Dr. MacLean: Hi! I’m married to Julianne MacLean, and she generally writes historical fiction for St. Martin’s Press (with three Highlander romances out this year) and also recently published a contemporary mainstream book under the pseudonym E.V. Mitchell called The Color of Heaven, and also a time travel romance back to the Wild West called Taken by the Cowboy. It’s been a busy year for her!
Dr. MacLean: Yes to all the above. My day job is as an MD. I work with the Federal government in Canada as a staff physician, and also do some OR assisting evenings and weekends. I’ve always been athletic, and competed in various sports including triathlon, volleyball, mountainbiking and running. These days I still run the occasional half-marathon, bike through the woods in Nova Scotia, and am working on grading for a brown belt in karate next month if all goes well.
My wife’s creativity has rubbed off on me. I’ve also been a freelance writer for the past ten years, and have numerous writing and photography credits in a handful of different magazines/newspapers. I’ve written a documentary for the CBC on Titanic’s so-called “Unknown Child”, and am currently co-writing a feature screenplay for which we have development funding from Telefilm Canada.
I also co-own a production company, and we have finished some short films (including both of Julianne’s book trailers which are viewable on her website), the above documentary and currently working on and busy pitching various feature film projects in development. I hope to adapt one of Julianne’s books for the big screen one of these days.
Dr. MacLean: I met her at Frosh week at our university; I was part of a group of upperclassmen who decided to throw young women into the icy cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean. We threw Julianne in, I felt bad for her, especially since she looked like she was hyperventilating and about to drown, so I stayed to make sure she was OK. She appreciated that…
We were friendly after that, but didn’t see each other much after university, until we met eight years later at a video store on a Friday night. We hit it off, she recommended a movie to watch (Jacob’s Ladder), and we decided to meet with friends a few days later at a bar, and hit it off even more… and the rest, as they say, is history.
Dr. MacLean: I was home and she called me from the RWA conference in 1999 to tell me that Harlequin was buying her book. She was an unpublished author at the time, so it was amazing for her and created a lot of buzz. The fact she heard for the first time at such a great conference was definitely a bonus. It took her six years to sell that first book (called Prairie Bride), so we were both REALLY happy. She’s done well since then, too.
Dr. MacLean: I want to say (a), but really, since I don’t carry a massive sword, don’t have massive pecs and rippling biceps, nor do I spend my time lopping off people’s heads off, probably more a combination of b and d (hehe).
Dr. MacLean: I tend to be more charming in a family pet sort of way, so I’ll have to say d…
d) A gathering of lords and ladies.
Dr. MacLean: definitely b… though a close second is d, Julianne has written a lot about lavish British balls in her Regency and Victorian period romance novels, and we’ve watched a number of period movies involving the aristocracy, most of which I do enjoy.
Dr. MacLean: Since 1994 or so when Julianne first started writing seriously. As far as general advice, get ready for a number of questions at parties that usually involve an added “wink, wink, nudge, nudge” at the end of it.
Example: “Where does your wife do her research (snicker, snicker)? Is it from you?” Make sure you have some quick-witted answers ready to go, or a simple “of course” usually works for me and gets a few laughs (hehe).
Otherwise, it’s a tough road and not easy to get published or to keep publishing and write stories that are fresh and that people want to read. It takes commitment and discipline to do what she does day after day, week after week. It is a job for her, one that she loves, and beats being an office zombie.
As far as deadline times, I strongly advise to offer as much support as possible: take over meals, replenish the coffee mug, walk the dog, do the dishes, do the cooking, wash the clothes and don’t complain about minor issues.
Dr. MacLean: See my response above… as an aside, I wrote an article that was published several years ago that discussed my wife’s profession and some of the more unusual comments and questions that I have gotten… if I can find it, I can share with you. It was rather funny.
Dr. MacLean: Probably the hero’s wimpy man-servant or the skinny, awkward gardener, or maybe even an aristocrat’s family dog (hehe).
Dr. MacLean: She used to be a DJ at one of Halifax’s trendiest bars during her university days. She was the only woman in a regional DJ competition, where she was beat-mixing with three turntables (yes it was a few years ago). She came in third.
Dr. MacLean: Wow, with five books out this year, that should be a tough one… actually, I think the The Color of Heaven is her best book yet for my tastes. It is more mainstream, it’s very emotional, there are some parts that are inspired by true events in our lives, and it was a very inspiring read. It’s gotten lots of buzz, United Talent Agency (UTA) is a Hollywood agency that is shopping it around for film rights, it has sold at auction for foreign translation rights in Germany and Portugal and Indonesia so far. I’d love to adapt it into a feature film. She’s gotten fan mail for many of her books in the past, but the type of fan mail has been more passionate, with numerous people saying it was the best book they’ve ever read–that it struck them emotionally–and many connected to it on different levels. Some said they had lost loved ones and that the book helped them come to terms with their own loss. It’s a very different tone and writing style from her other books and is written in the first person. Bring a box of Kleenex when reading, but it also has a wonderful, uplifting message at the end.
As for her Highlander trilogy out this year, the first two books released in February and March have done very well (the second Claimed by the Highlander hit the USA today bestsellers list), the third one comes out next month and is a great and exciting conclusion. Definitely more action than some of her other books.
For those wanting to be whisked back the Wild West, her time travel romance is called Taken by the Cowboy. She originally wrote it in the 1990’s, though it came close, it never sold to a publisher. She polished it off, cleaned it up and updated the writing and self-published it a few months ago, and it’s a lighter and fun read.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Ask a question or leave a meaningful comment.
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua’s blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Must be at least 18 years of age.
4. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY Sept. 4th, 2011.
Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again, Dr. MacLean! I wish you and your DW all the very best. It was a lot of fun chatting with you again. And it was great that Julianne was able to jump in! Okay, folks, let’s hear your comments! 🙂
Well Dr. MacLean I am impressed that you also write, among your other attributes. Shall we see you doing a book tour anytime soon???
GFC: Mary Preston
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Hi Mr D and Dr MacLean,
You certainly have a very active life. That’s wonderful that you also write and I hope we’ll soon be hearing about a movie from one of her books. I love her Highland trilogy and I’m waiting for Seduced By A Highlander next month.:)
Has your Documentary called An Unknown Child aired yet ? Love anything to do with the Titanic. Thanks for sharing with us.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com
I tend to be more charming in a family pet sort of way, so I’ll have to say d…
Probably the hero’s wimpy man-servant or the skinny, awkward gardener, or maybe even an aristocrat’s family dog (hehe)
LOL!! I SO enjoyed this interview, RH MacLean. Your support for Julianne shines brilliantly.
My husband is instrumental in my writing and he also writes occassionally. Do you and your wife have any plans to collaborate on a new project?
The two of you lead interesting lives. You both seem to have a good sense of humor. Have you thought about writing a book together? Could be fun.
I was so interested in reading this interview. You are certainly a supportive husband and you and your wife seem to have so much creativity in your lives. It must be a busy household and yet, all seems so balanced. Very much looking forward to reading The Colour of Heaven. Thanks for a stimulating look at a husband’s perspective.
Hello, Dr. MacLean: You and Mrs. MacLean sound like very busy people. Do you find it difficult to make time for just the two of you? What are some of the fun things you do together to unwind? My first introduction to Julianne MacLean was her Valentine Gift of The Color of Heaven. It was an amazing story and I am one of those people who thought it the best book I had read in a very long time. I loved it and have recommended it to anyone who would listen! And, yes, you definitely need the tissues. Thank you… Read more »
Fabulous interview RH MacLean. Such a talented family!
I’m sure glad I went to college in the USA Midwest — tossed into the ocean? I’m going to have to get a copy of the Color of Heaven.
Wow! What a treat! An interview with the hubbies of two of my very fav authors! Thank you! AND thank you for the giveaway!
lindalou(at)cfl(dot)rr(dot)com
Great interview. It is cool that you have some many professional avenues that you pursue.
I love Julianne’s books.
This was a fabulous interview and I want my husband to read it! I’m really curious what bar it was in Halifax?
That’s so cool that she was a DJ! I have never had a “cool” job, so I’m very jealous!
Thanks for the giveaway!
GFC follower
What a great article. You made me smile and remember that I met my husband in a similar fashion. I am so happy for both of you- what a great pair.
Hi Dr MacLean,
I love your wife’s writing and currently reading her The Highlander Trilogy … just recently got Claimed by the Highlander and can’t wait to read it!!! Her books are brilliant and always look forward to getting her latest if able to ;o)
Ok how do you manage to have a work/life balance? I’ve always thought a doctor’s life is hectic but it seems like you know the formula, please can you share some of your tips in achieving this balance.
Rita from South Africa,
bitemeash(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua’s blog (through Google Friend Connect)
Wow between the number of books she has written lately and all the work you have going on I’m just wondering where you find the time for each other. Do you guys have like a special date night or certain time you set aside to be with each, no work allowed?
Hi Dr. MacLean,
Thanks for sharing the sweet wedding photo with us! You both make a very good-looking couple! It’s so cool that Mrs. MacLean was a DJ! We need more female DJs who know how to jam!
GFC follower
angeldream3[AT]gmail[DOT]com
Boy, y’all are really busy…Kind of a Renaissance man w/ a sense of humor. Never boring @ your house I’m sure.
Thanks for the interview.
I’m a follower…
Great interview. I always find it interesting to see the hubby’s pov on things.
A very nice interview gentlemen!
I enjoyed the glimpse of the MacLean family. You are both very impressive. I think you are more RH and inspiration than you give yourself credit for Dr. MacLean.
I have enjoyed all of Julianne MacLean’s books. I have never been disappointed. I would love to see her work on the big screen!
God bless
Kimberley Coover
I have just started following Lila’s blog…..wonderful reading
kcnrhtx(at)charter (dot) net
Mr. D and Dr. M I truly enjoyed your interview and finding out more about one of my favorite authors (and of course her husband). I usually read historical romance but had to get a copy of The Color of Heaven when it was released. I was so moved by it that it went to the top of my list for gifts I will be giving this Christams. Dr. M, I was just wondering if in your spare time (though how you have any with all your numerous ventures) if you and Julianne get to do any on-site research for… Read more »
I loved the interview. You are a talented couple. It sounds like a good match to me!
Do you ever collaborate with the research?
Hello Dr. M – I certainly enjoy these interviews! I too follow any info about the Titanic.
Does Julianne include any medical bits in her stories & does she consult you about them?
sallans d at yahoo dot com
Hi Mr. D and Dr. MacLean! What a wonderful blog interview.
My question is did Julianne know that she was going to be thrown into the Atlantic or was it a surprise for her induction? What a wonderful man to have felt sorry for and stayed with her, becoming her friend!
Awesome interview I find it really inspiring that you and ur wife inspire eachother and sher creativity rubs off on you the whole idea of turning one of her creations in to a movie or teleplay is great too awesome interview!
Happy September, Mr. D. : )
Wow! Dr. Mac!!! You and Mrs. Mac are definitely a dynamic duo–multi-talented and multi-tasking! If a movie were made of your lives, who would be ideally cast as you and Mrs. Mac?
US Resident, GFC Follower, Subscriber
gcwhiskas at aol dot com
Hi everyone! So glad you stopped by to chat with Mr. D’s wonderful guest!
Dr. MacLean–Thanks so much for being here! I do appreciate you doing housework. It allows Julianne time to write and give us those books we love to read. I loved your interview! Congrats on your own accomplishments! Oh, and I’ve seen the book trailers you’ve done for Julianne. They’re sexy and humorous! Loved them. It’s a pleasure to have you here today. 🙂
I think it’s awesome how you support your wife in her writing especially since you yourself have a great deal on your plate. As a blogger, I have a particular fondness for book trailers. They really help get people excited about the book, so I include them in my blogs whenever I can. Thanks for an entertaining interview and thanks for the contest. I’m a GFC follower (The Loopy Librarian). allie(at)theloopylibrarian(dot)com.I’ve never read your wife’s work, so I’d love to win In My Wildest Fantasies since it’s the first in a series. Thanks again, Allie
Great post Dr. Maclean! I admire a man that helps his wife out around the house. I take it you do read her books. How do you manage to keep up with all you do? You must be amazing.
lead[at]hotsheet[dot]com
Great Interview Dr. MacLean!
I love how yur wife was a DJ, and how helpful you were after you threw her in the ocean.
Waving Hi Mr D &Mr Maclean
I just want to say WOW Mr M you are a very busy & yes Inspiring Man, Bless you. Off the top if you Both have a free moment what is your favorite thing to do together ( Keeping it GP mind)
Being Scottish I love all things Scottish so for sure Mrs M’s book are A MUST READ, Go to love my Highlanders.
Wonderful to read all about you ( still shaking Head ).
Have a good one Ann/alba.
Hi everyone, Thanks for the kind comments. The blog is a great idea! As far as some of the questions mentioned:-yes it’s definitely a busy household!-our favourite date is definitely dinner and a movie.-The bar Julianne DJ’d in was Rosa’s Cantina (later called Rosa’s Lounge) in downtown Halifax. Some useless trivia: due to its high number of universities most likely, Halifax has the second highest number of bars per capita in Canada.-Titanic’s Unknown Child is a documentary about the youngest body recovered after the sinking of the Titanic. His body was buried in Halifax as no one was able to… Read more »
gfc Kathleen Bianchi
I loved the interview. I can’t believe that one couple can have so much going on in one lifetime. A doctor, writet, film producer and a sportsman! I’m tired just thinking about it. I would love to see one of the books put on the big screen. Can’t wait to pick up a copy of THE COLOR OF HEAVEN. How did you come up with E.V. Mitchell, for a name?
You threw her into the ocean during the fall? Brr….. I’m glad none of the upperclassmen tried that when I was in college or we’d all be in trouble for fighting. I’m also glad it all worked out for you two because that wedding photo is so absolutely awwww…..
ironss [at] gmail [dot] com
GFC follower
Hi guys – Julianne here – my hubby answered a few questions earlier – I’ll answer some more. How did I come up with EV Mitchell pen name? With great difficulty! I struggled with that for about a year! I wanted initials so it wouldn’t be clear if it was a man or a woman writing, then I came out of the closet and put my own name on the cover anyway. Now I’m just confused 🙂 Our favorite thing to do togheter – I can’t speak for Stephen, but I would say dinner and a movie is my favorite… Read more »
I work in a cancer center so work along side doctors all day long. Some are numerous in their own way, some can really crack us up. I think you would fall into that doctor category!
Your wife must have really been seeing something in you to overlook the dumping her in freezing water thing =)
I have a few of your wifes books in my TBR list, I think I should bump them closer to the top. Can’t go wrong with a highlander!
Thanks for the chance to win! As always, a fun post to read!
eyesofblueice (at) gmail (dot) com
This is a wonderful way to usher in a new month.
First meet stories are always cute to hear and I found this one pretty cool. Pun intended! I can’t say I would enjoy being tossed into icy water but I do like the idea of someone sticking around to see if I’m okay. I can see why sparks flew.
Great interview Dr. MacLean!
Cambonified (at) yahoo (dot) com
I enjoyed reading the interview. I think it is very fun to read things from the point of view of the husbands. This is such a great idea and really nice that the husbands are willing to do that and give reader another point of view. 🙂
Larena
I’m really enjoying all these wedding photos!
My question to all the RH’s has been:
Have you ever watched an entire Jane Austen flick, and if so, what is your favorite (if there is more than one).
Loved the interview, find it very interesting that you are a published writer as well, and I was not surprised at all to find out Julianne was a DJ. Talent is Talent and it can take on multi forms. I’m a follower lisagk(at)yahoo(dot)com
This is a very interesting blog, the first time I’ve been to one with an RH writing and, no less, interviewing another RH. That is certainly a rarity. Both of you were very articulate. And Julianne, you have a very multi-talented husband: author, filmmaker, versatile athlete and…doctor. I’m trying to recall if I saw your Titanic film since I usually watch anything like that if I know about it beforehand, especially if it’s on CBC. I’ve got the “Heaven” book somewhere, at least I bought it and think I’ve downloaded it. So I just have to find where I saved… Read more »
Hi Dr M and Mr L, I’ve been a big fan of Julianne’s HR books and read both “Captured” and “Claimed” when they were first released. I gave both of them high marks and then shared them with a friend…who shared them with a friend. I added “Seduced” to my Wish List on Dec 22, 2010–many months ago! So, obviously, I am greatly anticipating its release as well. In fact, “Be My Prince” has been on my Wish List for more than a month. You can see that I’m a big fan! Please enter my name in the drawing. I… Read more »
Dr. MacLean: I was so impressed reading your interview. You sound like a wonderful husband who sincerely and totally supports his wife’s profession. The fact that you are able to obviously put “wink-wink, nudge-nudge” people in their places when they ask inappropriate questions about your wife’s books shows you are proud of Julianne. May I say that you both must have a wonderful and mutually respective marriage which is so very refreshing these days. I wish you much happiness.
Connie Fischer
I enjoyed your interview, and I love your wife’s books!
Robin D
robindpdx (at) yahoo 9dot) com
Terrific interview! Enjoyed readin about Mds!
Wonderful interview! =D My question is… Dr. Maclean which book of your wife’s would you most like to see adapted to a movie? and, of course, Why?
I really enjoyed the interview! This is a really fun way to learn about an author – interviewing the hubby! Both of them have such busy lives. For Dr MacLean, do you see yourself written in some of the characters in Julianne’s books? like a scene in one of the books and you’d say “ah,ah, this looks familiar”? :o)
Tamsyn
What a joy to read your interview! I just smiled through this! So glad you getting to write as well. It would be awesome if you put one of her books to a film! I’d love to read that article on the unusual comments and questions. If you do find it, you post it? Way neat on all thats happening for THE COLOR OF HEAVEN. Do you read read Julianne’s books when they are only done or do you read when she’s still writing? Figured she’d make you wait til it was done? Again so super to read this. It… Read more »
I loved reading what hubby had to say…loved his sense of humor. in answering some of the questions put to him..he sounds like a great catch…I’m sure you are very proud of him.
JFWisherd(at)aol(dot)com
i heard about Indonesia 🙂
love the interview
thank you.