Today, I have Elizabeth St.John visiting and I am absolutely thrilled, because Elizabeth is here to talk about her new release, The Godmother’s Secret (and what a fantastic read this is, but more of that later) So, hi Elizabeth, and welcome back! Elizabeth: Hi Anna, thanks so much for inviting me on your blog. It’s …
Taking your vows seriously – or why the Godmother ended up having a secret. Read More »
Today is publication day for Her Castilian Heart and I am especially proud to release a book that has already been awarded a Gold Medal in the 2022 Coffee Pot Book Club Awards. That was an unexpected and delightful honour, and I am quite sure both Noor and Robert—my somewhat battered protagonists—are happy as well. …
A new book and a birthday – a celebratory combo? Read More »
In 1284, the pope sent word to King Edward, suggesting he lead yet another crusade to the Holy Land. Edward was honoured, but fully aware of just how much such an endeavour would cost, he requested that the pope finance the venture. The pope agreed, and had it not been for the so called Aragonese …
Lately, my reading has included several books set in the 9th to 11th century, a period of time that comes to us as vague echoes through the mists of time. One of my recent reads is Hidden in the Mists, Christina Courtenay’s excellent dual time line book (more of that below) Her book made me …
The hidden past – in which Christina Courtenay follows in the steps of the Vikings Read More »
Some weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of reading Cathie Dunne’s book about Poppa of Bayeux and her hubby Hrolfr, a.k.a. Rollo (To us Swedes, he is Gånge-Rolf, so named because he was so big and strong no horse could carry him, hence he had to walk. Gånge means walker) Anyway: I realised I …
When Poppa met Rollo – Cathie Dunne gives us an insight into 9th century politics Read More »
One of the huge benefits of writing historical fiction is all the tangential little research excursions. In my upcoming release, Her Castilian Heart, I needed a location for dire deeds. I knew roughly what I wanted—an abandoned, ruined castle—but in 1289, not all that many medieval castles were abandoned or ruined as they were still …
Some weeks ago, I was at Marstrand. Most of you have never heard of this little Swedish gem, but should you ever make it to Sweden, I would recommend a visit. An hour or so north of Gothenburg, Marstrand was once a heaving, bustling place, an important harbour city that thrived due to the herring. …
When the light at the end of the tunnel winks out – a somewhat sad story Read More »
One of the joys of having writer friends who share my fascination with history is diving down their rabbit holes. As long as I’ve known Alison, she’s been fascinated by maps (well, aren’t we all!) and how people travelled back in the good old days – more specifically in Roman times. It is therefore a …
On ancient Roman roads – a guest post celebrating Ms Morton’s new release Julia Prima Read More »
My mother always used to say that concentrating your words to a succinct few was the hallmark of a good speaker—or writer. I’m guessing she’s sighing heavily wherever she is whenever she takes a peek at my work, because dear peeps, it seems to me abbreviation is a skill I am not good at. I …
The case of the swelling narrative – or how one book becomes three. Or four. Or ten. Read More »
I have spent the last few days thinking about ice. Partly, this is because it’s been very, very hot—so hot, I wouldn’t have minded a pile of crushed ice to roll around in. And then, of course, there are all the news reports about the disappearing ice—in the Artic, in the Himalayas, in Antarctica. Everywhere, …
Find out more about me, my books, my WIPs and participate in regular giveaways!
And you can a find me
on Twitter or Facebook
Cookies help us provide, protect and improve our products and services. By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies (Privacy policy).