Getting to Know Theresa Lynn Hall

Author Theresa Lynn Hall's newest title, Ransom in Rio, came out in June. She's here to tell us a little more about herself and her book. 

As a native Texan, Theresa loves to write suspenseful stories that happen in small Texas towns with old fashioned Southern values. She’s an elementary teacher and mom to two boys—the oldest being in law enforcement, which comes in handy when she’s researching. When she’s not teaching kids or writing, she loves to cook, read a good suspense, and binge-watch episodes of Dateline. She is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America) and ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She actively promotes fellow Christian Fiction authors on her blog. She also loves to hear from readers who enjoy Christian Fiction Connect with Theresa:
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Private Investigator, Braden McCoy wants nothing more than to finish out the week doing a little fishing from his boat.  The ex-special ops vet enjoys his peaceful life and loves his new career.  He’s learned to put his past behind him and enjoy his blessings.  Until a mourning redhead walks into his office and changes his plans. 
Lexi Ramos always knew her family was dysfunctional.  Until the sudden death of her brother, she never knew exactly how much.  Consumed with questions surrounding his accident, she seeks the help of a private investigator.  What starts out as a murder investigation in Cozumel, quickly crosses borders and escalates into a race against time to save them both from Brazilian kidnappers, who somehow know more about her family secrets than she does.  Lexi soon realizes that life comes with a price. GET YOUR COPY Author Interview Me: Welcome, Theresa. Thanks so much for joining us today. What inspired you to write your newest release?
Theresa: My publisher, Pelican Book Group, began a series called Passport to Romance.  They posted a list of international cities with a list of three things that had to be written into each book. My husband had recently traveled to Rio on a business trip and I knew that was the book I wanted to write.  When you’re reading Ransom in Rio, be on the lookout for an emerald necklace, a formal event, and a family secret.

It sounds intriguing! 

Me: If there’s one thing you hope readers come away with after reading your book, what would it be?
Theresa: The one thing I want all readers to come away with is a sense of hope. One of my favorite verses that I live by is Philippians 4:13--I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Lexi’s life hasn’t been easy and it only gets harder. She has to learn that there is always hope and she has to find the strength to keep going.

Me: Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process?
Theresa: Oh, my goodness, yes! Coffee and chocolate!!

Me: Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Theresa: I would have to say that I’m in introvert. Even though I’m a teacher, I don’t like to be the center of attention or be in a crowd of people. Unfortunately, I think that with being an introvert comes the self-esteem issues. As much as love to write, I always cringe when I know someone is reading my books. Crazy, I know!! I wish I could be more outgoing, but forcing it doesn’t help much. Once I get to know people, I’m more at ease, but it does take me a while.

I completely understand what you mean! I'm also an introvert and struggle with putting myself out there and worrying about what other people think. 
 
Me: What project are you working on now?
Theresa: I’m working on a suspense novella set in central Texas. It’s about a young woman who sees something she never should have seen and now is running for her life. The police officer trying to keep her safe is torn between running from his own past and helping her, which puts her in even more danger.  I can’t give too much away, but hopefully it will be contracted soon!

Me: What inspired the cover for your latest book?
Theresa: I absolutely love the cover of Ransom in Rio. Nicola Martinez at Pelican Book Group produces the most amazing covers. I sent her a picture my husband took of the Christ the Redeemer statue when he was in Rio and they incorporated it into the cover.  It turned out amazing!

Me: Thanks again for joining us, Theresa. It’s been fun chatting with you!
Theresa: Thank you so much for having me here today, Melanie. I enjoyed it!