Patricia Anne Phillips

Patricia Anne Phillips
LAST BRIDE STANDING

Interviewed by: Lauretta Pierce
May 16, 2006

Q.    How did you come about the idea to have Wanda lose her memory?

A.   I wanted Wanda to have time to learn the African way of living, and to give her time to develop love for the country and the surrounding.



Q.    How did you come about the title?

A.   Originally, I had named the book A Flower Blooms In Thika, but Kensington Publishing didn’t think the title would catch enough attention.



Q.    How did you come about Ahmed and Steve’s characters?

A.   Since Ahmed was the ranch owner I wanted him to be strong and wise, where as Steve was the weak one because of his mother leaving him alone as a young child.



Q.    How did you come about Coffie, Chiku and Busara’s characters?

A.   They were people needed to help develope the story, and Wanda needed friends during her stay in Thika.



Q.    How did you come about the drama surrounding Steve, Marie and Kim?

A.   Steve needed a new life after Wanda, and he was a very confused man, empty, and wouldn’t have been able to cope alone. So I thought that a little drama would keep readers on the edge of their seats.



Q.    How did you come about the situation surrounding Enos and Din?

A.   I thought of it as I was writing the story. It just seemed to float so easily.



Q.    How did you come about Hasani’s character?

A.   I wanted to involve Wanda and show her strength, and develop Coffie’s character.



Q.    How did you come about the idea to have Wanda tragedy happen in Africa?

A.   I think Africa is exotic and interesting, and a different surrounding for readers.



Q.    Are you currently working on another novel?

A.   I have already completed another novel and my first anthology title Secret Lovers will be release June 1, 2006.



Q.    What messages would you like readers to receive from reading Last Bride Standing?

A.   Love can be found when you least expect it. Don’t give up on falling in love.