Amanda Deed's "Ellenvale Gold"

Title: Ellenvale Gold

Publisher: Even Before Publishing

Cover blurb: It is the time of Australia’s harsh rogue-filled gold rush of the 1850s when Miss Penelope Worthington suddenly finds herself orphaned, isolated and alone. With a large sheep station to run single-handedly, she has little option but to enlist the aid of a mysterious, but sinister stranger.

But who is the more treacherous? Gus—the scruffy, trespassing, ex-convict who co-incidentally shows up looking for work just when she desperately needs a farmhand or Rupert—the handsome, wealthy neighbour who would willingly marry her at the drop of a hat and solve her apparent dilemma?

Repeatedly, her faith is tested as she faces the unforgiving elements, deceit, lies and uncertainty. But where and how will it all end? But…is it the end? Will vengeance return or will Penny’s faith prevail?

1) How did this story come to you?
I wanted to write an historical romance set in Australia. The Victorian gold rush was a very formative part of our national identity, so I thought it would make a good backdrop to a romance.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I wrote the first draft back in 2000. It took me years to gain the courage to put it out there and then take steps to find a publisher. As it turned out, I had another novel published first, but finally this one is ready for the market.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. It surprises people that although I am an artistic person (I play music and paint occasionally), I have a passion for mathematics.
2. As soon as the weather is warm enough, I go barefoot as much as I can.
3. I wore running shoes beneath my Victorian style wedding dress (not so I could escape, but for comfort).

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am about to send the sequel to Ellenvale Gold off to the publisher. Next I plan to write the third and final installment of the Jacksons Creek Trilogy.

5) Parting comments?
Thanks for having me on your blog today.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
 www.amandadeed.com.au

http://amanderings.wordpress.com