However, I think it's safe to say that there is some of me in every character I write. It's fun to write about her because she brings back a time of life that is so rich. It's also fun to write about Katie because you get to write about Cherylanne. There's always a desire to top yourself, I think. I hope to get better and better for my own sake, and for that of my readers.
Reviews are a funny thing.
I read them, but I try really hard not to take them to heart. That's all pollution. Get the thing written the way you want to write it. That is not to say I don't very much admire other writers who are concerned with place. This might be because I'm an army brat and don't feel a strong attachment to any place.