The One-Link Lowdown on...Maggi Andersen

My guest today is Maggi Andersen.  A writer of many genres, Maggie describes herself and her husband as 'empty nesters' living in the suburbs of Sydney where 'parrots demand seed, possums fruit, ducks swim in the stream at the bottom of the garden, and the neighbours chickens roam their yard providing wonderful eggs,' which sounds like a  fairly un-empty nest to me! 

Maggi is a Master of Arts in Creative writing, which might explain her wonderful ability to create not only romantic Regency novels but also darker Victorian stories, young adult books and contemporary romantic suspense.  Her latest release, a Georgian romance with the intriguing title The Reluctant Marquess, is now available from Knox Robinson Publishing.  Welcome, Maggi!

What’s the best job you've ever had?

Writing is the best job I ever had. I can do it in my pj’s, have a snack when I fancy it, and knock off early without the boss complaining.

What’s your favourite piece of music?

That would depend on how I’m feeling and what I’m writing. Claire de Lune by Debussy is one of my all-time favourites and perfect for a scene between two star-crossed lovers.

One of my favourite pieces too, it's very beautiful.  Ok, to matters of the stomach now! What’s your favourite sandwich, and where in the world is the best place to eat it?

Seems somewhat unimaginative to eat a sandwich in Paris where the cuisine is superb, but I love their crunchy baguettes stuffed with ham and cheese, and where better to eat it than in a little bistro on the Champs-Élysées with a fabulous coffee, while watching the passing parade of fascinating people.

Ah, there's nothing unimaginative about a sandwich in Paris!  Maggi, which household chore would you happily give up for ever?

There are many, but scrubbing bathroom tiles would be the most reviled.

Who would you invite to your ultimate fantasy dinner party? 

Hilary Clinton, a remarkable lady, Greta Garbo, did she really want to be alone? Stephen King, who’s lively and unpredictable, and Mr Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, need I say more?

That sounds like a party I'd love!  Now tell me this - what talent or skill would you love to have that you don’t have now?

A good memory.

And what skill would you....oops, looks like we could both do with that skill!  What drives you seriously nuts?

Politicians. The older I get the more childish most of them seem to become.

I Which animal do you think you’re most like, and why?

According to the Chinese horoscope, I’m born in the year of the dog. I like to think that’s me. The Dog is a listener, always available to lend an ear or a shoulder to a friend in need. Often Dogs know more about their friends than their friends know about them or even themselves! They are also worriers! 

Maggi - let's be friends!  Now I think I can guess the answer to this next question, but I'll ask anyway!  You're given a time travel machine.  Where would you go, and why?

Back to the English Regency era. Some of my books are set then and it would be great to see what it was really like.

What single invention would change your life for the better?

 A way to lose weight without exercise!

Ah, Maggie, you're definitely not alone there!  It's been great fun having you as my guest today.  My blog readers can find out lots more about you at your One-Link, your website right here.  Lovely to see you - good luck in all that you do!