Sit-Down Saturday with Catherine Lanigan

So, Catherine, where did you get the idea for this novel?

          
            When I devised the concept of the Indian Lake Series, this was one of the first story ideas that came to me. Granted, there were more than the first dozen, but this one, set in a vineyard in Northwestern Indiana fascinated me. Just north of us, along the western edge of Lake Michigan are numerous vineyards, that some say, rival those of California. I lived in Stevensville, Michigan for three years back when Tabor Hill Vineyard was just beginning to take root. I also have always been drawn to strong female heroines who will do anything and everything to preserve her family heritage, whether it be a botanical garden in Houston or a farm in Indiana. 

In looking at the cover, if you could add a caption or captions, what would they say?

          This cover is delightful to me, because it reminds me a bit of the movies “A Walk in the Clouds” and “French Kiss” two of my favorite films ever.

How long did it take you to write?

     About six months including a few months to cogitate the story in the very beginning.

What is your favorite scene?

    My favorite scene is opening sequence when Liz catches Gabe stealing her soil for samples. She’s got a shotgun in her hand and she wants some straight answers, which Gabe is reluctant to give her.

Who was your favorite character and why?

    

     That’s a toss up between Liz and Gabe.  I love Liz’s feisty attitude and her die-hard loyalty to her father’s memory and his dreams, even though they trip her up in her own life.  Gabe is funny, charming and daring.  He’s determined to build a life of his own, away from his father’s shadow, and that takes real guts.

If you could pick fictional characters to play the hero and heroine, who would they be?

     

          Jennifer Gardner for Liz. She soft and yet athletic and believable in tough situations.

     Ryan Reynolds for Gabe.

Tell us one thing you learned during research.

    I learned a great deal with this research. Though a lot is not in the book, the massive equipment and investment it takes to open and run a vineyard today is astounding. Fascinating was the number of vitners who travel the world and buy grapes from South Africa, Argentina, France and Australia to make that one perfect, unforgettable tasting bottle of wine.

What music would match the mood of this novel?

    Old classic romantic songs.

This is your 3rd book in this series.   Exactly what does that mean to you?

    I feel as I’m just getting started with my Indian Lake series. There are so many romances on my plate in this “town” of characters. I want to write them all!!

What do you plan to work on next?

    Next up is KATIA’S PROMISE coming in May. Right now, I’m working on UNBRIDLED LOVE.

    

What are you reading for pleasure right now?

          I am reading two political theory books, The Goldfinch, and my order for all the January Heartwarming releases is on its way!