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Monday, September 16, 2013

Margaret Blake


Margaret was born in Manchester, England, but has lived on the north west coast now for twenty years. She and husband, John moved around somewhat and lived in France for a time, Margaret lived in the USA. The greatest sadness in her life has been coping with the death of her husband. Her greatest joy has been found with her son, his wife and family.

 Margaret, it's wonderful to have you on the blog. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad you have family to see you through the difficult times.  Tell us how many books you have written.

Thank you, Susan, for the kind remarks and the opportunity. 
I started writing in l978 for a British publisher and wrote 14 books for them, I had a break from writing and then started again writing for Whiskey Creek Press. The total of books I have written is 30 and I have another two out next year.

Wow! How prolific!
Give a short synop of your most recently published book.

Under a Grecian Moon is a contemporary romance. “When Lander Drakos contacts Evie she can’t think why. When she meets him she discovers a terrible secret. Once more in Lander’s world she can’t help but feel attracted to him, yet there is betrayal and more devastating secrets. And then there is the child, Helena, who must be protected at all costs.


Do your characters take on a life of their own? If so, which is your favorite?

Quite often they do. I am usually fondest of my latest characters. I always fall in love with my heroes; I don’t think I could expect my readers to do if I don’t! I was very much in love with my hero in Tilly’s Trials, as were a lot of readers. I don’t generally like perfect people but he is about as perfect as it is possible to be without being boring!


Do you travel to do research or for inspiration? Can you share some special places with us?

I have to confess that although half of this novel is set on a Greek Island, I have never been to Greece! I was looking out of my window on a cold and drab day and decided to take myself somewhere warm. That was my inspiration for this novel. I have set a couple of novels in Spain and have never been there! Florida has been a great inspiration for me; I love the climate and the atmosphere. Magical.

What do you think is the greatest lesson you’ve learned about writing so far? What advice can you give new writers?

I think the hardest lesson I have learned, rather than the greatest, is to keep going. It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked back you have to carry on. That is a lesson that all aspiring writers should learn. One of the greatest lessons I have learned is to believe in what you are working on at the time. If you don’t believe in it, no one else will … if you have a moments doubt, then leave it alone.

 So true, Margaret.

Can you tell us your future writing goals/projects?

I have two new novels out. One is a re-print of a previous novel and the other is a new romantic suspense called The Flower Girls. I am working on two new books, one an historical romance and the other a romantic suspense. At the moment I am trying to get the hang on my new computer. That is interrupting my flow. I am not the most technical minded of people.

Where can folks learn more about your books and events?

Are your books available in print and ebook formats? (please provide the buy link for easy reader accessibility)
My books are available in print and as an e-book and are available from www.whiskeycreekpress.com or www.amazon.com. Many of my British novels, published by Robert Hale Limited, can be found in libraries in the UK. As well as from www.amazoncom (these are hardbacks).

I wish you the best of sales, Margaret!




10 comments:

jrlindermuth said...

Margaret's talent brings her characters to life and makes a reader care about them.

margaret blake said...

Thank you, John. Lovely to see you here, and right back at you!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Maybe one day you'll get to travel to Greece. Congrats on your latest release. The cover is gorgeous.

margaret blake said...

Yes, I love it Diane. Yes perhaps one day I will get to Greece. I travel to Florida a lot these days to see my son and his lovely wife and family, so don't get to Europe, but it's on my bucket list.

Roxe Anne Peacock said...

Margaret, I would love to go to Greece since I am part Greek. I will have to pick up a copy of your book and travel through your eyes. Best of luck.

margaret blake said...

That is so funny Roxe Anne, you are part Greek and haven't been land I live not too far away and I haven't been either. However, I have been to Cyprus, I wonder if that counts and of course I have been to Tarpon Springs in Florida which is very Greek.Oh and I have eaten Greek food, delicious!

Paula Martin said...

Great interview, Margaret. I admire your ability to write about places you have never visited. I have only done that once (Iceland) but I'm far happier to stay with places I know.

margaret blake said...

Thanks, Paula but I do like a challenge.

margaret blake said...

Thank you Susan, for hosting me it is so great being here.

Susan Whitfield said...

My pleasure, Margaret. I've been away from my computer since Tuesday but I'm glad you came and had some folks comment.