Q–How do we see the lead characters change from your debut novel?

A–In LIFELINES we met the characters through the eyes of an outsider, Lydia. Since Lydia is slow to trust and very guarded, we saw a lot of their flaws revealed.

Now, in WARNING SIGNS, since it’s told through the eyes of medical student Amanda, we get the chance to see the other characters’ strengths. Although for a few of them it’s taking one step forward and two steps back–just as it is for so many of us in real life.

Q–Did you know the plot and ending for this book when you started to write it?

A–No–I never do! I knew it was Amanda’s story and thus would be a bit lighter than LIFELINES, the first in the series. I also saw it as more of a coming of age story, one that had more mystery elements–Amanda’s strengths are her incessant curiosity and her optimism, and WARNING SIGNS reflects that.

Q–You are already into the third book. As a writer what challenges did it present and how do you meet those challenges?

A–URGENT CARE, the third book, was a challenge because it’s darker and edgier than the first two, and in a way, much more honest emotionally.

It was also difficult because the characters have grown so much since the first book–in both good ways and bad. In URGENT CARE you see the results of past mistakes and glimpse the consequences to be paid in the future.

Q–You are a resident of Hilton Head. Isn’t that a great setting for a writer?

A– Let’s see, sunny and warm, walking on the beach barefoot on Christmas Day–I’d say it’s a great setting for anyone! After spending most of my life in central and western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh where my novels are set, I have to admit that I don’t miss Pennsylvania winters.

Although those winters can lead to inspiration when it comes to murder and mayhem, which is why my next book, URGENT CARE (Berkley, November 2009) is set a few days before Christmas when the folks at Angels of Mercy are experiencing anything but peace on earth….