Well, I've been writing novels for over 20 years (my first three will never see the light of day with good reason), so it's not as impressive as you might think (I'm 49). I sometimes don't feel as though I have a choice, because these stories nag and tickle and refuse to give me any peace until I write the damn things. But thank you. I very much appreciate your encouragement. I'd love to find a mainstream publisher (I've had novels published by small indie presses, but none of the big guns, despite coming frustratingly close a couple of times).

In case you're interested in reading any of these, The Birds Began to Sing isn't too scary. Even my mother braved that one and she's notoriously scare-adverse. It's more of a psychological thriller than anything. But yes - definitely avoid Spectre of Springwell Forest and The Irresistible Summons if paranormal horror isn't your thing. Ravenseed is one I'm sure you'd enjoy though. It's really two love stories in parallel, one in the past, one in the present. One is an Arthurian quest, the other a present day parallel quest.

I've just bookmarked a couple of your articles to check out tomorrow when I get a moment. It sounds like you've had a fascinating life. :)