I'm happy to welcome my friend, Debby Mayne to the blog. Now Debby, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.It varies, depending on the story. Some of them have a little bit of me in them, and others are more of what I wish I could be. All my secondary characters are composites of people I know—friends and acquaintances—who can enhance the story.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
Do you really want to know? Hmm. I guess you do, or you wouldn't have asked. I think perhaps it involved going to one of the biggest malls I've ever been to in Minneapolis with a couple of my writer friends, pushing a wheelchair, and walking through a tunnel surrounded by sharks. Sound familiar? Private joke, folks.
Oh, yes, I have fond memories of that evening. It was really fun. When did you first discover that you were a writer?
I've probably always been a writer, but I resisted until I couldn't anymore. The revelation that I needed to actually write a book happened back in 1995. I sold my first book in 1999.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
I like all genres, except science fiction.
What other books have you written, whether published or not?
I've sold romances and mysteries. I'm currently working on women's fiction.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
Sanity? What's that? I focus on my faith, my family, writing, and teaching.
How do you choose your characters’ names?
I have a book of baby names, and I try to match the 
meanings with the characters in my books. Also, if I hear a name that sounds good, I jot it down for future use.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
meanings with the characters in my books. Also, if I hear a name that sounds good, I jot it down for future use.What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
After the Lord brought my husband into my life, he and I managed to raise two of the most wonderful daughters in the world—with His help, of course.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
I'd be one of my cats because they live the good life.
What is your favorite food?
What is your favorite food?
I love anything spicy—especially Thai, Indian, Mexican, and Cajun food. I also love seafood, turkey, and all veggies.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
When I first started writing, I didn't understand the markets. I thought that if I sent a good book to any house, if they liked it, they could publish it. Now I know better.
What advice would you give to an author just starting out?
What advice would you give to an author just starting out?
Read in the genre you want to write, study the market, read the submission guidelines, and start hunting for an agent who can guide you in your career.
What would you like to tell us about the featured book?
What would you like to tell us about the featured book?
PEACHTREE DREAMS is a contemporary collection of my Georgia-set Heartsong Presents books. Each story shows a strong woman who can stand on her own two feet—even before the hero enters the picture. Their romantic relationships are all centered around their faith in the Lord.
How can readers find you on the Internet?
My website is http://debbymayne.com/, and my blog is http://debbymayne.blogspot.com/.
Thank you, Debby for spending this time with us.
Readers, if you can't wait to get your hands on this book, here's a link where you can order it:
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