A writer's craft is so often dependent on an intimate knowledge of the sights, smells and feel of her subject.

As my debut novel will help you to appreciate, I have a passion for the nostalgic era of pre-war Hong Kong, and really tried to cature the feel of the place.

Recently my husband, Michael, and I took a trip to Macau to soak up the atmosphere of the city and to experience some of the sights and stories I will no doubt incorporate into future pieces.

Old Hong Kong

Modern Hong Kong has its own stories to tell. The world of Leah Kolbe doesn't exist anymore. Hong Kong is now a city of bright lights, verve, tall buildings and a China-run government.

Macau

Macau is the crossroads where East met West since the 16th Century when the Portuguese arrived and were granted hegemony. There is still an old-world elegance to Macau. It is proud of its Macanese (Chinese and Portuguese) heritage.

Please explore these pictures I took on my research tour.