AmeriCymru spoke to Welsh American author Peter Griffiths about his new novel 'The Mystical Milestone'. Peter will need no introduction to regular AmeriCymru readers. His much-loved first novel 'Tongue-Tied' was a huge success with readers in both Wales and the US.

AmeriCymru: Hi Peter and many thanks for agreeing to be interviewed by AmeriCymru. Care to tell us a little about your forthcoming book - "The Mystical Milestone'?

Peter: Hello Ceri, and many thanks to you as well. As you know, my first novel Tongue Tied was a soaring saga set against a background of Welsh issues, Welsh history, and the Welsh language. I could have piggybacked its success...stuck to a formula, so to speak...but chose not to. My new novel, The Mystical Milestone, is completely different: plot driven and most of the action takes place over a short period of time. It opens with a much troubled teenage girl; her glass is invariably half empty. Gradually, however, she overcomes her handicap. In her mid twenties a seemingly manageable event careers completely out of control...and she regresses. This sets the stage for a unique plot incorporating obsession, mysticism, loyalty, and faith; what more would you want?!!

AmeriCymru: The book is set on the Gower peninsula in south Wales. Can you describe the area a little for the benefit of our American readers? What made you choose this location?

Peter: When Yvonne and I are in Wales, Swansea is our base. It's location in itself is impressive, but to the west is a jewel: a small peninsula named Gower, blessed on its southern side with stunning bays and beautiful beaches while on its northern edge mysterious mudflats dominate. Sandwiched is the peninsula's spine, a ridge named Cefn Bryn. I love Gower's diversity and walk there regularly; it was an obvious setting for The Mystical Milestone. As the novel evolved, however, another attribute of Gower surfaced. At its western end is a village named Llangennydd. They say its church was founded almost fifteen hundred years ago; it strikes one as a sanctuary, sacred without doubt. Anyway, this church became central to The Mystical Milestone's plot.

AmeriCymru: How would you characterise the novel? Suspense? Supernatural thriller? How would you describe the books' thematic material?

Peter: I'd say that The Mystical Milestone is a psychological drama. Its plot has many dramatic twists and yet, at its heart is a love story.

AmeriCymru: When will the book be available and where can people buy it online?

Peter: The Mystical Milestone will be available in the UK from February 17th; available in all bookshops, from the publisher Y Lolfa, and at Amazon UK for 7.95 British Pounds. I myself will be distributing the novel in the US and copies will be available from March 24th for $13. By that date, purchase details will be included in the novel's website The Mythical Milestone . There too, more can be found on The Mystical Milestone...and on Tongue Tied as well.

AmeriCymru: What's next for Peter Griffiths?

Peter: It's funny you should ask this question. Both Tongue Tied and The Mystical Milestone evolved as novels; as I wrote they seemed to take on lives of their own. I'd be disappointed if I didn't write another novel, but I won't even dabble with one until I'm satisfied with the significance of its theme and fairly sure of the plot from beginning to end.

AmeriCymru: Any final message for the readers and members of AmeriCymru?

Peter: I would only add that a list of promotional events will soon appear on the novel's website.

Thanks Ceri and good luck, Peter.