Shirlee Busbee is an American author who has enjoyed tremendous international success since her first novel Gypsy Lady was published in 1977. Her books have been translated into numerous languages. While working in Solano County she met her mentor and lifelong friend Sri Lankan born author Rosemary Rogers. Shirlee followed Rosemary into the world of romance writing and went on to carve a niche in the genre of historical romance. In an exclusive interview with Life Shirlee shares what's on her shelf.

First book you remember reading?

SILVER, a horse, by Thomas C. Hinkle.

What are you currently reading?

The 9th Girl by Tami Hoag.

How do you decide on what book to read?

Subject matter and the author.

One book you regret having read. 

Golly! I Have no answer because books I throw across the room, I don't remember.

Who is your favourite author?

That’s a hard one because I have so many.  Obviously Tami Hoag, Jayne Krentz (and all her other names) Nora Roberts, John Sandford, Lee Child, of course, Rosemary Rogers.

If you could ask him/her one question what would it be?

I’d like to ask Nora Roberts how she does it? Her output is legendary and her books are ALWAYS great. Amazing.

Three newly published books you would recommend?

Well, I know I’m gonna love Tami Hoag’s The 9th Girl, so that’s one.  At the moment, I can’t think of any others, although I’m sure they’re out there.

What is your absolute favourite non fiction book of all time ? And why?

THE PLANTAGENETS by Thomas B. Constain.  He wrote a series of books about them.  Love that period of time and so many interesting Kinds – Richard the Lionheart, Black John, Henry the II and several others.  

What is more important to you in a book, the writing the plot or the conclusion?

The plot, always.

If you do re-read books what book have you re-read more than others?

Ammie Come Home by Barbara Michaels.

Is there a particular genre you opt to read? Is there an author who in your opinion defines this genre?

I prefer suspense, murder mysteries and/or female in danger.  For mysteries, John Sandford is tops.

As a literary enthusiast what have you gained from the books you have read?

Reading, basically taught me to write.  All of the books I’ve read are my ‘college’.

In your opinion the best movie adaptation of a book is?

Since I seldom see movies, I haven’t a clue.  Sorry.

A character in a book you would like to bring back to life and why?

That’s a hard question.  We’re talking fictional and I can’t think of one that stands out enough for me to want to meet them in person or have any questions for them.

A book or a series that you would love to be adapted into a movie or TV show?

I always wanted Rosemary Rogers, SWEET SAVAGE LOVE made into a movie.

A memorable book from your childhood?

Walter Farley’s THE BLACK STALLION.

How would you encourage the younger generation to read?

All you can do is discover their interests and then sneakily suggest books in that area.  Or read aloud to them from books you know will hold their interest.  My husband wasn’t much of a reader and I started reading, Georgette Heyer, books to him aloud.  After a few, I started one and half way through it, handed it to him and said, “You finish it.”  He did and while he’s not a great reader and he’s moved on from Georgette Heyer, he does read and enjoys it.
 
By Tina Edward Gunawardhana