FEATURED AUTHOR: TAMMY L. GRACE

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Coop's case takes an unexpected twist when he discovers the dead body of his latest client.



A newcomer to Nashville with a troublesome problem requests an emergency meeting with private detective Cooper “Coop” Harrington. When she fails to keep her appointment, Coop and Annabelle, his faithful friend and assistant, become worried and go in search of their new client. Their hopes for a quiet Sunday are dashed when they discover her dead body.



Coop and Annabelle find themselves immersed in the investigation, uncovering tenuous links to a handful of suspects. With the help of his loyal golden retriever, Gus, and meddling but well-meaning Aunt Camille, Coop works to untangle the web of connections to expose the motive and identity of the killer before anyone else is murdered.

EXCERPT FROM DEADLY CONNECTION: A COOPER HARRINGTON DETECTIVE NOVEL (BOOK 2)

Friday morning, Coop was ensconced in his favorite booth at Peg’s Pancakes across from his best friend and Chief of Detectives, Ben Mason. They had been meeting for breakfast every Friday for the last twenty years, having met in school at Vanderbilt. Although they couldn’t be more unalike in looks, with Ben short, stocky, and balding, and Coop tall and lanky, with a full head of dark hair, they were closer than brothers. They were discussing the current state of crime in Nashville, with Ben focused on the recent hit and run.
    “So, no leads yet?” asked Coop.

    Ben shook his head and moved his coffee cup to make room for Myrtle’s delivery. She placed two heaping plates in front of each of them. “Y’all eat up now. Anything else for my two favorite men?”

    Coop smiled. “Looks delicious. I just need AB’s order before we leave.”

    Myrtle smiled and turned to retrieve the coffee pot. She refilled their cups and said, “I’d never forget that sweet girl. I’ll be back with her box in a jiffy.”

    “No leads. From the camera feeds it looks like a black SUV, no plates, nothing to identify it, and dark windows. We’re trying to enhance everything, but with the rain and the reflection of the lights, the quality is horrible.”

    Coop shook his head. “Tragic situation all around. Looked like a nice kid.”

    Ben nodded as he stuffed a wedge of pancake in his mouth. “Nobody had anything negative to say about him. I can’t figure out why the car didn’t stop though. Speeding away doesn’t help your case when you’ve hit a man.”

    Myrtle returned with the check and a box she placed in front of Coop. “There y’all be.”

    Ben’s phone rang and he wiped the syrup from his mouth and answered. “Got it. I’ll be there in a few minutes.” He disconnected and took a swig of his coffee.

    “Gotta run?”

    Ben nodded. “Homicide in Bells Bend. Guy shot to death while running.”

    “Another reason I don’t like exercise,” said Coop, puffing up his chest so Ben could get a look at his t-shirt of the day. It read, Exercise?  I thought you said extra fries.
    Ben smirked and shook his head. He threw some bills on the table. “My turn this week. Give AB a hug from me.”

    “Catch ya later,” waved Coop, as Ben slid out of the booth.

    Myrtle came by the table and let out a tsk. “That poor man never gets to enjoy a meal anymore.” She filled Coop’s cup. “Too many hooligans in the world today.”

    “There’s been a murder. He had to go.” He shoved the money and the check to Myrtle. “Keep the change.”
    She beamed and tucked the money in her apron pocket. “See you boys next week.”

    Coop gathered the box and took one more gulp from his cup before leaving through the glass doors, festooned with holly and berries for the holidays. He jumped in the Jeep and Gus lifted his head, sniffing the box.

“That’s not for you, big guy.” Coop petted the golden retriever’s head, causing a thumping frenzy of the dog’s tail.

He drove the few blocks to Harrington and Associates and parked behind the renovated three-story home that served as his offices. Gus bounded out of the Jeep and waited by the back door. Coop turned the handle and the dog slid across the wood floor, his paws wet from the rain.

COOPER HARRINGTON BOOK 1: KILLER MUSIC

Winner of 2016 Gold Medal from Global E-Book Awards


When private detective Cooper “Coop” Harrington meets record label mogul Grayson Taylor at a swank gathering of country music artists and politicians he never imagines he’ll be investigating his brutal murder less than twenty-four hours later. 

The suspects are plentiful. More than a handful of people could have wanted him dead. Retained by Taylor’s widow, Coop works alongside his best friend and Chief of Detectives, Ben Mason. The investigation leads Coop and Ben to visit the luxurious mansions of recording industry magnates, navigate the murky undercurrents of the political world, and probe complicated family matters. Scandalous indiscretions, secrets, and hints of corruption swirl in the midst of their pursuit of the killer. 

Coop’s faithful friend and assistant, Annabelle and his loyal golden retriever, Gus, both lend a hand during the investigation. Even his Aunt Camille mines the local gossip mill to unearth potential killers with motive. Yet the case seems hopeless until a crucial piece of evidence emerges that sends Coop and Ben on a race to catch the killer before someone else dies.

ALSO FROM TAMMY L. GRACE:
HOMETOWN HARBOR SERIES

ABOUT THE HOMETOWN HARBOR SERIES:

#1 Finding Home: 
A coming to life journey for a middle-aged woman, who flees to a small island expecting a change of scenery and discovers much more.

Shattered by her husband's infidelities after twenty-five years of marriage, Sam Collins is plagued by constant fear and loneliness, reliving the tragic death of her parents and the betrayal by the man she loved. She leaves Seattle seeking relief from the relentless darkness that has swallowed her. With only her dog for companionship, she sets out to live in her vacation home on San Juan Island. 

In her search for a carpenter, she meets the handsome and very available, Jeff Cooper. Sam's not looking for romance, but can't deny the attraction to the retired firefighter, turned handyman. While working together and eating her pies, Jeff finds himself falling for her. 

The past she wrestles to let go of comes hurtling back when she least expects it. In an effort to help a struggling young man, she is forced to confront the anguish she is desperate to escape. While torn between love and friendship, she must face her fears and choose between the life she's known and a chance for a family and home she's been longing for all her life.

#2 Home Blooms: 
Return to the picturesque island community where you’ll check in with your old friends and meet a few new ones along the way.

Linda is knee deep in bouquets and boutonnieres, designing a beautiful ceremony for Sam and Jeff. The bride’s matchmaking plot takes shape as she volunteers her best friend, Max, to help Linda create the perfect wedding. 

Linda and Max are thrown together when a tragedy threatens to destroy the honeymooners’ newfound happiness before they have the possibility of a life together. Compelled to make some changes in life, Linda uncovers a family secret that causes her to question her existence and leads her on a search for the truth. 

As Max begins to penetrate the protective walls around Linda’s heart, a visit from her youth causes her to risk it all. While struggling between the past and the future, Linda has a chance to let more than her flowers bloom.

#3  A Promise of Home: 
Spend Christmas in Friday Harbor this year surrounded by the friends you know and a couple of special deliveries from the Hometown Harbor Series.

In between holiday activities, friends of Linda and Max are helping plan their Valentine’s Day wedding. Regi is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her fortieth birthday and the fulfillment of the promise she and Cam made over twenty years ago. 

As she anticipates the reunion with Cam, she’s oblivious to the signals the local delivery man, Nate, is giving her. She and Nate work together helping a newcomer open an art and antiques shop. While spending time together, she discovers she has feelings for Nate and bonds with the new shopkeeper over their past losses. 

As Regi’s contemplating her choices, she’s dealt a blow that brings her to her knees and reconnects her with the past. In the pursuit of her youthful fairytale promise, she’ll risk the only chance she’s encountered for true happiness and a home.

#4 Pieces of Home: 
A story of long ago secrets revealed and the strength of one woman’s journey to overcome the pain of her past.

Ellie hasn’t seen or spoken to her parents in twenty years—since she came to live on the island with her aunt and uncle.  Ellie’s all grown up now and runs the popular family bakery, Sweet Treats. 

An unforeseen plea for help forces Ellie to reveal a secret she’s kept hidden from even her closest friends.  Her innate kindness and desire to help propel her on a turbulent journey.  The pieces of her past she’s worked so hard to escape resurface and bring her face to face with heartache.  In the midst of unearthing her long buried pain, she faces challenges that threaten her livelihood and those she holds most dear.

When newcomer Blake Griffin arrives, he frequents the bakery in the early morning hours and over fresh cinnamon rolls they develop a friendship.  He renews a sense of hope and joy in Ellie, but she’s hesitant to trust him with her heart.  Instead of letting her past define her future, Ellie must summon the courage to recognize an unexpected path may be a welcome gift.

Prequel to book 1: Hometown Harbor: The Beginning
Dive into Sam's private journal in this prequel novella to the first book in the Hometown Harbor Series.

Get a glimpse into Sam's life and thoughts through selected excerpts from her journal over the last thirty years. You'll get to know her before she takes center stage as the main character in Finding Home: A Hometown Harbor Novel

FIVE FIVES INTERVIEW WITH TAMMY GRACE

5 favorite foods:     
ice cream, chocolate, cheeseburgers, potatoes, and strawberries

5 things you love about where you live:   
rural, mountains, sunsets, family, and community

5 things you need in order to write:
outline, post-its, cup of tea, my characters, and my computer

5 favorite places you’ve been:
Lake Tahoe, Ireland, Vancouver Island, San Juan Islands, Zion National Park

5 things you always put in your books:   
dogs, friendships, food, surprises, and characters I love

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tammy L. Grace is the award-winning author of The Hometown Harbor Series of women’s fiction set in the picturesque San Jan Islands in Washington and a mystery series set in Nashville, Tennessee, featuring Cooper Harrington, Private Detective.
Born and raised in Nevada, Tammy L. Grace loved reading at a young age. With the help of her middle school teacher, she discovered the joy of writing. When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.


Connect with Tammy:
Website    |   Blog   |   Facebook  |    Twitter  |   Goodreads  |   Amazon 

FEATURED AUTHOR: TAMMY L. GRACE

ABOUT THE BOOK

Pieces of Home: 
A story of long ago secrets revealed and the strength of one woman’s journey to overcome the pain of her past.

Ellie hasn’t seen or spoken to her parents in twenty years — since she came to live on the island with her aunt and uncle. Ellie’s all grown up now and runs the popular family bakery, Sweet Treats. 

An unforeseen plea for help forces Ellie to reveal a secret she’s kept hidden from even her closest friends. Her innate kindness and desire to help propel her on a turbulent journey. The pieces of her past she’s worked so hard to escape resurface and bring her face to face with heartache. In the midst of unearthing her long buried pain, she faces challenges that threaten her livelihood and those she holds most dear.

When newcomer Blake Griffin arrives, he frequents the bakery in the early morning hours and over fresh cinnamon rolls they develop a friendship. He renews a sense of hope and joy in Ellie, but she’s hesitant to trust him with her heart. Instead of letting her past define her future, Ellie must summon the courage to recognize an unexpected path may be a welcome gift.

GUEST POST

The Hometown Harbor Series and the Creation of Characters and Setting

by Tammy L. Grace

I love to write for the same reasons I read — enjoyment and escape. I’ve been an avid reader all my life and find myself most attracted to characters in novels. Not to say I don’t pay attention to plot, but if push comes to shove, I’ll stick with a character I like over a well-developed plot with mediocre personas. I’m embarrassed to admit, but many times I remember the main character’s name in a book, rather than the author’s name.

I need to relate to the character and more importantly, I need to care about what happens to her. I read a bestselling novel not long ago and despite the rave reviews, hated it because I didn’t care about any of the characters. I thought they were all horrible and frankly didn’t care what happened to any of them . . . live or die. 

When I’m creating my main characters I work hard to make them believable and relatable.  The female protagonists in my Hometown Harbor series are all women with whom I’d enjoy spending my free time. I strive to create individuals readers love or sometimes love to hate. I believe central characters should be memorable.

Speaking of villains, they’re rather fun to construct. I take a lot of time with my characters and keep a notebook full of traits and characteristics for each of them. I pay attention when I’m out and about and take note of peculiarities or mannerisms I observe. When it comes to the bad apples, I tend to extract the most detestable traits I’ve seen and concoct an amalgamation to form the perfect evil character. It’s a fun exercise, and as an author I enjoy embellishing a minor irritating quality I’ve noticed and turning it into a revolting character. 

The Hometown Harbor series is my women’s fiction series, and each book focuses on a different female protagonist. All of the women are connected through friendship and their lives are intertwined in the small island community of Friday Harbor. Each woman faces struggles that take her on an emotional journey of self-discovery. Complex family relationships and enduring friendships are key elements for the group of women. The choices they often have to make are difficult and risky.

Readers find my Hometown Harbor series to be relaxing and often describe them as books that transport them to another place. In this case, the gorgeous San Juan Islands. I do loads of research and draw on my own trips to the area to create what I hope is an authentic experience for my readers. For me the quaint island community that is the setting almost becomes another character. They are an ideal read for vacations, relaxing breaks, or just an escape from everyday life. I tend to indulge in books as a reward to myself and they are the perfect calorie-free treat.

The female leads are more mature women in their 40’s and 50’s. I made this choice for a few reasons — I don’t relate to the twenty-something crowd and I think women of a certain age are underrepresented in mainstream novels, but have the most to offer readers. In my latest release, Pieces of Home (Book 4), I focused on my youngest lead in the character of Ellie, who is thirty-five. Ellie appears in the first book, Finding Home, but the reader learns about her life, including her tragic past, in the latest book. Although she’s younger than some of the other women, she’s confronted with challenges beyond her years. 

I recommend you start with the first book and read them in order, so as to have the most enjoyable experience. I love to hear from readers and invite you to follow me on Facebook or Amazon or visit my website to contact me. It’s fun to discuss the books and characters and listen to the thoughts of readers, especially when it comes to the leading ladies and their challenges. Please let me know your favorites from the series and who you would most like to see featured in a future book.

OTHER BOOKS BY TAMMY L. GRACE

Finding Home (Book 1)  
A coming to life journey for a middle-aged woman, who flees to a small island expecting a change of scenery and discovers much more.


Shattered by her husband's infidelities after twenty-five years of marriage, Sam Collins is plagued by constant fear and loneliness, reliving the tragic death of her parents and the betrayal by the man she loved. She leaves Seattle seeking relief from the relentless darkness that has swallowed her. With only her dog for companionship, she sets out to live in her vacation home on San Juan Island. 



In her search for a carpenter, she meets the handsome and very available, Jeff Cooper. Sam's not looking for romance, but can't deny the attraction to the retired firefighter, turned handyman. While working together and eating her pies, Jeff finds himself falling for her.



The past she wrestles to let go of comes hurtling back when she least expects it. In an effort to help a struggling young man, she is forced to confront the anguish she is desperate to escape. While torn between love and friendship, she must face her fears and choose between the life she's known and a chance for a family and home she's been longing for all her life.


Home Blooms (Book 2) 
Return to the picturesque island community where you’ll check in with your old friends and

meet a few new ones along the way.


Linda is knee deep in bouquets and boutonnieres, designing a beautiful ceremony for Sam and Jeff. The bride’s matchmaking plot takes shape as she volunteers her best friend, Max, to help Linda create the perfect wedding. 



Linda and Max are thrown together when a tragedy threatens to destroy the honeymooners’ newfound happiness before they have the possibility of a life together. Compelled to make some changes in life, Linda uncovers a family secret that causes her to question her existence and leads her on a search for the truth. 



As Max begins to penetrate the protective walls around Linda’s heart, a visit from her youth causes her to risk it all. While struggling between the past and the future, Linda has a chance to let more than her flowers bloom.


A Promise of Home (Book 3) 
Spend Christmas in Friday Harbor this year surrounded by the friends you know and a couple of special deliveries from the Hometown Harbor Series.


In between holiday activities, friends of Linda and Max are helping plan their Valentine’s Day wedding. Regi is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her fortieth birthday and the fulfillment of the promise she and Cam made over twenty years ago.



As she anticipates the reunion with Cam, she’s oblivious to the signals the local delivery man, Nate, is giving her. She and Nate work together helping a newcomer open an art and antiques shop. While spending time together, she discovers she has feelings for Nate and bonds with the new shopkeeper over their past losses. 



As Regi’s contemplating her choices, she’s dealt a blow that brings her to her knees and reconnects her with the past. In the pursuit of her youthful fairytale promise, she’ll risk the only chance she’s encountered for true happiness and a home.



Killer Music (Book 1), A Cooper Harrington Detective Novel:
When private detective Cooper “Coop” Harrington meets record label mogul Grayson Taylor at a swank gathering of country music artists and politicians he never imagines he’ll be investigating his brutal murder less than twenty-four hours later.



The suspects are plentiful. More than a handful of people could have wanted him dead. Retained by Taylor’s widow, Coop works alongside his best friend and Chief of Detectives, Ben Mason. The investigation leads Coop and Ben to visit the luxurious mansions of recording industry magnates, navigate the murky undercurrents of the political world, and probe complicated family matters. Scandalous indiscretions, secrets, and hints of corruption swirl in the midst of their pursuit of the killer.



Coop’s faithful friend and assistant, Annabelle and his loyal golden retriever, Gus, both lend a hand during the investigation. Even his Aunt Camille mines the local gossip mill to unearth potential killers with motive. Yet the case seems hopeless until a crucial piece of evidence emerges that sends Coop and Ben on a race to catch the killer before someone else dies.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author of The Hometown Harbor Series of women’s fiction set in the picturesque San Jan Islands in Washington and a new mystery series set in Nashville, Tennessee, featuring Cooper Harrington, Private Detective.

Born and raised in Nevada, Tammy L. Grace loved reading at a young age. With the help of her middle school teacher, she discovered the joy of writing. After spending a career in local and state government service, she retired and finally has the time to dedicate to writing. 

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.



Connect with Tammy:
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon

Buy the books:

Featured Author: Tammy L. Grace

About the book

When private detective Cooper “Coop” Harrington meets record label mogul Grayson Taylor at a swank gathering of country music artists and politicians he never imagines he’ll be investigating his brutal murder less than twenty-four hours later.

The suspects are plentiful. More than a handful of people could have wanted him dead. Retained by Taylor’s widow, Coop works alongside his best friend and Chief of Detectives, Ben Mason. The investigation leads Coop and Ben to visit the luxurious mansions of recording industry magnates, navigate the murky undercurrents of the political world, and probe complicated family matters. Scandalous indiscretions, secrets, and hints of corruption swirl in the midst of their pursuit of the killer.

Coop’s faithful friend and assistant, Annabelle and his loyal golden retriever, Gus, both lend a hand during the investigation. Even his Aunt Camille mines the local gossip mill to unearth potential killers with motive. Yet the case seems hopeless until a crucial piece of evidence emerges that sends Coop and Ben on a race to catch the killer before someone else dies.

Interview with Tammy L. Grace

Tammy, how long have you been writing, and how did you start?
I found I enjoyed writing in middle school and started writing articles for the local newspaper throughout junior high. Life moved on and while involved in my career, I was in a class and asked to think about what I would truly enjoy doing if I could do anything.  It didn’t take me long to blurt out “write novels.”  So, when I retired in late 2012, I decided to make it a reality.

What’s the story behind the title Killer Music?
I like short titles, so I brainstormed some ideas related to murder and Nashville.  The story is about a music mogul, so I tried to weave in something about music. I ran a list of possible titles by my family and friends and most everyone agreed Killer Music was the keeper. It’s short and sweet, while being appropriate, since the novel involves a music and a killer.

How do you get to know your characters?
I write down attributes and even ask them questions to get a feel for personalities. I am always drawn to characters in a book, so I want to make sure and convey as much as I can about the character, without detracting from the plot. I want to exploit their flaws and make them relatable, so I do my best to figure out what’s important to the characters and what drives them. I want to know a bit about their childhood, values, quirks, and of course physical attributes, but I really want to build characters who are believable and relevant.

Which character did you most enjoy writing?
I enjoyed several of the characters in Killer Music, but Coop was probably my favorite.  He’s intelligent, loyal, and hardworking, but a bit immature. He’s toting some baggage from his youth, fighting insomnia, and feeling his age. He’s unable to find a serious girlfriend and loves food, coffee, and chocolate. He has a gentle spirit and despite his humorous t-shirts, has a hint of sadness about him. I think he’s lovable and someone I’d like to know. 

Are any of your characters inspired by real people?
I think there are bits of pieces of real people in all the characters I create, but there isn’t one character that I’ve created to depict any person I know. I love to observe people and borrow some of the traits I’ve seen, at times embellishing them to create a character. I love dogs and my own Golden Retriever has inspired the canine companions in all my books. I’ve used her personality for Coop’s dog, Gus.

Are you like any of your characters?
There are bits of me in some of my characters. In Killer Music, I’m probably the most like Annabelle, Coop’s paralegal. She’s organized and efficient and has the ability to juggle several things at once. Annabelle and I have those characteristics in common, but my weakness for chocolate pecan cookies is shared by Coop.

Tell us about your favorite scene in the book.
One of my favorite scenes in Killer Music appears in the last third of the book when a piece of evidence leads Coop closer to the killer and he has to confront one of the more obnoxious characters in the book. I don’t want to give anything away, so I’ll leave it at that.

Who are your favorite authors? 
I love to read and usually consume hundreds of books a year, but I’ll narrow it down to the few I rush to read as soon as they release a new title. Lee Child and David Baldacci are two I can’t live without. I also enjoy Kristin Hannah and Nicholas Sparks.

What book are you currently reading and in what format?
The Dark Tide, by Andrew Gross in hardback and it’s terrific.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
I’m a morning person, so tend to do most of my writing in the morning. I have an office in my home and that’s where I write. I make chai tea lattes and usually listen to iHeartRadio while I’m tapping away on my keyboard. For editing, I like to print out the material and usually sit in a comfy recliner armed with colored Sharpie markers.

Where’s home for you?
I live in my hometown in rural northern Nevada.

You’re leaving your country for a year. What’s the last meal you would want to have before leaving?
A bacon cheeseburger and ice cream for dessert.

Would you rather work in a library or a bookstore?
A library.

Where is your favorite library, and what do you love about it?
I love libraries. My friends have teased me for years about going on vacation and ending up in a library. If I had to pick one, I’d pick the New York Public Library. I love the architecture and feeling of history. It’s a gorgeous building, and if I lived there, they’d have to kick me out at night.

You’re given the day off, and you can do anything but write. What would you do?
Take a long walk, bake something yummy, and eat it while reading a book.

Why did you decide to self-publish?
I chose to self-publish all of my novels because I like the control it gives the author.  I’m not very patient and with the traditional route, patience is a must. It’s difficult, especially the marketing portion, but I think unless you’re already famous, big publishers don’t want anything to do with authors, especially new authors. All in all it was a good experience and I’m excited to do it again.  Working with Amazon has been very easy, and I would recommend their publishing solutions.

What’s your favorite candy bar?
Wow, I love chocolate, so this is hard. I’d have to pick the Milky Way Midnight, and I’m also partial to Dove chocolates.

What three books have you read recently and would recommend?
Deadline, by John Sanford; The Escape, by David Baldacci; and Die Again, by Tess Gerritsen.

What are you working on now?
I’m starting my fourth novel in the Hometown Harbor Series.

About the author

Born and raised in Nevada, Tammy L. Grace loved reading at a young age. With the help of her middle school teacher, she discovered the joy of writing. After spending a career in local and state government service, she retired and finally has the time to dedicate to writing. 

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled Golden Retriever.


Connect with Tammy:
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Goodreads  |  Twitter 

Other books by Tammy

  

Featured Author: Tammy L. Grace

About the book:

Spend Christmas in Friday Harbor this year surrounded by the friends you know and a couple of special deliveries from the Hometown Harbor series.

In between holiday activities, friends of Linda and Max are helping plan their Valentine’s Day wedding. Regi is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her fortieth birthday and the fulfillment of the promise she and Cam made over twenty years ago.

As she anticipates the reunion with Cam, she’s oblivious to the signals the local delivery man, Nate, is giving her. She and Nate work together helping a newcomer open an art and antiques shop. While spending time together, she discovers she has feelings for Nate and bonds with the new shopkeeper over their past losses. 

As Regi’s contemplating her choices, she’s dealt a blow that brings her to her knees and reconnects her with the past. In the pursuit of her youthful fairytale promise, she’ll risk the only chance she’s encountered for true happiness and a home. 

The Dirty Dozen with Tammy Grace

1.    What’s one thing that drives you crazy?
Must I pick only one? I would say inefficiency. I have very little – make that no patience for this quality in systems or sadly, people.

2.    What is your guiltiest guilty pleasure?
I’m guilty of eating rocky road ice cream as a meal. There’s a wonderful ice cream shop about 30 miles from my home, and I’ve been known to drive to it for lunch!

3.    What is your most embarrassing moment?
I worked in a junior high school, and on one of my first days at work, I slipped on the stairs (wearing new school shoes, of course) and bounced all the way down the flight in front of a group of seventh and eighth graders. Not fun when you’re in junior high and even less fun when you’re an adult.

4.    What is the stupidest thing you’ve ever done?
I backed into a car parked behind me in my own driveway.

5.    What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? 
I’m not much of a daredevil, but would have to say parasailing over Lake Tahoe.

6.    On what life choices would you like to have a re-do?
I would dedicate more time to spend with the important people in my life. When people die or get ill, or even move away, you realize you could have made different choices and spent more of your days with them.

7.    What makes you nervous? 
I’m a bit of a worrier, so many things! Airport security, traffic, anything from the IRS, driving in fog, going to the doctor ~ dare I go on?

8.    What makes you scared?
Watching the news scares me about the future – I used to watch it faithfully, but quit a couple of years ago and substituted classic television shows.

9.    What’s the biggest lie you’ve ever told?
When my son was little I convinced him that I had access to an evil babysitter, Mrs. Neusbaum. So, if he got out of line, I threatened to call her to come over and take care of the situation.

10.    What’s the biggest mistake you’ve ever made?
I trusted a colleague and later learned she was only using me to climb the ladder.

11.    When was the last time you did something for the first time?
I love to bake and try new recipes, so that happens often (maybe too often)!  As an author, I find myself doing new things with social media and promotion all the time. 

12.    One of your main characters has to die. Which one would you kill off? 
Oh, that’s a tough one.  I’d hate to do it, but I’d choose Jeff. He came close to death in the second book, and I actually thought about taking him out, but my mom convinced me to let him live.

About the author:

Born and raised in Nevada, Tammy L. Grace loved reading at a young age. With the help of her middle school teacher, she discovered the joy of writing. After spending a career in local and state government service, she retired and finally has the time to dedicate to writing. 

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.

Connect with Tammy:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon author page 

Featured Author: Tammy L. Grace

Tammy L. Grace is on tour with CLP Blog Tours for her women's fiction novel, Finding Home: A Hometown Harbor Novel. I'm happy to share my interview with her and an excerpt from the book.

About the book:

Finding Home is a coming of age novel, but for a middle-aged woman devastated by past heartaches and loss, who flees to a small island expecting a change of scenery and discovers much more.

Shattered by her husband's infidelities after twenty-five years of marriage, Sam Collins is plagued by constant fear and loneliness, reliving the tragic death of her parents and the betrayal by the man she loved. She leaves Seattle seeking relief from the relentless darkness that has swallowed her. With only her dog for companionship, she sets out to live in her vacation home on San Juan Island.



In her search for a carpenter, she meets the handsome and very available, Jeff Cooper.  Sam's not looking for romance, but can't deny the attraction to the retired firefighter, turned handyman. While working together and eating her pies, Jeff finds himself falling for her.



The past she wrestles to let go of comes hurtling back when she least expects it. In an effort to help a struggling young man, she is forced to confront the anguish she is desperate to escape. While torn between love and friendship, she must face her fears and choose between the life she's known and a chance for a family and home she's been longing for all her life.

Interview with Tammy Grace

How long have you been writing, and how did you start?

I found I enjoyed writing in middle school and started writing articles for the local newspaper throughout junior high. Life moved on and while involved in my career, I was in a class and asked to think about what I would truly enjoy doing if I could do anything.  It didn’t take me long to blurt out “write novels.”  So when I retired almost two years ago, I decided to make it a reality.

What’s the story behind the title Finding Home?

Naming a book is difficult. The story is about a woman (Sam) who has to start over and is searching for a place (home, life, family). I like short titles, so brainstormed a number of single words that described the book, once it was done. I came up with a whole page of words and liked the sound and feel of Finding Home.

It’s the first book in the series; the second was released in April and is titled Home Blooms. I like the idea of a common thread in the titles used for a series, so I am including the word “home” in all of them.

How do you get to know your characters?

I conduct interviews with my characters and also write down their physical attributes. I keep a list of characteristics of each and it’s something I’ve found useful, since I sometimes forget how old someone is or the color of a character’s eyes. I also tend to “cast” my characters and keep that image in my head.

Which character did you most enjoy writing?

I enjoyed writing Sam the most. She’s a woman who appears to have it all, but is left hollow inside from losing her parents at a young age and the betrayal of her husband.  She’s wealthy and accomplished, but suffering. I enjoyed describing her journey and allowing some of her flaws to be exposed, while dealing her a couple more blows to test her resolve.

She is strong and capable, but finds herself in a situation where her vulnerabilities are apparent and she has to learn the power of trust and forgiveness.

Are any of your characters inspired by real people?

Yes. Zoe is the faithful golden retriever of my main character, Sam. Zoe is actually my golden retriever. She is portrayed as she is in real life—-a wonderful friend and companion.

Are you like any of your characters?

I think there are bits of me in some of the characters, most notably, Sam. I can be a perfectionist; I love making lists, and am very organized. I enjoy baking and used my own favorite recipes when I described many of the pies she made. I also have a weakness for ice cream, especially Rocky Road.

Tell us about your favorite scene in the book.

My favorite scene is in Chapter Eighteen of Finding Home. Sam and Jeff go on a kayaking trip and spend the day together. Sam’s finally beginning to let Jeff into her life.

Who are your favorite authors? 

I love to read and usually read hundreds of books a year, but I’ll narrow it down to the few I snap up as soon as they release a new title. Lee Child and David Baldacci are two I can’t live without. I also enjoy Kristin Hannah, Maeve Binchy, and Nicholas Sparks.

What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?

I’m reading The Target, by David Baldacci in an e-book format (first eight chapters) and Blossom Street Brides, by Debbie Macomber in hardback.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?

I’m a morning person, so tend to do most of my writing in the morning. I have an office in my home and that’s where I write. I usually listen to iHeartRadio while I’m tapping away on my keyboard. For editing, I like to print out the material and usually sit in a comfy recliner armed with colored Sharpie markers.

Where’s home for you?

I live in my hometown in rural northern Nevada.

Neil Gaiman said, “Picking five favorite books is like picking five body parts you'd most like not to lose.” So…what are your five favorite books and your five body parts you’d most like not to lose?

It’s hard to choose, but here are five of my top favorites:
Little Women, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Chronicles of Narnia, Les Miserables, The Bible
And, for body parts: brain, heart, eyes, limbs, skin (but I’d prefer to keep all of them).

You’re leaving your country for a year. What’s the last meal (or food) you would want to have before leaving?

A bacon cheeseburger and ice cream for dessert.

Would you rather work in a library or a bookstore?

A library.

Where is your favorite library, and what do you love about it?

I love libraries. My friends have teased me for years about going on vacation and ending up in a library. If I had to pick one, I’d pick the New York Public Library. I love the architecture and feeling of history. It’s a gorgeous building, and if I lived there, I’d spend all my free time visiting.

You’re given the day off, and you can do anything but write. What would you do?

Bake and read.

You and I would get along famously! Why did you decide to self-publish?

I self-published Finding Home, after months of research and an initial desire to be published by a traditional publisher. I attended a conference last fall and learned as much as I could about both methods, and after my own research and talking with other authors, I decided self-publishing was a good fit for me. It gives the author all the control (and all of the responsibility).  I’m not very patient and with the traditional route, patience is a must. All in all, it was a good experience, and I’m excited to do it again. Working with Amazon has been very easy, and I would recommend their publishing solutions.

What’s your favorite candy bar?

Wow, I love chocolate so this is hard. I’d have to pick the Milky Way Midnight.

What three books have you read recently and would recommend?

A Week in Winter, by Maeve Binchy; The Hit, by David Baldacci, and Girl Missing, by Tess Gerritsen.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a detective novel set in Nashville and also the third book in the Hometown Harbor series.

Excerpt from Finding Home

“How long were you married?”

“Twenty-five years, last summer. We were married after graduation. He finished law school and I got my MBA and ran the company. We lived in my parents’ home.”

“I hope he didn’t take advantage of you in the divorce, with him being a lawyer. I don’t trust lawyers much,” said the woman, with distaste.

“No. Actually, when we were married Marty made sure the company and the house would always be mine. He wanted my grandparents to know he wasn’t looking for money. My parents were very successful.”  She paused. “I still can’t believe I’m here now. I thought things were fine, but I found out he’d been cheating on me...for years. I’m just glad my grandparents are gone, so they didn’t have to witness Marty’s betrayal. They would have been devastated.”

The woman’s eyes widened, “That’s a dreadful surprise.”

“Yes, it was. I’ve always been a workaholic and had worked to expand the company, opening offices around the world. I received an offer for it, and after talking with Marty, decided to sell. He seemed so excited about the prospect of an early retirement. We were both approaching fifty and would have the means to work less and play more,” smiled Sam.

The woman smiled back. “I think you’re a strong and capable woman. You can still have fun and start your new adventure.”

“That’s what I finally decided. I need to get away from the constant reminders and start fresh. I spent summers here as a child and since I have a lovely home here, it made sense.”

The woman rubbed her hands together and pulled her coat closer. “I wish you the best and I hope you find everything you’re looking for. I’m afraid I’ve got to move inside out of the cold.”  She stopped to pet Zoe and turned to go through the deck doors.

“Have a wonderful visit with your family. Thanks for chatting with me.”  Sam waved as the woman toddled away.

Sam laughed to herself. She hadn’t wanted to engage in conversation, but in truth it had helped her to talk about it. The smooth motion of the ferry was soothing and the slowness generated more memories. She smiled thinking of the family house with its Italian inspired villa-like architecture. Her mother and father had purchased it after their business success and it had been a substitute for them after they died.

She felt herself growing weepy thinking she was leaving the only home she had known. Lately though, it hadn’t seemed like home and wasn’t offering her the comfort it once had, which was why Sam found herself on a ferry today, resolved to start a new life. Sam didn’t sell the house in Shoreline; she wanted to have the security of being able to go back to it. But for now, the pain of realizing her family home had been a love nest for Marty’s trysts left her hurt and angry.

The sun was still peeking through the clouds as the ferry crawled towards Friday Harbor. She gave Zoe a drink from a bottle of water, dug a treat from her pocket, and the dog settled in to nap for the rest of the ride. Sam mulled over the past, not believing her life could be so different than she had planned.

Sam had traveled the world for business, without Marty. She was the consummate professional, accomplished and capable. She never relied on him, but as she inched toward the island it all seemed overwhelming and she thought she might have made a huge mistake. She knew she could never forget his infidelities, but maybe she should have stayed in her own house and made the best of it. It was all too confusing and Sam had never been so unsure. Her usual confidence and self-esteem had been eaten away during the past year. The absence of her parents had left a deep scar in Sam’s heart and she missed them more than ever today. She longed to hear her mom reassure her and feel her dad’s strong hug.

European river cruises, white sand beaches, Australian adventures, and castles of Ireland that once beckoned from the brochures on her nightstand, were now only dreams that had been torn apart by the man she had loved and trusted. Instead of exotic travel, her future held a quaint island where she hoped the fond recollections of the past would wrap around her like a cozy blanket.

For almost a year she had been suffering and plunging deeper into her own dark thoughts. She had lost over twenty pounds and forced herself to eat, when she remembered. She knew she needed something fresh to focus on and the prospect of a new business venture and warm memories drew her to Friday Harbor.

Her musings were interrupted when the ferry captain made the announcement to instruct passengers to report back to their vehicles for arrival in Friday Harbor. "That's us, Zoe. Let's go," Sam said, as she took hold of Zoe's leash and headed downstairs.

As she guided Zoe between the narrow vehicle paths, she spotted the vivid green sticker proclaiming her golden retriever was smarter than any fifth grader. She reached the SUV, loaded Zoe, and after squeezing through the sliver of space the door allowed without smacking the car next to her, rested in the driver’s seat. Cars around her were starting and her lane began to creep forward, exiting the ferry.

As the metal planks of the ferry apron thumped under the weight of her car, she admired the charming shops and buildings neighboring the harbor, looking as if washed in colors from a box of artist pastels. She glanced up at a sign posted on the corner. It read, Welcome to Friday Harbor—Your Hometown Harbor. She could only hope it would prove true.
"Well, girl, here we go. Let's go see our new house and get settled," Sam said, as she drove off the landing onto Front Street, determined not to let the weight of lost dreams crush her.

About the author:

Born and raised in Nevada, Tammy L. Grace loved reading at a young age. With the help of her middle school teacher, she discovered the joy of writing. After spending a career in local and state government service, she retired and finally has the time to dedicate to writing. 

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.

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