Macao, China in 1839 is an exciting, exotic locale, but is being violently torn up by the ultimate clash of East and West, of godly corruption and heathen pride: the Opium Wars. Caught amid this upheaval is Kathleen Bellamy, blinded by fate but sensitive to the world around her. Even if she cannot see it, she can feel the turmoil in the air as it matches the conflict in her heart. Cheng Lo is the only man able to illuminate the dark depths of her soul. But she is unfortunately bound to her missionary father. Will their duties betray what their passions owe each other? Their love is forbidden and their future unseen but Kathleen's addiction to Cheng Lo is about to propel her into a world she can only imagine in her dreams.
I've been a professional writer for about thirty years, and I love sharing stories with my readers. Mostly I write historical romance, but have ventured into other arenas as well. If you look at my book list you'll see a number of children's books included. For many years I worked as an educational curriculum designer. The children's books were part of my day job.
If you want to know more, here's the text of a recent interview which also appears on the eharlequin site.
On Writing and Reading...
What do you love most about being a writer?
The creative process, and hearing from people who've enjoyed my stories.
What do you like least about being a writer?
Rejections--and yes, I still get them!
Do you have a favorite locale or setting for your novels? What is it and why is it your favorite?
No particular place, but almost all my novels have outdoor settings. My favorite background for a story is any place that's open and wild and beautiful.
Which of the books you have written is your favorite?
My books are like my children--some gave me more trouble than others but I love them all equally.
What are your five all-time favorite books?
After a lifetime spent reading hundreds and hundreds of books, how can I possibly come up with five all-time favorites?
Here, in no particular order, are five books I loved. After I write them down, I'll probably think of five more I liked even better.
Out of Africa by Izak Dinesen
The Greek Passion by Nikos Kazantzakis
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje
The Jungle Books by Rudyard Kipling
What one specific piece of advice would you give a would-be writer trying to kick-start a career?
Don't go it alone. Network--join romance writers' groups; enter contests; go to regional and national conventions; learn from others.
On Romance...
Describe the ultimate romantic meal.
Anything cooked well by a delicious man, served with wine and followed by chocolate.
What is your all-time favorite romantic movie?
"Casablanca"
What is your all-time favorite romantic song or composition?
"As Time Goes By" (of course)
What is the most romantic gesture or gift you have received?
A sunrise hot-air balloon trip over the mountains.
How do you keep the romance alive in your relationship?
I have many wonderful relationships in my life. I nurture them with kindness and communication.
What tip would you give your readers to make their lives more romantic?
Be the heroine of your own life. Don't wait for adventures to happen; create your own.
Where is the most romantic place you've ever traveled?
Portuguese Macao--before the Chinese took it over and turned it into a gambling mecca. That bit of paradise is nothing but a memory now.
All About me...
Besides writing, what other talent would you most like to have?
I love to dance and I do, but I don't have the talent to do it well. I would like to be a wonderful dancer--like my daughter.
Who is someone you admire and why?
My father, who gave me lifelong lessons in courage, honesty and dignity.
Share one of your favorite indulgences with us.
Iced soy latte flavored with cinnamon
What quality do you most admire in a man?
Compassion
What is the one thing you've always wanted to do, but never had the courage to try?
Scuba diving--not so much for want of courage as for want of a willing partner.
If you weren't a writer, what would you be?
I have a biology degree and wanted to study animals in the wild. Life made me a writer instead.
What quote or personal saying do you live by? Who said it?
"Life is trouble. Only death is not. To be alive is to undo your belt and look for trouble."
--Nikos Kazantzakis in Zorba the Greek
