What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write In Pursuit of the Past?
Two of our closest friends became foster parents several years ago. I always admired them for opening their hearts and home to babies and young children in need. The idea for a heroine that works in the adoption field evolved from there. The book itself took a completely different turn than I had anticipated but I’m definitely a “pantser” writer so I wasn’t bothered by this at all.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of In Pursuit of the Past, what would they be?
Ava’s constant positive outlook makes me think that the song “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley would be the perfect theme song for her.
Hudson is such a moody man who can’t seem to get out of his own way. I can almost hear Eminem’s “The Monster” playing for him.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I do love to read romantic suspense, the genre I primarily write in, but I also read contemporary romance, angsty romances, and some women’s fiction. If a book looks good to me, I will read it. I also love to get recommendations from friends to broaden my reading horizons.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I’m currently reading From the Embers by Aly Martenez. A very emotional read! When I finish that one, I have Lucy Score’s The Things We Hide From the Light waiting for me. I loved The Things We Never Got Over so I fully expect to enjoy the next one.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I think my favorite scene is the one in the hospital where Hudson and Ava finally reunite. His proposal to Ava is one of the most unique proposals I have ever written in a romance. Second to that scene, I would have to choose the crash scene. Emotions ran high for the characters as well as for me when I was working through that one!
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
This question made me laugh. We have five cats that have somehow found their way to our home through various rescue efforts. I never have less than two near me when I write. My little tortie girl, Willow, definitely chose me as her human and she is particularly envious of my laptop. She will try to sit right on the keyboard to get ALL the attention!
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
My favorite quote is also my personal motto: Be the change you wish to see in the world (Ghandi). We can’t expect things to change around us just because we want them too. We have to BE that change.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I suppose it would be to never give up hope. Ava held onto hope that Quinn was alive, even when Quinn’s own brother had given up. I believe that hope keeps us moving forward, striving toward our goals and embracing the future–whether its hope to get a better job, fall in love or find a lost loved one.
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