Children’s Books
Historical Romance
About Vicki
I’m a freelance writer and author. As a teenager I wanted to be a journalist, a marine biologist and then a primary school teacher. But my desire to explore the world was greater and so deferring university, I found a job that would let me do just that. North America and Antarctica remain the only continents I haven’t travelled.
From my initial foray into working life, roll forward 37 years. After an extended holiday, I decided to take a sabbatical from my corporate career to pursue a passion to write. Perhaps I should have studied journalism all those years ago!
After the course I enrolled in was cancelled after 6 months, I was left with the bones of two children’s stories, 20,000 words of a historical romance and a determination to finish them. And then the pandemic struck!
I was lucky to find a fabulous publishing coach who would hold my hand during 2020 and a fantastic illustrator for my children’s books.
I like to think my stories combine humour and heart. Certainly, that’s what’s in my mind as I write.
When not writing, I’m walking our golden retriever and westie, cycling and drinking chai lattes. Most times in that order!
I’m looking forward to the day my writing keeps me in champagne (or the best Australian sparkling wine)!
Vicki Milliken
News
New Release
Kiss by Kiss is Available in print and ebook at all good retailers and on my website!
The second book in the Misses of Melbourne series, Kiss by Kiss, showcases Bec’s journey to happily ever after. If you read the first book, The Battle for Eliza, you’ll remember Bec was instrumental in helping Eliza find love and romance.
https://books2read.com/KissbyKiss
And the story? Well, I’m glad you asked.
Melbourne 1925
Bec Cross is a progressive 1920s woman who believes women are capable of far more than men give them credit for. Like her mother and grandmother, she is determined never to be bridled by marriage.
Bachelor Daniel Sinclair is well acquainted with Bec’s feminist views. Brother of her best friend, they are regular sparring partners. He’s an advocate for a married woman confining herself to the role of wife and mother.
When Bec unwittingly emerges as Daniel’s answer to securing a promotion and a stepping stone to a much-prized political career, he is determined to change her mind – kiss by kiss.
Their attraction is undeniable. But Bec’s head has always ruled her heart, and Daniel’s kisses – however beguiling – will never persuade her to settle for anything less than equality in life and love.
How infuriating to find her heart waging its own battle in support of Daniel’s desires. But she’ll be damned before she surrenders to a man peddling nineteenth-century notions.
Kiss by Kiss is available!
Latest Newsletter
What cycling taught me about writing and life!
Five years ago, I fell off my bike and broke my pelvis in three places. I wish I could tell you I was descending a high mountain at speed or holding onto first place in a sprint finish, but I can’t. Although I did (according to my cycling buddies) perform a spectacular somersault before landing on concrete. It took me nearly 12 weeks to walk again and I can still remember the tears when I took that first unsupported step.
Today, I’m still a keen rider. It’s remarkable the lessons that cycling has taught me which I’ve used in my approach to my writing (and life in general). Here are five:
- Not every day is a headwind—keep showing up—eventually you’ll catch a tailwind (and the words will flow).
- Riding with someone is much more fun than going solo—find someone who can share your ups and downs.
- In a bunch ride, always do your turn—giving and receiving pays dividends.
- A rest day is a crucial part of any training regime. Taking time out to do other things is not shirking. You need to re-energise.
- Cycling requires a sense of humour and heart (the tagline for my books). The sort that keeps you loving what you’re doing, even after stopping and forgetting to unclip from the pedals in front of a line of traffic—the ol’ gravity dismount. Sure to attract a few horn toots!
What has your sport, hobby or interest taught you?
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