When my book is done, I'll go back to shopping around for new authors. Patricia Briggs' urban fantasy because she does brilliant characterization. Beth Kendrick's smart, funny contemporaries. Lois McMaster’s Bujold's Vorkosigan series. I'm madly trying to finish a book, so I'm re-reading old favorites at the moment.

What’s at the top of your reading list right now? Heinlein, Mary Stewart, Dorothy Dunnett and Georgette Heyer. The actual inspiration to start was getting a personal computer so I could get words down, and when I fixed them, they stayed fixed! But authors that influenced me greatly would be Robert A. It never occurred to me that I could become a writer. I always loved reading and books, but I grew up in farm country. Which authors first inspired you to start writing yourself?

It's also possible to deal with difficult issues, like alcoholism and death, because setting them in the past allows for some space and detachment. It's a great excuse to research history! Plus, because the setting is distant from modern life, it's possible to write dramatic, over the top characters and plots. What do you love most about writing historical romance? After they separate, his music is his one solace and a way of connecting with her, even though she's gone from his life: He keeps it so private that even his closest friends don't know what a talented musician he is. Music seemed like a perfect way to show how James and Laurel connect. I love Celtic music and Baroque, among others. Instrumental only because words distract me. When I work, I always have music playing. I've no particular musical talent or knowledge, but I do love it. Does music play an important role in your own life as well? Music is a key element of their connection. She gives him warmth and love and in return he makes her feel loved and valued, which she needs. Laurel is all warmth and compassion, and James needs that so much. James's work as a spymaster is vital, but it eats at his soul. They're both very honorable people who care about helping others, but they do so in very different ways. What do you love most about James and Laurel? We chatted with Putney about her love of music, historical romance and more in a 7 questions interview.Ī long estranged couple who never stopped loving each other must come together again to see if they can rebuild their marriage. Spymaster James Kirkland's dark and violent career prompted a young and innocent Laurel to head for the hills, but a fateful meeting may be enough to rekindle their passion for one another. In Mary Jo Putney's latest historical romance, Not Quite a Wife, two estranged lovers are brought back together after a 10-year separation-except the pair are already husband and wife.

Not always a saint by mary jo putney