Billy's Boiling

The Billy's Boiling with Heather Garside

Margareta — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:00:51 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Heather Garside

Margareta Thu, 06/06/2013 - 7:00 pm

Welcome to the 'Billy's Boiling'.

On my blog we’re having are having a metaphorical cuppa and cake on our farm at Tinamba in Gippsland, Victoria. Imagine, if you will, we're in my kitchen, which is pretty comfortable and welcoming (even if I say so myself {smiley} ). The fire is blazing today (it's cold and woolly outside) making the room nice and cosy. There's a bunch of roses in a vase (especially put there for my visitor) on my old and battered Baltic pine table (previously the floor of an old woolshed in NSW). Comfy ladderback chairs invite you to take a seat and there are some gorgeous, old fashioned china mugs just waiting for our cuppa .

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

At the table with me is Heather Garside whose latest book is Breakaway Creek will delight all you rural fiction lovers.

This book was partially inspired by one I read as a teenager, from my mother’s bookcase. A young woman visited a cattle station and fell in love with a stockman, only to discover he was of mixed heritage. Considering the 1950s setting of the novel, (does this give away too much about my age? {wink}) this presented a huge dilemma for the heroine.

(admin.... Don't worry about the age thing Heather... we're all women of a "certain age" regardless of how "certain"!)

(And me? I'm not even going to go there...)

Breakaway Creek, Heather Garside

BREAKAWAY CREEK by Heather Garside

Two city women - a century apart - find love and adventure in the Queensland outback.

Two love stories; two parallel lives; two destinies.

Set in the 19th and 21st centuries, Heather Garside's debut novel is a passionate rural romance of love and its consequences.

Shelley and Emma are separated by time but bound by a dark secret to a place called Breakaway Creek.

A story of racial bigotry and a love that transcends all obstacles takes the reader back to the pioneering days of the 1890s.

Tell us a Little about the Book

My latest book came about because living in the country there are no high schools around, so we had to go to boarding school from year 8. It was a hard time, leaving your home and family but for me I enjoyed the boarding lifestyle, having my friends around me was like a massive continuous sleepover. My thought was ‘what if you had a girl who loved the country, had an attachment to it but ended up becoming a city girl through boarding school and Uni?’ So I put Lara on that journey of self-discovery, for her to find out where she truly felt at home.

I lived in Perth while I was at College, and it’s easy to merge with city life and it wasn’t until I actually went back home that I realised how much I had missed the country and its space. It was as if a brick had been lifted off my chest. I wanted Lara to have that same feeling, of coming home and finding a release.

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

Pumpkin Sultana Muffins, and I’m pleased to hear a Victorian call it ‘smoko’. I was told that was a Queensland aberration.

(My time on Queensland cattle stations coming out here, Heather. It's always been smoko in this house.

I'm also delighted to see "the Flo Bjelke-Petersen flavour". So Queensland)

Latte or Billy Tea?

I love billy tea around the campfire, but being a versatile sort of girl can’t go past expresso coffee either!

(There's something about that boiling billy, isn't there?)

Country or City?

Definitely country. Wide open spaces, peace and quiet…

(Your family cattle station comes to mind? )

Sea or Trees?

Trees. Need I say more?

(Nope. I'm right there with you. Although, I reckon you have to be Victorian to appreciate a 'real' tree. Our Mountain Ash are incredible.)

Morning or Evenings?

Morning. Being basically lazy, I don’t usually get up that early, but when I do, the very early morning is beautiful.

(You get some stunning sunsets up there too, I'll bet. A much more civilisied end of the day, hey?)

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Autumn is the best time in Central Queensland. Not too hot or too cold, green grass if we’ve had a decent wet season, sorghum crops coming into head…

(Oh God, I can feel it all coming back. Glorious autumn days and winters with jumpers off by 10am. You are SO lucky!)

Swags or Room Service?

Both – being versatile as I mentioned earlier.

(A true, clever, country woman.)

Horse or Motor Bike?

Definitely horse, but I can see it being quad bike before I get much older. (Are you getting the idea I’m not a teenager anymore?)

(I'm sure there'll always be a horse in your life, Heather. As to quad bikes, they're not so bad. Really.)
.

Books or Shoes?

Is that meant to be boots? Because if it is, definitely boots! Best thing about winter is wearing boots –high boots, ankle boots, whatever!

(LOL ... We have to cater for the more urbanites here too, Heather, although, maybe we could bring them over to the dark side ... the boots I mean.)

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

Being a country girl of a certain age, I can relate to the inclusion of Jim Craig. Unfortunately my girlish fantasies have been tainted by recent images of Jim with wrinkles and grey hair. I’m not that old! So sorry, Margareta, I’ll have to go with Hugh Jackman.

(YAY! So excited someone has heard of Jim boy! I prefer to hold him in a time capsule. He'll always be the young, handsome, unwrinkled, dark haired dish from the mountains for me ((who's sticking her head in the sand here! {blush} )

(siteadmin - Good grief... somebody who has heard of Jim Craig... maybe it's an "age thing" . {wink})

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Dinner party. I’m letting the country side down here – sorry, folks!

(Oh Heather, how could you?! ((Says she who loves a good dinner party herself ))

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Beef. What else is there? Did you mention dairy and sheep? No way!

(Said like a true Queensland cattle producer)

(siteadmin - Okay M - you're dairy country and I'm sheep country... perhaps we'd better include Alpacas here as well {wink} )

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

What about the yellow ones? Caterpillar rule in Central Queensland! (Just quietly, I like the blue one as it’s smaller and less scary to drive.)

(Damn. I forgot yellow. Apologies!)

Holden or Ford?

Holden of course – says the girl who drives and loves her Toyota Prado!

Cats or Dogs?

Both. Meet Rusty, our Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog pup, who lives to chase our cats but invariably comes off second-best.

(Cute. Very cute. He looks like he's saying 'Boots? What boots? Mum, I didn't steal them!)

Why Writing?

Because I’m absolutely hopeless at sport!

(Lol.)

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Writer’s cave. It’s bloody cold this morning, too.

(Mmmmm... I can definitely relate to the cold.)

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

The Devil’s Cub by Georgette Heyer. Before that, any book with a horse in it.

(See previous comment about horses.)

Event That Changed Your Life?

Going to a writer’s workshop in Emerald many years ago.

(Emerald?! I've had some fun in that town. Oops. I didn't say that ... don't tell my Dad will you?)

Now that BREAKAWAY CREEK is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

It’s rural (of course), set in the 1890s and features a character from two earlier books. I decided a certain downtrodden lady needed a chance to redeem herself and have a happy ending.

(Beautiful and intriguing. I love the sound of that.)

Words to Live By?

“It matters not that you won or lost -
But how you played the Game."

Adapted from the poem by Grantland Rice

Heather Garside

Thanks Heather, for having smoko with me, and for joining in the fun. I hope your new novel flies off the shelves. (It's currently available as an ebook from Clandestine Press (Kobo / Kindle and from their website). Coming soon in paperback format as well.

Tags

Billy's Boiling

Heather Garside

Breakaway Creek

The Billy's Boiling with Kate Belle

Margareta — Wed, 01 May 2013 07:00:51 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Kate Belle

Margareta Wed, 01/05/2013 - 5:00 pm

Welcome to the 'Billy's Boiling'.

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

As part of the celebration for the release of THE YEARNING - I'm lucky enough to be giving away a signed copy (check down the bottom for details).

At the table with me is Kate Belle (my great writing buddy and critique partner) whose debut novel, The Yearning, hits the shelves today. She also has two recent novellas released as ebooks. They are Breaking the Rules and Bloom, the first two erotic novellas in a series featuring the charismatic Ramon Mendez, a modern day Don Juan who walks into women’s lives and changes them forever.

Hi Margareta, thanks for having me. Umm, don’t suppose you have a rag or something – I seemed to have stepped in something soft and brown on my way in. My boots are covered in it. It doesn’t smell too good either.

‘Oh crap (hee…hee…), you poor darling. You have to watch your step around here.’

I’ve bought something sweet and sexy for morning tea. Or was it Smoko? I didn’t know you smoked. Oh! Sorry. Sometimes these country sayings baffle me. I grew up in the country but it’s been a long time. Bit afraid I might be too citified nowadays. Guess we’ll find out.

Katie, you and I both know you can take the girl to the city but you can never completely citify her...

I’d love a cuppa. Fire up the espresso maker!

‘Expresso?’

You know, coffee beans, grind, force hot water through....?

‘Argh … nope. How about Nescafe? With real milk?’

What? Straight from a cow? Might have a cup of tea if that’s okay. Thanks.

(Oh damn. It was the milk. I know it. Should I suggest we ditch the cuppa idea? Try a champagne or wine instead?)

Or just get down to business and pretend the whole city / country thing isn't real ....

The Yearning, Kate Belle

THE YEARNING by Kate Belle

First love. Forbidden love. “I want to reveal myself to you… I need your eyes to see, your hands to touch, your spirit to acknowledge that which I hold most deeply and secretly in my heart. My yearning for you.”

It’s 1978 in a country town and a dreamy fifteen year old girl’s world is turned upside down by the arrival of the substitute English teacher. Solomon Andrews is beautiful, inspiring and she wants him like nothing else she’s wanted in her short life.

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

I tortured Jenn McLeod with Nigella’s Chocolate Cherry Trifle and she’s still trying to work off the calories, so maybe we’ll go something a little simpler this time. Chocolate coated strawberries. Easy to make with an ice cube tray. Just fill it with melted chocolate and dip the strawberries in. Wha-la! And espresso coffee is a must. Can’t function without it. Oh, sorry. (I keep putting my foot in it) Except when I’m here with you. I’m sure I can function perfectly well with tea.

(Or champagne … wine? ~ OMG! Look at that plate of decadence! Strawberries and chocolate … together… sigh.)

‘Katie? On second thoughts maybe my Dad has an expresso machine?
I can just drive over to his property and see?’

‘No need for that much trouble. Country brewed tea will do, good and strong, like my men.’ (I wonder if she’s got any champagne in the fridge?)

Latte or Billy Tea?

C’mon Margareta. Latte. Daily. (Although a billy tea goes down a treat when camping.)

(I’d better get in the LandCruiser and drive to Dads farm. I hope he’s got a coffee machine hidden away in the old pantry.)

Country or City?

Urban fringe? Not the Noddy-town part – the leafy, spread out part. Best of both worlds. The country scares me a bit these days. Fires, snakes, soft brown stuff in driveways.

(Fires? Agree. Snakes?! Double Agree. Brown stuff?!! You get used to it, believe me.)

Sea or Trees?

Tough pick because I love a tree, but it has to be the sea – it’s less scratchy.

(Lol. But what about all that salt. It’s sticky stuff when it dries.)

Morning or Evenings?

6am starts are tough but are SO worth it. I love watching the world wake up with a quiet cuppa (ooops – latte) warming my hands.

(6am? Katie, are you crazy?! 5.30am works so much better … cough…cough …)

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Spring makes me sneeze. Summer makes your undies sweaty. Winter is just plain uncomfortable. Has to be Autumn..

(Laughing … sweaty undies huh? Has that got something to do with writing erotic fiction?)

Swags or Room Service?

Geez, M, do I have to choose? Stars for a ceiling or 5 star comfort? Aren’t they the same thing? Although I DO like the idea of being waited on. As long has he’s dark and handsome. And has good hands.

(And he goes by the name of Ramon…obviously?)

Horse or Motor Bike?

Nothing like the feeling of pure power between your legs. Either will do.

(Can you call a horse Ramon....?)

Books or Shoes?

Books. I’m an author – go figure. My shoes are always in a shocking state (worse than usual at the moment). I’m a hopeless shoe shopper. They never fit the way they did in the store. I’d rather go barefoot.

(And here I was thinking you would’ve been a boot girl. The long black shiny leather ones.)

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

Umm… where’s my Johnny (Depp)? I’ll betray him for no one. (Had to look the last one up. Did you mean the US ice hockey player? Who’s he when he’s at home?)

(Katie, Katie, Katie … you ARE a city girl. Ever heard of The Man from Snowy River? Jim Craig is THE MAN ~ as she throws her hands in the air and collapses in disgust.)

(siteadmin - M - I keep telling you... you're the only person with this thing for Jim .... {wink})

I am not! Karly Lane & Fleur McDonald, where are you?!!!

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

EEEK! Rodeo? Bloody hell. Give me a civilized dinner party any day. (Damn I’m sounding awfully girly now. Although there are all those broad shouldered cowboys… but they just don’t smell very nice. And I’m not too keen on their dress sense either.)

(I’m speechless. Smelly cowboys? Woeful dress sense?
Good Lord, Katie, you need to get to more rodeos.
At least you got the nice broad shoulders right..)

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

???? (Ahem – should I tell her I’m a vegetarian? Might just keep that to myself.)

(... Let's go with cropping {smiley})

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

I like bikes. The kind with pedals. Any colour will do. As long as it’s got a little basket on the front.

(Katie … I asked about a tractor not a bike! … (Although I must say, I am rather partial to those little baskets myself.))

Holden or Ford?

TOYOTA CAMRY! (why did I feel the need to shout?) Can’t break those window seals no matter how old they are.

(And oh Lord, can she yell. She’s bit touchy about her car.
Maybe she got cow poo in it one day? )

Cats or Dogs?

Meet Belle the adopted Greyhound princess and Bear the rescued Wonderdog. They take it in turns to sit behind my rolling desk chair and be crushed when I get up. Here’s my daughter reading them Harry Potter. (Very intellectual dogs, they are.)

(Ahhh …how lovely...)

Why Writing?

There is nothing - NOTHING you hear - else. It’s my drug of addiction. Somebody pass me a pen, I’m getting withdrawals. (Oops, sorry, I just wrote on your kitchen table…how embarrassing. Got a receipt or something I can scribble on?)

(Oh, don’t worry. It’ll just join all the other homework indentations in the soft Baltic pine. Oh look, you’ve written your next erotic novella right beside my son’s Sunday school homework {wink})

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

In the dark, dank space at the back of the house sits a dark, dank author hunched over her keyboard. I think I’ve become a troglodyte (there’s a new word for you!)

(Word of the day, people. Troglodyte.)

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Sadly, Jonathon Livingston Seagull (hey – I’m a 70’s child). I discovered it when I was about eight years old and read it and re-read it over and over throughout my childhood and adolescence. No wonder I have dreams of flying.

(A flying red head? Are you sure you aren’t a witch camouflaged as an erotic fiction writer?)

Event That Changed Your Life?

Which one? Don’t they all? My life changed my life – I think????

(How about meeting me all those years ago? Lol… I reckon that phone call you received to tell of your impending publishing contract would also be right up there. I know I cried when you told me! )

‘Well if you’d asked me which person changed my life…then it would have had to have been you!’ X

(Awww… aint she just lovely … cow poo aversion forgiven completely!)

Now that THE YEARNING, BREAKING THE RULES and BLOOM are out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

This is the really exciting bit. I’ve just signed another contract with Simon and Schuster for a second novel, Saint. And I also have an erotic story (well – it’s pure smut really) included an e-book anthology titled Edible Delights coming out through Secret Cravings Publishing in a couple of months. What a great year it is for me. Think I’ll pop the cork on another champagne. Pull out your best mugs, M, forget the stupid tea, let’s have a toast and get thoroughly drunk. It goes better with the chocolate coated strawberries anyway.

YES! Champagne! (I knew she’d come round.)(Busy, busy, busy!)

Words to Live By?

‘You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.’ Mae West

Kate Belle

Thanks for having smoko with me. Hiccup… hiccup …

Oh, is it time to go already? But we haven’t finished the bottle, and I’ve got another in boot. We can chuck it in the freezer if you like. Kids? Of course, how stupid of me. This always happens when I’m let off the leash. Can’t help but turn a bit feral. Well, put the spare bottle in the fridge and I’ll come over tonight when they’re in bed and we’ll finish it. (Hope I haven’t outstayed my welcome??)

Ciao Bella!

Nope. You’ll never out-stay your welcome here, Katie girl. You might jusssst drink me under the table though. How about I get H to go get that swanky coffee machine thingamabob from Dad’s now? Think we might need it in the mornin’ (as she falls off the chair into the strawberries. Damn they taste good.)

You can win you own signed copy of THE YEARNING by commenting below - tell us about your favourite teenage obsession.

Tags

Billy's Boiling

Kate Belle

The Yearning

The Billy's Boiling with Loretta Hill

Margareta — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:48:46 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Loretta Hill

Margareta Mon, 04/02/2013 - 10:48 pm

Welcome to the 'Billy's Boiling'.

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

At the table with me is Loretta Hill whose latest book is THE GIRL IN THE HARD HAT. I've just explained to Loretta to ignore that huge cloud of smoke billowing up from over yonder in the mountains behind us. It's the local chaps doing a backburn to keep the northern flank of the Alberfeldy-Donnelly's Creek bushfire in the hills. Her eyes are bugging a bit but seeing she's from a bushfire prone W.A., I think she's a okay with it. (I didn't tell her the damn thing has burnt out 72,000ha and affected countless lives. I'm kinda not sure she needs to know that right now.)

Ahem ... Loretta, tell us a little about the book ... and yourself?!

The Girl in the Hard Hat, Loretta Hill

Well, first up I’d just like to thank you for letting me bring my four kids with me. So hard to find a babysitter these days, especially when they discover how many kids are involved. Oh and terribly sorry about your china cups. Hope they weren’t heirlooms. I’ll definitely replace those. Will write cheque before I leave. Promise!

(My poor cups! And they were Royal Doulton …)

Beth stop jumping on the couch!

You know, it’s actually really hard for me sometimes to chat rural romance because I often feel like a bit of a fraud. I’m one of the few rural writers out there that lives in the city and has no intention of moving away from the big smoke. No offence to outback living. I love the lifestyle but I also love my lattes, shopping, cinemas and -

For the love of God, Beth sit down! Thank you!

“Ummm … Loretta? I don’t think she’s on the couch anymore. The crystal lamp-shade is in dire trouble though…” CRASH!!!

As I was saying, my books are about life as a FIFO worker. I was a Fly in, Fly out girl in my early career as an engineer. The experience really inspired me. You basically get the best of both worlds, city and outback, if you know what I mean.

“The Girl in the Hard Hat” is about a woman called Wendy who basically finds out she’s adopted and traces her biological father to the Pilbara. While she’s looking for him she takes a job at the larrikin invested Cape Lambert Wharf which many of my readers first visited in “The Girl in Steel-Capped Boots.” Unfortunately, to follow the trail her father has left behind she will need the help of notorious womanizer Gavin Jones. If you’ll just excuse me for a minute-

Luke can you please not lick the cream out of the biscuits and then put them back on the plate. No one wants to eat those after you’ve done that! Sorry Margareta!

“No worries.” (I think? errrrr, which one didn’t he lick?)

Where was I? Oh yes. Gavin. I loved writing him. He was really difficult to start with but in the end, his character really came together. I wanted to write a sequel to Boots because I felt that I hadn’t explored the Pilbara enough as a setting. Particularly because Boots was set before cyclone season. Hint. Hint.

“Boots? I love that name. It’s a favourite of mine for horses, dogs …”

Hang on… er... Where’s James? Did a little a boy about three years old come in with me. I mean, he must have, I took him out of the car. On the walk up your drive he was so taken with all the farm animals… Oh shit! Can you hold Michael, I think my son might be in your chook pen.

“I seriously hope he’s not. The chook pen floated downstream in the last flood …”

10 minutes later.

Found him! He was actually in the machinery shed but- Oh dear! Did Michael spew on you. Very naughty boy. Yes… well, I can see I’ve outstayed my welcome so I might just quickly answer your questions and then leave.

“Really? Already? Such a shame. No, it’s fine. I really don’t mind if James wants to keep all that grease. It does suit his complexion.”

Thanks for having me and I hope it wasn’t too much of an ordeal!

“Not at all.” (… as she stuffs broken cups followed by lamp shade pieces into the bin, wipes grease off the walls and goes in the hunt for some Napisan.)

Now, the really fun stuff {cheeky}

Latte or Billy Tea?

Latte!

(She did say she was a city chick)

Country or City?

City!

(I rest my case)

Sea or Trees?

Sea

(Must be something to do with Cape Lambert, I’m guessing?)

Morning or Evenings?

Mornings!

(I can understand that with four kids under four! (Loretta, not me)).

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Spring (Hello Romance!)

(Awww ... beautiful)

Swags or Room Service?

Room Service

(It's that city thing again)

Horse or Motor Bike?

Hmmm…. Horse, no, motor bike. I’m sorry. I can’t make up my mind here.

(Well, we are females ...)
.

Books or Shoes?

Urgh! What did I ever do to you to make me choose sides. I can’t do it. I won’t!

(Sassy little thing, isn't she?!)

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

Finally an easy one! Hugh Jackman Hands Down!

(Mr McDreamy himself ...)

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Dinner Party.

(Golly, she’s a bit predictable! C’mon Loretta, I’m sure there’s a cowgirl in you somewhere? How could you write such fan-tabulous books and there not be?)

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Beef - on the barbie

(Finally! A girl after my own heart)

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Red

(Ditto again. We love red around here. Have just bought a Massey Ferguson )

Holden or Ford?

Holden

(She’s getting better all round)

Cats or Dogs?

Dogs!

(... and better)

Why Writing?

Well, it’s that or an asylum. Which would you pick?

(Seriously??? Some days an asylum would possibly have it’s advantages …)

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

My writers cave is the kitchen! My writing desk is the dining table. It’s noisy but it has coffee and biscuits on tap.

(Sounds perfect, especially the biscuits – although did Luke lick them all too?!)

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Devil’s Cub by Georgette Heyer. After I read it, all I could think was I wish I could write like her.

(I must go back and read a few of Georgette’s books. It’s been a long time.)

Event That Changed Your Life?

All the big ones, graduation, getting married, having babies, getting published. It’s all a great big evolving adventure.

( And a wonderful adventure you’re having too, Loretta, especially with such huge successes on the publishing front.)

Now that THE GIRL IN THE HARD HAT is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

Just started the next book. Looks like I’ve got a bit of triology happening here. Though the third story will be set in Queensland, there are definitely some characters from books 1 and 2 continuing on. That’s the great thing about FIFO. You can put people anywhere and change their lives.

(Sounds exciting. I can’t wait. I am a huge fan of your books. )

Words to Live By?

Never let go of your dreams… or your kids. They might disappear.

(… down the creek in a renegade floating chook pen?)

Loretta Hill

Thanks for having smoko with me. Until we meet again, I wish you all the very best of luck with your endeavors.

See you next time as she waves goodbye. {smiley}

Tags

Billy's Boiling

Loretta Hill

The Girl in the Hard Hat

The Billy's Boiling with Deborah O'Brien

Margareta — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:43:05 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Deborah O'Brien

Margareta Tue, 11/12/2012 - 9:43 pm

Hi and thank you for agreeing to come to morning tea or ‘smoko’ with me! It’s really very kind of you to consider joining in, as I’m hoping that this is another method by which we can get all our readers to know more about all our authors!

On my blog we’re having are having a metaphorical cuppa and cake on our farm at Tinamba in Gippsland, Victoria. Imagine, if you will, we're in my kitchen, which is pretty comfortable and welcoming (even if I say so myself ;)). It’s got an old and battered Baltic pine table (previously the floor of an old woolshed in NSW), hardwood ladderback chairs, there are some gorgeous, old fashioned china mugs sitting ready for our cuppa .

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

Away we go ...

At the table with me is Deborah O'Brien whose latest book is MR CHEN'S EMPORIUM.

Thanks, Margareta. It’s nice to take a break and join you for morning tea.

MR CHEN'S EMPORIUM by Deborah O'Brien

And thank you for the lovely comments you made about MR CHEN’S EMPORIUM on Facebook. It was really a joy to write. People have asked me why I decided to write a novel at this point in my life and I have to confess that I’ve been writing (and illustrating) stories since I was a child. But I didn’t ever think I could write a full-length novel. Not until a few years ago when my mum, who had always loved my stories, said, ‘When are you going to get around to writing that novel? I’m not getting any younger, you know.’

So I went to my laptop, started typing and haven’t stopped since. All the narrative fragments, which had been living in my head for so long, seemed to come together. And now there are several almost-finished manuscripts sitting in the proverbial bottom drawer. And then there’s the one I did finish - MR CHEN’S EMPORIUM, a story of two women, one Gold Rush town, then and now. By the way, my mum is thrilled about the book and has bought copies for all her friends for Christmas. Thanks, Mum.

----

In 1872, seventeen-year-old Amy Duncan arrives in the Gold Rush town of Millbrooke, having spent the coach journey day-dreaming about glittering pavilions and gilded steeples. What she finds is a dusty main street lined with ramshackle buildings.

That is, until she walks through the doors of Mr Chen’s Emporium, a veritable Aladdin’s cave, and her life changes forever. Though banned from the store by her dour clergyman father, Amy is entranced by its handsome owner, Charles Chen …

In present-day Millbrooke, recently widowed artist, Angie Wallace, has rented the Old Manse where Amy once lived. When her landlord produces an antique trunk containing Amy's intriguingly diverse keepsakes – both Oriental and European – Angie resolves to learn more about this mysterious girl from the past and in the process she learns a great deal about herself.

And it’s not long before the lives of two very different women, born a century apart, become connected in the most poignant and timeless ways.

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

I’ve brought along my son’s favourite - apricot chocolate slice.

You’ll need a 250g packet of Nice biscuits - crumbed; about one cup of dried apricots - chopped finely; one and a half cups of dessicated coconut; 395g can sweetened condensed milk; 125g butter – chopped into cubes. Plus good quality cooking chocolate for the topping. Milk or dark – it’s up to you.

Line the base of 18cm x 28cm lamington pan with baking paper.Now, the really fun stuff

Combine biscuit crumbs, chopped apricots and coconut in a bowl. Place sweetened condensed milk and butter in a medium saucepan. Stir over low/medium heat until the butter is melted. Pour this into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. If it looks too wet, you can add some extra coconut and mix well. Press the mixture into the pan and refrigerate until set. Melt chocolate in a double boiler and place evenly over the top, smoothing with a knife. Refrigerate.

(Whacko! Someone’s been game to share a recipe with us. This is the first – Thank you Deborah!)

Now, the really fun stuff {cheeky}

Latte or Billy Tea?

Definitely tea. I can’t live without it.

Country or City?

Both! I lead a dual life, dividing my time between Sydney and a little place on the outskirts of a small country town. Sometimes I wake up at night and have no idea where I am.

(I only have one place of residence and have no idea where I am half the time. Poor you!)

Sea or Trees

Again, it has to be both. In Sydney I live on the banks of a saltwater river, which is home to flocks of sea birds. But I love our little place in the country, where a spring-fed creek, frequented by platypus, runs across the bottom of the garden.

(Your little place in the country sounds divine, Deborah.
And do I recognise those said platypus from MR CHEN’S?)

Morning or Evenings?

Mornings, before anyone else is awake. I love my first cup of tea and the quiet time anticipating the day ahead.

(I love this time of day too.)

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Spring for its sense of renewal.

(Amen)

Swags or Room Service?

Although my husband claims that camping is ‘1000 star accommodation’, I have to confess I would prefer room service.

(And here I was thinking my husband was the only one who said that?!)

Horse or Motor Bike?

Horses! I don’t actually own one, but I can dream, much as I do with alpacas (please see below).

(Karen? Karen?! She mentioned Alpacas …<To those of you who don’t know, Karen is my wonderful webmistress/webguru/all round amazing captain of my weblife ship> )

(Good grief woman settle down... unless you want me to start posting more photos of my boys. Obviously Deborah is a woman of great refinement and taste... love, love, love Alpacas... Of course, my boys are just the most perfect Alpacas in the world and the slightly daunting prospect of a room full of unprocessed fleece will pass... I hope... if the spinning wheel and I could just come to some sort of understanding.)

Books or Shoes?

Books – the print variety. My house is full of them and I can never bring myself to part with a single one. I even have my complete childhood set of ‘Anne’ books.

(Do we mean the ‘Anne of Green Gables’ kind of books?)

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

It has to be Hugh. I’ve had a crush on him ever since ‘Correlli’. I also admire his wisdom and good taste in marrying an older woman named Deb!

(Ha ha ha … very good taste I must agree )

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

I’m a dinner party person myself, but not the formal kind. I like everyone to join in and help with the cooking.

(Do you take self-invited guests? Namely, me? I can cook … I promise.)

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Sorry, Margareta - none of the above. My dream is to own a small herd of alpacas. In the meantime, I visit my friends’ alpacas and write them into my books. Hence, Snow White and Co.

(Karen? I say again, KAREN?! – Have you got one Deb can borrow in the meantime? She sounds like she really needs an alpaca …)

(Well, my boys do kush nicely in the back of an ambulance (they arrived in the back of a re-purposed ambulance), but I don't have one of those, so maybe a visit? Provided you admire from a distance and don't mind the occasional stickynose over your shoulder...)

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Blue. There is a lovely sky-blue tractor perched on the hill opposite our place. It’s been there for years and nobody seems to use it. From a distance it looks like a Dinky toy.

(Sky blue, you say? I wonder what make that would be?)

(Ah Memories - FadedFords - we had quite a few of that make when I was a kid )

Holden or Ford?

Holden! I’ve been driving the same one for the past ten years (Astra/Opel) and I’ve never had a problem with it. My husband would say neither – he loves his Defender.

(Pffftt. Oh, no! A Landrover lover – BEWARE PEOPLES!)

Cats or Dogs?

I have a cat and a dog, but (she says in a whisper so that her cat won’t hear her) I prefer dogs. They are the best friends anyone can have, loyal, loving and never judgmental.

(Here, here!)

Why Writing?

I can’t imagine doing anything else – it’s a compulsion. What other job affords the opportunity to play make-believe with an imaginary cast of characters and locations?

(… and don’t forget doing all manner of amazing things!)

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Writer’s cave - in Sydney it’s my dining room table; in the country I have a lovely old desk.

(‘A lovely old desk?’ She sighs.)

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

In no particular order: TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD (Harper Lee), ANIMAL FARM (George Orwell), THE GREAT GATSY (F. Scott Fitzgerald), THE CHANT OF JIMMY BLACKSMITH (Thomas Keneally)

Event That Changed Your Life?

Two things. First and foremost, becoming a mother after years of trying – it was both life-changing and life-enhancing. The second event isn’t in the same class, but it did change my life nonetheless – leaving my old job to write full-time.

(Beautiful)

Now that MR CHEN'S EMPORIUM is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

I’m writing a sequel to MR CHEN’S EMPORIUM, called THE JADE WIDOW, which picks up Amy’s story in 1885 when she’s thirty. If I had to come up with a tagline for this book, I would say it’s a tale about pioneering women in a world dominated by men.

Words to Live By?

‘When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.’
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Deborah O'Brien

Thanks for having smoko with me. Until we meet again, I wish you all the very best of luck with your endeavors.

See you next time as she waves goodbye. {smiley}

Thank you, Margareta. It’s been a pleasure.

Tags

Billy's Boiling

Deborah O'Brien

Mr Chen's Emporium

The Billy's Boiling with Mandy Magro

Margareta — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 05:53:53 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Mandy Magro

Margareta Tue, 14/08/2012 - 3:53 pm

Welcome to the 'Billy's Boiling'.

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

At the table with me is Mandy Magro whose latest book is Jacaranda, which was inspired by her love for the glorious Jacaranda tree, her passion for horses and her journey into motherhood. Jacaranda is a passionate love story steeped in the beauty of the Australian outback, and one that leaves the bedroom door open for the readers. Oh yes, wide open! Shades of Grey…pfft! LOL! Apart from being a passionate countrywoman Mandy is also a bit of a spiritual hippy, mediation and yoga a common pastime for her.

Jacaranda, Mandy Magro

Hi, Margareta! I’m thrilled to be here chatting with you.

JACARANDA by Mandy Magro

At nineteen, Molly Jones has the world at her feet. Then one drunken night she falls into bed with Mark, a cowboy just passing through. By the time Molly realises she is pregnant, Mark is long gone.

Now, at twenty-six, Molly’s life is almost perfect. She’s the devoted mother of Rose, and a renowned horse trainer. She lives amid the beauty of Jacaranda Farm, surrounded by family and friends – none closer than hunky stockman Heath. But she’s still looking for the love of her life, and a father for Rose.

When Mark stumbles back into her world, as charming as ever, Molly begins to hope for a future she’d long ago relinquished. But how will Mark react when he learns he’s a father? And could the man of Molly’s dreams be closer to home than she thinks?

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

I can’t say no to a piece of warm apple pie and cream, or a baked cheesecake, or pecan pie, or homemade anzac biscuits, or Lemon butter tart…. Actually, come to think of it, anything terribly hip widening is fine with me. Yummo! LOL!

(Warm apple pie and cream? Love it! Now I am drooling …)

Latte or Billy Tea?

Hmmm, I would have to say a Billy Tea. Sweet and strong, kind of like the men in my novels {smiley}

(Still drooling …)

Country or City?

Ahhh, the country, through and through. I need the wide-open spaces so I can feel gloriously alive, so I can breathe deeply and also so I can see nothing but nature.

Sea or Trees?

I am going to be cheeky here and say sea and trees. It depends on the day as to which I would prefer as I get so much from being surrounded by both.

(Seeing you live in the stunning tropical north with those amazing beaches AND rainforests, Mandy, we’ll let you be cheeky just this once.)

Morning or Evenings?

I am more productive in the mornings and I find the evenings are when I can sit back with a glass of wine and relax.

(Wine? Did someone say wine? Yes please …)

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

I like the frosty crispness of winter but if I had to choose it would certainly be summer when the sun is shining gloriously and I can get my daily fix of vitamin D.

(It’s when we have frosty crispness in Gippsland that I dream of Cairns!)

Swags or Room Service?

Awww, that’s a hard one. I love sleeping out in a swag under a star-lit night but I’m not one to shy away from a plush hotel with room service either.

Horse or Motor Bike?

Horse, horse, horse….did I say horse! {smiley}

(Nah, I’m sure you said motorbike, lol.)

Books or Shoes?

I only own about 7 pairs of shoes and three pairs of those are boots. 110% certain on the answer for this one…BOOKS! They are my passion.

(Maybe I should have swapped shoes with boots for you? I know I own more boots than shoes (but please don’t tell my husband).)

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

I might sound a bit daft but who is Jim Craig? {smiley} I would happily have a mixture of Hugh Jackman and Simon Baker, sexy, manly and devilishly cheeky. But, my all time sexy hunk is Joaquin Phoenix. He’s delightfully dark and mysterious…yum!

(OMG, MANDY. Who is JIM CRAIG???!!! Karly Lane, where are you? We need to edu-ma-cate this woman (as Margareta walks away muttering and shaking her head). Mandy, Mandy, Mandy … Jim CRAIG? The most crack horse rider of all time, the most sexy, gorgeous, to-die-for, hunk-of-a-spunk to ever sit on a horse …
I guess the upside of this, Karly, is at least we don’t have another would-be Jessica to contend with.
Jim Craig was the ‘The Man from Snowy River’. )

(siteadmin - don't feel bad Mandy - I said EXACTLY the same thing when Margareta put his name in the list {smiley} )

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Hmmm, do I need a minute to think? NOPE! Rodeo, hands down.

(Lol, me too. Except if Jim Craig was coming to dinner then it’d be a toss up.)

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

I love animals and can spend all day just watching them so even though I am a fruit farmer I would have say beef.

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Green…the tough and ever dependable John Deere. Bring it on!

(Awesome woman. One of my sons (the lover of all things coloured green on four wheels) wants to marry you.)

Holden or Ford?

I’m a Holden girl, without a doubt. A restored 1968 Holden HK Monaro GTS would have to be my dream car.

(1968 was the year for classics {smiley})

Cats or Dogs?

Dogs. I love them.

Why Writing?

Writing takes me away, allows me to create, inspires me and excites me. It’s an amazing job and one I feel extremely blessed to do.

(Yes, all of that.)

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Hmmm, maybe the kitchen? But to be frank, neither. I would prefer to be sitting outside under a tree with my laptop. Nature is what enthuses me so I like to be surrounded by it as I write.

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Rural fiction. This genre is what inspired me to write, and that in turn has changed my life immensely.

Event That Changed Your Life?

Becoming a Mum. I never believed you could love another human being as much as you love your children. Chloe is my world.

(Motherhood does have that effect on you.)

Now that JACARANDA is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

I have another two books in the pipeline. I am just about to start editing Melaleuca, which is due to be released early next year, and then I am also writing my fourth, Driftwood. Which has an appearance by the hunky country singer, Adam Brand. He’s so excited to be written into the book, too. Which is fab!

(Busy, busy, busy!)

Words to Live By?

Love, freedom, enchantment, peace and respect.

Makes me sound like a bit of a hippy {enlightened} Maybe I should have been born in the 70’s! I do love Led Zepplin and Pink Floyd, oh, and flared jeans! {smiley}

Mandy Magro

Thanks for being my guest for morning smoko, Mandy. And you need to go find The Man from Snowy River on DVD! With your love of horses you will adore it.

As Mandy is currently visiting family in England, we wish her the very best of times and safe travelling.

See you next time as she waves goodbye. {smiley}

Tags

Billy's Boiling

Mandy Magro

Jacaranda

The Billy's Boiling with Fiona Palmer

Margareta — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 03:17:56 +0000

The Billy's Boiling with Fiona Palmer

Margareta Mon, 09/07/2012 - 1:17 pm

What better excuse for a smoko break than a visit from one of your mates. And what is better during smoko than sharing a few of our favourite things (and I'm not just talking about the cakes here!).

Imagine, if you will, we're on our farm at Tinamba in Gippsland, Victoria. It's pretty comfortable and welcoming here in my kitchen (even if I say so myself {smiley}). There's an old and battered Baltic pine table (previously the floor of an old woolshed in NSW), hardwood ladderback chairs, and some gorgeous, old fashioned china mugs sitting ready for our cuppa.

And, of course, ‘the billy’s boiling’…

Away we go ...

At the table with me is Fiona Palmer, whose latest book is THE ROAD HOME, so why not grab yourselves a cuppa and let's get the chat underway.

The Road Home by Fiona Palmer

When your life is at a crossroads, how do you find the road home?

Lara Turner has a boyfriend, a nice house in the city and a chance at a big promotion. So when her brother calls asking her to come home, she hesitates. Can she face the memoires that inhabit the beloved place of her childhood? And how does she feel with the news it's to be sold? Could she be the answer to saving the family farm?

Jack Morgan has memoires of his own to contend with. A falling out with his family and a bitter end to a past relationship have left a big chip on his shoulder. When his best mate's beautiful sister arrives on the scene, he finds himself deeply conflicted.

Lara and Jack have a powerful attraction but are constantly at odds. Will their love of the same land keep them apart, or grow into a love of a different kind?

Tell us a Little about the Book

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

Who can go past Tim Tams?? (And on a cold day, you have to suck your hot cuppa through them so they go all gooey).

For me it’s easy out of the packet. But the local ladies here make awesome smoko. Their jam and cream scones are to die for!!

Latte or Billy Tea?

I’m happy with either. Love a good tea but also love the smell of coffee.

Country or City?

Country through and through, but love visiting the City. Big emphasis on VISIT!

Sea or Trees?

I love both. We go to the coast often and I love the beach but trees are magical also.

Morning or Evenings?

I’m an early riser but love evening sunsets.

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Spring. New growth, new flowers, new lambs, a new sunny start to life.

Swags or Room Service?

Swags are good, but who doesn’t like a bit of room service from time to time!!

Horse or Motor Bike?

Motor bike. I would spend hours riding around the farm. Also did a donut on one when I was young and burnt my leg badly on the exhaust. Mum attacked me with Tea Tree oil, stung like a bitch but now you can’t see the scar.

Books or Shoes?

Books. Books all the way. I have boots, thongs and runners…and not much else.

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Jim Craig

Hugh Jackman

Simon Baker

Hugh Jackman. I’ve loved him since the Paperback Hero movie. His character was yum.

(Me too, Fee. Bring back the ‘Paperback Hero’ Hugh please. He was to die for!)

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Rodeo. Dinner Parties scare me…I have to try and remember etiquette!!

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Cropping. I love driving tractors and smelling the fresh turned earth. And harvest with all those golden crops simmering in the heat. Magnificent.

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

My uncle had a big green Stiger, so I’ll stick with that.

Holden or Ford?

Holden. Both our cars are Holden. My brother is Ford so we have family disputes often lol.

(A girl after my own heart.)

Cats or Dogs?

Dogs. Love that dogs would do anything for you. Plus I’m allergic to cats.

Why Writing?

Because I have stories to tell.

(And what stories that are too!)

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Blah! I hate cooking so not fond of kitchens, although we tend to always be in it.

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Rachael Treasure’s Jillaroo. It gave me the courage to send my first book to Penguin.

Event That Changed Your Life?

Penguin signing me up for my first book. All of a sudden I became an author. Not even I saw that coming.

Now that THE ROAD HOME is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

I have finished my fourth book, based on a little town of Bundara. We are still working on a title for it. It follows a group of people and how a drought and tough times have affected them all. We will be starting the edits soon, meanwhile I’m working on book 5 and my YA story I wrote.

(EDITS?! ARGH!!! You poor thing. Such a busy girl … )

Book Cover - Heart of Gold, Fiona Palmer

Words to Live By?

Always look on the bright side of life. – It’s been my motto since I was young.

Never let life get you down.

Fiona Palmer

So head on over to Fiona’s website http://www.fionapalmer.com and checkout her books. She has also just become a movie star with Penguin Presents TV. Go to http://www.penguin.com.au to view this wonderful film clip that give you a look of Fiona’s life at Pingaring, in outback W.A.

Thanks for having smoko with me, Fiona. Until we meet again, I wish you all the very best of luck with your endeavors. See you next time as she waves goodbye.

PS. I just can’t wait until I REALLY have my gorgeous friend and fellow ‘Rural Writers Rock’ partner, Fiona, at my kitchen table!

Tags

Billy's Boiling

The Billy's Boiling with Heather Garside

Tell us a Little about the Book

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

Latte or Billy Tea?

Country or City?

Sea or Trees?

Morning or Evenings?

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Swags or Room Service?

Horse or Motor Bike?

Books or Shoes?

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Holden or Ford?

Cats or Dogs?

Why Writing?

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Event That Changed Your Life?

Now that BREAKAWAY CREEK is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

Words to Live By?

Leave a Reply

The Billy's Boiling with Kate Belle

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

Latte or Billy Tea?

Country or City?

Sea or Trees?

Morning or Evenings?

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Swags or Room Service?

Horse or Motor Bike?

Books or Shoes?

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Holden or Ford?

Cats or Dogs?

Why Writing?

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Event That Changed Your Life?

Now that THE YEARNING, BREAKING THE RULES and BLOOM are out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

Words to Live By?

Leave a Reply

The Billy's Boiling with Loretta Hill

Now, the really fun stuff {cheeky}

Latte or Billy Tea?

Country or City?

Sea or Trees?

Morning or Evenings?

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Swags or Room Service?

Horse or Motor Bike?

Books or Shoes?

Jim Craig, Hugh Jackman or Simon Baker (?All of them)?

Rodeo or Dinner Party?

Dairy / Cropping / Beef / Sheep?

Which Tractor - Green, Blue or Red?

Holden or Ford?

Cats or Dogs?

Why Writing?

Writer's Cave or Kitchen Table?

Book(s) That Changed Your Life?

Event That Changed Your Life?

Now that THE GIRL IN THE HARD HAT is out, are you working on anything now? (What's next?)

Words to Live By?

Leave a Reply

The Billy's Boiling with Deborah O'Brien

What's your favourite cake/slice/bickies/dip for morning smoko?

Latte or Billy Tea?

Country or City?

Sea or Trees

Morning or Evenings?

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn?

Swags or Room Service?

Horse or Motor Bike?