When I first started aiming for publication with Harlequin
Mills and Boon, one of my most favourite authors was the brilliant Sara Craven.
I learned so much from reading and loving her books and if there was a new
title out I grabbed it with both hands. Her novel Comparative Strangers was one
of my favourites that I read over and over again - but there was also Fugitive
Wife. Moth to The Flame . . .so many more that I adored.
I was lucky enough to meet Sara in person many... years ago
at an Association of Mills and Boon lunch - the first I think - in London. I
admit that when I met her and realised who she was, I actually curtsied in
respect of her talent and her achievements. From then on I was honoured to call
her a friend and her burning intelligence (she won the UK Mastermind award in
1997) vivid wit and fabulous personality brightened so many days at RNA events
and others.
She loved my husband too and
he adored her - in spite of her tendency to stroke his knees whenever he dared
to wear shorts at the RNA conferences. I shall never forget my last AMBA lunch
with her - and then spending a long, warm chatty evening on a settee together
while she told me of all the changes in her life recently - including the 'love
of her life' her bright as a button new dog.
So I was desperately sad to learn how seriously ill she was
only today - and I am broken-hearted to learn that only a couple of hours after
I received that news there came the worst news of all - that Sara had passed
away far too soon.
I seriously doubt that I wold ever have become a published
romance author without the inspiration and example that Sara gave me. I loved
her as an author, as person and as a friend. I'm thrilled to know that she saw
the books I produced as we shared our careers for some very happy years - not
enough ! And I'll always treasure a note from her after reading on of my own
titles (The Twelve Month Mistress) - 'Oooerr Missis,' she said, ' you do build
up a head of steam - you made me all hot and bothered.'
That was the greatest compliment from one of the greatest
women and writers I've ever known.
Rest in peace dear friend - heaven will be all the richer
for your wit, intelligence and wonderful story telling.
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