Author Marilyn Holdsworth is almost my neighbor here in Southern California. She’s written three novels, loves horses, is a descendant of James Monroe, and once owned a greeting card company. Marilyn stops by to give us a little insight into her latest book, Making Wishes.
Hi Marilyn, tell us a little about the book.
Elloree Prince is an attractive, creative young woman who marries wealthy businessman, Tom Randall. After courting his bride with unrelenting determination, Tom moves her into old-moneyed Oak View where generations of Randall’s have lived for years. Outwardly Elloree appears to settle into raising their two sons within Oak View’s stifling social structure but inwardly she yearns for her artistic work. An unexpected phone call from Mark Williams, her former employer offers her the career opportunity of a lifetimeand she must make a choice. She is torn between her devotion to her sons and her love for her work. Her decision to return to Wishes Inc. brings dramatic life changes to her and the ones she loves.
What audience will it appeal to?
Men and women of all ages.
What prompted you to write Making Wishes?
My concern for the family was my inspiration for Making Wishes. Many women today are confronted with difficult career choices that dramatically impact the family.
So the book has a message?
Yes. The choices we make often dramatically affect our loved ones much more than we ever expect.
Where do you get your ideas?
My life experiences give me a lot of ideasand I keep files of magazine and newspaper articles that give me ideas as well.
Where does it take place?
The book is set in California, New York and England.
Have you considered writing a sequel?
Yes, I have been asked about writing a sequeland when I finish writing the book I’m currently working on I’ll consider it.
Do you work from an outline?
I always have a general outline. I know how the story begins and ends before I begin the book, but as I develop the characters and weave the plot the story line changes. I ask myself what if a lot as the book progresses. What if I introduce a particular character or what if I add a certain event how will it affect the story.
Which one of your books do you like the best?
The one I’m currently working on! But really all my books are my favorites. They are like my children, I don’t play favorites!
That’s the same thing for me. What other books have you written? What are you currently working on now?
Pegasus and The Beautiful American. I am currently writing The Portrait of Lady J.
Name one of your all-time favorite books that you’ve been known to read again and again.
One of my favorite books is My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier.
If you could sit down with one author and ask one question, which author would it be and what would you ask?
I would love to ask Margaret Mitchell if she ever knew anyone like Rhett Butler.
Do you have any words of wisdom for writers just starting out?
Don’t give up and don’t get discouraged.
Find Marilyn Here:
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