The historical novel gives us perspective on our modern lives and helps us connect with the story, which we are continuing ourselves.

I have to keep facing the darkness. If I stand tall and face the thing I fear, I have a chance to conquer it. If I just keep dodging and hiding it will conquer me.

As far as benefits to reading historical novels, there are several! For one thing, you learn about life in another era. Secondly, these novels help us to develop a deeper understanding of the legacy of women who came before us and the strides made by our ancestors.

I love teaching. It's a job that lasts forever. Whatever you teach children today travels with them far into the future.

Writing is a miracle. You can travel anywhere in the world, to any time and any place — and still be home in time to have dinner.

set sail on a voyage of your own titanic facts

Renaissance man, woman, either way it's a worthy pursuit! Like the painters of Emilia's day, I was raised in an environment that encouraged creative expression. Both my parents were artists, who didn't think much of TV and refused to upgrade our old black and white set. To entertain myself, I made art and wrote puppet shows.