Welcome to DiAnn Mills, prolific author with over a million copies sold, including the recently released Lightning & Lace, the third installment in the popular Texas Legacy series. Thanks DiAnn for spending some time at Relz Reviewz. My readers would love to hear your thoughts:~

ON WRITING…

Please share some of your writing/publishing journey with us

In 1996 my husband challenged me to write a book. I took him seriously and launched my career in 1998 with the publication of my first book. Currently I have over 40 books in print and have sold more than a million copies. I believe my readers should “Expect an Adventure.”

Why Christian fiction?

I believe that the Christian theme of how we are to react and respond to the problems in our lives is best said in a fiction book. It’s a non threatening environment in which the reader can note the difference between the believer and non believer. Honestly, I love writing fiction.

You write historicals, suspense, contemporary and romance novels. Do you have a favourite genre?

It depends on the story. I do try to add some suspense to every novel.

When The Lion Roars is a favourite of mine ~ will we see more of this kind of book from you in the future?

Yes! When the Nile Runs Red is a September ’07 release by Moody Publishers. I have a passion for the Sudanese and the critical situation in their country. This new novel is the result of a personal visit to southern Sudan.

What gets you through those difficult writing days?

Prayer. It’s not that the writing process is difficult because I love a challenge. It’s the demands I make on myself to write a better book.

What project or book are you working on now?

A historical for Avon, a new inspirational line for Harper Collins. The book is entitled Awaken My Heart.

ON LIGHTNING & LACE…

Did the plotline or characters come first?

Characters – and as John Gardner instructed: “Create the best possible characters and allow the worst possible things happen to them.” I wanted unlikely people – good people who had serious baggage.

Do we “see” some of you in your characters?

Not intentionally! If there is a hint of me in any of my characters, it’s an accident. But to be honest, I think there is a little of every writer in the characters.

If you were casting actors for a movie of Lightning & Lace, who would you choose?

For Bonnie – Kate Hudson For Travis – Matt Damon

When writing a trilogy do you have all the books characters determined before you start or do the main characters for the sequels appear as you write the first book?

They appear as I write the first book. They sort of slip in unannounced and take a role.

ON MATTERS PERSONAL…

What are you reading at the moment?

The Count of Monte Cristo and Bad Girls of the Bible

Where is your favourite place to read a book?

Stretched out on my sofa with a huge cup of coffee.

Who inspires you?

Everything that is around me – God, my family, friends, media news, TV and movie shows, dreams, different cultures etc. Every bit of information has potential of a story.

Please share some of your faith journey

I became a Christian when I was 19 while watching a Billy Graham crusade. I was alone in my home, feeling very low, and the Holy Spirit nudged me at just the right time. However, I was in my late 30′s before I realized that God wanted all of me, not just what I was willing to give.

Any last words….

Whether I write contemporary, historical, suspense, or romance, my desire is for the reader to be swept away with the story. I want to keep them up all night and missing meals. For those aspiring writers, don’t give up on your dream. Work at the craft, read, write everyday, and do not give up.

DiAnn ~ Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! I look forward to reading more of your wonderful books.

GRPR have once again provided a book to give away! Please post a comment to enter the draw for a copy of Lightning & Lace. This contest will be open until midnight on Saturday 5th May, 2007 and is open to my readers in both hemispheres:)