M. Lee Prescott

Fall River, Massachusetts, setting of the Ricky Steele books.

12 years, but I grew up nearby on the same river!

Age 8 (mostly pictures. A dear friend still has some of these “early works”)

Empathy for and connection to others. Reading and writing also connects us to ourselves, to what matters in our hearts and what engages our minds. If we can then bring these understandings to readers, we’ve done our job.

Romances tend to flow. Mysteries are more complex. Both are both challenging and joyful to write!

Wonderful. I love my students and they make every day joyful and interesting.

The impact is profound and lifechanging. Reading and writing anxieties lessen. Readers and writers bring a more stabilized quiet mind to tasks. Attention and focus are also enhanced.

I knew of the history of the government schools and I wanted to write a story of two children who triumphed despite all odds. Did you expect it become a finalist The 2014 International Digital Awards for Historical Fiction for Young Adults? No, but it was a delightful surprise and wonderful honor.

Hmm… that’s hard to say. I was in my forties when I wrote the book. I love reading mysteries, am a teacher, etc., BUT Bess truly is her own person, not me, not anyone I know, but with qualities recognizable in the humans who have populated my life.

My kids live in Arizona and they suggested I write a mystery set out there. Believe it or not, the idea for first book, Emma’s Dream began as a mystery, but Ben and Maggie’s attraction hijacked the book and romance took over!

Not different at all. I am still writing the best story I’m able while remaining cognizant of my readers’ developmental ages and interests.

Oh gee… that’s tough. I have responsibility to my readers in both genres. Could I split the difference and say—romantic suspense?

They read the books, they proofread (sister Pamela) and they let me know they are proud.

Poof is about so many things, but mostly the exploitation of young children, the power of friendship and the importance of supporting one another.

Same as most people—I am at home. I spend much more time on screen because my college courses have gone online and all my teaching is now virtual.

I love the banners—thank you! And I also appreciate your daily updates and communications. What products or services do you wish we carried? Any and all ways to market and promote books!