Online for Authors Episode 8-13-24

​Divine Crossroads: A Christian Thriller Romance with Author Dani Pettrey

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Dani Pettrey, author of the book One Wrong Move. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).

From her early years eagerly reading Nancy Drew mysteries, to paging through Agatha Christie novels or watching on-the-edge-of-her-seat adventure movies, Dani has always enjoyed mystery and suspense. She considers herself blessed to be able to write the kind of stories she loves--full of plot twists and peril, love, and longing for hope and redemption. Her greatest joy as an author is sharing the stories God lays on her heart. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband.

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I hope you're having a fantastic week and finding time to get lost in a good story. Speaking of good stories, have you heard of author Dani Pettrey? I recently had the pleasure of chatting with her about her book "One Wrong Move" and her unique blend of thriller and romance genres.

Dani has a knack for keeping readers on the edge of their seats with intense storylines while also weaving in a satisfying dose of romance. In "One Wrong Move," ex-FBI agent Andi teams up with security expert Christian to solve a string of art gallery heists. As they dodge attempts on their lives and unravel mysterious clues left by the thief, sparks fly between them. It's a thrilling ride with a side of love!

What I found most fascinating about our conversation was Dani's writing process. Despite writing thrillers, she's actually a "pantser" - meaning she doesn't outline or plot out her stories in advance. Instead, she lets the characters take the lead and sees where the story goes. As a fellow pantser, I could totally relate!

Dani also shared how her faith naturally flows into her characters and stories, without feeling forced or preachy. It's a testament to writing what you know and staying true to yourself.

If you love a page-turning thriller with a dash of romance, I highly recommend checking out Dani Pettrey's books. "One Wrong Move" is the first in her Jeopardy in Falls series, which will feature a different sibling in each book - all from a family of private investigators.

​To learn more about Dani and her writing, visit her website at https://danipettrey.com/. You can also connect with her on social media or in her Facebook reader group, The Suspense Squad.

As for me, chatting with Dani and seeing the similarities in our creative processes was a great reminder that there's no one "right" way to write a novel. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, write romance or thrillers (or both!), the key is to stay passionate and keep honing your craft.

Happy writing and reading!

P.S. What's your favorite book genre? Are you a sucker for a good thriller like me? Comment and let me know - I'm always looking for new recommendations!

Purchase One Wrong Move on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4ciFSkQ
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4cnmUcT

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.