When I figured out what Susan Jeffries meant by this, I thought it was one of the most profound insights into life that one could have. And it isn't hard to identify the masses of inspiring women who have been doing just this for much of their lives. My writing and drive to write is inspired by everyday people who find themselves faced with extraordinary events and circumstances. It is that something within an individual which propels them to deal with-and not be crushed by- life’s difficulties that I find so truly moving and fascinating. My current heroine, who I believe epitomises this approach to life is Susan Boyle. What a truly remarkable woman. I am a ‘new’ novelist, previously only having the time to write poetry [kids, work and grandchildren]. My first novel is due out in March 2012 and is called Ruth. Ruth deals with issues that would have been scandalous at the time the novel is set, but it is her courage that emerges as the star of the story. The grit and determination that this young girl finds within herself, is not only an inspiration but a tribute to motherhood. It is a story about unusual places and remarkable events but it is fundamentally a story about growing up and what courage that often demands. Born in the 1950s in east Kent, England, Marlene emigrated to Australia in the 1960s. Apart from spending many years living in and around Sydney she has also lived in rural New South Wales and Queensland. Marlene has worked in managerial roles within the community sector and is a trained psychotherapist with qualifications in liberal arts, and counselling psychology. Marlene has travelled extensively throughout Australia and brings much of her knowledge and love of the country to her writing.

My first novel, Ruth, is due out in March 2012 in the UK. It is already available in the US, Canada and many online bookstores. Ruth is available as paperback or eBook.