1. Can you tell us more about your latest book, One Summer in Positano? (Previously published as It Was Always You)

One Summer in Positano is a story about love, friendship and betrayal that takes the reader on a journey with the main character, Libby, as she navigates unexpected circumstances and pursues her dream of living in Italy.  The book begins in the picturesque fishing village of Positano on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the perfect setting for romance.

 

2. Where did you get the inspiration for the novel?

I have longed to write a novel set in Italy since my obsession with the country began at the tender age of thirteen when I started Italian lessons at school.  When I was eighteen I discovered Positano while backpacking all over Italy and I fell head over heels in love with the place as so many have done before me.  It truly is one of the most beautiful spots in the world. I have returned there many times since and I hope my readers enjoy visiting it through the pages of the novel.

 

3. Do you see yourself in any of the characters in your novel?

Like Libby I did Italian for my degree, though my degree was also combined with History of Art.  I also lived in Bologna for a year.  I am similar to Libby in her love of Italy, cooking, travelling and her family however she is also very different to me in many ways.

 

4. Who would you want to play Libby and Luca in a film adaptation of It Was Always You?

For Libby I could imagine Emily Blunt or Rebecca Hall as a good fit and for Luca a younger Antonio Banderas would be perfect.

 

5. Was there a particular part of the novel that was really difficult to write for you?

The first draft flowed easily but the editing process was somewhat harder- I was pregnant with my daughter, past my due date and desperately trying to edit the book before she came along… I am sure that is part of the reason why she arrived nearly two weeks late! Copy editing with a newborn was also an interesting challenge!

 

6. Do you have a set daily writing routine?

I was teaching full time when I wrote this book so I wrote mostly in the school holidays when I had large chunks of free time.  I usually just find a quiet spot and sit with my laptop typing away. Coffee is essential!

 

7. What is your favourite women’s fiction book of all time and why?

Fiona Walker’s Kiss Chase was my favourite book when I was younger. Phoebe and Felix’s love story swept me away and I loved escaping into their lives time and time again to read and reread their story.

 

8. Has any other writer in particular influenced the way you write?

I admire one of my favourite authors, Victoria Clayton, for her endearing characters, perceptive descriptions and engaging plotline – some of which I hope to emulate in my writing.

 

9. Can you tell us a bit about your plans for the future?

I am currently writing my third novel whilst on maternity leave (nothing like a bit of multitasking!) It is due to be published in 2018 by Aria Fiction.