DiAnn’s Mills’s newest book, Fatal Strike, is hot off the press and she’s here to tell us about it. It’s always a special pleasure to have her with us. Thank you for joining us today, DiAnn.
What was your inspiration for starting Fatal Strike?
I wanted to show those who are adopted or in adopted families share common problems, and how those issues are resolved, show the real person.
How long does it normally take you to write your books?
About three months to write, one month to rest, and about one month to edit.
What do you come up with first when you write?
The what-if question … What if an FBI sniper is forced to face her biggest fear?
Do you normally use an outline for the books you write, or do you just start with a few ideas?
I’m an organic writer and definitely not an outliner. I believe the character drives the story, and my goal is to know everything about the character before I begin writing. I have a lengthy characterization sketch that ushers me into the character’s world, and that sets the stage for the adventure. A few scenes rise to the surface while I’m in the characterization phase, but I never know the ending until I get there.
What’s one thing you wish readers would take away from this book?
Our earthly families aren’t perfect, but our heavenly Father loves us with an unconditional love.
Is your favorite genre to read the same as what you like to write?
Absolutely! Suspense, romantic suspense, and thrillers are what I read and write. We live in a dangerous and unpredictable world, and I want to show there are those trained to keep us safe.
What age did you realize you loved books and when did you start writing?
I’ve always loved books and the adventure on the written page. I wrote my first story in the second grade on a Big Chief Notebook with a #2 pencil. My parents told me I’d told stories as soon as I was able to talk.
Can you share with us a book you have read recently, are currently reading? \
I just finished Sir Mitchell’s State of Lies. This is an incredible thriller, and I recommend it!
How do you feel writing has affected your relationship with God?
While God has given me the gift of writing, He does expect me to constantly be learning everything about the craft and the publishing world. I glorify Him by not being content with mediocre writing, marketing, promotion, and meeting reader needs.
What advice would you give a new author?
Don’t give up on your dream to write. Here are six tips:
- Pray for guidance and wisdom
- Write everyday
- Read in the genre you want to write
- Read the how-to books for craft, social media, marketing, and promotion.
- Attend writer conferences and participate in writer groups
- Always be willing to share the knowledge you learn
What project are you working on now and how do we find your books?
I just finished a novel titled Airborne. What happens when a deadly virus is unleased onboard a flight destined for international waters?
Where do we find your books?
My books are found wherever stories are sold. For Fatal Strike, readers can find information, a trailer, book discussion questions, the first chapters, and fun games here: https://diannmills.com/books/fatal-strike
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DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She is the director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and the Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, or any of the social media platforms listed at diannmills.com
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Airborne reminds me of Outbreak by Robin Cook. I love it already.
Thanks for the reminder that our earthly families are not perfect. We are all sinners in need of a Savior who offers us forgiveness, grace and mercy.
I would love to read this book. It’s nice that it doesn’t take you a long time to write the first draft. Some authors say it takes them several months. I can’t do either one but I sure love to read them when y’all get a book written.
I love her books too. Good luck in the drawing.
Sounds like a fascinating book. Thanks for the great interview.
Hi, I enjoyed reading this very nice interview, Thank you for sharing it.Thank you for the good advice. I loved reading what the book is about, it sounds like a very good read. I look forward to reading this book. Have a Great week. God Bless you.
Kristena, thanks for hosting me today and sharing in the release of Fatal Strike!
The honor is mine. I just can’t wait to get the book myself!
Sounds like a great read!!!