What was your first piece of writing about?
Kirkpatrick Durham is my first piece of writing.
How did you first become interested in writing erotic romance? Can you share what drew you to this particular genre?
I felt compelled to tell the story, and the story started because of sex. Craig's attempt at telling the story focused on sex, and we all got tangled up in some sort of romance, so I couldn't really avoid it. It's an erotic romance by default.
How does living in the Highlands of Scotland inspire your work as an author? Do the natural landscapes, culture, or history of the region find their way into your writing?
The landscape, and seascape does. Maybe the culture, a bit. I feel like I'm still learning, still an outsider settling into the place, despite my family connections.
Plumbing, writing, and sailing are quite distinct fields. Can you tell us about the journey that led you to pursue all three passions simultaneously?
I'm not actually a plumber, but I did follow my father's trade, that much is true. I never planned to be a writer. I was compelled to correct Craig's distortion of our story, and then I realised that I had something that might be readable. I bought my boat on impulse but I think the sailing thing came from my childhood, on the Clyde. I think it got under my skin without me realising it, and when the opportunity appeared to have a boat of my own, I couldn't not take it.
What type of movies do you like to watch?
All sorts. Old black and white Hollywood comedies with quickfire dialogue. Thrillers with complicated plots and unexpected twists. Stories about people.
How did you approach creating compelling and authentic characters in your erotic romance novel, "Kirkpatrick Durham"?
They are all based on real people. I just wrote them as I saw them.
How do you strike a balance between the sensual and emotional aspects of your stories?
I have no idea. I just write what feels right.
Where do you see yourself as a writer in five years? What are some goals you hope to accomplish by then?
Not a clue. I might have given up writing by then. I might be churning out three whodunnits a year.
As an erotic romance writer, how do you navigate the line between explicit content and maintaining a strong storyline?
The story is driven by sex, or more accurately, the desire for sex, and I tried to restrict the sex scenes to ones that pushed us in certain directions.
In your opinion, what sets apart a well-written erotic romance novel from others in the genre?
No idea. I'm no expert.
As a plumber, author, and sailor living and working in the Highlands of Scotland, you wear many hats. How do you balance these different aspects of your life, and do they ever intersect or influence each other?
Most people in this part of the world have multiple occupations and interests. I'm not unusual.
What key lessons have you learned along your journey as an author?
It's an irritating process. I can go for weeks without producing anything worthwhile, and then it will come in a flood - several chapters all at once.
What are you currently working on?
I've made a start on two new stories, both of which are pure fiction, which is new for me. Being able to choose where the story goes is both a blessing and a curse.
How did you first come across the AllAuthor website? What do you like or dislike about the site?
I know nothing about AllAuthor. My publisher signed up for it. I've never been on the site.
