Exclusive Interview with
Gail Meath
Let’s start with your Career as a writer!
When did you start writing?
Early in high school, I discovered my ability to write well. I wasn’t the best student, but boy, when there was an essay question on a test, I aced it every time whether I knew the correct answer or not. So, I began writing stories, then novels...
What makes writing your passion?
My father was an artist, painter and sculptor. I did not inherit his artistic ability, but it was his devotion to art and music and creativity that encouraged me to find something that I love so much, it makes me lose track of time.
How long have you been writing?
Many, many years - don't want to divulge my out!
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
Scared. Frightened. Worried that readers wouldn't like my stories. The excitement came later when I started selling my books and the reviews were so positive.
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
Before starting a historical novel, I think about the kind of characters I want in a story, from people I know or met or derivatives of such. Then, I spend a lot of time sifting through time and events until something exciting strikes me. My characters actually come first, then the plot and setting falls easily around them.
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
The only downside for me is sitting at my computer for hours on end, losing track of time and not getting enough exercise!
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
Just give it time and keeping thinking. It'll come.
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
Persevere!!! I wrote several books many years ago and never had the courage to publish them. I regret those lost years and wish hadn't been so afraid of rejection.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
Just follow your passion and forget what others say.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
Yes I do and I appreciate all of them! I haven't had really bad ones, but there has been some constructive criticism. In which I look into....sometimes I agree with it and may alter a section, other times I may not agree.
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
Accomplishment. For me it's about giving readers something they will enjoy.
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Yes, little subtle things, nothing of significance.
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
Katherine in The Perfect Sister. I didn't base her on me, but I possessed a great deal of insecurity in my youth, not because of my parents, tho. I had a wonderful childhood. I just always felt inept back then. I gathered strength, just as she did.
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
If not moreso. It is the very first thing the read sees...a visual encounter that reflects the contents.
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I have a few I correspond with and I'm very comfortable with that and even encourage it. Again, readers are our customers and our goal is to satisfy them.
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
Proud...although it comes from my family and close friends only.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
Probably Daphne de Maurier. The Bronte sisters, too. I love their writing style, their stories are gripping and all hand-written (impressive!)
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
I would only like to keep writing and continuing selling. I'm retired now and actually very happy where I'm at.
Would you rewrite any of your books? Why?
No, I'm happy with them, however they sell. I'd rather write new ones.
If you could switch places with any author – who would that be?
N/A
What would you say to the “trolls” on the internet? We all know them – people who like to write awful reviews to books they’ve never read or didn’t like that much, just to annoy the author.
I've been reading about them on Goodreads. I would just like to ask them "Why?"
What would you say to your readers?
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Thank you for sharing! Let’s talk about your Personal Life!
Share a bit about yourself – where do you live, are you married, do you have kids?
I live in a small town in upstate New York. I am married to a wonderful man who encouraged me to publish my books.
I have two terrific grown children and two grandchildren (my souls)
What is your day job if you have one?
I have my own bookkeeping business, although I have been reducing my clientele so I can retire and write.
What are your hobbies? What do you do in your free time?
Sorry, cliche....write
Did you have a happy childhood?
My father was an artist, so we didn’t have a lot of money, but my parents filled my life with art classes, piano lessons and taking simple vacations to Gloucester, MA, where artists set up their easels on the wharves. It was an unconventional childhood, yet so much fun and full of love.
Is there a particular experience that made you start writing?
I mentioned my high school experience with essay questions on tests....when I kept receiving an A without really knowing the answer, I knew I had an ability to write well...lol
Do you have unpublished books? What are they about?
I have a new release in August. Scandal in Boston...it is a historical romance mystery that takes place in 1858. Another will be released in December....again historical romance mystery - this time on the Erie Canal in the 1800s.
What do you think should be improved in the education of our children? What do we lack?
Wow, this question is difficult to answer right now with the pandemic and everything up in the air for children. I plead the fifth.
If you were allowed 3 wishes – what would they be?
Good health and happiness for my family
A bit more income from selling my books
Uh, world peace...
What is your favorite music?
There is not enough space here to list:)
Share a secret with us 🙂
(if I did, it wouldn't be a secret anymore...shhhh)