Mary Anne Yarde Author Interview
Introduction
It is my pleasure to introduce Mary Anne Yarde, an English novelist and historian. She is the award-winning author of the International Best Selling Series — The Du Lac Chronicles. Set in the period after the fall of King Arthur, the series takes you on a journey through Dark Age Briton and Brittany. It is is based on both legends and historical fact. The Arthurian legends are some of my favorite reads.
Mary Anne graciously accepted my invitation to interview. Below is her biography, responses to my interview questions, and ways you can contact her. Click on book covers to purchase at Amazon.
Mary Anne Yarde is the multi award-winning author of the International Bestselling series, The Du Lac Chronicles.
Yarde grew up in the southwest of England, surrounded and influenced by centuries of history and mythology. Glastonbury–the fabled Isle of Avalon–was a mere fifteen-minute drive from her home, and tales of King Arthur and his knights were part of her childhood.
Du Lac Chronicles Book 1
Interview Mary Anne Yarde
Would you provide an overview of the newest books that you have released this year?
The Du Lac Princess (Book 3 of The Du Lac Chronicles)
War is coming they said. But now it is here…
The Knights Code of Chivalry, which High King Arthur and Lancelot du Lac wrote, has been thrown on the rubbish heap. It is every man for himself. But amongst the chaos, there is one woman who refuses to bow down to tyrants. Lady Amandine du Lac was mistakenly left behind by her kin during the uprising against King Budic du Lac. Now she faces a life of scorn and ridicule because she so happened to be on the losing side. But Amandine has an inner strength that even she was unaware of. No matter what they do to her, no matter what they say, she will remain loyal to her kin and to the man she loved with her whole heart.
Du Lac Princess Book 3
What inspired you to write the Du Lac Chronicles which take you on a journey through Dark Age Briton and Brittany after the death of King Arthur?
As a child, I adored the legends of King Arthur and his Knights. I grew up near Glastonbury, England, where the story of King Arthur is woven into the very land itself. Many times I have witnessed Glastonbury Tor rise from the Fata Morgana — the mist — and every time I see it I am enthralled. It is so easy to believe the stories of Arthur when set against such a backdrop.
After Arthur’s tragic death the story comes to a sudden halt. No more is heard of Arthur’s famous knights, and all we are left with is a whispered promise, that when Briton is in peril, Arthur and his Knights will ride again. I always thought this was a terrible way to end the story. What an anti-climax. I wanted to write a story about what happened after Arthur’s death, and my series explores this.
How much research was involved in writing your books? How did you go ABOUT researching the legends associated with King Arthur and the aftermath of his death?
The history of a historical Arthur is not written in stone but is, instead, engraved in folklore, and that brings its own set of challenges. It is very much like chasing a phantom or going on a treasure hunt with no map and only rumours to help you!
I have dedicated almost twenty years researching Arthurian legends. I have visited many of the locations in which Arthur’s story is set in. I have so many books on Arthur and his Knights that I have a whole bookcase dedicated to the topic. I find his story absolutely fascinating. Is it an obsession? Probably!
I am also a historian. I actually tutor modern history, but my favourite era by far is the Dark Ages. My books are set in Dark Age Britain, Brittany, and France. I have dedicated more hours than I dare to count researching the Dark Ages in these three countries and it is still an ongoing progress. There is always something new to learn! I think I spend more time researching than I do writing.
Do you have a favorite character from any of the books in The Du Lac Chronicles? Explain why.
That is quite a difficult question to answer. I adore all my characters. But I think if push came to shove I would have to say, Merton du Lac. Merton is a wonderfully complex character, and as a writer he really challenges me.
How often do your characters surprise you by doing or saying something totally unexpected?
All the time! Sometimes it feels that I am not so much writing a book but going along for the ride.
Have you received reactions/feedback to your work that has surprised you? In what way?
My biggest surprise was when my books started to be compared to George R. R. Martin’s, Game of Thrones by reviewers. To be compared to an author like Mr Martin is very humbling.
Do you have any other books planned? If so, would you give an overview of what the book(s) are about?
I am currently working on Book 4 of The Du Lac Chronicles. This book continues with the story.
If you could have one skill that you don’t currently have, what would it be?
I would love to be able to draw and paint. But, that is never going to happen!
What makes you laugh?
My husband. He makes me laugh all the time.
What simple pleasure makes you smile?
Dairy-free chocolate cookies!!
You can contact Mary Anne Yarde as follows:
Other Books by Mary Anne Yarde:
DuLac Devil: Book 2
The Pitchfork Rebellion
“Pandora” by John William Waterhouse. 1896. 
Apollo's Raven 