I write category romances for Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. It’s one of over thirty categories of romance that the company publishes. Why is this important? you might ask. And it’s a good question. Here’s why. Harlequin believes that with every book, they’re making a promise to the reader. So, when you buy a Love Inspired book, for example, whether it’s a romance or a romantic suspense, you know exactly what you’re getting. A romance–two people’s journey to love and faith through trials and troubles (murder and arson, if you’re reading mine).

The exciting thing about writing these books is that within the parameters of the guidelines, the possibilities are endless. I like to write stories with characters who have walked the edge and sometimes fallen off. Characters who have seen what the world has to offer and know that they need something different. By God’s grace and through His faithfulness in trying circumstances, they find love and life.

So if you see a Steeple Hill Love Inspired book on the shelves (and you can find them at Walmart or any major chain of bookstores) you should rest assured that if you pick one up, you’ve been promised a certain kind of story. One that you can share with your friends. One that you can leave lying on the coffee table and not be embarrassed. You won’t have to worry when your 13yo daughter picks it up that she’s going to get an “education” and not in a good way (ahem, not that that EVER happens at my house).

You will also, always, 100% of the time, get a happy ending.

Now here’s my promise. I will always do my best, within the guidelines, to bring you an entertaining story that will touch your heart and make you think. That will remind you why you love your Lord or maybe why you need to get closer to Him. And I will always write a happy ending.

So there you have it. Harlequin’s promise and mine.

I was so very uncool when my husband and I spotted these on the shelf at Walmart. I did refrain from stealing the intercom and announcing it to the whole store…but it was close. (See them right there in the middle on the end?)