Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have lived in lots of places and done lots of things, some good, some not so good – both the places and the things!
After a lifetime of writing professional reports, academic documents, discussion papers, and sermons – with a few songs and poems thrown into the mix – I seized the opportunities provided by retirement and lockdown to turn my hand to fiction, prompted by an online course in creative writing, and I haven’t stopped since! My first three books have been published, numbers four and five are being prepared for publication, and I’m about halfway through writing number six.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is ‘Sampson and Son’ – the third in The Ancestor Series. The whole series grew out of my research into my family tree and the discovery of a lot of curious characters and some unanswered questions. I am not, and have never been, an historian, so this is a new departure for me, with lots of challenging research before I write, in order to create the context for my characters as accurately as I can. But they are fiction, so I do allow myself leeway for imagination to come into play too!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I often have to move Luna-Cat from the bench at my desk before I can settle down to write!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have always been a reader, so there are many authors and books I could name here, but among the most influential I would include CS Lewis and Ursula le Guin.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on ‘The Maubry Inheritance’, which is set in 13th-century Scotland. It tells the story of my 21st great-grand-uncle, who was Sheriff of Fife. Called upon to mediate between rival parties in a dispute over land and property, he struggles to remain impartial after he meets the most powerful claimant’s step-daughter and potential heiress.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have my own website and facebook page, and am currently running a promotion for the Kindle edition of ‘Sampson and Son’. My publisher (Steggr) is using various websites, and I believe word of mouth is good too.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write something you would like to read, and which you can relate to… and don’t give up on those days when the blank screen seems to laugh at you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Enjoy what you do.
What are you reading now?
I have just finished re-reading Elly Griffiths brilliant ‘Ruth Galloway’ series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Completing ‘The Maubry Inheritance’ and beginning to research number 7, which may be set in Trinidad. What a good reason for a research trip!
What is your favorite book of all time?
My all-time favourite novel is ‘Winter Solstice’ by Rosamunde Pilcher. It’s such a charming and hopeful story, with credible characters and great settings.
Author Websites and Profiles
Maggie Williams Richmond Website
Maggie Williams Richmond Amazon Profile
Maggie Williams Richmond’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile