American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award winner Valerie Massey Goree was born in South Africa and grew up in Rhodesia—now Zimbabwe. She attended a Christian university in the USA and then returned to Zimbabwe with her husband, Glenn, where they served as missionaries.
After they settled back in Texas, Valerie served 25 years in the public school system, focusing on students with special needs. Now retired, she resides in the Texas Hill Country with Glenn, two dogs, and three cats, and spends her time writing and spoiling her grandchildren.
Valerie loves to hear from her readers.
What was your inspiration for this story, Weep in the Night?
Years ago I wrote in first person. One day I thought about the opening sentence for a novel. “I’d been in the witness protection program for three years when . . . ” The idea percolated and became the premise for Weep in the Night.
What is its take-away value?
Forgiveness is a recurring theme in my novels. Although Sadie lost her family, her career, and her faith, she helps another character find forgiveness, and in the process, overcomes her negative attitude toward God.
Tell us a bit about your writing routine.
Routine? What routine? In every other part of my life, I’m super organized, but I have to be in the right frame of mind to escape into my story. I help take care of my 95 year-old mother, and I find it difficult to set aside the emotional exhaustion to focus on my characters.
When possible, I prefer to set aside a day or two a week to write. My husband is very supportive of my schedule, which I appreciate.
What’s your next writing project?
My next novel is a stand-alone sequel to Weep in the Night. Lela is an operative in Weep in the Night. The next novel tells her story.
Just for fun:
Coffee or Tea?
Both. Coffee first thing, then hot tea, brewed in a teapot mid-morning and mid-afternoon – or anytime!
Snacks: sweet or salty?
Sweet, preferably with chocolate
Dream vacation?
Israel.
#1 on your bucket list?
I’ve already been to Australia to locate my mother’s kin. Next, I’d like to visit Ireland to trace my father’s family.
Thank you, Valerie!
Valier Goree is offering a print copy of her latest novel, Weep in the Night to one reader who comments below. Be sure to include your email address, so we can notify you of your win!
Wow--I love this cover! Please tell us more about Weep in the Night.
After three years in the witness protection program, Sadie Malone’s life in Texas is bland and humdrum—until she meets a new co-worker. Bowen Boudine ignites a flame in Sadie’s long-dormant heart, but when she discovers he knows her true identity, she attempts to flee. He thwarts her escape and reveals the reason he’s been sent to locate her.
Bowen, a seasoned operative with International Retrieval Organization takes his job escorting Sadie safely back to California seriously, but quickly finds he’s falling for her. Can he maintain a professional relationship while he protects her from the crime boss her testimony helped convict?
Sounds fantastic! And now, here's a taste to whet your appetite:
Sadie and April left the break room together.
“Have you met the new guy? Ooh, muy caliente.” April fanned her face. “If I didn’t have my Victor, I’d set my sights on him.”
“No, I haven’t seen this new, hot guy.” After all that had happened, meeting men, good-looking or otherwise, was not high on Sadie’s priority list. Since the car accident that killed Aaron and Hannah, she had little interest in a romantic life. Her routine consisted of work, developing a few friendships, and most important, staying safe.
A jab in the ribs brought her back to the wide store aisles. “There he is. Over there.” April pointed to a group of men examining a stack of cedar fence posts.
To appease her, Sadie asked, “Which one? I recognize Oscar and Greg.”
“He’s the one in the blue shirt.”
The men concluded their discussion and the new guy turned, heading down the aisle.
Eyes on the approaching figure, Sadie had to agree with April. Muy caliente indeed. About average height, thick black hair—a stray curl flopped on his forehead—and an athletic body.
He beamed a hundred watt smile at April. “Hi.” His deep voice complemented his physical appearance.
Don't forget, dear readers, to post a comment for your chance to win a copy of Valerie's wonderful book, Weep in the Night.
Purchase links:
amazon.com/Weep-Night-Valerie-Massey-Goree
pelicanbookgroup.com
barnesandnoble.com/w/weep-in-the-night-valerie-massey-goree
Very nice, Valerie. Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to reading more from you.