5 minutes with ... Fiona Palmer

Secrets Between Friends was inspired by …

My good friend, author Rachael Johns, asked me to go on a cruise with her as we wanted to see what one was like—could it be potential book material? We went on a three-day cruise from Fremantle and had a fabulous time. I had a few story ideas in mind before the trip, but after brainstorming with Rachael on the cruise I settled on these three friends and their big secrets. When I got home I was straight back into writing. 

Before I was an author I was …

A CEO secretary, a teachers’ aide, a general store manager-owner and a liquor license holder. I'm now a secretary for our golf club, Progress Association and the Rural, Remote and Regional Women's Network. I’ve also been a speedway driver, roustabout, tractor driver and, most importantly, a mum. 

The best part of writing Secrets Between Friends was …

Getting to know my characters and going on the journey with them. Writing the novel also enabled me to relive our cruise and the time I spent growing up in Albany where my grandparents lived.

When I’m not writing I …

Work full time on a farm: driving, welding and generally getting dirty and greasy. If I’m not on the farm, I’m on the road to pick up my kids, at sports games, doing book events or attending RRR meetings. I’m also busy with various volunteer roles in my town. I even do a bit of gardening—we have a heap of fruit trees and chooks but if I have free “me” time I love to watch television or read.

My favourite place to curl up with a book is …

When we go to Bremer Bay in the January holidays. I love to sit at Blossoms Beach with the salty warm air and the sound of the waves crashing as I relax. When I look up from my page, the bright white sandy beach feels like my own piece of paradise with its turquoise waters and surfable waves for after I’ve finished reading.