Heather Woodhaven Interview

Q: How did you get your start writing fiction and what genre do you predominantly write in?

A: I’ve always been drawn to telling stories. As a child, all my stuffed animals and dolls had backstories and dramatic tales to act out. Super Grover had the most action-packed adventures. I started trying my hand at novels in third grade (they will never see the light of day). Now, I write in more than one genre, but romantic suspense has dominated.

Q: What does your writing space look like?

A: I have a bungee-rigged desk on my treadmill. Otherwise I usually enjoy taking the laptop wherever it may go. Mostly I find myself at the dining room table, both standing and sitting.

Q: In this busy world, how do you find time to connect with God and how does this impact your writing?

A: I try to start the day with some time reflecting on the Word. In addition, we aim to have a family discussion on a passage once a week. I find that the dialogue usually opens my eyes to read the scriptures in a way I hadn’t before.

Q: What part of a writing career do you find most difficult

A: It’s a tie between the synopsis and marketing.

Q: Would you tell us about your current book release Code of Silence?

A: Reeling from the news of her late mother’s secret life in the Mafia, Gabriella Radcliffe has twenty-four hours to return incriminating evidence her mother stole from them. If she fails, her newfound “family” will kill her aunt—but Gabriella has no idea what the evidence is or where to find it. When her old friend Luke McGuire stumbles on a rogue Mafia member threatening Gabriella, he’s shot as they flee from the thug. Now with the clock ticking, Gabriella and Luke are trapped inside her family ranch, following her mother’s clues to the items that can free them. But as they fight to save Gabriella’s only surviving family member, somebody else wants to find the evidence first…and he’s willing to kill for it.

Q: Where did you get your inspiration for this story?

A: I knew I wanted the setting to be something similar to this gorgeous urban island ranch in the area. I had a vague idea of some plot points, but fellow author, Becky Avella, provided the missing piece by pointing out a news story where a former mafia member hid in Idaho for years before being found out. From there, I researched organized crime history and the story came together.

Q: Tell us a little about your main character and how you developed him/her.

A: Gabriella is filled with empathy, compassion, and a love for learning.

Q: What did you enjoy most about writing this book? Least?

A: My favorite is the McGuire Brothers! While an unofficial series, Luke is the second of four brothers. I love their family dynamics, which will play a bigger part in each subsequent book. Gabriella finding out about her tragic family history was probably my least favorite. Thankfully, Luke was there to help her work through it.

Q: What is the main theme or spiritual message of this book?

A: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

Q: Would you share with us what you are working on now?

A: Another LIS starring the fourth McGuire brother, Matt.

Q: If you could have dinner with 2 people, who would they be?

A: I think that answer changes each month! This month I’d probably pick two of my best friends across the country. We just don’t get together enough!

Q: Do you have a favorite hobby?

A: That also changes each month. Ha! I went to a PaintNite with a fellow author. It was so much fun to leave with a complete canvas. I’ve been wanting to try Bible Art Journaling, though!

Q: What is the most rewarding thing you have ever done?

A: Starting a family.

Q: Where can readers find you on the internet?

A: WritingHeather.com I’m also on Facebook and Twitter

Q: Anything else you’d like to tell or share with us?

A: The third McGuire brother, James, will get to tell his story in COUNTDOWN, coming this September!