This weeks Author of the Week is Gail Meath!
Hello Gail, welcome to your interview! So can we start with some basics? Tell me about your books.
Hi Elizabeth, thanks. I've written several books now, in a series called Women of Extraordninary Courage. And I've got a new book due for release on the 12/15. A list of my books is below:-
Countess Jacqueline
Fire Blossom
The Perfect Sister
Fateful Strangers
Holbrook Manor
Scandal in Boston
Path of Treasures – New Release 12/15
(Considering a two-book series: Streeters’ Gang)
So it's time for me to get nosey Gail, can you tell us a little about yourself?
I live and grew up in a suburb of Rochester, NY with my husband and have two adorable grandchildren, my world. My hobbies, of course, are writing and spending time with my family. Two of my books are located here, a true political scandal in the city and a murder mystery along the Erie Canal, which were so much fun to write about since I know the area well and could do hands-on research.
They sound exciting, it always helps when you know the background of a place you're writing about. So, what got you into writing?
My father was a talented painter and sculptor. I did not inherit his artistic ability, but it was his devotion to art that encouraged me to follow my own passion. In middle school, I discovered my ability to write well. I wasn’t the best student, but boy, when there was an essay question on a test, I aced it every time whether I knew the correct answer or not!! So, I began writing, a lot.
We shall agree to disagree Gail :-) I think writing is a artistic talent! What’s the main thing you love and hate about writing?
I enjoy researching and learning about the past, and when writing, I love losing myself in another time and place. The only downside for me is sitting at my computer for hours on end, losing track of time, and not getting enough exercise!
No! You mentioned the E word! I've interviewed a lot of authors who say the same, it's a shame we can't exercise and write at the same time. Who is the worst villain you’ve ever written, and why?
Perhaps not the worst villains, but the most poignant are in Fire Blossom. There are two, each on opposite sides of the conflict between settlers and Indians in Texas, 1843. Both immensely affect the heroine, everyone around them, and even history, itself. My goal was to show that no one culture was or is bad...only individual people are.
That's great wisdom Gail, and very true. What is next on your list to write/publish?
Agustina de Argon should be published in February. Based upon a true story, she was a peasant in Spain during the Napoleon war and extremely instrumental in defeating the enemy and gaining back the freedom of her country. Few people know about her, at least in the US. Like my book, Countess Jacqueline, I love writing about true heroines who have been lost in our history books.
Who is your favourite author, and why?
Daphne du Maurier, Charlotte and Emily Bronte. I would love to sit down and talk with them and ‘pick their creative brains’. When a reader/reviewer compared The Perfect Sister to Wuthering Heights, I cried.
I love Rebecca, Mrs Danvers is an excellent character. Who encouraged you the most to write?
Years ago, my father because of his love for creativity and imagination. Now, my husband for his support and patience as I pound away on the computer for hours on end.
How wonderful your family support you. Are you as avid a reader as a writer?
I plead the 5th.
Ummm, that's a no isn't it readers! What’s your favourite genre?
All my books are different subgenres of Historical Romance. I love biographies, mysteries, and westerns. I need variety to hold my interest and hopefully, make my books more enjoyable for readers.
Do you listen to music when you write?
My husband and I always have the radio on during the day. I love any kind of music. But when I write, it’s like my ears tune out and I don’t even know it’s on.
So let's get very nosey, we want to know a secret that none of your fans know!
I have always hated my first name. It’s short, hard-sounding and not feminine at all! I thought about a pen name or using my first and middle names. Together, it’s a bit prettier...Gail Robin. But I do like the brevity of my name without it. And it’s easy to remember.
Aw Gail, I admit I use my middle name as my pen name! See you wrung a secret from me too! So, please tell me what your main character would say about you!
“You cannot tell me what to do next, Gail. I am leading this story!”
Gail we are too alike! My characters write themselves too. Don't you find that frustrating! Finally, any words of advice?
Yikes! I am not one to give advice except maybe, never give up on your dreams, what you love to do most and are passionate about. The joy isn’t always about the end result...it’s about the journey towards it.
Thank you for taking the time to sit down and for the wonderful interview. To keep up to date with Gail please find her at,
Author Website:- www.gailmeath.com
Author Email:- gailmeathauthor@gmail.com
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