Author's Interview with Patti Diener

First, before we move forward with our Authors Interview, I would like to start with an introduction. 

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us?

Hey there! I’m Patti Diener, a wife, mother to two grown, beautiful girls, and a romance novelist.

2. Congratulations on your book. So what inspired you to write this book?

I write constantly for many reasons, but my book, AFTER THE FIRE, came from a real fire in my community that burned more than one thousand homes. The tragic Valley Fire of 2015, and what I saw my people going through, was both heartbreaking, and inspiring. The local folks helped each other in ways that touched my soul, and made me proud to live in Lake County, California.

3. What is the book all about?

Two grieving people, a tragic fire, and one small community that won’t be defeated. Gabriel Hart ( who is a complete hunky contractor), comes to Lake County in the aftermath of The Valley Fire for the cleanup effort and falls in love with not only the community but with a local girl too. Sarah McKinney is struggling with her failing marriage when she’s suddenly widowed with the loss of her young husband. It’s a story of second chances, catastrophic loss, and renewed hope. 

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

Because romance tends to be positive and I wanted to write a love letter to my community for all they’d been through.

5. How much time did it take to complete this book?

Four years to the exact weekend, from start to publish date. 

6. What makes your Book Special?

I feel it’s special because I interviewed countless people for this novel that experienced the fire in one form or another. From sheriff dispatchers, to firefighters, the fire chief, to citizens that lost virtually everything to the fire. It is a work of fiction but based on a true event. My characters are to The Valley Fire, what Jack and Rose were to The Titanic.

7. When is your second book coming?

I’m currently working on the first book in a three book series called THE CLOCK TOWER OF MAPLE CREEK. It’s a small town romance about a fictitious place called Maple Creek, that I set just outside of Lexington, Kentucky. There are intriguing protagonists, a very sexy but slimy villain, and loveable townspeople. I’m enjoying creating this world. Think of Sherryl Woods, or Robyn Carr stories. 

8. While writing did you get any writers block? What is the Tip that you will give others who are facing a writer's block?

Seriously, I’ve never had writer’s block before. It’s usually quite the opposite. Story ideas flood my mind and I have to write them down so I don’t lose them. I get ideas listening to a song, driving in my car, listening to problems at work, watching a movie, hearing gossip in the coffee shop... it’s endless! I suppose if I had to give advice on how to break through a block, I’d say relax. The ideas will come. Get up and move away from your laptop and find inspiration.

9. Apart from being a talented author, what are your other hobbies?

I love to cook. Like writing, it’s where I can create something unexpected. I love to travel, specifically driving alone. Lighthouses are fascinating to me. I love to hear about their history.

10. Last but not the least, How did you feel, while giving this interview?

Oh I love to talk about writing! My book, AFTER THE FIRE, was my debut novel but I’ve written my whole life. I will do it forever. If I can inspire anyone out there I’d say WRITE YOUR BOOK. I think everyone has at least one in them.

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