An Interview with Pepper Basham

 

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Her nineteenth novel, Authentically Izzy, debuts in November with Thomas Nelson. 

Tell about yourself, family, pets, favorite foods, hobbies, where you grew up, etc., and 1-3 things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing.

Hi everyone. I grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and now live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. My granny was the first person who ever called me a “writer,” and as proof of her faith in me, she bought me a secondhand typewriter when I was ten years old. Though I am an author, it’s something I do in addition to my day job as a speech-language pathologist. I’m an Appalachian girl, love jazz music, play Minecraft with my kids (and attempt other games…much to their humor), love my Appalachian heritage, and am an unashamed Anglophile. I think going to Biltmore may be one of my hobbies, but I’d love to make going to the UK one of my hobbies, too (not in the finance books for now, though). I love singing, watching movies/musicals, and hanging out with my kids. And I’m so grateful I get to write fiction from with both an overt and subtle Christian worldview.

What genre(s) do you write?

 I write historical and contemporary romance (emphasis on “romance”).

Are you Indy, traditionally published, or both?

Yes. Both.

What are you working on now?

 I’m getting ready to start another historical romance with another contemporary romance right behind that one. I just turned in two books which will be coming out in 2023, The Cairo Curse (February), and Positively, Penelope (August). (But I’ll tell you a secret, I have a 3^rd book coming out in December of 2023…title pending).

Do you read outside of your genre? If so, what other genres do you like to read?

 I mostly read within my genres, but I do like to read fantasy too.

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published?

No, my first book didn’t get published (and that’s a good thing too). I’ve been writing since I was ten, but seriously started pursuing the craft when I was 25-ish. However, I was also raising a growing family and working full-time, so I pursued writing during nooks and the crannies of my life. I have my first book published in 2015 after over ten years of attempting publication.

When you are writing, do you like complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks?

 I’ve never had complete silence while writing, so I’m not sure how I’d do with that. Usually, there is activity going on all around me. Most of my early books were written in the middle of my family activities (or they wouldn’t have been written at all), so I guess I’ve gotten used to noise. Sometimes, I can listen to music while I write, and other times, I can’t. If I do listen to music, I try to have it correspond with the “feel” of the story. Movie soundtracks, jazz, musicals, etc. I listen to a LOT of music while I brainstorm when I’m driving.

Do you have other writers in the family?

 I do!! My eldest son has finished 10 books but hasn’t started pursuing publication yet. And, might I add, he wrote most of those books in less than 2 years. It’s mind-blowing! My 17-year-old son just started his first novel too. My 20-year-old daughter had tried writing a few books, but she’s a visual artist, so she ends up drawing the rest of the story instead of writing it! LOL

Do you prefer ebooks, printed books, or audiobooks most of the time?

 I’m a print book kind-of-girl, but I’m starting to enjoy audiobooks for when I’m driving.

Do you read your reviews? How do you process negative reviews?

Yes, I read my reviews. My hope is that if I see a consistent theme in my negative reviews, that I can grow from those instead of getting my feelings hurt or trying to justify myself. But I realize reading is a very subjective activity, and my books won’t fit everyone.

Do you see writing as a kind of spiritual or therapeutic practice? 

Oh, definitely both!!

Does anyone in your family read your books? 

My 20-year-old daughter does. My dad is probably my BIGGEST reading fan! He’s known as RamboDad because he’s always trying to insert Rambo into my books to help folks in the story. My husband read his first one of my books last month. (He’s not a fiction reader).

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

Oh gracious, it’s impossible to answer that question about “favorite”. Two I really enjoy because of the humor are Just the Way You are and The Mistletoe Countess. I just turned my 21^st book into my editor, but I’ve written 24.

You can learn more about Pepper and her books here:

Website - www.pepperdbasham.com

FB – https://www.facebook.com/pepperdbasham/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pepperbasham/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/pepperbasham

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/pepperbasham/

Can their hearts overcome the darkness of the mountains?

Belle Calhoune-Author Interview

 

Tell about yourself, family, pets, favorite foods, hobbies, where you grew up, etc., and 1-3 things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing.

I grew up in a small town (Milton, Massachusetts) located ten minutes south of Boston. I moved to my current state of Connecticut after the birth of my youngest daughter, who is now attending college. So, I’m a lifelong New Englander. I live with my college sweetheart husband, Randy, and our youngest, who is in college. Our oldest has been living in New York City for over a year now. We have two very spoiled dogs. Copper is a mini poodle and Beau is a black Lab. My favorite foods are shrimp, Spaghetti Bolognese, pizza and lobster. My hobbies are reading, watching classic films and traveling. I love the ocean, so anytime I have the opportunity to be around it, I’m thrilled.

What genre(s) do you write?

I write contemporary romance in the inspirational and sweet genres.

Are you Indy, traditionally published, or both?

I am a hybrid author. The best of both worlds.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a proposal for a series featuring three brothers. I’m crossing my fingers that it will be well received.

Do you read outside of your genre? If so, what other genres do you like to read?

I do. I love thrillers, probably because they are so far removed from what I write. I love the excitement and the mysterious aspects. They are pulse pounding thrill rides.

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published?

No way lol. When I was in my twenties, I wrote a book that I tried to sell during my maternity leave with my oldest daughter. I received a really nice rejection letter with some sweet compliments. At the end of my leave, I went back to work and focused on work, raising my baby and supporting my husband as he went to law school. There really wasn’t time to pursue my writing dreams. Fast forward and I had my second daughter and moved to Connecticut. After settling there, I decided to pursue the dream again. About thirteen years ago, my dream was realized. So, the lesson is, if you’re meant to be a writer, you won’t be able to let it go.

When you are writing, do you like complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks?

I tend to listen to music to set a mood, such as Christmas music for a Christmas book and r and b for a romantic moment in the story. Those are my faves along with Adele, Sade, Luther Vandross, Prince and Pink. And for oldies, I love Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole. They are timeless. My favorite snacks are popcorn, fruit and cheese-crackers. I’m trying not to snack as much these days.

Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?

I grew up across the street from a public library, so books were easily accessible for me. When I was around twelve years old, my older sister brought me a book home from a book sale. It was The Golden Unicorn, a gothic romance by Phyllis Whitney. I fell in love with the book and the wonderful author. In my early twenties, I wrote Whitney a fan letter, and she wrote me back in a handwritten letter. She was in ill health, but so lovely and positive. I will never forget her grace or kindness. I have a huge collection of her books on my shelf. She inspired me to write and to be a good person as an author. I respond to every email I receive.

Which do you prefer, writing or editing? Why?

I prefer writing the book, one hundred percent. I receive edits from my editor and a copy editor and it’s difficult sometimes to have words and ideas changed, but over time I’ve learned to accept the process and not feel defensive. In short, edits make the book better. And as an author, it’s my goal to put out the best product I can each and every time.

What is your favorite writing craft book?

I love the book GMC (Goal, Motivation, Conflict) by Debra Dixon because it has solid suggestions that never lose their power. Knowing the goals, motivations and conflicts of our main characters is vital to creating a book filled with conflict and strong back story. I always go back to this when I’m writing a book. Knowing what our characters want and what is getting in their way is everything.

Does anyone in your family read your books? 

My sweet dad reads all of my books which means the world to me. He is a prolific reader, and it’s great to see him enjoying my books.

When did you fall in love with reading?

When I was in first grade, I struggled a bit with reading. My mom used to love telling me the story of my experience. My first-grade teacher clearly wasn’t very thoughtful because she had three levels of reading groups… the cows, the lions and the foxes. Clearly, the cows were the slowest and clumsiest readers. Insert eyeroll. Well, I did not want to be a cow, so I worked overtime to get better. One day I came charging home screaming, “I’m in the lions. I’m in the lions.” Weeks later I came home screaming, “I’m in the foxes. I’m in the foxes.” Goal achieved. From that point on, I was an avid reader and growing up across the street from a public library cemented it.

A faux summer fling seemed like the perfect solution . . . until they start falling in love for real.

Learn more about Belle and her writing here:

https://www.bookbub.com/profile/belle-calhoune

www.bellecalhoune.com

https://www.facebook.com/bellecalhounebooks/

https://www.instagram.com/bellecalhoune/

Toni Shiloh-Author Interview

Tell us about yourself, family, pets, favorite foods, hobbies, where you grew up, etc., and a few things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing.  

I’m Toni Shiloh, Christian contemporary romance author. I’ve been married for 17 years and we have two boys that entertain us on a daily basis. I like to play video games with the family, watch movies, or read to my hearts’ content. I’m a born and raised Texan but reside in Virginia currently, but that hasn’t stopped me from wearing Dallas Cowboys wear wherever I go.

What genre(s) do you write? 

I write Christian contemporary romance because it’s the best in my humble opinion.

Are you Indy, traditionally published, or both? 

I’m a hybrid author, which means that I publish books Independently as well as traditionally. It’s the best of both worlds!

What are you working on now? 

Right now I received line edits of my next Love Inspired read releasing in 2023. We’ll see what I work on after that. ;)

Do you read outside of your genre? 

If so, what other genres do you like to read? I do read outside the CCR genre. I’m a huge fan of romance so I’ll read any subgenre it has: historical, fantasy, suspense, etc. I also read some clean romance books as well, especially if they’re rom coms.

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published? 

Yes because I indie published it. After that, I was traditionally published and a year passed between the two books.

When you are writing, do you like complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks? 

I always listen to music when I’m writing, revising, editing, etc. I usually create a playlist for each book I write so I listen to that as I work on the story. There may be instrumental music but usually the songs have lyrics. I usually don’t eat while writing. Too focused to remember to grab something.

How do you brainstorm your story? 

That’s a great question. Usually, I start with a character and think of ways their background has shaped them from the past to the present of when I want to write their story. I let their history speak for itself.

How long did it take you to write your latest book? 

It took me 6 weeks to write the first draft of To Win a Prince. That was totally a God blessing because normally I average three months.

Do you celebrate when you finish your book?  How?

Yes! I sometimes buy a slice of cheesecake, or I’ll buy a bookish/writerly shirt.

Watch for Toni’s next release, To Win a Prince, coming September 13, 2022. It’s the sequel to her very popular novel In Search of a Prince.

Learn more about Toni and her writing at:

Website: http://tonishiloh.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authortonishiloh 

Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonishilohwrite 

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/tonishiloh 

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tonishiloh 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tonishiloh 

BookBub: https://bookbub.com/authors/toni-shiloh

As You Wish-Flash Fiction

 

Carried on the shrieks of carnival-ride goers, the fragrance of funnel cakes and cotton candy wafted through the air. It was a smell Judy usually associated with fun times with friends and family. Now, the odors were making her nauseous. The festive lights felt like spotlights following her walk of shame. She was sure everyone knew why she was at the carnival alone. 

She was a loser and needed magic to find true-love. 

 Shazahm’s Magic Love Machine promises to lead you to your true-love. The magical machine traveled with the carnival and was usually set up behind the Ferris wheel. Tonight was the last night the carnival would be in town. 

 This is silly. Judy shook her head and turned to leave. How could a machine built in a factory help you find true-love?

Magic. 

 The Smiths met because of Shazahm’s Love Machine. The owners of Uptown Bakery said that’s how they met too. She turned back toward the Ferris wheel.

Magic was her last hope.

 Her brother’s best friend, George, was back in town as the new offensive football coach at the University after an injury ended his NFL career. She’d had a crush on him since she was sixteen. She hadn’t been able to get him out of her mind since a group of their friends went to that baseball game last week. Her brother Jason wouldn’t tolerate his little sister having feelings for his best friend. And George would probably laugh at her if he knew. She had to find her true love to get George out of her heart.

There it is.

She searched the crowd for familiar faces. Clear.

Shazahm’s machine looked like an old shopping mall photo booth. The floor was sticky from spilled soda. She sat and pulled the heavy curtain shut. A ratty animatronic puppet wearing a gold turban greeted her. “Welcome. Judy.” 

Hair prickled on the back of her neck. How did the machine know her name? 

The puppet continued. “For seventy-five cents, the amazing Shazahm will guide you to your true-love.” She deposited three quarters. The puppet’s gaze became startlingly human and direct. “Judy. Tonight is a magical night for you. Your true-love is near.” A purple ticket popped out of a slot. 

It read, “Go to the churros trailer. Show this ticket to receive a free churro. Your true-love will be there wearing a purple shirt.”

“A guy in a purple shirt at the churro stand?”  Her shoulders sagged. She held the purple ticket up to Shazahm. “I can’t believe I fell for this.”

The booth shook with a metallic screech. Shazahm’s eyes glowed red. “Do not hesitate! Do not doubt Shazahm’s magic!” 

Her heart thundering, Judy fled the booth. 

If nothing else, she would get a churro for only seventy-five cents.

 At the churro stand was a man in a purple polo shirt.  He had his back to her. She recognized that head, that hairline, those deliciously broad shoulders. George. She froze. He turned around, holding a yellow ticket, scanning the crowd. His eyes fixed on her yellow shirt. Then to her face. He smiled. She turned and ran. No. Her true love couldn’t be George. 

“Judy! Wait!”

She dodged through the crowds. Did she really think she could outrun a former professional football player? No, but she had a good head start. This is so embarrassing. Now he knows.

 “Judy. Stop.”  Already losing her breath, she stopped but didn’t turn around. She clenched her fists. Standing behind her, George wasn’t even breathing hard. “You have a purple ticket. I have a purple shirt. I have a yellow ticket. You have a yellow—”

“Jason would disown me.”

“What does Jason have to do with this?”

She spun around. “Jason has everything to do with this!”

“Why? I don’t see him here. This is between us.” He took a step closer. “Judy, I’ve liked you ever since…Remember that trip our families took to that lake house?”

“Yes.” Warmth crept into her cheeks as she recalled laying on her back on the dock with the kids from both families staring up into the night sky. The moon was just a sliver of light. The sky was clear, and the milky way was visible overhead. The water slap slapped against the boats. She was so close to George that she could’ve touched him if she stretched out her fingers. There was a shooting star they all wished on. She had wished he’d kiss her. 

“That night, we were all laying on the dock, and that shooting star passed over, I wished I could kiss you.”

Her eyes met his. “You did?” 

He stepped closer. “I did.”

He smelled of good memories. “You could have any woman you want. Why would you—”

“I went to Shazahm because the only woman I’ve wanted was my best friend’s sister. I thought she was off-limits, out of reach. I couldn’t get you out of my mind.” He swept a wisp of her hair behind her ear. “You’re so beautiful.” 

  “You think I’m beautiful?” She thought herself too heavy, too tall, too big to be beautiful.

“Your beauty isn’t just on the outside. It glows like a magical force from within. You’ve had me under your spell for a long time.” He held up the yellow ticket. “Shazahm knows what I’ve always known. You and I belong together. Is there any chance that you’d give us a chance?” 

“I…I want to, but….” She looked at her purple ticket. George was right. Jason had nothing to do with this. Let him fuss. “If we did this, there would be no going back. It’d change everything.”

“If I had you, I’d only want to go forward.” 

She straightened her shoulders and looked George square in the eye. “Same.”

He smiled and cupped his hand under her chin. “Judy, I’m going to kiss you.”

She leaned into the warmth of his hand and smiled. “As you wish.”

 

Darlene L. Turner-Author Interview

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message.

Tell about yourself, family, pets, favorite foods, hobbies, where you grew up, etc., and 1-3 things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing.

I’m the youngest of three children (aka the “spoiled” one!). I live in Ontario, Canada and I’ve been married to my hubby for 24 years. I enjoy tole painting (painting on wood pieces), reading (of course!), and watching movies. I’m not sure I can pick a favorite food! I love pizza, Chinese food, chicken fingers, and French fries. Haha! I grew up in New Brunswick (next to Maine).

Three things about myself: I love flavored coffee, have over 30 plaid shirts, and lots of colored pens!

What genre(s) do you write?

Romantic Suspense

Are you Indy, traditionally published, or both?

Traditionally published

What are you working on now?

My eighth book for Love Inspired Suspense. Feeling very blessed!

Do you read outside of your genre? If so, what other genres do you like to read?

Yes! Fantasy, YA, and even middle grade school.

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published?

No, it was actually my third book that Love Inspired Suspense contracted. It took me approximately ten years to get published.

When you are writing, do you prefer complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks?

Sometimes I like silence, and other times, I like to have instrumental music playing softly in the background. Coffee is my writing snack.          

 How do you celebrate when you finish your book?  

With a treat of some kind – normally a Starbucks latte!

How do you come up with character names for your stories? 

 I have a “names database” of names I’ve heard on TV, movies, or from friends

How long did it take you to write your latest book? 

 Approximately 3 months

Do you have any manuscripts you have shelved that you might return to? 

Yes…maybe one day!

How long have you wanted to be a writer?

Since I picked up my first Nancy Drew book!

Are you more of a plotter or a pantser? 

Definitely a pantser!

Darlene’s latest romantic suspense Fatal Forensic Investigation was just released!!

Learn More about Darlene and her writing here:

www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders. 

Facebook (author page): https://bit.ly/2Woy8dK

Twitter: @darlenelturner

BookBub: https://bit.ly/2QrdkhP

Instagram: darlenel.turner

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19553274.Darlene_L_Turner 

In my next I'll post again about my Imperfect Journey of 100 Days, trying to pointedly address my weaknesses, bad habits, and areas where I want to grow. I am committing 100 days on intensive focus. Join me on my journey and see where I end up.

Barbara M. Britton - Author Interview

 

Tell us a little about yourself and three things that have nothing to do with writing.

I am a California girl who has spent the last twenty years in Wisconsin. I love the Midwest and the change in seasons. I’ve been married for thirty-four years and have two sons. I grew up with dogs in the house, but of late, my pets have been rescued cats. Our first cat avoided people and our new cat loves people. She will sit on my keyboard if I let her.

Three things that have nothing to do with writing: I grew up going to 4-H meetings. I can grow vegetables and cook them, but don’t ask me to sew. I’m tall, so I dislike shopping for pants. Country music is growing on me.

What genre do you write?

I am multi-published in Biblical Fiction where I bring little-known Bible characters to light. I also enjoy writing Historical Fiction. I have one book published that was influenced by a true story I heard on an Alaskan cruise ship excursion. My current work-in-progress is a Contemporary story because it deals with current life events. I guess you could say, story trumps the time period. 

Are you indie, or traditionally published, or both?

I am traditionally published with Pelican Book Group. PBG is a Christian publisher. When I began writing, I had no idea there was a Christian publishing world with its own agents, editors, and publishing houses. 

What are you working on now?

I recently finished a Contemporary Christmas story that involves a storyline about breast cancer. I am a breast cancer survivor. I felt God nudging me to share my story, so I added a devotional about my breast cancer journey to the back of the book. Currently, I am working on a sequel to my Christmas story and then back to Bible days for me.

Do you read outside of your genre?

When you have a multitude of author friends, you most definitely read outside of your genre. I read contemporary romance, historical adventures, women’s fiction, and occasionally romantic suspense. I’m not of fan of scary stories. 

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published?

I finished my first book in 2008. I didn’t receive a publishing contract until 2015 and that contract was for my fourth book. My first contracted book was published in 2016 about eighteen months after I signed on the dotted line. Traditional publishing is slower than indie publishing.

The first book I finished is still ‘under the bed.’ I didn’t understand genre parameters when I wrote the story. I thought I was writing a Young Adult book, but the word count was too short, and the story was too sweet for the market. 

When you are writing, do you like complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks?

I like complete silence when I am writing. I often have a theme song for my story. I will listen to the theme song before I begin writing to get my brain focused on the characters. I don’t eat while I’m writing, but I do drink hot chocolate or iced tea. My writing time begins with prayer. 

Whom do you trust for objective and constructive criticism of your work?

I recommend every writer have a critique group of trusted writing friends. Preferably, at least one member should write in your genre. My genre would be Christian Fiction. There are differences between what is acceptable in a general market book and one that is Christian. The biggest area of discrepancy would be the sensuality level.

Your critique group must be able to speak honestly about your work and share what is working and not working for them in your story. Ultimately, it’s your story, so the author needs to decide if they are going to accept the suggestions and to what degree.

I also have beta-readers who get a first look at my finished manuscript. I recommend having someone who reads voraciously in your genre. If you can capture their attention, then you are writing well.

What spiritual or therapeutic practices help you get into the right headspace?

It would be difficult to write Biblical Fiction without reading the Bible and praying over my story. I pray before I sit down to write, and I ask the Holy Spirit to help me write to the best of my ability. If I have a theme song for my story, I will also listen to that song before I begin to write.

Walking in nature helps me ponder storylines and develop plotlines. Exercise helps my brain function better. I have breakthroughs on my stories when strolling along in my neighborhood.

It also helps to have friends who you can call when you get stuck or need some encouragement. My critique partners are a huge support to me and my writing success.

Care to share a deleted scene?

A deleted opening to a chapter in my book “Lioness.” The daughters of Zelophehad crossed over the Jordan River and did not stay east. Their clan was listed in Scripture as crossing the river. Before I found the listing of their clan traveling across the Jordan, I had the girls in Amorite land, east of Canaan. Research matters (:

The haunting echo of the trumpet blast bound Mahlah’s stomach tight. She cast a glance at their tent with its awkward lean. How many more days and nights would they sleep under ram skin? This traveling dwelling was the only home she had known. What would a stone structure be like to keep? Would they need to thatch a roof? Build a door? Clean bones from their cooking courtyard? Human bones? She shuddered.

What did she know of Amorite land? What crops did the foreigners grow? Were their tools scattered in the fields? Would God still provide manna and quail to eat until they were settled?

Lord, I feel lost. Please give me your strength to lead my sisters where we need to go.

“Mahlah?” Milcah edged closer, her hand still gripping the camel’s lead. “Who will guide us if our men are to fight across the river?”

Hoglah crossed her arms, her attention centered on the path Sereb had traveled. “Will we follow the women and children of the tribes of Reuben and Gad?”

Mahlah nibbled her lower lip. These were all good questions, but she held few answers. Save one. The one answer onto which they held fast.

“God will guide us. Has He not always gone before us?” She stroked the camel’s nose until his tongue tried to taste her skin.

 

Defending David  Barbara's Latest Release based on events from II Samuel 15-19:8.

When a quiet journey to Jerusalem turns tragic, newly orphaned Rimona must flee a kinsman set on selling her as a slave. Racing into the rocky hills outside of Hebron, Rimona is rescued by a Philistine commander journeying to Jerusalem with six-hundred warriors.

Exiled commander, Ittai the Gittite, is seeking refuge in the City of David. Protecting a frantic Hebrew woman is not in his leadership plan. Although, having a nobleman’s niece in his caravan might prove useful for finding shelter in a foreign land.

Rimona and Ittai arrive in Jerusalem on the eve of a rebellion. In the chaos of an heir’s betrayal, will they be separated forever, or can they defend King David and help the aging monarch control his rebellious son?

Defending David is available on Amazon, B&N, or ask your library to order it.

 Find out more about Barb’s books on her website, barbarambritton.com, or follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. 

 

 

Bonus!! Watch the trailer for Barbara’s Tribes of Israel series.

 

 

Patricia Johns - Author Interview

Tell about yourself (family, pets, favorite foods, hobbies, where you grew up, etc.) and two or three things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing.

I live in Alberta, Canada, with my husband and our teenaged son. The winters here are long and cold, which can keep me inside a lot—and writing! We have a Quaker parrot who needs exactly 12 hours of sleep every night, and if he doesn’t get it, he becomes a complete menace. And as for hobbies, I absolutely love dollhouse miniatures! I have three dollhouse rooms set up in the cubbies of my desk—just random little rooms tucked into my desk space—that I’m always working on. They’re a lot of fun.

 What genre (s) do you write?

I write inspirational romance for Love Inspired and Kensington Books. I also write sweet romance (which means it only heats up to a kiss, but there is no faith element) for Harlequin Heartwarming.

Are you Indy, or traditionally published, or both?

I’m traditionally published. I admire Indy authors, though. You have to be good at so many things to self-publish, and I admire that combination of skills that lets them do it well.

What are you working on now?

I’m always working on a new book! At the time of answering these questions, I’m working on a book for my Butternut Amish Bed and Breakfast miniseries for Harlequin Heartwarming. (The first book in this miniseries comes out in the spring of 2023, so there is a lag between writing a book and getting it to my readers.) I’m really enjoying writing these books, though—they’re cozy and let me delve into the lives of the guests who pass through the bed-and-breakfast. I’m thoroughly enjoying myself!

Do you read outside of your genre? If so, what other genres do you like to read?

Oh, I read all sorts of different genres. I read murder mysteries, historical fiction, fantasy, classic literature… I find it helps my writing to read broadly. A writer has to bring ideas to her books, and you have to find them somewhere. For me, this is the trick. (And “the trick” is different for everyone!)

Did the first book you wrote get published? How long were you writing before you were published?

Oh, heavens, no! The first romance I wrote was absolutely terrible. Embarrassingly terrible. I wrote for several years some small presses writing some historical fiction, and then some romance for some e-presses. After getting my confidence back up again that I was indeed capable of writing a book, I decided to give my dream of writing romance for Harlequin another shot. That book was a good romance, and it almost got accepted, but then got turned down because my hero’s job, that was central to the story, wasn’t quite what they were looking for at the time. (He was a lawyer.) I was crushed at first, and then I got determined. I’d come so close, and I really wanted that contract! So I tried again with a different story. That book, His Unexpected Family, was published by Harlequin’s Love Inspired in 2013.

When you are writing, do you like complete silence, or do you like to listen to music? If so, what kind of music do you like? What are your favorite writing snacks?

I like silence. I need the quiet to get into my own head and let the story flow. As for writing snacks, it depends on my mood. Sometimes I eat toast, sometimes popcorn, sometimes cut fruit… My desk is set up in the living room, so I’m close to the kitchen, and it shows.

 How long have you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always loved writing. It’s just how my brain works. As a little girl, I’d sit up in my room writing story after story, and I never really stopped. So I think I was born a writer, and I’d dreamed of getting published for almost as long.

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

My 42^nd book is on the shelves right now, The Amish Matchmaker’s Choice. My favorite book is always my current one! I’ve worked so hard to bring this one out into the world, and I really want to share it with my readers.

If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?

I actually DID write a spinoff miniseries off of The Amish Matchmaker’s Choice! In this story, Adel wants to be the matchmaker for her community and she has to prove herself to the bishop. Unfortunately, she finds herself falling for her client. So when she marries him (I hope that spoiler doesn’t ruin anything for you), what will she do for the women she tried to introduce her husband to? She feels terrible! What kind of a matchmaker does that? So she is determined to find them all matches. And that begins my next miniseries, Amish Country Matches. The first book in that miniseries comes out in September 

Learn more about Patricia and her writing here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PatriciaJohnsAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorPatJohns

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorpatjohns/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/patricia-johns

 

 Here are some links to Patricia’s The Amish Matchmaker’s Choice

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Amish-Matchmakers-Choice-Inspirational-Redemptions-ebook/dp/B09MKR1MVM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2IKJ4DTERBQGU&keywords=the+amish+matchmakers+choice&qid=1654518505&sprefix=the+amish+mat%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-1

Harlequin: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781335759276_the-amish-matchmakers-choice.html

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-amish-matchmakers-choice-patricia-johns/1140558672?ean=9781335759276 

Books-A-Million: https://www.booksamillion.com/search?filter=&id=8388281320105&query=The+Amish+Matchmaker%27s+Choice