I caught up with Tamara McKinley on the release day of her latest novel hitting the bookshelves.
It’s a moment of excitement that never seems to dull, even after years of success. Yet what stands out most about Tamara isn’t the scale of her achievements—but the grounded, unpretentious way she talks about them.
Tamara is the sort of prolific author whose work ethic I admire. She writes large, multi‑layered novels (typically 110,000–140,000 words) and, at peak productivity, can produce two to three books a year, writing for up to eight hours a day.
In addition to writing under her real name, Tamara is known to many readers under her pen name Ellie Dean. Ellie’s books are set during World War II, which necessitated Tamara undertaking a considerable amount of research as she knows her readers notice if something’s factually inaccurate. She recalls a time when a gentleman reader contacted her to say how much he’d enjoyed the book and also to point out that a particular aircraft mentioned wasn’t in service during the war.
Since then, Tamara has researched even more thoroughly to ensure that every detail is authentic. It’s a task she enjoys very much and it’s involved visiting museums, mapping pre-war locations, and interviewing elderly participants who were involved in the war effort. She loves uncovering local anecdotes and seeing interviewees’ eyes misting over in remembrance. I have the distinct impression she feels honoured to be able to converse with such special individuals.
Born in Australia, at the age of 10 Tamara moved to the UK where she lived with her Grandmother a “very, very British, almost Victorian” lady who had travelled extensively. The young immigrant first took root in Horam before moving to Pevensey Bay. Following her marriage, she lived in Westham, Eastbourne and Seaford before settling in Jevington.
Australia is firmly in the category of ‘nice to visit’ but Tamara finds that, like everywhere, it’s changed a lot so she wouldn’t consider moving back. But does she still fit in when she returns? “I’ve lost my accent completely,” she laughs. “Until I actually go back—and then I start twanging again.”
That sense of dual identity adds an interesting layer to her story, but it’s Sussex that now anchors her. The countryside, the pace of life, and the sense of community all seem to suit her perfectly.
And while she may be recognised as a “local celebrity,” it’s not a label she wears with any fuss.
“Yeah, that’s fine,” she says when asked if she’s happy to be described as a Sussex author.
It’s a simple statement—but perhaps that’s part of her appeal. There’s no performance here, no ego. Just someone who writes, consistently and successfully, while living a life that feels refreshingly normal.
Like many ‘overnight sensations’ Tamara had plenty of time to become grounded. She didn’t start writing until she was 40 and then it took six books before she was published. Her breakthrough book was Matilda’s Last Waltz, which, as the title suggests, drew inspiration from Australia. The book went global and bestowed upon Tamara the title of ‘best-selling author.’
However, her connection to Sussex is more than just geographical. It’s woven into her daily life and creative rhythm. While her novels often explore sweeping historical landscapes and emotional journeys, her own surroundings offer a quieter kind of inspiration—one rooted in stability, familiarity, and a deep appreciation for where she is now.
There’s also a sense that, after a life that has spanned continents and careers, she’s exactly where she wants to be with access to the countryside and the sea, which she loves.
And perhaps that’s the real story here.
Not just a best-selling author.
Not just a successful career.
But someone who has decided that Sussex is home—and has built a life around the county.
Follow Tamara McKinley and Ellie Dean on Amazon and view all books including Ellie Dean’s, The Long Road Home: the latest historical novel in the bestselling Cliffehaven series.
