Ask the Author: Marianne Perry
Answered Questions (8)
Marianne Perry
My second novel was published in 2026. Entitled The Chase, it is a contemporary mystery that twists and turns throughout North America, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, and South America. Anna is the protagonist. Were her nightmares a sign that she had inherited her mother’s disintegrating mind, or was something sinister afoot? Such is the core conflict confronting Anna. The Chase is a story about deceit, treachery, and dangerous family secrets. What will Anna sacrifice to keep her loved ones safe?
Marianne Perry
I have been researching my family ancestry for about twenty-five years. My first novel, The Inheritance is a historical fiction. It was inspired by my paternal grandmother’s early life in Calabria, southern Italy in the early 1900s prior to her immigration to Canada. My second novel, The Chase is a contemporary mystery. The holograph will, old Italian land deed, and mysterious letters are pivotal to the story. They were based on documents I unearthed while conducting genealogical research.
Marianne Perry
One of my favourite places in the world is Venice, Italy. Hence, reading Donna Leon’s books has and will continue to be important. On recent visits to Venice, I have visited sites she has mentioned and traced the actions of characters.
Marianne Perry
I put the cap on the lipstick, looked into the mirror, and admired my bright new mouth. I smiled and my teeth fell out, my tongue disintegrated, and I lost the ability to speak.
Marianne Perry
Do something every day. Even when writing full-time is years in the future, at best, do something small. Read a newspaper article, blog, advertisement, cereal box, label. Is this effective writing? Notice how the sun rises or how your children tie their shoes. Observe details. Train your mind to notice and record bit by bit. Talk to people. Listen to people. Watch people. This will all help shape you as a writer when you are able to devote more time to the craft.
Marianne Perry
Whatever experience one has whether personal or vicarious serves as material. All of life is relevant and worthwhile.
Marianne Perry
Why did my parents uproot their lives in Toronto, Ontario a few months prior to my birth and return to my father's hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario? Married for five years, they had established a home, my father had his own business, and my mother's family lived there. What had made them suddenly leave?
Marianne Perry
Thanks for taking the time to respond. Much appreciated.
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Mar 17, 2026 10:09AM · flag