A man who looks at you like you're the only woman on the universe. Foot rubs and unexpected touches. Laughter. Holding hands and watching a sunrise or sunset over the water. I happen to be married to a really romantic guy. Before I was a published author, I gathered plenty of rejections. When he'd see a manuscript envelope sitting on the doorstep, he'd go out and buy me flowers and a roll of Lifesaver candies. He cribbed the Lifesavers idea from a commercial on TV, but it really showed me that he cared about my dreams and goals.

Because of the guaranteed happy ending. There is so much ugliness in this world, and we all need to escape into a great story where you know the outcome will be one of victory and power. I believe that romances empower women. They show us who and what we can each be if we hold on to our dreams. They're also an excellent example of how a man should treat a woman--and vice versa.

I love my editor--who I've been with from the beginning of my career--and I love the way Harlequin treats me. They're so supportive of whatever I want to do.

Sometimes, I think the category lines tend to blur a bit. American Romances are stories that could happen in your own back yard. They're about family values and community spirit. At least most of my novels for them are. You can use a lighter touch in the stories, and still drench them with emotions. And of course, sensuality.

Honesty, loyalty and integrity. (I know, that was three!) Characters can and will be flawed, but at their core, honesty, loyalty and integrity will make them rise above the rest. I love a hero who will go to the mat for what he believes in.

In November 2001, December 2001, and January 2002, the last three books in my Bachelors of Shotgun Ridge series were out--Cheyenne's Lady, The Doctor's Instant Family, and Preacher's In-Name-Only wife. Then in February 2002, I had a Maitland Maternity anthology which also included stories by Kasey Michaels and Mary Anne Wilson. Next up is In The Enemy's Embrace--June 2002, and The Inconveniently Engaged Prince--November 2002.

In The Enemy's Embrace is a spin-off from Harlequin's Texas Sheik series that started in the Intrigue line. The Inconveniently Engaged Prince is a continuation of Harlequin's Royal Carradigne Family series. Writing these books is by invitation only, which means that the editor asks certain authors to participate. I feel honored and blessed that Harlequin has faith in me!

I was given basic character sketches and story lines from the other books and asked to create a story for one of the characters who had appeared in most of the other books of the series. It can be both an exciting and frustrating experience because what I write can't mess up or give away secrets in another author's book. It's a challenge, and I'm happy to say I've not run into the frustration part of it--I have a great reputation for playing well with others. :-)

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