Can you share a little about your recent book?
Lethal Cover-Up is a story about sisters and what happens when one is tragically ripped away from the other. Here’s a sneak peek.
Some secrets are dangerous…
But uncovering the truth could be deadly.
Border patrol officer Madison Steele knows her sister Leah’s fatal car crash was no accident. Someone’s willing to kill to cover up a pharmaceutical company’s deadly crime of distributing tainted drugs. Now they are after Madison to tie off loose ends. But with her high school sweetheart, Canadian police constable Tucker Reed, at her side, can Madison expose the company’s deadly plan before she becomes the next victim?
Why do you write? Do you have a theme, message, or goal for your books?
I write to share Christ through fiction. I believe readers can be encouraged while reading a novel. My stories always center around my relationship with Christ. My characters go through many emotions and struggles concerning their faith…some of which I’ve gone through. Knowing we can come out on the other side if we only believe and trust in our sovereign God are key components to my storytelling.
How long have you been writing?
I started when I was young with a “Mindy Dobson” series like Nancy Drew. LOL. However, more seriously within the past ten-fifteen years.
And how long did it take you to get your first major book contract? Or are you published non-traditionally? How did that come about?
It took me approximately ten years to find an agent and get a traditional pub contract. Every writer’s journey is different. I met my agent at a writer’s conference and pitched to her. That same year, I was blessed by winning a Genesis Award for one of my novels.
Which of your books is your favorite?
Such a hard question. How can I pick from my babies? LOL. I would have to say that there’s more of “me” in Lethal Cover-Up.
Do you have a favorite character or scene in one of your books?
I can’t say I have a favorite, but I was able to relate to Madison (Lethal Cover-Up) the most. I also enjoyed writing the scene in that book where Madison and Tucker’s car plunges off a bridge into the river. Madison has to figure out how to get the unconscious Tucker to the surface.
How long does it take you to write a book?
The word count for Love Inspired Suspense is 55K, so it takes me approximately three months from start to finish.
What’s your writing work schedule like?
I’m an early bird, so after I do my devotions and go for a walk, I check social media, create memes and schedule posts. Then I get to writing. I write until about mid-afternoon. My evenings are spent reading, relaxing with my fave show, possibly more writing, or zooming with other writers.
Do you have an interesting writing quirk? If so, what is it?
Not really a writing quirk…but I love colored pens (I write my ‘to-do’ list on my calendar in a different color each day). I also have probably 30 plaid shirts. haha
What has been your greatest joy in your writing career?
Hearing from readers who have been touched by the stories I write. Just this week, I had someone thank me for ‘nudging’ her back to God after being angry with Him for a while. She related to my character. It brought tears to my eyes. This is why I write. For Him. I always ask Him to give me HIS words, not mine.
What has been your darkest moment?
I would have to say the times when I felt like giving up, but then God would remind me through someone else’s words of encouragement. It kept me going.
How many times in your career have you experienced rejection? How did they shape you?
A fellow writer once told me that every rejection takes us one step closer to publication. This is so true. I went through a roller coaster of rejections. My first two manuscripts were never picked up. It was my third that Love Inspired Suspense contracted.
Where do you get your ideas?
I often have ideas spark from watching scenes in movies and TV. Also, from some news stories and even dreams!
Who is your favorite author to read?
So hard to pick just one! DiAnn Mills, Steven James, and Ted Dekker. There are many more but the list is too long to include them here.
What advice can you give aspiring writers that you wished you had gotten, or that you wished you would have heeded?
I would say keep on and don’t give up. I know that’s easy to say as there were times when I felt like giving up, but I had many supporters cheer me on.
What are common mistakes you see aspiring writer’s make?
Trying to fast-track their writing journey. One author told me once to “wait” to be published. Don’t try to jump the track as in the end that could hinder your writing career down the road.
Where/How do you recommend writers try to break into the market?
Read writing books, go to conferences, and find a writing mentor. Write blogs, devotions, articles, etc to get your name out there. These will all help.
Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning and best-selling author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders.
Books can be purchased: Amazon (both .com and .ca), Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, Chapters-Indigo, BAM
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