Talkshow Thursday: Meet Valerie Massey Goree

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Valerie Massey Goree

I am so excited to introduce you to Valerie Massey Goree. She is one of my critique partners, so I know how wonderful her books are. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and read on to learn more about her and her latest release Day of Reckoning.

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

enjoy myself. After I married, we vacationed in a variety of places, so no one area stands out as a favorite. We’ve been blessed by being able to travel to many countries on four continents.

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