How did you come up with the title?

The central artefact in The Spanish Helmet is an iron helmet found in a New Zealand harbour many years ago. The helmet was determined to be of Spanish origin and date to the 16th century. That seems a little odd, since no Europeans were believed to have been in New Zealand this early. The artefact that causes the whole mystery fit well as a title and was chosen very early in my writing.

How long have you been writing?

I had written academic papers before I wrote The Spanish Helmet, but never anything as creative as this. So I went and bought a few books on the craft and got typing away. With a lot of practice, I got the book to where it is now. I guess that I have been writing for 3 years then.

What authors have inspired you?

I decided to write The Spanish Helmet after reading a novel by David Gibbins. It also explored an alternative history to the one we know (but in Italy) and blended a lot of research with fiction. I always like a good conspiracy thriller and can often be found curled up with one. Other authors I enjoy are Ken Follet, Jeffrey Archer, David Baldacci, Bryce Courtney and (years ago) Wilbur Smith.

Where did you get the idea for the novel?

I forget how, but many years ago I stumbled on and article where someone suggested New Zealand wasn’t discovered by the English or even the Maori. It intrigued me and a little hobby was born. A couple of years later, I had collected a lot of articles and questions about the history of New Zealand. I considered writing a non-fiction piece, collating that research, but upon reading that David Gibbins book decided to write a novel instead. I am so glad I did.

Who is your favorite character?

In The Spanish Helmet? Instinct says it is Matt, the hero. But Aimee has great legs, so I can’t decide. I really like them as a couple.Outside of The Spanish Helmet, my favourite character of all time? Probably James Onedin of The Onedin Line television series and subsequent books. I love a broken and stubborn character, one with faults, not perfect. He was exactly that.