Sharee Stover Interview

Q: How long have you been writing and what other careers or jobs have you had?
A. My career journey before writing was wonderfully eclectic, however the majority of the time, I worked in various sections and roles within emergency services at the local, state and federal levels. These included two large fire departments, FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security. I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I didn’t delve into fiction writing until a little over ten years ago.

Q: Would you tell us about your current book release Silent Night Suspect?
A: Silent Night Suspect is my second Love Inspired Suspense book and I’m super excited for its release. The story is based around a reunion relationship between widow, Asia Stratton and Nebraska state trooper, Slade Jackson. Although Slade is imaginary, the State Patrol is a group near and dear to my heart because my husband is a State Trooper. I love the themes of second chances and forgiveness woven in their story.

The official back cover blurb:

Suspected of a crime she knows she didn’t commit…

All she wants for Christmas is to remember.

Blood on her blouse. A gun in her hand. A cartel leader’s dead body in front of her. Widow Asia Stratton can’t remember what happened—just that she’s been framed. The only way to prove her innocence is to work with her ex-sweetheart, Nebraska state trooper Slade Jackson. But can they clear her name before this Christmas turns even deadlier?

Q: Where did you get your inspiration for this story?
A: I was watching a television program that featured a police officer who was a recovering drug addict. He talked about his battles to uphold the law while struggling with his addiction and the effects it had on his family. I was touched by his authentic and vulnerable openness in sharing his story. It sparked my imagination and the backstory for Silent Night Suspect developed.

Q: What is the main thing you hope readers remember from this story?
A: First and most importantly, God’s grace and mercy go beyond our comprehension. He gives us second, third, fourth and sometimes even more chances when we come to Him. There’s nothing too hard for Him. The second is that forgiving someone can be the most freeing action we will ever take. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse bad behavior. It allows us to let go and hand everything over to God trusting in His perfect justice.

Q: How do you choose your settings for your books?
A. I’m a Colorado native transplanted to Nebraska so I often write about the two states because they’re organic settings for me. Both have breathtaking landscape and I’ve enjoyed writing scenes in ordinary places—especially rural locations—for car chases, pursuits, and of course, creepy secluded and abandoned properties.

Q: Do you base your characters on people you know or are they totally made up?
A: Most of the time they’re completely made up, though, my characters will sometimes take on traits of people I know. I’ve never made a character based totally on one person, however, my heroes always have characteristics I see in my husband, because he’s my real-life hero.

Q: Would you share with us what you are working on now?
A. I am currently working on the second book of the next series. It’s in the very early stages, but stay tuned for more details! The first book in the series, Untraceable Evidence, releases May 2020.

Q: If money were no object what vacation would you like to take and why?
A. Australia is a definite for me. I love their unique accents and they have the most amazing animals.

Q: What is the silliest thing you have ever done?
A. Ice skating for the first time ever at age 34. Small children were whizzing past me like I was tied to a pole while I clung to the edge for dear life, in between falling down. Often. Which made me laugh. A lot.

Q: What is the hardest thing you have ever done?
A. Prior to moving to Nebraska, I’d never lived anywhere but Colorado. Leaving my family, friends, and everything familiar for a brand-new adventure with all the unknowns was terrifying. The change was everything my kids and I needed, and we’ve shared so many joys. The move taught me that hard doesn’t always equal bad.