I like the suspense. My favourite TV shows are crime and mystery. It has always been in my blood.
What are your hobbies apart from writing?
When not writing I love baking, trying new meals, gardening, and watching movies.
What is the one advice you would like to give to young writers in the world?
If you have something to say, do it. Don't doubt yourself. If you think it sounds ridiculous when it's done, that's what editors and publishers are for. Just keep going, don't give up.
How long did it take you to discover the true meaning of success?
I'm still waiting for that, but am so proud when I see my books in print.
What is one question you wish you would get asked more? What would be your answer?
I don't know about the question, but I wish successful authors would help other new, struggling authors to be successful. A mentor type of position. My two would be LeVar Burton and Stephen King.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a murder/mystery book. It is completely out of my comfort level, but I like my story, and I want others to like it as well. It is going slower than the other two. I'll be honest about that.
How has your experience of being associated with AllAuthor been?
My experience has been great. Everyone is so friendly, helpful, and caring. I have connected with a few people and am grateful for their friendship. The book mockups are amazing. Everyone comments on how good they are. Thank you for them.
