Welcome to my section of the website!

From a very young age, I’ve always had ‘my head in a book’ but it wasn’t until many years later that I dared to imagine I could write one, never mind the dream of being published.

But a passion for reading is where it started and what I still love: the exciting adventure of what lies inside the covers of a new book, the pleasure of re-reading: the savouring of a favourite author’s words.

I write contemporary fiction about what it is to live in the here and now, with the challenges of life’s dramas and today’s everyday pressures.

When I start to write a novel, I set out on a journey with my characters. As I get to know them, I discover what has shaped them in their past and brought them to this point in their lives. Together, we encounter the challenges and experiences of this part of their story, and what that means for them now and going forwards.

What I love as a writer is finding the words to express who these characters are so that I can bring their story to life. And I hope what comes through for readers is the compassion and affection I feel for them and my belief that they will find their way through whatever it is they are facing.

In the Behind the Scenes section and my blog I share some of what goes into the writing of my books, my writing journey and process, and what I enjoy doing when I’m not writing or reading.

Spending time in nature is very important to me and I am lucky to live in Northumberland on a wonderful part of the English coast where I can see seals and dolphins and all kinds of birdlife when I am out walking, beach cleaning or swimming in the sea. At home, I enjoy gardening with wildlife in mind, and being kept entertained by the garden birds!  

When I’m indoors, I enjoy other forms of making – particularly printmaking and (usually wonky) knitting. Patient loved ones are the recipients of these efforts!

Thank you for visiting!