fiction saturdays: interview with Raquel Byrnes

I’m excited about today’s interview with novelist Raquel Byrnes. Raquel’s latest inspirational romance, Purple Knot, releases this month.

Welcome to The Literary Mama, Raquel. Tell us a little about yourself.

Thank you, I’m so happy to come and visit. Well, I am a homeschool mom of six so I am pretty much up to my elbows in spelling tests and crafts. I have a super hubby and I love to write inspirational romance.

**What is Purple Knot about?

Purple Knot is about Reyna Cruz, a private detective that goes back to Seattle in order to investigate her best friend’s mysterious death. In returning, she is forced to team up with her ex-fiancé, James Corbeau. As their romance relights, so do the memories of what tore them apart. Reyna and James must decide if their love can survive the secrets Reyna’s investigation reveals.

**What do you hope readers walk away with knowing from Purple Knot?

That we have a God of second chances and grace. You do not have to be perfect to have a relationship with Him. He hurts with us, loves us, and longs for us to walk with Him despite mistakes we’ve made in the past.

**Tell us about your journey to publication.

I’ve been writing for over a decade. I’ve taken classes, gone to conferences, and really tried to hone my craft. I signed with an agent a year and a half ago, and signed a three-book deal with White Rose in January.  I am amazed at the Lord’s generosity to me.

**What other new projects do you have in the future?*

The other two books in the Shades of Hope series, Ruby Dawn and Bayou Blue, release later this year and in 2012. Right now I am writing another series centered around the mysterious Noble Island.

**Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Still homeschooling, my youngest will be twelve and just entering Jr. High, and writing.

**How can readers get in touch with you?

Through my website, www.raquelbyrnes.com – or on Twitter @raquelbyrnes I love to connect with other readers and writers!

**Thanks for stopping by today!

It’s been a pleasure! I had a lot of fun, thank you!