Talkshow Thursday: Meet Valerie Massey Goree
Linda: Thanks for joining me today. Congratulations
on the release of your latest book Day of
Reckoning. Where did you get the inspiration for the story?
VALERIE: Day of Reckoning is a stand-alone sequel
to Weep in the Night. Both stories feature
agents who work for the International Retrieval Organization. Lela was
introduced in Weep, and I knew when I
met her that she needed her own story. One aspect I love about writing fiction
is creating my story world. The IRO—a top-notch detective agency of sorts—has
unlimited resources, and therefore my agents have everything they need to
accomplish their tasks. The inspiration for Lela’s story was inspired by my
daughter-in-law who is a strong and accomplished Hispanic woman.
LM: You relocated
in the midst of writing this book. How did the move impact the project?
VALERIE: The
2,500 mile move did interrupt my writing, both before and after. I envy authors
who can sit down and write for ten minutes, and then tackle a chore. I need a
block of time to concentrate. Needless to say, I had to take off a couple of
months. When our office was set up and I’d unpacked etc., I had to reread what
I’d written to get back into the plot, but found I was able to pick up and complete
the story. Good thing I wasn’t on a deadline!
LM: Research is
an important part of the writing process. What are some of the ways you have
researched your books? For Day of
Reckoning did you discover a particularly intriguing bit of information you
knew you had to include?
VALERIE: I use
online sources, my own experiences, but I also rely on chatting to real people
if possible. For instance, in my first novel, a crime was committed in a small
Texas town. I visited the Country Sheriffs’ office, explained my situation, and
asked to speak to a deputy. He answered all my questions, and thanked me for
using proper procedure, and not ‘making up stuff.’ For Day of Reckoning I needed to know what might cause severe scars on
Lela’s abdomen. Without revealing any spoilers, I read about several products
then conducted a couple of experiments on the back porch. You’ll have to read
the story to find out more.
LM: What is your favorite part of the writing
process: research, writing, or revising?
VALERIE: I love
revising. By then the hardest part is done. The major plot is set, characters
are developed, and my critiques partners have provided input.
LM: Here are some
quickies:
VALERIE: Favorite
vacation spot: I grew up in South Africa. Our family always vacationed on the
coast in the city of Durban. Golden sand, crashing waves, and as a kid, no
responsibilities but to
Favorite childhood author: Enid Blyton, a multi-published
author from England. Among many other books she wrote The Famous Five and The
Secret Seven series, mystery stories for young readers.
Favorite food: Only one? I suppose my go-to choice will
always be a good, juicy steak.
LM: What are you
currently working on?
VALERIE: I’m
revising the very first novel I wrote, way back when. See, I told you I like
revising. It’s set in Australia and loosely based on my mother’s family. The
original was a romance, but I’m including a suspense thread.
LM: What advice
do you have for fledgling writers?
VALERIE: If you want
to play tennis, you have to read
how-to books, and watch professionals whack the ball, but until you step on a
court with a racquet in hand and attempt to hit the little yellow target,
you’ll never become a proficient player. The same can be said about writing.
Sure, read the craft books, attend conferences and workshops, but you must
write. And write. Write the story on your heart.
LM: Where can
folks find you on the web?
VALERIE: I love
to hear from my readers.
Website: www.valeriegoreeauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieMasseyGoree/Publisher: https://pelicanbookgroup.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Valerie-Massey-Goree/e/B004GI3UAY
About Day of Reckoning: International
Retrieval Organization Agent Lela Ortiz is assigned the kidnapping case of
businessman, Chuck Davenport. When her boss allows Jay Vashon, Chuck’s
brother-in-law to assist, Lela accepts the help with reservations, especially
when Jay prays at the most inopportune times.
Jay would do anything to help bring Chuck home, even work
with feisty Agent Ortiz. As Jay and Lela decipher clues Chuck sends to his son
with special needs, they are forced to work in close proximity.
Can Jay break through the barrier Lela has constructed
around her heart? Will Lela be able to overcome her distrust of men and God?
And Chuck? Can the pair locate him before the ransom
deadline?
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2knyaly
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