Today I am speaking with Nora Le Duc. Good morning, Nora, it is very good to have you join us today. I hope that this chat finds you doing well.

Thanks, Linda. I'm happy to be at Fallen Angel Reviews.

I wanted to express that I read your book, Gifts From the Heart and really enjoyed the characters. Murder by Heart, I see is available now and I notice that you have another one, Under a Full Moon. Why not tell us a little about your books, Nora?

Let's see, my first one, Gifts From the Heart is about that second chance we all dream about with the one man or boy who we loved but who never seemed to see us. Of course it's also about the challenges of life, paying the rent, getting along with your sister.

Murder by Heart is more of a mystery with a romance. I'm a true romantic so I must have romance. The heroine's brother has been nearly beaten to death and his house ransacked. His last conscious words to her our "Mitch, danger." Mitch is their childhood friend and he and the brother have had angry words and gone separate ways. The heroine is torn between the Mitch of her childhood and Mitch who could savagely attack. If you check out the cover, The heroine, McCleena, is driving up to the converted castle to confront Mitch.

Under A Fool Moon has lots of humor and quirky characters. The heroine is doing a favor for her mother when a dead body falls out of the jelly cabinet. Then there's the bad boy hero that we all love who becomes involved. It's a great fun read.

Oh, and Love's Wicked Jewel is my historical that has my favorite hero, Lord Blackthorn. He wants to seduce the heroine yet convince her he's a hero at the same time.
There's something for everyone in this story, murder, mystery, a stolen jewel and a love story.

When did you first think about writing and what prompted you to submit your first ms?

I wrote short pieces as a child but never considered writing into one day I saw an ad for a book about writing a romance. Out of the blue, I decided that was for me! I started writing my stories and never stopped.

I’m glad you never stopped, Nora.

Are there any other upcoming projects planned that you wish to share?

Yes, thanks. I'm working on Pick Up Lines for Murder, another romance mystery humorous piece. I have planned another historical with a character from Love's Wicked Jewel, Lucy.

What are the elements of a great romance for you?

A great romance is one that makes you fall in love with the characters. You ache for more when it's finished. Sometimes you cry.

After you've written your book and it's been published, do you ever pull it from the shelf and read it over again?

Yes, I do. In fact when my very first book was published the first thing I did was to sit down and read it all the way through.

My favorite part was my name on the page as the author. It was truly living my dream.

What is the hardest part of writing and the easiest for you?

Everyday when I sit at the computer is hard but fun. Although I have a general plan for the story I never know what they will say or if a new character will show up. It's tough to wonder what's next and yet a thrill to see the story evolve.

Have you experienced writer's block? If so, how did you work through it?

Lots of times, I've experienced it I'm afraid. I generally just sit at the computer and type out anything that comes. The worse time, so far, was two hours to write a page.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?

I love seeing my story completed. I could read and reread it. The characters have their own life. It's euphoric to see it finalized and for sale. I treasure any encouragement from readers.

If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?

I'd probably be reading or looking through the gardening catalogs since it’s winter. I also love to surf the internet and find fun games or funny stories.

Do you have any encouraging words for up and coming writers?

I'd like to offer them the old "never give up cliché." Somewhere someone can make your dream come true. And if you're writing, you're already a writer. Connect with a writer community and most of all enjoy your creations. They are unique and a gift.

Do you have a website that you would like to share other than this one? www.noraleduc.com

I have an undeveloped My Space and if anyone would kindly offer me tips to help it get going, I'd love it.

Just for Fun: What is your favorite candy?

Gosh, my problem is I like them all. Sweets are my downfall.

A place you would love to visit?

Anyplace 70 degrees or warmer. We're having our winter cold spell right now. I picture white sand and sunsets over the beach. And yes, I'm not wearing three layers.

You just received a phone call that Rachael Ray is coming over for dinner. What 30-minute meal do you prepare?

Oh, my gosh! I'm a terrible cook though I love to look at recipes and dream I've cooked them! I'd have to use a life line and call a friend for help! I'd be in a panic.

Is there anything else you would like to share with your readers?

Please drop me an email. I'd love to hear from you. Also, I'm sure you all have stories inside of you. I'd love to hear yours.

Nora, thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to spend with us today. We look forward to reading your excellent books.

Thanks so much for having me. May everyone be blessed with many wonderful books to read and write.

Interviewed by: Linda L.