Robin Caroll juggles many things in her busy life as wife, mum to three girls and ACFW Conference Director. How she finds the time to write is beyond me! Romantic suspense is her speciality and her latest release, Deliver Us From Evil, is a winner.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Robin and be sure to post a comment to encourage Robin and have a chance to win a copy of her book 🙂
If you could have chosen your own name, what would it be?
You know, I’ve never really liked my name, but have never thought of alternates. I guess I’d choose one of the names I gave my daughters—Emily or Remington or Isabella.
Your first pet’s name?
Raisin. A beautiful, long-haired black cat
Your best friend’s name in primary (elementary) school?
I switched schools, so I get to name two. LOL Terri Neel and Dana Rucker
Did you have a special toy that went everywhere with you when you were young? Please describe.
My family will love to see that I answer this honestly. My grandmother gave each of her grandchildren a Raggedy Ann or Andy doll their first Christmas. Well, I became VERY attached to my “Rags.” She went EVERYWHERE with me. I slept with her until high school. I “loved” her almost to pieces—my mother had to remake a face, she’s bald, one leg is longer than the other, her arms are made of mismatched material….but I loved her. And, yes, I DO still have her! My husband calls her the exorcist doll. LOL
If you could meet a famous person, who would it be?
If you were stranded on a desert island what one object would you want with you? (Besides your Bible of course)
Just ONE? An inanimate object? I guess I’d have to have Dr. Pepper, or I just wouldn’t survive.
Rel:~Well, you better bring your own supply when you visit Australia as you won’t find it here. They tried to introduce it years ago without success!
What’s your favourite ice cream flavour?
I’m not a big fan of ice cream—shocker, I know. If I have to eat any, chocolate chip
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A writer. Surprising, huh? LOL
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Italy
Your favourite lollies (candy)?
I’m not a big candy eater, but I love those Dove dark chocolates with almonds
Besides God, who has influenced you the most?
My mother. She’s honest, loving, supportive, strong, and an inspiration to me.
What’s your favourite book?
Fiction? The Stand
What part of your daily routine do you enjoy most?
Bedtime? lol I REALLY like my sleep.
Where’s the most interesting place you have been?
Jamaica
What’s your favourite movie?
Gone With the Wind…I’m a sucker for Clark Gable
Scrapbooking, reading or knitting?
Scrapbooking
On your wesbite you comment that you are not a fan of historical fiction! Why not?!
My mother is a genealogist. From the time I can remember as as child, there was always much discussion in history, family lines, what living in the past has taught us, etc. Our vacations revolved many times around graveyards and research trips. While I’ll always cherish those memories of being with my parents during those times, I became a little jaded against historical anything. LOL
What’s your most fervent prayer?
For my children to follow Christ as they grow and mature
What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
Er…don’t think that’s safe to answer.
Lost, The Mentalist, 24 or Castle?
Castle
What gift have you received that you will always treasure?
I have a box of handmade gifts from my children over the years. Wouldn’t trade those for anything.
What is your favourite Bible verse (or “one” of your favourites) and what does it mean to you?
Phil 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Because I’ve learned I’m NOTHING without Him.
Could you ask each of your children to share one thing they love about you?
From the oldest, Emily: “How mom always follows her passions and doesn’t get discouraged.”
From Remington: “Mom is creative and when things get frantic, she stays calm.”
From Isabella: “That Mommy’s sweet.”
Rel: Please thank your girls for sharing with us – they sound like sweethearts!
Deliver Us From Evil
Brannon is a great character ~ compassionate and courageous. How much of you is there in Brannon?
She’s definitely got me beat on the courageous trait. I think a lot of her spunk comes from me, though. And the way she tends to just blurt out her thoughts. I do that a lot. Sometimes gets me into trouble. lol
Please describe each of your characters with one word.
Brannon-strong;
Roark-brave;
Lincoln-loyal
I love the banter between Brannon and her partner, Lincoln and they way they encourage each other with scripture. Do you have that kind of relationship with someone?
I based Brannon and Lincoln’s relationship a lot on my own relationship with my brother. Even though we don’t quiz each other on Scripture, we have that open, easy relationship.
Your book opens the readers eyes about the tragedy of trafficking people, especially children. How did you become passionate about it?
I watched a documentary special on child trafficking and literally got sick. I wanted to turn it off, not think about it, but I couldn’t.
What do you recommend to those who would like to contribute to the fight against this modern day slavery?
There are so many wonderful organizations out there who are fighting the good fight against human trafficking. In the back of Deliver Us From Evil, I list them and their websites for readers who want more information.
What was your favourite scene to write?
Wow, that’s hard. The scenes in Mai’s pov really wiped me out. They weren’t my favorites, but I think they’re the most powerful.
What do you hope readers take away from this story?
That despite the horrors on an international level, and in our personal lives, God is there with us. He loves us.
Lincoln’s story releases in August, with Fear No Evil (can’t wait!). Will there be another book in the series?
Yes
What is in your writing pipeline? A sneak peek, please?
Right now, I’m finishing the 3rd book in the series, tentatively titled IN THE SHADOW OF EVIL, releasing February 2011.
Rel: Woo hoo!!
Robin ~ it has been an absolute pleasure having you at Relz Reviewz 🙂 Keep squeezing that writing in because I can’t wait for more of your stories!
Relz Reviewz Extras
Review of Deliver Us From Evil
Visit Robin’s website and blog
View the book trailer
Buy Robin’s books at Amazon or Koorong
Giveaway
Thanks to the generosity of Robin’s publisher, B&H Publishing, Ii have two copies to give away to my Australian readers and two to my North American readers.
To enter:~
Post a comment on or before Sunday 7th February, leaving contact details and a AUS or USA at the end of your comment to let me know your location.
January 31, 2010 at 12:01 pm
I'd love to win Deliver Us From Evil. Great interview!
worthy2bpraised[at]gmail[dot]com
USA
January 31, 2010 at 12:57 pm
great interview, the book sounds great, I'd like to win 🙂
marcus802001(at)yahoo(dot)com
USA
January 31, 2010 at 2:43 pm
I enjoyed the interview and Robin's book sounds like a page-turning read. contact(dot)harris(at)gmail(dot)com
January 31, 2010 at 4:32 pm
This sounds like a great read! I enjoyed the interview!
Mary
mkshriver(@)gmail(.)com
USA
January 31, 2010 at 4:44 pm
This author sounds wonderful! I like that her heroine has lots of spunk.
Strong female characters are what I enjoy…..Many thanks, Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com
January 31, 2010 at 4:52 pm
wonderful interview and thanks for the giveaway minsthins at optonline dot net usa
January 31, 2010 at 5:41 pm
Sounds so good, like one of those books you just can't put down. Love to read it. Please enter me. Thanks!
ayancey(at)dishmail(dot)net
USA
January 31, 2010 at 8:59 pm
Great interview. I'd love to win too. I really enjoy these reviews and interviews. Thanks!!
January 31, 2010 at 10:05 pm
Great interview. Nice to know if I ever come to Australia I'll need to bring Dr. Pepper.
Robin's book sounds great.
mchapman (at) windstream (dot) net
US
January 31, 2010 at 11:01 pm
Great interview! This book sounds amazing. It nice to know there are alot of Dr. Pepper fans out there. Please enter me in the contest to win this book. Thanks!
lisaglidewell (at) gmail (dot) com
January 31, 2010 at 11:19 pm
Hmm, if I were asked that question about TV shows I'd have to say, "pass". I too have well-loved toys that had to be "doctored" several times.
Please enter me in the draw.
Cheers
Laetitia 🙂
Australia
January 31, 2010 at 11:27 pm
I hope Robin's book isn't too scary because I sure do want to read it! From another Dr. Pepper fan, thank you for this giveaway.
cjarvis [at] bellsouth [dot] net
USA
February 1, 2010 at 12:07 am
Ooohhh I love thrillers.
thanks for the chance
msboatgal at aol.com usa
February 1, 2010 at 12:20 am
Hi, all! This interview was one of the most fun I've had. I actually got out my "Rags" today. When my battery in my camera charges, I'll take a picture and post it on my blog tomorrow. robinswritingworld.blogspot.com
MUST have Dr. Pepper. I can live with Mr. Pibb.
It's not too scary of a book, I don't think. But it does touch on a hard topic of child trafficking!
Thanks again, Relz! You are the best!
February 1, 2010 at 12:20 am
BTW, everyone, drop my website tomorrow, robincaroll.com, for a wonderful contest. You don't want to miss this!
February 1, 2010 at 12:43 am
Thanks for sharing this interview with us! I'd love a chance to win this book! Thanks!
stokes[dot]a[at]suddenlink[dot]net
USA
February 1, 2010 at 3:22 am
I would love for the opportunity to read this book.
Sheree neednspace at aol.com USA
February 1, 2010 at 5:40 am
That was a lovely interview! I thourghly enjoyed this book and just loved the characters. I hoped there would be more stories as i really felt for Steven at the end of the book.Can't wait for the next one!
February 1, 2010 at 1:43 pm
I awarded your blog an award. You may pick it up here
http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/2010/01/sugar-doll-blogger-award.html
February 1, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Great interview, I would love to read this!
February 1, 2010 at 6:27 pm
The next book in the series, FEAR NO EVIL, will release in August. It's Lincoln's story…and I had a blast writing that one! It deals with gangs and our social services system.
February 1, 2010 at 8:02 pm
The book sounds interesting. I like to get to know the writers. Thanks.
Jessica
bluenichols(at)sbcglobal(dot)net
February 1, 2010 at 8:41 pm
Relz, don't put me down for a book, I already bought my copy. Just wanted to say this was a great interview! Robin's such a blessing to those in her life and I'm privileged to be one of them. Plus as her crit partner, I get to read her books as she writes them. LOL! This series gets better with every book, let me tell you! Such an awesome set of stories. 🙂
February 1, 2010 at 10:15 pm
Awww, thanks D! You bless me as well and I don't know what I'd do without your comments and insights!
February 2, 2010 at 6:45 am
Looking forward to reading this book and hope I win a copy even though it is a tough subject. Thanks rel and Robin for the interview. Rel, do you still have your Raggedy Andy????
Jen AUS
February 2, 2010 at 7:01 am
Of course, I do 🙂 My big sis made me a Raggedy Andy years ago – so cute!
February 2, 2010 at 3:02 pm
Your cat is adorable! Great interview!
Thanks,
Amy (artsyrockechick@aim.com)
USA
February 2, 2010 at 7:13 pm
Funny thing…the cat we have now is long haired and solid WHITE!
February 3, 2010 at 2:44 am
Thanks again, Relz, for hosting me on your blog. I have to say, your questions were some of the most interesting! I truly enjoyed my visit.
February 3, 2010 at 2:56 am
We loved having you, Robin 🙂
Looking forward to having you back when Fear No Evil hits stores!
Bless you!
February 3, 2010 at 11:36 am
Great Review Rel and I would love to read this book ! AUS
February 4, 2010 at 12:35 am
Hi Rel, I have to apologize to you and Robin. In my previous comment I had the name of the character wrong. Sorry about that! I was talking about Lincoln whom I felt quite sad for at the end of the book. Now even though I am getting the characters wrong i still loved the book and think everyone else will enjoy it!
February 4, 2010 at 1:46 am
Such an entertaining interview–thanks Rel and Robin 🙂 Now I'm wracking my brain trying to remember which of Robin's books I've already read….
February 4, 2010 at 4:41 am
This sounds really good. count me in please.
USA
lkish77123 at gmail dot com
February 4, 2010 at 7:10 pm
OMG, I have been searching for a book for our book club with this content. Our church is taking a stand agains human trafficking and are going to build safe homes in our area and aborad. I thought our book club should read a book about it. This is the one I have been looking for!!!
Thanks Rel for the great review as always!
Robin in USA if that's okay
cmrobin at bellsouth new
February 7, 2010 at 8:05 am
Enjoyed reading the interview, Would love to read the book.
I am in USA
retsbar2go AT gmail DOT com
February 7, 2010 at 6:49 pm
Sounds like a great read.
djeanq(at)gmail(dot)com
USA