Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I look to read, to write, and to teach, not necessarily in that order. I have written non-fiction for years, and am very much enjoying the process of writing my first historical fiction books.

Describe your book ‘Leonardo the Florentine’ in 30 words or less. 

Leonardo the Florentine is a historically accurate, and yet fun to read, look at Leonardo’s early years as an apprentice and as an artist, with mystery and intrigue thrown in!

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Because I wanted it to be historically accurate, I wanted the details on the people and architecture of the city of Florence to be accurate. Some of those details were much more difficult to find, even with "the power of the internet."

What books have had the greatest influence on you?

Most of my reading of late has been historically based.  I especially like Jeff Shaara's historical fiction.  I have very little patience for boring books, and so I work hard at keeping my books interesting to the readers, both my non-fiction and fiction.

Briefly share with us what you do to market your book?

I'm sure I'm not doing enough yet!  Writing is not new to me, but marketing is! I found several bloggers who like to read historical fiction, and I sent review copies of Leonardo the Florentine to them.  I also started my own website, www.CatherineJaime.com, to make it easier for people to see and read about my books.  And of course, I added the BookBuzzr widget, and participate in the cover contests associated with that. 

How do you spend your time when you are not writing?

I am a mom of many children, a homeschooler, and a classroom teacher - so most of my non-writing time is spent teaching.  (I also play volleyball just for fun!)

What are you working on next?

I just finished the rough draft of my second da Vinci novel, about his years in Milan. It is in the process of being edited right now, and hopefully will be released soon. From there I've moved to the founding era of the United States, and have been writing a play, a novel, and editing a collection of letters - all focused on the Constitutional Convention of 1787.