When I write a romance, I'm a researcher. I wrote The Witch and The Roman based on a map of Germany at the time, how to walk a distance of 1500kms, and the barbarian tribes. I went to Rome and walked the Apia Way, explored Ostia Antica (my characters hometown) and researched Roman soldier folklore, cult, and life in a camp or on the trail.

They averaged thirty-two kilometers a day with all their gear. I was in the Air Force and marched with gear and I think it's incredible to march with their equipment--wood is heavy like a spear vs. plastic, and sandals vs. boots.

With research, it gives a story a solid background. This story is about how this couple overcomes war, the emperor, and society with their love.