Welcome back Valerie
Tell us more about you.
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What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I have OCD tendencies, which impact my writing in a couple of ways. Each new novel is given a pocket folder where I keep info, details of the plot, or photographs of interest. Before I begin a story, I get a colored piece of paper (to make is easy to locate in my folder) and I write the alphabet down the right hand side. I usually have the names of my major characters in mind already, so for Cooper Callahan, for instance, I put a check mark to the left of the C for his first name, and a mark to the right for his last name. I do this for each character and also make a list of names I've used. When I have to name a new character, I can see which letters haven't been used and pick a name accordingly. That way, I don't end up with two one-liner characters with the same name, and neither do I have several characters whose names begin with the same letter. That might not bother most readers, but for me as an author, I just can't do it. One time I read a novel where – no kidding- 9 characters' names began with the letter J! MY OCDness noticed! I keep my hand written notes and plot points, and characters descriptions etc in my folder, near at hand, which suits me perfectly. |
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Tell us about your hero and heroine. What makes them likeable? My hero is likable because he’s a gentleman, always on the lookout to help others. In this story he helps an unaccompanied minor child at the airport. He listens to his coworkers, does his job without fanfare, and realizes his limitations. My heroine is likable because she is full of life although she'd been through adoption and a severe illness. In her words: “That’s why I grab life by it’s pointy little ears, and I intend to make the most of every opportunity.” She is adventurous, cares about kids, and is passionate about her faith. |
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What is your next project? A novel under the theme, “My Mother’s Secret”. Anna’s late mother was involved in genetic research. As Anna delves deeper into her past, she discovers information that will alter her outlook on her life and her future. |
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Is there anything you find particularly challenging when it comes to your writing? Like many authors, finding time to write is my biggest challenge. During retirement, I thought I’d have more time, but my husband has had several illnesses that have required my attention and emotional energy. So I write when I can and to take my mind off his health issues. |
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Is there anything you'd like to add? I can't wait for readers to meet my heroine. |
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How can readers connect with you?
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