What’s the first story you remember writing?

I don’t remember ever writing a story as a child, though I’m sure I might’ve. I do remember in my 12^th grade English class that we had to study various authors writing styles and try to emulate them. I remember reading Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel and writing a chapter that started with a family recipe. I wrote about my family’s tradition of Sunday morning blueberry muffins.

Yum! Great family tradition!

When did you begin to pursue writing seriously?

In 2010, my kids were a little older and I read a book, For the Write Reason, which was written by authors, agents, and publishers in the writing industry. It inspired me to think that maybe I could write stories with characters, plots, and themes that would not only entertain readers but maybe encourage them. I looked up online writing programs and found the Christian Writers Guild and signed up for their apprenticeship writing program and started that year.

Who or what has influenced you most as a writer?

Other authors!! I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many amazingly talented authors who have generously encouraged me through this journey. Whether it’s through a chat, brainstorm session, mentoring, or prayer, these writers continually inspire me. 

What genre do you write, and what is it that draws you to this genre?

I write romantic suspense and what I love most about this genre is the thrill of unpredictability in the plot, twists and turns that challenge the hero and heroine to rise to the occasion. I also LOVE writing strong female leads who value and appreciate the chivalrous role of the male lead—those are the kind of romances I find swoon-worthy.

It sounds like we’re going to get on just fine. 😉

What would you say has been your steepest learning curve on your path to publication?

Balance. Writing is hard and deadlines come quickly. I didn’t realize all of the behind-the-scenes pieces that have to come together to put that book on a shelf. Managing that while trying to be wife, mom, human, left me falling short some days. Life is unexpected and I almost didn’t sign my contract because there were things happening in my life beyond my control, but if there’s one thing I’m learning as I move forward in this career, it’s how to lean into God. He more than makes up for my shortcomings and is actually quite good at making things work out just the way they should!

Amen!

What is the most daunting thing about being a debut author?

Meeting expectations. I know this is a business, but I’m such a relationship oriented person that the idea of trying to sell myself—or my book—has been a little overwhelming. I wake up wondering what kind of social media posts I need to do and if they’re pretty enough or witty enough; did I respond to all of the emails, comments, questions; am I being authentic, genuine, relational, and intentional in all of my engagements; and oh by the way, am I even good enough?

At the end of the day I love to read. I love books. And I love those who do too. I even love those who don’t (*ahem, that would be my family I’m talking about). What I want more than anything is to build relationships with this community and if they happen to like my book—awesome!!

What has been the most encouraging thing you’ve experienced as a debut author?

Reader support! Oh my goodness, readers are AWESOME!! Without having a single book out, I’ve been enveloped in support, encouragement, and excitement that it literally pulls me through some of my hardest days behind the keyboard. I love readers, and their generous, story loving hearts motivate me to give them my best.

❤❤❤

Briefly share your book’s life story. When was the story conceived, and how long as its journey been to release day?

Living Lies began with the character, Lane Kent. Her story developed as a result of our family’s introduction to the stigma and heartbreaking effects surrounding depression. I began writing her story as a cathartic outlet for what we were going through at the end of 2013. I finished her story and pitched it to agents and publishers in 2015. I received positive feedback and signed with my agent in 2016. I spent another year polishing the manuscript and had it ready to submit to publishers in 2017. Six weeks after submission, I received two separate offers before signing a three book contract with Revell in early 2018.  

What will you be doing to celebrate release day? 

I’ll actually be in Texas for Living Lies release celebrating my oldest daughter’s graduation from Baylor Nursing School. I imagine we’ll probably go to dinner and maybe slip into a bookstore to prove all those nights eating cereal for dinner were worth it.

Lol! Thanks for chatting with me today, and congratulations on your release! 

Readers, don’t forget to enter the giveaway below for your chance to win a copy of Living Lies.