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An interview with Robyn Sherratt from A Winter Haven by Margaret Amatt
The heroine in A Winter Haven is Robyn Sherratt. She’s a determined businesswoman who’s had an unhappy upbringing. When a life-changing event sends her back to her childhood home, she has many demons to face.
As part of the writing process, I like to flesh out my characters with quirky details and background to make them feel real. This sometimes includes a character interview. These are the answers I imagined Robyn giving at the start of the novel. I’ve edited it to remove spoilers!
Robyn is a reserved character who likes to keep herself to herself. She has two sides: the business Robyn and private Robyn. The business side is where she is most confident. The private side... not so much. And try as she might, it's hard to shake off the hurts of the past.
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Do you have a nickname?
Well, at school I did but I’d rather not repeat them, they weren’t especially kind.
Do you have any siblings? If you do, what are/were they like?
One brother, Liam. We have a troubled history.
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What is your occupation?
I’m the director of Creative Genius, an online marketing agency.
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Do you have any annoying habits, quirks, strange mannerisms, or other defining characteristics?
I tend to fiddle with my pendant; it has a special significance to me.
What is your hair colour and eye colour?
Blonde hair, blue eyes.
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How would you describe your childhood?
I grew up in an idyllic location on the Isle of Mull, but I didn’t have an easy childhood. I was a bit quirky and often left out at both home and school.
Where did you learn most of your skills?
I tried hard at school though I didn’t enjoy the social aspect of it. My parents decided a university education wasn’t for me and I at that point I didn’t have the strength to fight for it. However I made my way quickly through the ranks in business by working hard and learning as I went along.
What is/are your favourite hobbies and pastimes?
I guess I’m a bit of a geek! I enjoy computers and discovering all the wonderful things you can do with technology. I also have a lovely little dog, Florrie. I adore taking her for walks.
What is your favourite food?
I love poached salmon with some nice new potatoes.
What makes you happy?
My dog.
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What makes you sad?
People who judge me before they get to know me.
Are you spontaneous, or do you always need to have a plan?
I definitely need a plan!
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Someone who makes me smile and accepts me for who I am.
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Are you generally introverted or extroverted?
Introverted.
Are you generally organised or messy?
Organised! I don’t like mess.
What do you most wear on your feet?
My smart work shoes, black with a medium heel.
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You can catch up with Robyn in the Scottish Island Escapes series. She's the lead character in A Winter Haven.