Media
Over the years, various media outlets have featured my creative work, including popular Maltese television shows Lehen Malti and Malta u Lil Hinn Minnha. In this era of Zoom, I've appeared on several live, interactive programs, Il-Maltin Tagħna, Ħajjitna Ktieb, KikkraTe, and A Poetic Nowruz among them.
Multiple Toronto radio stations have promoted my efforts to raise money for Conquer Covid-19 charities by donating proceeds from book sales. Farsi radio series, Namaashoum, showcases contemporary Canadian poets and broadcast a reading of my poem, the Flying Habits of Butterflies, in both Farsi and English.
Local and international print publications have highlighted my journey from journalism student to published author, including Shelf Unbound, the Coffee Pot Book Club, Bradford Today, the Times of Malta, the Maltese Presence in North America, Atelier, In-Nazzjon, KullĦadd, and the Malta Independent.
Video
What's New in Historical Fiction - A History Through Fiction Livestream Panel
On May 12, 2026, Eight Pointed Cross re-entered the world as a new edition, published by Rising Action and distributed by Simon & Schuster. I had the honour of sitting alongside three magnificent fellow historical fiction authors and chatting craft and inspiration with HTF founder and panel moderator, Colin Mustful.
KikkraTe - Cup of Tea
On May 18, 2022, I had the pleasure of appearing on the Maltese talk show KikkraTe. The very gracious host, Marco Calleja, and I engaged in a wonderful discussion about history, languages, and of course, books. My interview starts at around 45:00 and is in English with some Maltese peppered in. KikkraTe is definitely my cup of tea
Ħajjitna Ktieb - Our Life is a Book
Maltese television program Ħajjitna Ktieb provides viewers with insight into an author's experiences and process, as well as a dive into their latest work. I had the privilege of chatting via Skype with wonderfully engaging host and producer John Demanuele. This broadcast airs weekly on TVM (Malta’s national television station).
Il-Maltin Tagħna - Our Maltese
Launched by the Maltese Center of New York, this live, weekly ZOOM series illuminates members of the Maltese community. Host and moderator Carmen Debono chats with guests about their experiences, accomplishments, and Maltese roots. The interactive virtual event ends with an audience Q & A. On December 13, 2020, I had the tremendous honour of appearing for a full hour of lively discussion.
Malta u Lil Hinn Minnha - Malta and Beyond
Malta u Lil Hinn Minnha is an award-winning weekly program that airs on TVM and showcases Maltese culture, history, agriculture, attractions, cooking, and art, in addition to featuring spectacular travel destinations. The show also highlights the achievements of Maltese emigrants across the world, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and South America.
Humber College: Alumni Success Stories
Following the July 2020 release of Falcon's Shadow, my beloved alma mater Humber College asked me what it's like to promote a novel during a pandemic. Not a question I ever thought I'd be asked.
A Poetic Nowruz
In March 2021, I had the tremendous honour of reciting my poem, “Writer’s Block,” as part of a video anthology in celebration of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Hosted by poet and author, Mansour Noorbakhsh, the event features talented wordsmiths from across Canada, Asia, and Europe. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to appear alongside such brilliant individuals and share a poem inspired by my own bout of writer's block.
Audio
History Through Fiction Podcast
In April 2024, I had the privilege of being a guest on Colin Mustful's History Through Fiction podcast (in what I call the "me-sounding-like-a-squirrel-on-uppers" interview) We chat craft, research, heatstroke, travel, and of course, history through fiction.
Click here for the full audio interview.
Lehen Malti - Maltese Voice
Over the past five decades, Lehen Malti has provided the Maltese-Canadian community with a weekly, magazine-style program produced, directed, and broadcast by volunteers. Lehen Malti brings news from Malta to viewers across Canada and promotes local Maltese events and talent.
In late 2019, one of Lehen Malti's most beloved contributors passed away. All who had the privilege to know Albert E Vella, a pillar of the Maltese-Canadian community, miss him sorely.
I am very grateful to have known him and honoured to have been interviewed twice by him.
Albert invited me to appear on the show before my first novel was even published.
“Maybe by interviewing the young woman writing the big book about the Great Siege of Malta, we can get you some attention from publishers,” he said.
And so he did.
Albert’s generous support, warm encouragement, and insightful guidance helped me to find a home for Eight Pointed Cross.
He was a wonderful man with a big heart.
I will never forget his kindness.
1942 – 2019
Here is my 2012 interview with him:
Namaashoum
Every Monday from 7 to 9 pm (EST), Namaashoum broadcasts a Farsi radio program, which includes Contemporary Canadian Poets at 8 pm. On November 30, 2020, the producers featured my poem, the Flying Habits of Butterflies, read in Farsi by program producer Mansour Noorbakhsh and in English by yours truly.
An Interview About Malta, Language, and Writing — Part One
(ope in new tab)
It was a joy to be invited by author and storyteller Val Portelli of Val’s Tales to take part in her blog series, Books Set in Malta.(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)
Val and I talked about my Maltese heritage, growing up with Maltese as my first language, the importance of preserving the language, and how my lifelong connection to Malta eventually led me to write The Siege of Malta trilogy.
There was so much to discuss that Val has kindly divided the interview into two parts. Part One is now live, with Part Two coming soon.
Read Part One of the interview here(opens in new tab).
An Interview About Malta, History, and Bringing the Past to Life — Part Two
The conversation continues! I’m delighted to share Part Two of my interview with Val Portelli of Val’s Tales, as part of her wonderful Books Set in Malta(opens in new tab) blog series.
In Part Two, we discuss the writing itself: historical fiction, immersive research, the challenges of recreating sixteenth-century Malta, and what it means to bring a place and its people from the past to life on the page.
As anyone who knows me will probably have guessed, I had a lot to say about research. Sometimes you just have to walk the streets, climb the walls, taste the food, breathe the air, and occasionally discover exactly how quickly a fortress wall under the Mediterranean sun can turn into a very bad idea.
Click here(opens in new tab) for Part Two. (opens in new tab
(opens in new tab)
A Conversation with Mary Anne Yarde — Part One
I was delighted to chat with author and book blogger Mary Anne Yarde about Eight Pointed Cross, the history that inspired the Siege of Malta trilogy, and the rather obsessive research that went into bringing the sixteenth-century Mediterranean to life.
We discussed why I chose to begin the story in 1551 rather than with the more famous Great Siege of 1565, the importance of giving women and Ottoman characters their own voices, and why, for me, history has always been about the people living through it, not just the battles, the dates, and the jackasses in charge.
Read the full interview here(opens in new tab).
(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)
A Conversation with Mary Anne Yarde — Part Two
My conversation with author and book blogger Mary Anne Yarde continues, this time turning to Falcon’s Shadow, the second novel in the Siege of Malta trilogy.
We discussed bringing the sixteenth-century Mediterranean to life through travel and immersive research, the unexpected places that found their way into the novel, and the spectacular case of writer’s block that struck while I was living in Singapore.
We also talked about something much more personal: my late father and the unexpected emotional resonance his memory brought to Augustine's story.
And of course, battles, journeys, captivity, frangipani trees, giant Italian oranges, and more than a little stubbornness make appearances.
Click here(opens in new tab) for Part Two.
(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
Malta Independent
Malta has given me so much—my heritage, lifelong friendships, countless unforgettable memories, and the inspiration for the Siege of Malta trilogy. I'm honoured to share a little of that journey in this interview with The Malta Independent. My thanks to Katrina Cassar for the thoughtful questions and the opportunity to talk about Malta's history, the Maltese diaspora, and the remarkable people whose stories inspired these novels.
Click here(opens in new tab) for the full article(opens in new tab).
Malta Today
I always enjoy talking about Malta, history, books, and the occasionally ridiculous lengths writers will go to in the name of research. In this June 2026 interview with Laura Calleja of Malta Today, I discuss the Great Siege, the Maltese diaspora, historical fiction, and the enduring power of cultural memory.
Click here(opens in new tab) for the full article(opens in new tab).
Words with a Wordsmith
In September 2024, award-winning fellow historical novelist Alina Rubin interviewed me for her Paper Lantern Writers blog, Words with a Wordsmith. We chatted about music, different fictional genres I'd like to explore, non-writing activities, and what brings me the most joy as a writer. But my favourite question was what inspired my latest creative endeavour, which allowed me to speak at length about my amazing dad, and how his indelible legacy has motivated me to get to work on the prequel to my Siege of Malta Trilogy. Click here for the full interview(opens in new tab).
Bold Journey
A magazine that features stories about overcoming challenges in one's career and entrepreneurial ventures, Bold Journey(opens in new tab) seeks to inspire readers to pursue their passions and support those who are doing exactly that. In my January 2024 interview(opens in new tab), I share my experience overcoming a brutal bout of writer's block as well as the skills that have helped me navigate the publishing world.
(opens in new tab)
Canvas Rebel
This LA-based magazine features conversations with entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives. I had the opportunity to chat about the positive influence of my parents on my creative work in Canvas Rebel's June 2023 issue(opens in new tab).
WordCity Literary Journal
(opens in new tab)
Founded by exquisite Canadian Author Darcie Friesen Hossack(opens in new tab), WordCity is a literary journal of social consciousness. It is a call to action, a rallying cry, a show of solidarity, a kinetic forum where light bounces off art and collides with words. In the latest issue, Darcie surprised me with a deeply beautiful, generous, and touching feature(opens in new tab) celebrating the completion of my Siege of Malta trilogy(opens in new tab) in WordCity's September 2022 issue(opens in new tab). It's times like these when "thank you" seems an injustice; there are simply not enough adjectives for me to express my gratitude.
Click here(opens in new tab) for the article.
Book DNA: Discover the Best Books
Book discovery platform Book DNA(opens in new tab) asks authors to share a list of their favourite books unified by a theme, topic, or concept reflected in their own work. Book DNA's goal is to make exploring and purchasing new books an engaging, immersive experience—and more fun than buying dish soap. Check out my recommendations here: Best Historical Fiction Novels that Demonstrate the Fallout of Religious Conflict(opens in new tab).
The Maltese Presence in North America Newsletter
What a wonderful experience collaborating with author, historian, and long-time friend, Franco Davies, on an April 2022 article about swords, books, research, and... cockroaches. Special thanks to Dan Brock for producing a monthly newsletter that connects Maltese-Canadians to their community and each other.
Canadian Ethnic Media Association (CEMA)
Such an honour to be interviewed by the Canadian Ethnic Media Association(opens in new tab), which upholds the principles of multiculturalism and maintains the rights of freedom of expression without ethnocentric bias.
Click here(opens in new tab) for the June 2021 interview.
Il-Pont
Part One of my Spring 2021 interview with Il-Pont, an online literary magazine with a readership that spans Europe, Australia and North America. In this issue, we discuss my connection to Malta and the inspiration behind my novels.
In Part Two of my interview with Il-Pont, released in September 2021, I gush about fellow female Canadian authors and also share my perspective on teaching history in Ontario.
Meet the Authors
(opens in new tab)In Spring 2021, I engaged in a wonderfully amusing interview with Camilla Downs, author, indie publisher, and blogger(opens in new tab). Camilla is the founder of Meet the Authors(opens in new tab), a place for book lovers.
Her interviews are fun, original, creative, and tap into things few interviews do — incredible the memories her questions stirred up. I got to talk about Point Break and DJ Khalid, my dog and the Via Ferrata in Peru's Sacred Valley.
Check out our exchange here(opens in new tab).
Newsbook Malta
In an interview with Newsbook Malta, I shared my dream of having my novels adapted for the screen - big or small - and my experience drafting the script.
Click here(opens in new tab) for the article.
And here(opens in new tab) for a follow-up chat about my script, Empires of Smoke, becoming a finalist in the Toronto Lift Off Film Festival.
Gozo News
Elated to have made the news in Gozo (Għawdex), the Maltese island upon which the action of Eight Pointed Cross culminates. Thank you to Consul General Dr Raymond C. Xerri for his advocacy of my novels and his support of the Maltese-Canadian artistic community.
The Maltese Presence in North America Newsletter
A profound honour to be awarded the cover and feature article of January 2021's the Maltese Presence in North America's newsletter. Many thanks to Dan Brock for not only producing such a detailed, well-researched piece but for his dedication to upholding the culture of the Maltese-Canadian community through this monthly publication.
Canadian Chamber in Italy
A delightful article about my novels and my aspiration to see them come to life on the screen.
For the Italian article, click here(opens in new tab). For the English version, click here(opens in new tab).
"Niente mi darebbe più gioia che sperimentare la forza d’animo, la resilienza e la tenacia dei maltesi sullo schermo – grande o piccolo che sia."
Shelf Unbound
The August/September 2020 issue of Shelf Unbound(opens in new tab), a book review magazine that features the best of small press, devoted its latest issue to historical fiction, allowing me to discuss the genre's importance in today's climate. I also shared highlights from my writing journey—from a crush on Keanu Reeves to heatstroke on the ramparts of a Maltese fortress. Check out the full article(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)The Coffee Pot Book Club
A conversation with Mary Anne Yarde(opens in new tab), award-winning author and founder of The Coffee Pot Book Club(opens in new tab). In a June 2020 article, we discuss characters, settings, history, writer's block, travel, and what sets my books apart from others in the genre. We also chat about my dog, one of my favourite topics. Click here for the full article(opens in new tab)
Bradford Today
A feature by in Bradford Today(opens in new tab) about my novels, the inspiration behind them, and my efforts to raise money for Conquer Covid-19 charities. You can check out the article here(opens in new tab)
"The sanctuary of art and the rhythm of life contained within it beckon us, now more than ever."
Mill-pinna ta Ramona Portelli
Freelance writer and blogger Ramona Portelli(opens in new tab) and I talk novels, inspiration, challenges, and publishing, as well as writing quirks and childhood memories. Check out the full article(opens in new tab)
Atelier
Atelier(opens in new tab) is a quarterly lifestyle magazine which showcases art, photography, fashion, interior design, and architecture, from both local and international points of view. Explore a Literary Escape in the Time of Covid-19(opens in new tab) in the August 15 issue.
Net News
In July 2020, Net News(opens in new tab) ran a Maltese-language feature about Falcon's Shadow (opens in new tab)reaching number one on Amazon's Bestseller List: Suċċess għal awtriċi Maltija – il-ktieb tagħha meqjus bħala bestseller(opens in new tab) If you can read Maltese (or would like to try!) check out the online version of the In-Nazzjon article(opens in new tab).
The Malta Independent
An English-language August 2020 piece in The Malta Independent(opens in new tab) about Eight Pointed Cross(opens in new tab) and Falcon's Shadow(opens in new tab) occupying number one and two spots on Amazon's bestseller list at the same time.
Times of Malta - Senior Times
Turn back the Pages: a Summer 2020 feature in the Times of Malta
KullĦadd
An April 2020 interview with Maltese-language magazine KullĦadd(opens in new tab), which means both "Every Sunday" and "Everyone."
Combatant Magazine
Times of Malta
During my 2012 visit to the island, I had the pleasure of discussing my novel with journalist Jo Caruana for a Times of Malta(opens in new tab) article, Penning a tale of patriotism(opens in new tab).
The Malta Independent
During that same trip, BDL Books(opens in new tab) arranged a book-signing(opens in new tab) in the capital city, Valletta. The Malta Independent(opens in new tab) ran a story to announce the event.
Alma Mater
In late 2011, Humber EtCetera, the paper I had written for as a student of Humber College's Journalism program, called me up to chat about my first novel, Eight Pointed Cross.
In July 2020, Humber College Advancement and Alumni featured my efforts to raise money for Conquer Covid-19 charities. Full article available here.
I also had the privilege of sharing how my Siege of Malta series came about and how Humber helped me accomplish my objective in this interview with the Humber School for Writers (HSW) Media and Creative Arts News.
Following Humber College, I attended Athabasca University, where I graduated with a Communications degree. In July 2020, the Alumni Association invited me to contribute a guest piece to the institution's Transforming Lives, Moving Beyond blog.
Mentions
It is beyond gratifying to have the support of the Maltese-Canadian Business Network Association, a volunteer-run organization connecting and celebrating Maltese-Canadian enterprises, which shone its monthly #MCBNAspotlight on me for promoting Maltese culture through the arts.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a wrecking ball to small businesses around the world. Toronto-Together showcases over 200 entrepreneurs around Toronto, from artists and photographers, content creators and musicians, to bakeries and clothing shops. Thrilled to be included under the newly created Books and Editors banner.
Click here for Toronto-Together's feature of my work.
Lovely and talented Canadian Author Tina S Beier shouted out my novels on her witty, insightful Sound and Fury Book Review YouTube channel (at the 5:14 mark).
And Tina S. Beier of Sound and Fury recently posted a sensational review of my latest novel, Ash Fall.