The Cross Of Santiago is an intriguing tale of love, redemption and the power of a soul’s promise.

The Cross Of Santiago is a symbol of protection worn by Knights of the Order during Medieval times.  Yet how this cross ends up in the last will and testament of Amanda Morrison’s estranged aunt, is a mystery that will lead far into the past. 

On a quest to find the truth about her birth family, Amanda unlocks the secret to an ancient love story, destined to find its happy ending in the present. 

What genre is your novel?
My novel is in the time-slip genre, as it jumps from the present day to Medieval Ireland.  It could also be described as historical fiction… oh and romance, don’t forget the romance!

Ooh, time-slip. We don’t see that every day.
The Cross Of Santiago really reflects the kind of novel I enjoy reading myself – fun, witty and engaging contemporary characters with a storyline that explores the past.  So I really hope it will appeal to readers who enjoy contemporary women’s  fiction with an historical backdrop (and a little paranormal plot device!). 

Tell us more.
Amanda Morrison is a restless soul who finds it difficult to make connections with people.  She is quite fiery and outspoken in character (a typical Irish red-head!), but you get the impression that this is just a defence mechanism, to keep people at arm’s length.  She is very protective of her family and is a true friend to those whom she trusts.  In a sense, she is still a little immature emotionally and her journey to find the truth about her birth family is a real coming of age for Amanda. 

You haven’t said much about this mysterious cross.
The Cross Of Santiago is an emblem worn by the Knights of the Order of Santiago – (similar to the Templar Knights) based in Northern Spain.  The cross was found in the wreckage of an Armada ship, off the coast of Ireland, along with other treasures and trinkets.  In the story, it is left to the main character, Amanda, in a will – thus starting her journey of discovery into the past.

Complete this sentence for us: if you like _________________, you’ll love my book.
I think that if you enjoy authors such as Kate Mosse, Rachel Hore, Diana Gabaldon and Susanna Kearsley, you will really love The Cross Of Santiago, as it is bursting with mystery, parallel love stories and a beautiful setting.

Have you written any other books that we should read next?
Not as yet, no, but I am working on a novella and a short story, so watch this space!

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I grew up on the shores of the Atlantic in the west of Ireland.  I always fancied myself as a bit of an Emily Bronte (Wuthering Heights being one of my favourite books as a teenager), but I ended up studying Marketing and Social Studies in university.  I travelled and worked abroad in France, England and Canada before returning home to focus on my writing.  In my thirties I realised the corporate world was not for me and so I began writing short stories, articles and also took drawing classes.  I’m interested in all things creative, from painting to crocheting!  I am strongly influenced by my surroundings and love taking leisurely walks along the coast to stir up my imagination.

Do you have a website where we can keep up with your work?
You can follow my blog here: www.eviegaughan.wordpress.com.

How can we follow you on Twitter and/or Facebook?
@evgaughan.

What’s next?
I have already drafted a new novella which I am really excited about, because it is set in Paris and I’m a little bit in love with all things Francaise!  It will have some historical elements also, so I’m just researching that now.