Multi-published and awarded author Colleen Coble writes romantic mysteries. With more than forty books published—most have been bestsellers.
Colleen is an active member and CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and a well-loved encourager to other writers—as well as readers. Her books have been awarded or nominated for ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, the National Readers’ Choice award, and the Booksellers Best award.
She and her husband Dave live in Wabash, Indiana.
What has been the greatest joy of your writing journey?
I love connecting with readers and encouraging them. It’s always a happy time to hear that a book has touched a reader’s heart or made her think about her life.
How does your faith play into your work?
Every writer’s belief system comes out in their work. A bit of us gets into our characters and how we see the world comes out. I look at the world through the lens of my faith. I know God is just, and though we see no justice in the world, He will bring justice eventually. I know He loves each of us and that He is working things out for our good. These truths all play out in my books.
Let’s talk about your new book, Tidewater Inn (Thomas Nelson, July 2012). Please tell us about it.
Tidewater Inn is about Libby, an architectural preservationist. She’s about to embark on a new project when she discovers everything she’s been told about her father has been lies. He’s left her a beautiful old inn in the Outer Banks, and he didn’t abandon her as she thought. She’s talking to her partner and friend about the inheritance on a harbor cam. Two men in a boat come into view and kidnap Nicole while Libby is watching from hundreds of miles away. Libby rushes to Hope Beach to try to find her friend. There’s a hunky Coast Guard swimmer who helps Libby get to the truth, and favorite characters Bree and her search dog Samson, appear to help find Nicole.
What was the catalyst for the idea?
I was standing in a harbor in St. Croix about to board a boat to snorkel at Buck Island. My husband pointed out a harbor cam. I called my parents and told them where to go on the computer so they could see us. While I waved to them on the cam, I suddenly wondered how they would react if something happened to me right in front of them while they were thousands of miles away and unable to do anything about it. : )
Can you tell us about a recent “detour” in your life—or in one of your character’s lives—that taught you something?
My husband was diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer a year ago, the same week my dear friend Diann Hunt’s ovarian cancer came back. I questioned God and wanted to fix things for them. I had to finally realize that control is illusion. We have no control over anything. God is the only one with any control. It also was a potent reminder that life isn’t about this world but the eternity. We often forget that as we get caught up our lives here.
You’re a mentor to many writers, especially through American Christian Fiction Writers. What advice would you offer to others—young or older—who are just starting out?
Read widely in the genre you write. Attend a good conference every year, and always be reading a book on craft!
A few fun questions…
When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?
Coffee! I love, love, love my coffee. My favorite is infrared roasted coffee from Toomers.
This website features musicians as well as writers. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?
I sing solos at church, and I used to play the French horn, does that count? : )
If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?
I love ballads.
In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?
I’m the strong, female lead. I’m a take charge personality—a mother if you will. I am a fixer and am very interested in natural medicine as well.
I’m a dog lover. Please tell us about your pets, if any, or your favorite pet as a child.
I grew up with dachshunds. Love those little wiener dogs! I also adore our daughter’s Golden Retriever Parker. He’s a total doll.
Thank you, Colleen! It’s a pleasure to have you as a guest at DivineDetour.
Thanks so much for having me—it was great fun!
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For more information about Colleen and her books, visit her website at www.colleencoble.com.
To purchase Tidewater Inn logon to:
Kathy, thanks for another great interview!
Colleen, I’m sorry to learn about your husband and dear friend. Just lifted them both up in prayer…
Thanks for the reminder that life isn’t about the now but eternity.
Thanks for stopping by, Elaine! Always good to hear from you!
Kathy
Thanks so much, Elaine!