Marcia James, Author of Hot, Humorous Romances

THE JAMES GANG

Each month I interview an author or publishing insider who has “James” in his/her name. My January James Gang interview is with Accomplice Press author, Jamie Hill!

1. Let’s get the most important question asked first: Why James?

Jamie is my real first name. My father was James, his grandfather was James, too.

2. What fiction genre(s) and/or sub-genre(s) do you write?

Contemporary romantic suspense.

3. Tell us about your latest release.

Family Secrets is the first book in the “A Cop in the Family” series. This one deals with a Detective Jack Dunlevy; the future books deal with his partners in the department. When I started Family Secrets, I was a bit annoyed with the big name publishers in category romance who said there shouldn’t be children in a romance book. I loved the dynamic of the tough, chain-smoking cop interacting with kids. You get to see a different side to his personality.

Not all the books in the series have children in them, but they do deal with family in various ways.

Here’s the blurb for Family Secrets:

As if stumbling over a dead body isn't enough, Crystal Cartwright finds herself playing surrogate mother to two small boys when their father--her neighbor--doesn't come home. The kids aren't much trouble, but the thieves, drug dealers and kidnappers they're about to encounter are.

Detective Jack Dunlevy, a cop down on his luck, draws the cases no one else wants. A simple investigation involving a dead homeless man quickly changes as Crystal enlists Jack's help with the children. Drawn into a mystery that none of them could have anticipated, they're faced with a situation that will change their lives forever.

4. Is there a core story and/or a theme(s) in your books?

Not really. I’ve done bunches of short stories and some longer pieces, each different in its own way. I really like the combination of romance and mystery, so that’s what my published work focuses on.

5. Do you have a favorite hero and/or heroine in your books and why?

Jack and Crystal will always be my favorites. I’ve been working on Family Secrets for several years. We seem like old friends by now.

6. What do you enjoy most about being an author?

I love the creativity involved. My mind is always chugging away at a new idea.

7. Do you have any awards, reviews or kudos you’d like to tell us about?

Family Secrets has received some great reviews, which I’m very proud of.

Anita at The Romance Studio gives it Five Hearts and says, “Family Secrets is an exciting action-filled romantic suspense. A fast-paced, smooth-flowing storyline will captivate the readers. The surprise ending is thrilling. This is a definite must read and I highly recommend it to the readers. So be sure to add Family Secrets by Jamie Hill to your reading list, you'll be glad you did.”

Lena C. at Fallen Angel Reviews gives Family Secrets Four Angels and says, “Family Secrets is packed with lots of betrayal and secrets that will make the readers jump in turning each page.”

Charissa at Coffee Time Romance gives it Four Cups and says, “I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I especially like the twist at the end when all the pieces fall together to give the reader the whole picture. Add this to your must-read list. You will not be disappointed.”

And finally, my first review ever and one of my favorites! Leah at Love, Romances and More gave Family Secrets Four and a half Hearts and says, “Chock full of surprises, twists and turns, Family Secrets is a roller coaster ride of a story that doesn't let go until the very end.”

8. How do you promote your books and your author brand?

My “brand” is Spicy Sassy Suspense. I think that sums up my philosophy quite nicely. A touch of romance, a touch of humor, and a mystery to tie it all together. Currently I have a website, blog, Twitter and MySpace accounts for promotions.

9. What is your next project?

I’m nearly finished with the second book in the family series, Family Ties. Next on tap I have a couple books about federal agents who guard people in the witness protection program. They promise to be fun!

10. Do you have a bit of wisdom you'd like to impart or a favorite quote?

I have a lot of favorite quotes which inspire me at different times. Right now I like "Life is a handful of short stories, pretending to be a novel. " – Unknown

Thanks for having me, Marcia! Readers can find more about me at my Web site, Kiss and Tell: http://www.JamieHill.biz/ or my blog: http://JamieHill.wordpress.com/.

Thanks, Jamie! Next month, my interview will focus on All Romance eBooks’ “Twenty-eight Days of Heart” fundraiser for the American Heart Association.

Jeanne St. James Interview