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Not Letting My Knowledge Go to Waste
The Heiress follows a young woman in Paris who develops a forbidden love with a man who is now a Bishop in the Catholic Church. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It was my sister who set me off on this author’s path. When I told her I didn’t intend to turn my PhD thesis into an academic textbook, she said it was a shame to let all my knowledge about child sexual abuse go to waste, and I should write a book!
I think the idea to write about a love affair between a woman and a priest was inspired by my love of Colleen McCullough’s book The Thorn Birds and the fact that I didn’t want to write a story involving an actual case of child sexual abuse. It then took a while for me to figure out how to introduce that aspect of the story into the plot.
The characters in your novel are all well-developed and engaging. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I had a lot of fun writing Archbishop Armand. I gave him an aristocratic heritage and wanted to capture how that fed into his role as a high-ranking Church official. I did this through his physical appearance, what he wore, and how he interacted with Bishop Martin in their conversation in the Italian coffee shop. In the end, I couldn’t help liking him!
Writing up Rosemarie, my ‘Mrs Robinson’ (The Graduate) character, was challenging. She is seducing a young man, and at the same time, she is giving him an education in feminism!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The way the British and Australian governments treated and exploited British child migrants.
The way the bishops in Australia responded to allegations of clergy child sexual abuse.
The way the Catholic Church responded to women and priests who were having an affair.
The challenges and repercussions of celibacy.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next book is set in the 1940s in England. I’m inspired by the incredible careers of three of my great-aunts. One owned a chain of millinery boutiques, another was a chef, and another was a head buyer for Debenhams. I will start researching soon and hope to have it available for Christmas next year; fingers crossed!
Author Links: Website | Book Review
It all began in Paris in 1972 when fifteen-year-old Tiana first met Father Philippe Gagnon. Charismatic and charming, he captured her heart and left her smitten.
Three years later, when Tiana’s world falls apart, Philippe, now a bishop, reappears and supports her in her time of need. Her schoolgirl crush transforms into passionate love.
But just as quickly as he returned to her life, Philippe was gone again—first to the Vatican and then to Australia.
Determined to follow him and confess her love, a chance meeting gives Tiana the perfect cover story. She becomes involved in uncovering a terrible lie told to a former 1950s British child migrant sent to a Perth Catholic institution, giving her the excuse to fly to Australia.
But will her bishop still be there, and if so, what on earth will he say when she turns up at his door unannounced?
If you enjoyed the gripping themes of Thorn Birds, the heartwrenching story of Empty Cradles, or the powerful impact of the movie Spotlight, you won’t be able to put this book down.
The Heiress
The Heiress, by Kisane Slaney, is a captivating tale of adventure, love, and intrigue that centers around Tiana, a young girl with an adventurous spirit and a heart that may have found its match. The story takes off as Tiana and her friends uncover startling secrets about the Catholic Church, leading them to a crossroads: How can they reveal these truths? Tiana’s determination to support her friends raises questions about her true motives, adding layers to her character. Meanwhile, Philippe, another key character, finds himself sent to Australia, where he discovers more than he anticipated. His journey challenges his courage to stand up for what is right amidst swirling rumors and uncertainties.
The narrative skillfully blends potential romances, emerging secrets, and friendships under strain. Will Tiana navigate these turbulent waters to find her happy ending? Slaney’s characters are exceptional: vibrant, original, and wonderfully crafted. Tiana, the protagonist, is a compelling figure whose adventures are a delight to follow. Her friends are equally engaging, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Philippe, Tiana’s love interest, brings a unique perspective that captivates readers and adds depth to the narrative. The story’s tone balances upbeat moments with darker undertones, maintaining a pace that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.
From the enigmatic streets of France to the charming landscapes of London and the intriguing vistas of Australia, each locale is meticulously described and integral to the unfolding story. These settings are so well-aligned with the narrative that it’s hard to imagine the story taking place anywhere else. The plot is a masterpiece of gripping excitement, starting strong and maintaining thrilling momentum. The engaging characters, stunning locations, and intricate world-building make it a deeply entertaining read. The love story at its heart is both touching and enchanting, sure to warm readers’ hearts. The richly woven backstories, such as Tiana’s mother’s history, are also compelling and seamlessly integrated, adding depth and nuance to the overall narrative.
The Heiress is a flawless gem of a story. Its intriguing plot, delightful characters, and perfect settings make it an outstanding read that promises excitement, romance, and a touch of mystery. This novel is a must-read for those who love an enthralling tale of adventure and love.
Pages: 336 | ASIN : B0DHVHYXRD
LITERARY TITAN 