A Highland Holiday was a story idea I'd had in the back of my mind for a while, because I love reading a good bookish romance. I have a lifelong love for bookshops, especially small, locally owned ones with history and character. I also enjoy reading stories that feature them, and a hankering to visit the Scottish shores, which seem both beautiful and haunting. So it was from this sense of romance and the sea - plus a bit of the paranormal - that Fiona's story was born.

2

I think the biggest challenge of this story for me was in my character's dialogue. I'm very aware of the fact that I'm an American writing in the sense and style of characters from other places in the world. Though I've studied, read and watched particularly British, Scottish, and other European cultures for years - I feel like dialogue is still hard to get as authentic as possible - which is my goal.

3

I love writing the ghostly bits, and the descriptions of Fiona in the bookshop. I'm a poet and dreamer at heart, so writing slower, descriptive and reflective moments at nighttime are always my favorit

4

I feel like readers have been very positive; many of those who have read it are book lovers themselves. I also think the story is attracting readers looking for romance but also interesting characters, and their comments have helped move forward my character's relationships and informed me to deepen the mystery and intrigue.

a stand alone novel

6

At its core, this is a story of a young woman who's learning what she wants to do in life, and taking new risks both personally and professionally I'd like readers to close the book with a sense that it's possible to follow your dreams in life, take that holiday you've had on your 'bucket' list - find love and experience something magical. .

I always draft character descriptions and write chapter summaries before delving into the actual writing of the story. And in the case of this one, I also researched my specific setting in detail. Beyond the prep-work, though, the best advice I can give is ultimately just to sit down and write what you love, what you envision and try not to edit yourself too much along the way. A draft can always be improved; the most important thing is to get the words down.

8

Absolutely! Fiona and I both love books & bookshops - and I've long dreamt of the holiday to Scotland that she takes. We are both writers, we love rainy nights and gothic mysteries - and dark-eyed, dark-haired Scottish guys. ;-)

I think the paranormal mixed in with a holiday romance will bring in readers will bring in a wide range of readers, those who love both its bookish charm and its (lightly) sexy & gothic intrigue.

1

Right now, I'm working on a new story for the Open Novella Contest that I'll be continuing through its conclusion in April. It's a historical set in 19th century Paris, in the center of Bohemian life - titled La Belle Epoque. Writing a historical is first for me, but it includes a magical spin because I can't resist a bit of fantasy within the artistry and romance of Paris! :-)