An Interview with Darlene Panzera, Author

Darlene Panzera, author of several sweet romance books, is also my writing mentor, teacher, and friend. It’s been a privilege to know her, and to sit at her feet, learning the ways of the writer; story structure, plot, character development, dialogue, and much more. She is a giver in the truest sense of the word. I’m pleased to welcome her on my blog to answer questions about her writing that  readers would like to know.

1) In what genres have your books been published? How do you want to expand or move forward with your writing in the future?

I have 3 short stories and 9 novels/novellas published in the sweet, contemporary romance genre. Some feature a cowboy ranch/suspense theme like my new Montana Hearts series, others are more lighthearted and fun like The Cupcake Diaries series, which features 3 women who open a cupcake shop in Astoria, Oregon. In the future I plan to also move into the Christian Inspirational market with adult fiction and publish a few children’s books with my daughter.

2) Have any authors been role models for you, or has someone been an important mentor or influence in your writing career?

I have had many mentors and critique partners along the way but the one who most influenced my career was NY Times bestselling author, Debbie Macomber. She handpicked my story, The Bet, to be included with her story in Family Affair, 2012. I’ve continued writing for Avon Impulse, a division of Harper Collins publishers ever since.

3) What brings you the most joy as an author? What message do you see coming through your stories?

I love creating stories that inspire women to pursue their dreams. I’m a big fan of the “underdog,” who believes in herself and perseveres despite hardships along the way. As an author it is a joy to receive messages from my readers letting me know how they are pursuing their dream or that something I wrote left them inspired.

4) True Country Hero, the third and final book in your Montana Hearts series, was released on May 17th, 2016. What do you think makes this series so appealing to readers and what have your readers told you they enjoy most about your stories?

I have heard a lot of people say they are thrilled that the series is set in Montana. There is something appealing about acres of land, big skies, small towns, cowboys, horses, rodeos. Maybe in this hectic crazy world my stories offer escape to a place where life appears to be simpler, quieter, slower. I personally love the fun romantic banter between the characters and many readers also love the fact that this series has an added layer of suspense!

5) What are your current projects?

I just finished a children’s book titled, Riki and J.R. – The Big Bad Scary Mud Puddle. I wrote the story and my daughter did the illustrations. The book features our two horses, cartoon style, and will release later this summer.
I am also working on a Christian Inspirational for an anthology featuring 7 different authors titled, Christmas of Hope, which will release in October. (Jeri – so glad you are also one of the authors! It’s been a pleasure to work with you!)

6) How can someone learn more about you as an author? How can they order your books?

My books are available online at most retailers in eBook format or print. You can also visit my book page on my website which lists the links to purchase. My website has fun photos, freebies, my blog, newsletter, contest giveaways, and special writer resources. The best way to get to know more about me is to come on over and visit: darlenepanzera.com and you can find my latest release, True Country Hero, at https://www.amazon.com/Montana-Hearts-True-Country-Hero-ebook/dp/B013PKDSKA?ie=UTF8&keywords=montana%20hearts&qid=1462940555&ref_=sr_1_7&s=digital-text&sr=1-7