Hearts in the Crosshairs Interview

Today we're welcoming Jillian Goff, the heroine of Hearts in the Crosshairs, by Susan Page Davis, released in October. Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.


1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.
I’m a Maine native, and I’ve always wanted to serve my state. My husband, Brendan, and I worked together as attorneys in a law firm when Brendan decided to run for the state Senate. But a year after he took office, he was killed in a skiing accident. After much prayer and encouragement from family, friends, and my law partners, I was persuaded to take Brendan’s place in the Maine Senate. I found it challenging and fulfilling. My duties also kept me from wallowing in grief. A couple of years later I was urged to run for governor, and—well, I won. Now somebody’s trying to kill me, and I refuse to give him the satisfaction.

2. So, during the book you met Dave Hutchins. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?
Dave is a detective in the Executive Protection Unit. He’s not a bodyguard, though sometimes he does accompany me when I go somewhere on official business. After the first attempt on my life—on Inauguration Day—Dave was designated the person to update me on the unit’s investigation. We became friends and discovered that we shared a deep faith and a love of the outdoors. I’ve got to say, I didn’t expect to fall in love again when I took office. It wasn’t even at the bottom of my “to do” list. But sparks flew between the two of us from our first meeting the night I was shot at. I could see that he was determined, dependable—rock solid. And great looking. At first I was embarrassed that I was attracted to him. Protocol forbade us to see each other socially. But this strong affinity didn’t go away. By the time we hit the wilderness in late May, both of us knew it was love. But we still had to keep our distance. And the killer was still out there.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?
I’m independent, of necessity. I can see ways to make things work without getting bogged down in details. And I care passionately about the people of Maine. My greatest weakness is coming into a male-dominated world and needing to stand strong.
4. What scares you?
Facing down the skeptics. Oh, and that guy who’s trying to kill me? He scares me a little, but I will never let him see it.
5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’d be standing here beside my husband, supporting HIM as governor. But God had a different plan.
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?
Depending on God for everything, but unsure of my capabilities.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?
Humbled by all that has happened and thankful for another chance to live out my life to His glory.
8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
Micah 6:8 says “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This principle has been my mainstay in taking office, running the state, falling in love again, and staying alive.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

Oh, that cheesecake the chef at the Blaine House makes, definitely. Smooth and satisfying, and just a little bit decadent.

Thank you so much Susan for sharing Jillian with us. Look forward to reading this!