What
is your next book about
and when will it be out?
My next book starts a new series called The Highland Guard, about a team of elite “special forces” warriors who help Robert the Bruce in the war against the English. The first book entitled The Chief stars Tor MacLeod (Rory from Highlander Untamed’s great grandfather six times over!) will hit the shelves on March 23, 2010. The new series has many familiar clans from my previous books. The second and third books in the series are slated for September 2010 and January 2011. But the best way to be kept up-to-date about future books is to join my mailing list. And of course, all of your information will be kept private.
Do
I need to read your books in order?
No. Although the books are connected, each book stands on its own. That being said, the stories are chronological and some of the earlier characters do appear in the later books.
What is the order of the MacLeod Trilogy?
Highlander Untamed,
Highlander Unmasked,
Highlander Unchained.
What
is the order of the Campbell Trilogy?
Highland Warrior
Highland Outlaw
Highland Scoundrel
How do you get your ideas?
Usually from research. I’ll find some interesting historical tidbit and play off of that for the plot. The romance always comes from the characters. Once I figure out “who” they are, I like to devise lots of ways to put them through the wringer.
Will you write about Niall
Lamont and Annie MacGregor?
I sure hope so, but right now I don’t have their story worked out in my head, and I really want to do them justice. The best way to stay informed about future books is to join my mailing list.
How long did it take you to sell?
I had been writing for a little under 4 years before I sold. At the time I’d completed four manuscripts. I ended up selling the first two. The last year before I sold was a whirlwind. I finaled in the 2005 Golden Heart Contest (with my third manuscript) in March, got an agent in early April 2005 (my first agent actually ended up leaving the business a few months later, but two agents in the same agency took me over), and had “the call” in November 2005.
Do I need an agent to sell?
No, but I think your odds improve exponentially if you find one. Some publishing houses (like my publisher Ballantine) won’t take unagented submissions.
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
Hmm. This is difficult, but probably the research. It’s the point where I feel like the “world is my oyster.”
What is your least favorite?
Revisions. Unfortunately, a necessary evil.