Where did you get the idea to write the book?
I was in the bath reading about the Third Crusade when suddenly an account of Saladin sending horses to Richard the Lionheart, who had lost all his, set something off in my head.What if your very particular horse was chosen to go? And what if that horse was also very special to your enemy? I had a story.
Have you always been interested in history?
History has always had a personal touch because my family can trace their roots to before the Norman Conquest. One of my ancestors was executed in 1746 and the travels of his head, before it was finally reunited with his body, gripped us as children.With a background like this it was impossible not to be interested in history.
Was there anything that surprised you when you began researching?
Certainly. Though the late 12th century is a bloodthirsty time, the code of honor between the Muslims and Christians, whilst often broken,was surprisingly strong. They were very rude about each other, but admired each other too. It was fascinating to read contemporary accounts of the Crusades from both sides.
Can you give us a hint of what to expect in Green Jasper?
The clue is in the title. Jasper is a semi-precious stone, with green jasper a symbol of faith. Gavin gives Ellie a green jasper necklace as a wedding present and in the turmoil that follows, she almost loses it. Much is asked of Hosanna. Kamil appears, but has he come to help?
Did you have a horse?
Yes, a keen and beautiful chestnut mare called Miss Muffet who was brave as a lion. I shared her with my mother. Muffet won lots of prizes in endurance competitions and once raced from Vienna to Budapest. She died in 1998 and her picture hangs above my desk. Sacramenta is a homage to her.
