Q. What is the most satisfying aspect of writing for Miracles of Marble Cove?
A. I love these women! They have become like my best friends. It’s so fun to find out what happens to them next in each book and to see how they all grow in the Lord.
Q. What makes Steps of Faith special in the Marble Cove series?
A. We scoured the Internet for pictures of what the old railway station in Marble Cove would look like, and I’m so excited that the friends will be discovering more about it in this book. I also know what it’s like when someone you love has cancer, and I drew on my own personal experiences when describing how Diane’s friends felt for her and in imagining what Diane might be feeling. I hope her “message from beyond” has encouraged you, as well, no matter where you might be in life.
Q. What are some of the things on your own bucket list?
A. One thing on my bucket list was to travel to England because I love British history, television and movies! So for my fortieth birthday this year, I went to England for two weeks. I turned forty in London! It was an amazing trip and I’m so glad I was able to go. I went to the city of Bath, where Jane Austen’s Persuasion and Northanger Abbey were set, and it was amazing. I took a walking tour and saw places specifically mentioned in those two books. Another highlight was when I visited Sudbury Hall, which was used for the interior shots of the BBC miniseries Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth. I especially loved standing in the long gallery where Lizzy sees the portrait of Darcy!
Q. What is your writing process?
A. I usually write a very detailed synopsis before I start writing the book, but I know that not every novelist does this. Some people just start writing. I tend to be more logical. The book will sometimes deviate from the synopsis while I’m writing it, but not by much.
Q. What advice do you have for aspiring novelists?
A. Just write! The only way to find out if you can write that book is to just sit and write it. Don’t think about how good or bad it is, just get the story down. There is nothing like the satisfaction of writing “The End” at the end of a manuscript!
