Feature Author Marguerite Gray

I am excited and honored to feature historical fiction author Marguerite Gray today. Please be sure to follow the link at the end of her interview for your chance to win a paperback copy of her newest release Labor of Love. 

Welcome Marguerite. I am always curious to know what inspires an author to write. Everyone has a different story. What is yours?

I started writing in the fifth grade while living in England. My teacher encouraged his students to keep a journal. I took that assignment and made it a habit for life. I still journal daily. From there I wrote short stories about my travels with my parents. As an adult I kept a notebook of story ideas, though I didn’t start serious writing until my children went off to college. So, I’m a late bloomer for writing novels. Now, I can’t stop whether my words are published or not.

It’s sounds like I’m in good company, as I didn’t start writing until my children were older as well. Not to date yourself, but how long have you been writing? 

I’ve made writing a priority since 2008. When my children moved out, I started teaching part time. I’d spend the afternoons in a park on the Mississippi River and write and write. In two years, I wrote six novels. Although a long way from being publishable, the skeletons for the novels were there. The first book in Revolutionary Faith Series, Hold Me Close, found a home in 2018 with Celebrate Lit Publishing.

When it comes to writing quirks, I’d say I’m pretty boring. What about you? Any quirks? 

I don’t know that this is a quirk, but I write everything with pen and paper. It works for me. By the time I input it on the computer, I am able to edit it as I go, making it a worthwhile activity.

That’s a true commitment! I can’t imagine writing everything by hand. Mine cramps up just writing in my prayer journal every morning. With that in mind, I’m curious how many books you’ve written. Which is your favorite? 

I have written eight books and published six. Revolutionary Faith is a total of five books covering the years 1772-1782 in Charles Town, SC. I love this series because of the connection with my ancestors. The amount of research (about 45 resources) occupied many hours and cemented my love for each book in the series. The growth of the characters from book to book makes each one special. I’ve reread them recently and still am surprised by the outcome. I don’t have a favorite!

I’ve adored the research for the Gardens in Time series. Each book takes place in a garden in Europe, ones that I have visited. Labor of Love, set in 1560 Florence, is book one. Promise of Purity is already at the publisher, and Whispers of Wisdom is ready to be sent to my first editor.

What was the inspiration for your most recent release? 

My most recent release is Labor of Love, Book One in the Gardens in Time, set in 1560 Florence. As a child I traveled in Europe with my family. My two sisters and I ran through the Boboli Gardens in Florence, Italy, playing among the beautiful gardens. As an adult, I returned three times with friends and family. The imagery and history morphed into a story. What would it have been like to be a part of the Medici clan?

It sounds as if you’ve traveled extensively. What a blessing to have that experience! What is the key theme and/or message in Labor of Love? 

God has a plan even when other people are in charge of the decisions and details. He never leaves or abandons a person. Ana wonders why her father sent her away as a child to live with the Medici family who control her destiny. Or do they? 

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share? 

I am researching for Book Four in Gardens in Time set in 1870 Switzerland and will write it this summer. Also, I’ve completed a novella for a Christmas collection and a novel for an island series.

You’re very busy. From where do you draw inspiration?

I am an avid reader, always have been. I have a huge collection of books of most genres. Christian fiction and the messages in the words focus my thoughts and attitude in positive ways. Other authors and their fabulous works inspire me to continue and better my own craft.

Thank you so much, Marguerite, for sharing your writing journey with us. It’s been such a privilege.

Please be sure to enter for your chance to win a paperback copy of Labor of Love. Connect with Marguerite via the link below:

Website/Blog where you can access her newsletter, social media links, Bookbub, Amazon Author page, and much more. There is a plethora of good stuff from this one access point.

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