Gearing up for RWA Orlando

Terri Reed here sitting in a friend's room in the beautiful Dolphin hotel on the Disney property in Orlando counting down the hours until conference starts. Romance Writers of America will be holding its 30th anniversay conference starting on Wednesday July 28th. At 5:30pm on Wednesday in the Dolphin's Pacific Exhibit Hall, 500 of your favorite romance authors will be signing their romance novels in every subgenre. All proceeds from book sales go to ProLiteracy Worldwide and Orlando and Nashville literacy organizations. If you are in the area, please stop by and if you do stop in to this free event, find me and say HI. Authors are listed alphabetically.
I'll be signing my May 2010 release Covert Pursuit.
This year's keynote speaker is the fabulous, New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts. There will be numerous workshops including the one I will be doing titled RWA Leadership Development with RWA's Executive Director Allison Kelley, bright and early on Friday morning at 8:30am. The week will culminate with the prestigious RITA and Golden Heart award dinner and ceremony. I'll be wearing an ice blue strapless ballgown with a little bling in my hair (I couldn't bring myself to do an actual tiara).
Looking forward to see some of you there!

Calculated Revenge Interview

Today we're welcoming Laney Thompson, the heroine of Calculated Revenge by Jill Elizabeth Nelson, releasing mid-April 2010.

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 wasn’t always an only child. I had a little sister, but she disappeared eighteen years ago when she was eight years old on my tenth birthday. Now I have an eight year old daughter, and the person who took my kid sister is back, sending me taunting messages! I have to protect my little girl, and the best way to do that is to catch this monster before he strikes again. But how? The FBI failed to catch him before, and I have no training. I need special, expert help.

2. So, during the book you met Noah Ryder. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Noah is the principal of the elementary school where I work. This is my first teaching job and my first school principal to work under. I wasn’t sure I would like him at all. My ex-husband was a good-looking guy who was stuck on himself. I half expected Noah to have the same big ego, but he has proven himself over the months to be a man of honor who really cares about kids. My attraction to him has grown leaps and bounds—secretly. He appears to have no interest in me as a woman, and I don’t want to jeopardize my job by betraying my feelings. Up until this crisis in my life, I had no idea he was hiding a secret past in a career that is just what I need. But I’m afraid I’ll betray my feelings as we work so closely together.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

I am a determined woman. A survivor. Hardships have made me more compassionate in some areas, but suspicious of people in other areas. Family means everything to me. I’m intensely loyal to them. I can be impetuous when I’m afraid, and I need to learn how to forgive—especially myself.

4. What scares you?

Losing my daughter the same way I lost my sister. Especially if the tragedy is in any way my fault . . . like the last time.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I’d love to have a more carefree heart. Maybe learning to forgive would help me achieve that goal.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

I haven’t left my Christian roots, but I’m not on close speaking terms with God. I have too many unanswered questions . . . and too much personal guilt.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

My greatest fear has hit me head on, and I’ve faced deeper betrayal than I thought I could bear from someone I love dearly. Deciding to trust God in spite of the worst has set me free to forgive others, but most of all myself.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in Heaven may forgive you your sins. Mark 11:25
Forgiveness set me free to face and overcome my fears. God’s answer to my prayers is beyond my wildest dreams!

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

Strawberry shortcake – simple, down home, sweet and yummy


Thank you Jill for sharing Laney with us. This sound so intriguing!

FIELD OF DANGER INTERVIEW

Today we're welcoming April Presley, the heroine of Field of Danger by Ramona Richards, coming out in December. Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.

And I’ll be perfectly content if I NEVER have to deal with anything like that again! I really hope the rest of my life is that of a normal, small-town girl.

1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

Well, I moved to Caralinda, Tennessee, to start life over again. Here I was in my small cottage and garden, surrounded by a huge cornfield. The cornfield was owned by Levon Rivers, who was a good friend. He was like a father to me. All this got started when I saw Levon get shot in the middle of the field one morning.

2. So, during the book you met Daniel Rivers. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

I’d known Daniel since I moved to Caralinda. He’s Levon’s son. And I knew he had been interested in me at one time, but I just wasn’t ready for another relationship. Daniel is incredibly patient (he’d say he was deliberate!) and kind with me. He waited, then this locked us together.

He’s an amazing man. And handsome! But I didn’t realize it was love until I knew I just didn’t want to be without him. I didn’t want to lose him. Ever.


3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

I don’t make decisions quickly. I like to consider all the options, then move forward with determination. I don’t like to “repent at leisure.” I think that’s a strength or weakness depending on who you talk to.

4. What scares you?
People getting shot! I promise you, I’ve seen enough of that for a lifetime. See two people I care about get shot certainly reminded me what’s special and valuable in this life.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I wish I had a stronger nature. You know, one of those bold women who go off having adventures and holding their own with the boys. I just prefer the homefront. I have my own business that I operate out of the house, and I love balancing that with my garden and my friends and family. I’ll have to leave the adventuring to Lara Croft!

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

Shaky. To be honest, when you go through what I did, it’s easy to start doubting things.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

Daniel helped me see that our trials are just part of life, and that God’s here to get us through them. These days I do a lot more relying on Him.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
Those are Paul’s words to Timothy. They remind me that God gives us what we need to survive and do the best we can in our faith and our lives.


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

Strawberry shortcake. Sweet and tart in many layers. 

Thank you Ramona for sharing April with us today. What an exciting story!

CLANDESTINE COVER-UP INTERVIEW

Today we're welcoming Vince Frenci, the hero of Clandestine Cover-Up by Pamela Tracy, a December 2009 release.

Ileen the Interviewer: Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

Vince: First, let me tell you about my family. The Frenci’s have been in Sherman, Nebraska, a century. I’m pretty sure the ground our family tree sprouted from was soaked from moonshine hence a boot-legger ancestor. We have a picture of GreatGrandpa with Jesse James. They’re standing in front of a bank. I met my grandfather once. We drove three hours to the prison he was sentenced in. My father, well, he went to the store to get bread when I was in junior high and never came back. The branches of my family tree all look like leg shackles.

Ileen the Interviewer: Except for you?

Vince: Accept for me. I got in trouble once, just out of high school, and that, plus knowing how much help my mother needed with my little brother, put me on the straight and narrow. Of course, I didn’t realize that I needed a good woman (Tamara Jacoby) to help me stay straight, and I didn’t realize I needed God to help define the narrow.

Ileen the Interviewer:. So, I’m still curious about the suspense, but I’m sure we’ll get there. During the book you met Tamara Jacoby. Tell us a bit about her. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Vince: I met her for the first time at her sister’s wedding. She started out by ordering me around. I’m a contractor, see, and she was helping with decorations at the church. Then, one day (more than a year later) when I was driving home from work, I saw her again. Well, first I saw her car. I knew a little bit about why she’d moved to Nebraska. She’d had some trouble with a stalker back in Arizona. I stopped to see if she was okay. She wasn’t. But, I gotta tell you, she has spunk. Someone had painted YOUR NOT WANTED HERE on the front door of the old building she’d purchased. Any other woman might have turned tail. Tamara, she stood and fought. Not necessarily wise, but very impressive especially after what she’d just been through with the stalker. Ah, you ladies and your love questions. I wish I knew the exact moment. Tamara asks me that same question about every three weeks. I think I knew it was love at Yano’s Restaurant, when I was sitting across the table from Tamara and some friends – one of whom the restaurant owners had tried to fix me up with – and I realized they all knew something I didn’t. Yup, that something was the way Tamara and I acted together.


Ileen the Interviewer: What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

Vince: I can put almost anything together and fix most things, including gadgets. I’m a big guy. I tend to either scare people or make them feel very safe. Luckily, I made Tamara feel very safe. My greatest weakness is I let my family bring me down. It was only after I found God that I realized sometimes the family is not just blood but can also be community.


Ileen the Interviewer: What scares you?

Vince: Being responsible for other people. My family took up plenty of my time and it all seemed to be damage control. Why would I want more family. Tamara showed me the opposite of damage control – well, once we figured out who was after her. I confess, I still get shaky hands at the thought of my wife. She takes my breath away. On one hand, I cannot believe she wants to be with me. On the other hand, I have to protect her. Did I mention she’s a criminal attorney. Nope, I couldn’t marry a nice safe teacher. Nope, not me.

Ileen the Interviewer:. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Vince: I married into a family where there’s a banker, a teacher, a lawyer, etc. I’m sitting here with just a high school degree and suddenly thinking it’s not enough. I’m pretty sure I’ll go back to school and major in business. Maybe someday instead of working for others, I’ll work for myself.


Ileen the Interviewer: Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

Vince: God invited me through the back door. As we were trying to figure out who was after Tamara, it became clear that one of the Main Street Church ladies had insider information. We had to go to church to meet her. Then, we had to go again, and again. Pretty soon we were going to church when we didn’t have to. Tamara’s more questioning than I. I think that’s the lawyer in her. Me, I can wrap my mind around a carpenter’s son.


Ileen the Interviewer: You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.

A good name is more desirable than great riches, to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

Keep in mind, in Sherman, Nebraska, the last name Frenci was pretty tainted. I mean, we were the town’s Capones.


Ileen the Interviewer: If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

Vince: Ack! A girl question. Let me go find Tamara. I’ll let her answer this one.

Ileen the Interviewer: Hmm, he sure looks good in his gray construction uniform. I can certainly see what Tamara saw in him. Not only looks, but a teddy bear protector. Guys, I don’t think Vince is coming back to share his favorite dessert. So, everyone, go ahead and grab your own personal favorite and join us next week for another Love Inspired Suspense hero or heroine interview!


Thank you Pam for letting our guest interview Ileen ask Vince some pressing questions. This sounds like a great read!

YULETIDE PROTECTOR INTERVIEW

Today we're welcoming Daria Carlisle, the heroine of Yuletide Protector by Lisa Mondello, Love Inspired Suspense December 2009.

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.
Hi, I was married for all the wrong reasons. After traveling around from place to place as a child, I wanted a real home and thought my ex-husband would give me that. I was wrong. He wanted me dead and tried to hire an undercover police officer to kill me!

2. So, during the book you met Police Officer, Kevin Gordon. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?
I'd met Kevin at the market and thoughthe was really cute. He told me he was a police officer and I foolishly thought he wanted to talk about the vandalism in my neighborhood.I've never been bold or brave when it came to men, but I invited him back to my house to show him first hand the graffiti spray painted on my house. Only he wasn't there about the graffiti. He was there to tell me my ex-husband had just tried to hire him to kill me. He wanted me to leave town, but I'd sunk all my money into my fixer upper and had no money to leave.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?
I can do carpentry. Good thing because this old house needs a lot of work. I'm also pretty independent. Having to make friends quickly and leave town on a moments notice growing up made me learn the hard way how to do for myself. And I am pretty stubborn. When I get my mind set, it's hard to change it.

4. What scares you?
Right now? My ex-husband and feeling powerless.I'm not sure what he'll do next. Strange things are happening around me and I'm sure he's at the bottom of it.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would try to be less independent and allow people to help me. I don't ask for help and always think I need to do things on my own. It's been like that my whole life. But I'm learning through love that it's good to lean on others and allow them the opportunity to help. I don't have to be alone.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?
I'd never had a relationship with God before I'd met Kevin Gordon. It's not that I'd rejected faith, I just wasn't exposed to it in my life. Kevin showed me how having a relationship with God could be a foundation that can give you strength and help guide you.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?
I've accepted God into my life and my heart. It was a big revelation for me. Even if Kevin Gordon hadn't stayed in my life, I realized that I still wanted to know God.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
Jesus said that if you believe, all things are possible. It's sometimes hard to see that when things are so bleak. But when I opened my heart to God, I saw that I was stronger than I thought and that I could take back the security that I thought had been taken from me.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?
A Hershey's chocolate bar. I can't seem to get enough of those!!


Thank you Lisa for sharing Daria with us today. This sounds like an exciting read!

CHASING SHADOWS INTERVIEW

Hi, Terri Reed here. I'm posting the character interview for my November 2009 release because on the weekend that I should have posted it, I was out of town. I hope you enjoy getting to know Kristina Worthington.

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.

Well, the suspense sort of found me. Or rather my grandmother. See, Sadie, that’s my grandmother, lives in a retirement center. She loves it there. And she also loves to read mystery books, so when she said that people were disappearing I wasn’t sure if I believed her. But she’s my grandmother and I love her so I gave her the benefit of the doubt. And she was right. People were disappearing in the dead of night.

2.So, during the book you met Gabe Burke. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Gabe and I have a history. See, we dated back when he was fresh out of the police academy and I was on my way to college. It didn’t end well. But when Sadie and I needed help proving that people were missing from the retirement center, Gabe was the only person I could think of who might listen. He’d changed since I’d known him. He’d become a jaded Homicide Detective. But he still made my heart pound. I don’t think I ever really stopped loving him, though when I thought I was going to die at the hands of a murdering villain, I realized I didn’t want to die without telling him I loved him.

3.What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

Strenghts...well, I guess I’m tenacious and determined which would also be my greatest weaknesses because I sometimes don’t know when to back off.

4.What scares you?

Spiders. Big, fat hairy ones.

5.If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I tend to make assumptions and come to conclusions without knowing all the facts. I’m going to start working really hard to change that. See, I had made several assumptions about my family that just weren’t true and it was a bit of shock when I realized how wrong I was.

6.Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

I have faith and I thought it was strong but through this ordeal I realized it didn’t run as deep as I thought. Another assumption debunked.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?
My faith is definitely stronger and deeper. And thankfully, so is Gabe's.

8.You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.

Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

I found myself in a place of fear several times during this adventure but this verse promises that God is always with me and will always protect me. I find comfort from God’s word.

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

Hmmm, I’d have to say Boston Crème Pie because this dessert is rich in unexpected layers just like me.
Sweet, creamy filling between layers of moisture, resilient cake and topped with a glaze of chocolate.

The Thanksgiving Target

Today we're welcoming Tara Carmichael, the heroine of , The Thanksgiving Target by Laura Scott, a November 2009 release.

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. Hello, my name is Tara Carmichael and I’m a social worker in St. Louis, Missouri. I was trying to help one of my client’s, a woman named Melissa Forrester escape from an abusive relationship when I discovered someone was stalking me. I thought both incidents were completely separate until we discovered that they were both connected to the same man. A man from Max’s past, bent on revenge.

2. So, during the book you met Max Forrester. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love? I knew from the moment we first met, that Lieutenant Max Forrester was a man who liked to take charge. But he was also deeply disturbed by what had happened to his sister, Melissa. I wanted to offer him comfort and support but in the end, he ended up protecting me when my house exploded. I tried to keep my distance from Max on a personal level, because I’d lost my husband two years earlier and thought I was being unfaithful to his memory by opening myself up to love again. But in the end, once I realized that God’s greatest gift was love, I rejoiced in my love for Max.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness? I think my greatest gift is compassion and caring. In my job as a social worker I’m exposed to many people in need. I like being able to help others in getting their lives back on track. My biggest weakness is refusing to allow myself to be too emotionally involved with my clients. In Max’s sister’s case, for example, I kept wishing I’d been a better friend to her.

4. What scares you? I think being in love scared me at first, because I’d lost my husband so young, we had only been married a year and, I was afraid to open myself up to suffering another loss. But now that I have Max, I’m not afraid any more.
5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I wish I could learn to be less quiet and shy and more open to relationships with others. I feel I’ve come a long way though, after everything that has happened.
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story? I was raised with a strong faith and belief in God. However, after my husband’s death, deep down, I blamed God for taking him too soon.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story? Meeting Max, helping him to grow in his faith, made me understand what I was doing. I knew God had a mission for me but it took me a while to realize my mission involved not just showing Max faith but actually loving him.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant. This scripture is special to me, first of all because I love the Book of Psalms. But this scripture became even more important when I believed Max and I were going to die. I truly believe that God heard our prayers and answered them. God would never leave us, especially in those moments we need Him the most.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why? Mint Chocolate Chip ice-cream cone. Because it’s my favorite, especially with the tiny chunks of chocolate offering a surprise in every bite. 

Thanks for having me here at the Craftie Blog today.


Thank you Laura for sharing Tara with us. This sounds like a great holiday read.

A Silent Pursuit Interview

Today we're welcoming Gina Santino, the heroine of A SILENT PURSUIT by Lynette Eason, November 2009.

Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.

You’re not kidding! I thought for sure I was going to die before it was all over with. Fortunately, God was watching over me and it all worked out.


1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense. I was engaged to a man who was in the special forces. He was an Army Ranger. Before he died, he managed to steal something very important to some very dangerous people. After he was killed, those people decided to come after me because they couldn’t find what they were after. I didn’t have it, but they didn’t believe me. I managed to escape an attempt on my life and reluctantly called my fiance’s ex-best friend, Ian Masterson to help me out.

2. So, during the book you met Ian Masterson. Tell us a bit about him. I met Ian when I was engaged to Mario. They were in the same Ranger Unit and were tight friends until something happened to send Ian transferring to another unit. It shocked me when I found out why. But it also showed me his strength of character and the depth of his incredible integrity.

What was your first impression? First impression? I didn’t really have one when it came to Ian. I was engaged to Mario so didn’t look at other men. But when Ian showed up just in time to rescue me from a killer, I definitely looked twice.

When did you know it was love? When I realized the risks he took for me—and realized he loved me like no one else, not even my fiancé—did.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? I’m a real estate agent. I’m good at talking to people and reading body language to find out what makes people tick. I’m also creative and loyal to a fault.

What is your greatest weakness? I’m impatient and tend not to listen when I’m told to do something—especially if someone tells me it’s for my own good! And I’m not real good at asking for help. Fortunately, that fault didn’t get me killed.

4. What scares you? The feeling of being disloyal, of not having the courage to move on with my life. I don’t want to be stuck in the past, but sometimes the future just seems so overwhelming.
5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I wouldn’t be so eager to jump into the middle of danger. I’d listen to those with more wisdom than I have. I’m learning though!
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story? God was my one constant. I knew that without him, I wouldn’t make it through what all was happening in my life.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story? Grateful to God for bringing us through. I won’t say I didn’t have a few doubts along the way, but I made the choice to trust him no matter what and he was faithful to see us through.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Psalm 61:4
While on the run from the killers, Gina took shelter in the refuge of God’s love and held on to God’s promises.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why? Anything chocolate…just because what is life without chocolate???

Thank you, Lynette for sharing Gina with us today. Can't wait to read this book.

A Tribute to Florence Case

A Tribute from Jessica Ferguson...
My sweet, sweet friend Florence Moyer (she wrote as Florence Case) has gone to be with the Lord. Flo was my RWA Chapter - Faith, Hope and Love friend. We never met, but oh, the love and encouragement she gave to me via email. Once when I was particularly low, she offered to read my proposal. That doesn’t happen very often—at least not in my little corner of the writing world. That’s how I knew Flo was a gift from God—she offered, I didn’t have to ask. And she told me that she didn’t often make that kind of offer but felt God connected us.

Flo was a former instructor for Writer's Digest School. She taught for them for 5 years, with over 300 students during that time, did critiquing of proposals and whole books for them in a separate section of the School and she also worked as a freelance critiquer for about seven years. She sold three secular historical romances and five Silhouettes, and two Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspenses. Melissa Endlich was her editor.

Flo and I often ‘talked’ about ideas from God and writing for God. She believed if an idea wouldn’t leave you alone, it must be important.

She told me: “If writing is your dream, please do not give up on it. I recently read that there are two ways to write as a Christian--to be called to it by God, and to just write and offer it as a gift to God. Isn't that something? I'm not sure which mine is. ”

Flo's friendship was special to me. She didn't rush through her posts or her explanations. She spent time composing just the right words and encouragement. Once I opened an email from her and read, “I DO NOT want you to lose your passion. So persevere, Jess. Write from the heart and your emotions. And don't give up. Flo"

Flo's gift wasn't only writing for God--it was encouraging others. I'm going to miss this very special lady and receiving her wise counsel. I pray she knew just how much I cherished her friendship.

Flo's last Love Inspired Suspense hit the stands in November. Let's honor her memory by buying Mistletoe and Murder. I know you won't be disappointed because her writing partner was God.


Comments from Missy Tippens…
Flo was a very special person and such an encourager. We emailed for the last year, spurring each other on in our deadlines and "racing" each other on work on proposals.

About a month before her death, I wrote to her to check in and told her about a rejection I'd had. When I found out that she wasn't doing well, I told her that any of my writing woes were trivial compared to what she was going through. And she wrote this back to me (yes, I saved her emails):

"But they weren't, and aren't!!! Your work is so important to God. I got to understand the difference between "knowledge of God" and "being saved in the heart" by reading a book. You could do that for someone someday!"

What an encourager who knew just the right thing to say. I'll miss her.

Terri Reed here. We would love to give a copy of Florence's book away. Please leave a comment. And if you've already had a chance to read Mistletoe and Murder, please let us know how you enjoyed it.

Mistletoe and Murder by Florence Case

Terri Reed here. Most Sunday's we post an interview of one of the characters from one of the current month's release. Unfortunately, Florence was uable to participate for her November release as she passed away last month. On November 10th, I will post a tribute to Florence written by two of her friends. We will be giving away a copy of Mistletoe and Murder. Please stop by.

Below I have posted what Florence said in her own words about her current book on her ShoutLife page.

Hello, everyone! I am so happy to say that MISTLETOE AND MURDER, my next book for Steeple Hill's Love Inspired Suspense line, is finished and will be released in November, 2009. I'm so excited about this book, as I love writing Christmas themed stories. I'm working on a new project and will keep you updated as to how it goes.

.... I love writing romantic suspense and hope to give my readers many hours of entertainment.

Writing novels and reading are my first loves, followed by crocheting and knitting for babies in need. ...I am active in my church as the adult Sunday School leader and work with the youth singing group there that my son is a part of.

Mistletoe and Murder
One minute, probation officer Mallory Larsen is handing out hand-knitted Christmas gifts. The next, there's a gun at her head—and a bomb exploding. Fellow probation officer Shamus Burke saves her life, and she'll be sure to thank him for it…once she gets his assistance again. A girl's life depends on Mallory, and no one but Shamus can help her do what needs to be done. As the threats against Mallory escalate, she shows Shamus she won't back down on saving anyone—including him. But now someone's dead set on stopping them both from ever celebrating Christmas together.

Guess the T.V. Sleuth Game

I don’t watch much t.v. anymore. For some reason, the grit and guts of it just doesn’t ring my bell, but I sure do miss those wonderful T.V. detectives of yesteryear, both amateur and professional. You know who I’m talking about. The amazing and sometimes quirky characters who could unravel any mystery, no matter how convoluted and keep you watching until the end. They didn’t even require machine guns or crime labs to work their magic. So how about it? Let’s do a little quiz to see if you can guess the T.V. sleuths below. To add to the fun, why don’t you send in three clues about YOUR favorite T.V. detective and we’ll all try to guess. You game? Let’s go.

Detective Number One:
1. This detective first appeared on T.V. in 1960.
2. His first case pitted him against a psychiatrist with an iron clad alibi.
3. He is known to be a shabby dresser. The actor who played the role for T.V. used his own clothes.

Detective Number Two:
1. This lady lost her dear husband Frank. She had no children.
2. Her show lasted a whopping 264 episodes and won four Golden Globes.
3. Her nephew Grady always seemed to find himself in hot water.

Detective Number Three:
1. He first appeared in 1969.
2. He solved crimes along with four teenage companions.
3. He was named after the last line of a Frank Sinatra Song.
4. He worked for biscuits. Jinkies!

Double Take Interview

Today we're welcoming MacKenzie Jacobs, the heroine of Double Take, by Jenness Walker, October 2009. 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.

All I did was pose for a photo shoot on a whim. That’s it. I’m a teacher at a Christian school. A boring, background kind of person who likes to whittle. And somehow, like Alice In Wonderland, I was sucked into the middle of this mess.

2. So, during the book you met Cole Leighton. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Cole has the scruffy good looks of a cute boy-next-door. Someone you can be comfortable with and you want to get to know better. First impression? Yeah, he was cute, but no thanks. I wasn’t even interested in being interested in anyone at that time. But after he saved my life…well, a woman’s allowed to change her mind. Falling in love was a gradual thing, but I knew it was real when he followed me to Kansas.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

I can whittle some pretty decent chess pieces, and my first graders seem to like me…or do they just like the animal crackers I bribe them with? Weaknesses…there are so many. Maybe my tendency to build walls? It leaves me lonely and isolated, which is never good.

4. What scares you?
Storms. Tornadoes. The dark. Alfred Hitchcock. Scary books. Love. What doesn’t scare me? 
5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be fearless. I hate the terror that sometimes paralyzes me.
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

My faith was a bit shaky. I was questioning God, pretty sure I wasn’t even on His radar.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

Let’s just say I’ve come a long ways. I know He’s there, and more than that, He loves me. He’s always loved me.
8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
It’s Titus 3:5: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. Well, I needed saving. And so did Cole, come to think of it, and from more than just the bad guy. But there’s nothing we can do to earn salvation. It’s a gift, given in grace and mercy.

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

Strawberries and Nutella. I don’t know why except I just had them and they tasted wonderful.  But Cole says to say because I’m sweet, surprising, no-fuss, addictive—okay, that’s enough already.

Yummy. This sounds like a delicious read. Can't wait! Thank you for sharing MacKenzie with us today.

My Apologies

Terri Reed here and in a short time my November book Chasing Shadows will hit the shelves. Well, the Harlequin book club members have already recieved their copies and I have recieved my first reader mail on this book with a complaint, albeit the reader was very nice about her objection to my use of the word elderly in relation to a fifty-eight year old woman. I know, I know, my bad. So sorry!
However, I went to dictionary.com to look up the definition of elderly as an adjective:
1.Being past middle age and approaching old age per the American Heritage Dictionary 2. somewhat old; near old age per the Random House Dictionary
Okay, so then I looked up when does middle age begin and end? I couldn't find a definitive timeline. The US Census says 35-55. Some websites say anywhere from 25-75. Whoa! That's a big span. Then I looked up the old-age and according to the Random House Dictionary old-age is considered the last period of human life, now often considered to be the years after 65 or the age of retirement which currently is 66. So after looking at all of this I have come to the realization that in our American society we associate the word elderly to persons beyond old-age when in fact it doesn't have to mean that at all. I think our culture has an interesting habit of using words to label things that aren't necessarily correct.

Also, today chapter six of Yuletide Peril posts. Stop on by to see how the story is progressing. http://www.eharlequin.com/article.html?articleId=1437

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!

Trial by Fire Interview

Today we're welcoming Tricia Jamison, the heroine of Trial by Fire, by Cara C. Putman, which releases in October. Wow, you've had quite an adventure.


1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

After watching my brother and his fiancée go through their harrowing adventures in Deadly Exposure, I thought our family had paid its dues. Boy was I wrong. This latest episode was almost too much. I’m an attorney. It’s not like I’m on the front lines like a police officer or fireman. But this time I was. I’m so grateful God never left me.

2. So, during the book you met Noah Brust. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

I met Noah initially when I worked a case defending the city and some firefighters in a lawsuit surrounding a fire that destroyed a building and led to several deaths. He was one of the witnesses and my responsibility. Let’s just say he didn’t appreciate how the trial went. So when I ran in to him a year later, I didn’t know what to expect. There’s been intense sparks between us the first time, but he’d walked away from it. That left me leery of letting anything else develop between us.

But the more he tried to figure out why fires were being started at my mom’s and then Caleb’s, the more I couldn’t ignore the fact that I liked him…a lot. And it seemed clear the feeling was mutual. But as everything was stripped away from me, Noah was still there. And I wanted him to stand next to me the rest of our lives.

3. What strengths do you have?

I’m a survivor. I take what life hands my way and try to live my life as a living sacrifice to God. Sometimes He’s asked more of me than I thought I could give, and I have been far from perfect, but if He can use me, He can use anyone. And because of my past, I have great empathy for the women I help with the domestic violence cases I work. I know they can become more than victims and if I can be part of that process, then I have accomplished something meaningful.

4. What scares you?
Before I would have said losing everything I own. Now that I’ve survived that, I would say turning away from my faith. There is no way I could have survived these trials without knowing God promised to turn even the worst things into something good and beautiful.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’d be able to relax more easily. I tend to get very focused and driven. Helpful during law school. Not so much now that I’m trying to make room for an important relationship.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?
I definitely had a faith, but it had been battered by time, experience, and the business of life. Can anyone relate?

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?
I have a fresh appreciation that God will never leave me or forsake me no matter what is happening in my life. Believe me, I need that assurance!

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
As a lawyer, Micah 6:8 is a key scripture. What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. While I want justice in my work, I want to balance that with mercy and humbleness. It’s a challenge and that’s why that verse is so key. Especially when you’ve been harmed like I was, it’s easy to focus on justice at the expense of mercy. After all, God knows best how to achieve the perfect balance of justice and mercy, so I need to leave that to Him.

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

Oh, I love this question! I am definitely an eat dessert first kind of girl. If I were to be one, it would have to be the green gateau from my favorite restaurant in Lincoln, the Green Gateau.


Wow, exciting read. Thank you Cara for sharing Tricia with us today.

YULETIDE PERIL starts today!!

Hi everyone, Terri Reed here to tell you that my online read featured on the eharlequin site launches today!!

Stop by and check it out at this link.

http://www.eharlequin.com/article.html?articleId=1437

A new chapter will post every Tuesday and Thursday for the month of October. You'll get to briefly see Gabe Burke, hero in the upcoming November release CHASING SHADOWS, and his detective partner, Angie Carlucci, heroine in next May's release COVERT PURSUIT.

YULETIDE PERIL

Tabitha Grant can’t deny she has feelings for her boss--handsome, successful, charismatic sports agent Jonathan Spangler. But she’d never compromise her integrity or her job as his personal assistant by becoming involved with the playboy millionaire. Her sense of professionalism and her strong faith in God will let her settle for nothing less than a true, lasting love, and Jon is clearly enjoying his life as one of Boston’s most eligible bachelors.

But when a man crashes the company Christmas party claiming to have life-or-death information about her estranged sister, Tabby is forced to turn to Jon for help. And Jon is forced to face his true feelings for his assistant, and reexamine his own faith!

Final Exposure Interview

Today we're welcoming Erin Cole, the heroine of FINAL EXPOSURE by Roxanne Rustand, released this month (September, 2009.) 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.

My personal experience with suspense began when I was a child. My two cousins and I were best friends with another little girl who was abducted and murdered. Her death was horrible enough. The nightmares, after she was found buried in a shallow grave, were worse—made all the more terrifying because her killer wasn’t found for a long, long time.

We all dealt with the grief and terror of those times in different ways. I moved away from Montana right after high school and never looked back. Never dreamed I’d ever return for any reason, except for brief visits with relatives. And why would I? The old nightmares continued to slither back into my restless nights at the most unexpected times…especially whenever I went home.

But finally, it was time to make peace with the past. To settle my feelings over that tragedy as an adult. And, my elderly grandfather wanted to retire and sell my grandma’s little general store in a tourist area up in the mountains. With no buyers and failing health, he was struggling, and I just had to help him--even if it meant going back to the place where my nightmares all began. I’m glad I did. But I sure didn’t expect that there would still be terror lurking in the darkness when I returned.


2. So, during the book you met Jack Matthews. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Well...I sure didn't expect expecting tall, dark and mysterious landing on my door--or the fact that this guy would have a young boy with him. There's something so...well, just so sweet and touching and heroic about a big guy, who has no clue about being a father, trying his best to parent a little orphaned child. Just watching Jack with Max made my heart melt.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?
I learned to take care of myself, over the years. To be independent, and strong, and determined. My greatest weakness was perhaps also a strength, in a way. It was my deep fear that someday, a killer would come after me, and I'd be helpless--just like my childhood friend was. That emotion drove me to take self defense classes, and to develop a stronger sense of wariness and self preservation. If I hadn't nurtured that side of me, I would've been dead by now.

4. What scares you?
Strangers. Dark, shadowed places. Fierce storms at night, when I wouldn't be able to hear footsteps creeping around the outside of my house. But, I'm much better now.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
If you'd asked me earlier, I'd say that I wish I'd been a better judge of men, in a romantic sense. But now? I think every step of my life has been part of God's plan for me. That everything unfolded as it should. If I had settled for Mr. Almost Right years ago, I never would've met Jack and Max.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?
I've always believed in God. But when my best friend was viciously murdered, that shook my trust. If God hadn't stepped in to save her--a sweet, good girl like her--how could he care at all about me?

But I've learned things now, and my faith is so much stronger. I had clung to my childish view of the world and of God's love way too long. Men are still capable of evil. They have free will to commit horrible crimes. But God is with me every moment of every day, filling me with a sense of love and reassurance. And I see now that my prayers have always been answered in so many ways.

7. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
This is one of my very favorite Bible verses. It's one that I try to live by, every single day...and it fits perfectly with the lessons I learned after Jack came to town, and all the trouble began.
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Jesus Christ." Philippians 4: 6-7

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

An Oreo cookie. They remind me of what I once was...hard on the outside, but with a soft, bruised heart on the inside. And hey--I just love them with a tall, cold glass of milk! 

Ohhh, I love orea's too. Thank you Roxanne for sharing Erin with us today. This sounds like an exciting read.

Race to Rescue Interview

Today we're welcoming Anita Teel, the heroine of Race to Rescue, Dana Mentink’s September release. 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.

My name is Anita Teel and I’ve spent my career researching endangered bat populations all over the world. While in the Seychelle Islands, I got a call from my brother. The connection was bad but I heard just enough. He was in trouble and I knew I had to return to Arizona to find him. He’s all I have left.

2. So, during the book you met Booker Scott. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Oh boy. Booker was the last person I wanted to see when I returned to Arizona. During our last encounter I basically broke his heart and ruined his livelihood, but that’s another story. It took almost losing myself and my brother to enable me to see Booker for the honest, gentle soul that he is.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

I am ruthlessly determined, which is both my greatest strength and my greatest weakness.

4. What scares you?

Trusting the wrong man again and losing my brother.
5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would a calmer person, a person who is led by the head and not the heart.
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

I am very sure of my faith at the beginning of my adventure. In actuality, I use my faith as a means of judging other people, a fact that I’m not proud of.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

Humbled.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
It’s was a difficult process to let go of the bad things that happened to me in my life. It took almost dying in the desertand losing Booker for me to realize that God never left me, and He’s always been working for my good.

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

Gingerbread, because it’s sweet but with a hint of spice, just enough to warm you up inside!

Dana, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Interesting and exciting! Can't wait to read it.

ACFW 2009

by Debby Giusti

I’ll be flying to Denver in a week for the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference. While I’m excited about the workshops I’ll attend and the opportunity to hear the latest information from the various publishing professionals, the best part will be reconnecting with old friends.

The Steeple Hill authors are a close-knit supportive group I always look forward to seeing. Most of us keep in touch online throughout the year. Often we help one another when problems arise or when we need advice or encouragement.

Many of us consider our writing ministry as well as a profession so there’s a spirit of service and commitment in the group. We share like values and a common goal to provide uplifting stories for our readers. Working together with our editors, we’re dedicated to making Steeple Hill books the best they can be.

Yes, we’ll talk about our writing when we gather together, but we’ll also talk about how we can help writers seeking publication. We want to see everyone succeed. First sales are celebrated, and we always welcome new authors into our sisterhood with open arms.

If you’re targeting Steeple Hill and attending the ACFW conference, be sure to say hello! We love sharing suggestions on how to make your work shine, and we want to get to know you. Sit next to your favorite authors at lunch or in the various workshops, and even if this is your first conference, don’t be shy. We’re a friendly group and so are the other attendees. Hopefully by the end of the weekend, you’ll have a close group of friends who will support you throughout the year until we all reunite at next year’s conference.

Looking forward to seeing you in Denver!

Wishing you abundant blessings,
Debby Giusti
http://www.debbygiusti.com/
http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/

Watch for two great holiday stories this December in CHRISTMAS PERIL, featuring Merry Mayhem, by Margaret Daley, and Yule Die, by Debby Giusti.

Passing Seasons

Today is the first day of school for my daughter. Tomorrow the first day for my son.
It also marks the passing of a season. Or the ushering in of a new one, depending on how you look at it.
This past year was a roller coaster ride and I'm glad for it to be over. I'm looking forward to this new season with anticipation and hope. I can't wait to see what God will do next in my life, my writing and in the world. For me, today is like New Year's day on in September.
Have a glorious day everyone and may this new season bring you much joy.