Kat asked Linda Holeman:

Hello, I am currently reading The Saffron Gate and am thoroughly enjoying it and I was wondering.... your descriptive elements of the travels to Marrakech are so vital and realistic .... have you visited there or is your writing the product of research only? From a fellow Torontonian...... many thanks and plan to read other of your books. Kat.

Linda Holeman Hi Kat! Thanks for reaching out - and for reading! I have visited Morocco twice. The first time I went, I fell in love with a lot of aspects of the country and its cities. I realized I'd love to write a book set in such an unbelievably rich atmosphere...so I did! Marrakech especially spoke to me (and on both trips I spent the most time in that city). Once I was in the thick of the writing, I had the opportunity to go back the second time for more in-depth research. Since I knew a lot of the things I wanted my character to experience, I made sure to fit in everything I could (including spending time with a Blue Man who was the ultimate gentleman in taking my daughter and myself on an amazing journey through the Atlas Mountains and into villages and finally to camp in the desert). I did love writing The Saffron Gate, all my memories so clear and at times almost overwhelming with the beauty and intrigue. Thanks again for reading, Kat - your interest and support is much appreciated.

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