We caught up with prolific Mills & Boon Modern author Cathy Williams to discuss her 100th book, His Secretary’s Nine-Month Notice. Read on for some useful writing tips and some insight into Cathy’s career so far.

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First of all, congratulations on your 100^th book! What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your writing journey so far?

I suppose the biggest lesson learnt when it comes to writing is the importance of order and discipline. Working from home can be subject to a thousand and one interruptions, from vital cups of coffee with friends to a tempting dash to the shops! It takes effort to arrange the week in a way that follows a routine because without routine, deadlines would stand a very high risk of being bypassed. All these years later, it’s hard to think of what I would do with a week if I took the writing out of it!

What are some of the standout moments from your career as a romance author?

There have been many standout moments over the years but I guess the nicest one was receiving that very first letter inviting me in to chat about becoming a Mills and Boon writer. An absolutely exciting and joyous moment and the start of a truly fulfilling career.

Did you always know that you wanted to be a writer?

I can honestly say that I had no idea that I would end up writing. I always enjoyed writing but as a career? It never occurred to me until I was pregnant with my first child, at which point I returned to my love of reading Mills and Boons when I was young and wondered if I could give it a go. Have never looked back!

How would you describe a signature Cathy Williams book?

When it comes to my books, I like to make the plots and characters as varied as possible. Life is full of twists and turns and unlikely outcomes so why not reflect all of that in what I write!

What was the inspiration behind your 100th book, His Secretary’s Nine-Month-Notice?

For my 100th book, I returned to one of my favourite themes, which is the boss/secretary dynamic. There is so much scope to explore how working with someone can lead to loving them without even realising it! It is always a pleasure to explore how familiarity can grow into something much deeper, taking hero and heroine by surprise.

How would you describe your ideal romantic hero?

My ideal romantic hero? I would say someone humorous, kind, intelligent and considerate. Naturally, it helps if you throw tall, dark and handsome into the mix!

What do you do in your spare time when you’re not writing?

As a grandmother of three, and soon to be four…much of my spare time is spent with grand children, and when I’m not with them, I try and get out onto the golf course, where I enjoy playing terrible golf. I love walking (and my two dogs don’t let me forget that) and experimenting with food. Cooking and eating!

What’s in your TBR pile at home?

On my list of books waiting to be read are those of P.G. Wodehouse. Read some of them a thousand years ago and I feel I wouldn’t mind paying a second visit!

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Grab your own copy of His Secretary’s Nine-Month Notice by Cathy Williams here!

By Becky Lushey