Christmas At Woolworths is the second novel in the series (though we do have a eNovella set just before Christmas, Carols at Woolworths) went we follow Sarah, Maisie and Freda. The friends bonded together while working at Woolworths and try and bring Christmas cheer to their customers during the dark days of the Second World War.
But as Christmas creeps closer, and their loved ones on the front lines, can their friendship survive the war?
Before I hand it over to the questions and answers, I just want to thank Elaine for taking time out to answer these questions and to Faye for organising this tour (and allowing me to tag along!). Now, with that out of the way, who's ready to get into the holiday spirit...?
If you had to describe Christmas at Woolworths in 140 characters, how would you hook the reader?
As the year draws to a close, and Christmas approaches, the girls must rely on each other to navigate the dark days that lie ahead…
What was your favourite thing about writing Christmas at Woolworths?
Everyone loves the build up to Christmas and for me that meant giving all my characters interesting stories that take them up to the festive period.
Who was your favourite character to write, Sarah, Maisie or Freda?
I’m asked this question often and I’m always changing my mind! I must say it was a delight to write Freda’s story in this book as she takes on war work and grows into a brave young woman.
What was your favourite scene in Christmas at Woolworths?
Several scenes that involve Betty Billington and a romance…
What are Christmases like in your house?
Very quiet as a rule. Always having owned quite a few dogs, my husband and I will stay home over the holiday, as it is not responsible to go out and leave animals alone. Like many people we enjoy cooking and a glass or two of a good wine. A decent film, walking Henry, our Polish Lowland Sheepdog and generally relaxing for a few days before I open up my laptop and disappear into the war years once again where my girls will be waiting for me to tell their stories.
What is your favourite and least favourite part of Christmas?
It is my birthday on Christmas Eve – I missed Christmas by less than an hour. These days I find there is a certain sadness to Christmas thinking back to family who are no longer with us. I wouldn’t say it is my least favourite part of Christmas but it is sad all the same. My favourite must be to relax with a good book and have time to read. After a hectic year with three books published I’d like to step back and take a deep breath. I’m sure I’ll find lots of books from my husband in my Christmas stocking and he knows just what I like to read. Crime and romance are high on my list.
Will there be any more Woolworths books?
I’m thrilled to say that there will be more visits to Woolworths with Wartime at Woolworths due out in April 2018. There is a lot of heartache in this book and I found myself sobbing over the story more than once.
What are you currently working on?
I’ve just started writing another Woolworths book, which will take us up to the end of the war and beyond. I’m looking forward to seeing what my girls will do in peacetime. They are sure to surprise even me!
Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog and the interesting questions. You made me think hard... x
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