What can you tell our readers about your new novel Rose Harbor in Bloom?
Rose Harbor in Bloom, the sequel to The Inn at Rose Harbor continues the story that began last year and follows young widow Jo Marie Rose as she settles into life as the owner of a bed and breakfast in the beautiful Pacific Northwest town of Cedar Cove. In this new novel, Jo Marie and her rescue dog Rover, welcome guests who each embark on their own journey of healing and hope. The two main guests include Mary Smith, who is recovering from cancer and Kent and Julie Shivers, who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. The book offers plot twists and turns, surprises and celebrations.
The Rose Harbor books center around the strength of a community, is this something that resonates with you?
Most definitely. Both my husband and I were raised in small towns. We now live in small towns, both in Washington State and in our winter home in Florida. But over the years I have discovered that large cities are really a series of small neighborhoods. We are all part of a community. Sometimes it’s one we make for ourselves. Right now readers seem to be yearning for that sense of community.
You are the mother of four children, so how did you balance your writing with your family life?
In the early years it was more difficult than it is now. (Now I have an office and a staff). During the school year I would write when the kids were in school. In the summers I did things with the kids in the mornings, and they would give me two hours in the afternoon to write. We compromised! I was not to be interrupted unless there was blood involved!
You are dyslexic, so how was this for you growing up as you knew you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always been a story teller. Dyslexic people are often gifted with a creative imagination. It wasn’t until I was in the fifth grade that I figured out how to sound out words and truly began to read. Knowing the difficulties I had in school, I didn’t want to share my dream of becoming an author with anyone. But that dream burned in my heart and helped me overcome my learning challenges.
Who do you most like to read in your spare time?
I’m a big fan of Regency novels, and there are a number of authors in the genre that I enjoy, with Mary Balogh being one of my favorites. I read a wide variety of books, including biographies. My husband I enjoy listening to audio thrillers on long car trips. I also try to read books by my author friends, Marie Bostwick, Linda Lael Miller, Susan Mallery, Robyn Carr, and Christina Skye.
It has been said that fans of Maeve Binchy will enjoy reading your work, how does it feel to have this comparison?
It feels really good! I have been a big fan of her books for many years. Hers is exactly the audience I am seeking with my own stories, and following in the footsteps of such a master storyteller is exciting and humbling.
You own a yarn and knitting shop called A Good Yarn, is knitting something you like to do in your spare time?
I’m a crazed knitter. I always have something on my needles, and it is pure joy sharing my love of knitting with my readers
I advise you all to check-in to the Rose Harbor Inn, I know you’ll have a wonderful visit.
Debbie Macomber
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