Interview with author Mary Ann Bernal

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I love the way the internet allows you to meet other people with similar interests. I “met” Mary Ann via my Facebook fan page and am thrilled to connect with an author who writes about a time period I love. My current fascination with British culture also includes a fascination with European history. I hope you enjoy Mary Ann’s interview.

Me: Describe your writing journey.

Mary Ann Bernal: My journey began in the fourth grade when a poem I had written impressed my teacher. I continued to dabble in writing poetry and short stories throughout high school and college, and have taken numerous creative writing courses and workshops over the years. However, it was not until a few years ago that I was able to find the time to write, and I have been writing ever since.

Me: Who or what inspires you as a writer?

MAB: The study of history has been my inspiration. I love to breathe life into people who came before us because names in a history book deserve so much more than a mere mention. What was the person like? How did he/she handle life’s problems? We have some insight about famed leaders, but what about the common people? History does not record their names for posterity, but they did exist. My characters come alive in the century I place them in, and they experience every emotion we experience today. I love to bridge the gap between centuries since we are not very different from our ancestors.

Me: What made you pick your genre?

MAB: Since I love Ancient Roman history, and Roman Britain, and the Dark Ages, choosing to write historical fiction was a no brainer. You are supposed to write what you like and what you know, and have fun doing it.

Me: What advice do you have for other writers?

MAB: First and foremost, you must enjoy writing, you must have fun, and you must write for yourself. If you do not like your story, no one else will. Your passion should be evident when you discuss your work, and this passion should be contagious. It is also important to remember that you cannot please everyone and that there will always be the naysayers who need to be ignored. Don’t let anyone rain on your parade. Keep at it, and never give up.

My note: Great advice! I never thought of this before, but having passion for your work is important.

Me: Where can we find out more about you and your novels?

http://www.maryannbernal.com

facebook.com/TheBritonandtheDane

http://twitter.com/#!/BritonandDane

http://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

http://www.litunderground.com/MaryAnnBernal.html

http://pinter est.com/maryannbernal/