Please comment below for a chance to win Barbara’s Giveaway. She is offering “Coming to Rosemont”, One print copy (US Only) and one eBook.
- Q: Have you always wanted to be a novelist?
A: I’m an attorney and have done a lot of technical writing, but knew I wanted to write novels. I planned to do so when I retired. Fate stepped in, as it often does, and put me on this path sooner. I broke my neck in an auto accident and suffered from double vision for months. I couldn’t read or watch TV, so I conceived and outlined the plot for my 5 book Rosemont series.
Annie: I broke my neck too, and it changed the course of my life…I am glad yours was a positive one! 5 Book Series! This is exciting!
- Q: Why did you decide to write a series?
A: I write a fictional series because that’s what I enjoy reading. I like an in-depth, continuing relationship with characters. I very much admire Alexander McCall Smith’s Ladies Detective Agency series and Jan Karon’s Mitford books. My Rosemont series is set in the current day, but I’ve tried to capture a feeling of comradery and connection that takes us back to a slightly simpler time and place.
Annie: I think you have definitely accomplished that feel. I was in love with the town of Westbury.
- Q: Who has had the greatest influence on your author life?
A: My dad–without question. He read me a bedtime story every night of my childhood, often adding his own twists and turns to the plots or dialogue. He also wrote novels–who-done-its–when he retired. I have 17 of his manuscripts and can feel his comforting presence in the room with me when I pick up his pages and read.
Annie: I bet he is so proud of you…
- Q: What of your own interests have you written about in the Rosemont series?
A: I love my home and all things related to homemaking: cooking, gardening, decorating, and entertaining. I love celebrating all of the seasons and I change my decor for Easter, 4th of July, fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring. I’m also addicted to vintage silver and china, with a special fondness for teapots.
Annie: I could totally feel your love of good china, and I love that you chose Easter as the big holiday in “Coming to Rosemont”. It was beautiful.
- Q: When do you typically write? Where do you write? Set this up for us…
A: A small office in my home is my perfect place to write. It’s cozy and I look out onto a beautiful garden with a fountain. I’m a morning person and am most productive between 4 am and 6 am. I also write for longer periods of time on the weekends. I’m very disciplined and can produce the first draft of a novel in 6 weeks (while working full time).
Annie: That is impressive. I don’t know how you do it!
- Q: What are your favorite books?
A: The Shell Seekers
Any of the Harry Potter series
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
A Long Way from Chicago
Annie: I love The Shell Seekers, too! Did you know that they rereleased it this past year?
- Q: What is your favorite review?
A: I’m extremely grateful for all of my reviews—good or bad. Reader feedback helps authors grow in our craft. If I had to pick just one, it would be a review for Uncovering Secret (third book in the Rosemont series). The reviewer wrote “Another cozy visit with old friends. I always hate for the Rosemont books to end.” That’s exactly what I’m hoping my readers will experience.
Annie: I look forward to getting to that book! I felt the same.
- Q: What is your favorite part of being an author?
A: Hearing from and interacting with readers. Hands down.
Annie: I love authors that make themselves available to their fans.
- Q: When can we expect your next book?
A: The 4th book in the Rosemont series—working title is Drawing Close—will be published mid-2016.
Annie: Please make sure I get a copy to review!!
- Q: Book or eBook?
A: eBook. I have terrible eyesight!
Annie: I find that my kindle love is growing.
The Write Review 
Really enjoyed your interview. I would like to be entered to win your book. Thank you for the opportunity.
Barry Collins, Please email me your address by tomorrow morning at 8am, to anniemcdonnell08@yahoo.com