As a lover of historical fiction, I was excited about editing Cracks Beneath The Surface. Of course, as many of us do, I thought I knew the story of the Titanic, and I was very interested to see what new light author Laura McCrum could shed on this tragedy. I was not disappointed!

What I love about this novel is how Titanic passengers carrying first, second and third class tickets are brought together aboard this fateful ship. Unlikely friendships are formed, the rigid class lines become blurred, and the stories of real historical figures are told in an engaging and fascinating way.

I admit to weeping real tears throughout the editing of this book, which, I have to say, does not happen often, and I hope the author will take this as a sign of a very well-written story, and characters that are believable enough to really care about!

Hey, I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone who has not read Cracks Beneath The Surface yet… Of course, tragedy happens – but, still, I went away feeling both uplifted and hungry for Book Two!

My Interview with Laura McCrum…

What is your favourite thing about writing?

My favourite part of writing is creating characters and bringing them fully to life. I love getting to know them, being true to who they are, and allowing their stories to unfold in a way that resonates with readers. For me, writing is not just storytelling, it’s discovery. The process reveals a great deal about who we are, what we value, and how we move through the world. I truly believe everyone has a story worth writing, even if it’s only for themselves. Putting your experiences into words can offer powerful insight, clarity, and a deeper understanding of your own journey.

How has writing this book changed you?

I’ve always been someone who loves the excitement of starting new projects, full of ideas and energy. In the past, I would happily move from one beginning to the next. Writing this book, and building my career as an author, has changed that in the best possible way. I’ve discovered the deep satisfaction that comes from seeing a story through from its first spark to its final full stop. Now, it’s not just the beginning that excites me, but the craft of sustaining momentum, paying attention to detail, and guiding a project all the way to completion.

What’s next for you?

For the past twenty months I’ve been happily buried in notebooks, documents, and real and imaginary worlds, and I’m currently writing book three in my Titanic series. It’s been a wonderful stretch of creative focus, though I must give full credit to my husband, who has heroically handled almost all of the cooking and cleaning while I’ve been off with my characters. I’ve promised him that this summer, once book three is safely on its way, I’ll be stepping out from behind the laptop. I’ll still keep an eye on marketing and the book world, but there will also be fresh air, proper meals cooked by me, hopefully some sun in beautiful Scotland, and perhaps even a holiday where the only plot twist is where to go for dinner.