Where does GATHERING sit in the fantasy genre?

Somewhere between George R R Martin and Brandon Sanderson. It has historical realism, but fun characters.

How difficult was it to write strong, female characters?

Trying to write any character very well is very difficult!

Did you really learn sword-fighting while writing this?

Not to any great degree. I'm more interested in the experience of facing combat than describing it blow by blow.

Which skills were the best and worst to research?

The worst was probably horse-riding. Much as though I enjoyed it, it gave me a hernia!

The best was visiting historical sites across the ancient Near East, Mediterranean, and medieval Europe, and walking in the footsteps of the peoples I wanted to write about.

What makes GATHERING unique?

Believable and diverse characters, unique genre cross-over, and the treatment of spiritual beliefs.

What can we expect to see coming next?

Expect the unexpected.