E-mails from readers are always welcome. Please read the questions below for answers to those most frequently asked:

Q: Where do you get your ideas?

A: As it so happens, I was just asked this question in an interview. To read the answer to this question and more, check out the Thriller Writers Q & A. You’ll not only get my responses, but also those of my fellow thriller writers James Rollins and Lisa Gardner.

Q: How long does it take you to write a book?

A: With the growing complexities of my characters and plots, I need every possible moment of my one year deadline. Between research, outlining, writing, re-writing, polishing, etc., it takes that long before I'm satisfied with the final product.

Q: I am interested in becoming a writer. Could you read/edit/endorse my work, or refer me to an agent?

A: If you’re an aspiring novelist, the best advice I can give you is to check out Mystery Writers of America at www.mysterywriters.org and Romance Writers of America at www.rwanational.org. The industry has changed greatly since my  first novel was published a millennium ago, and these venues will give you the best and most current tips for publishing your work. In addition, my agent has advised me to reject all unsolicited requests and/or material.

Q: How soon can I expect an E-mail or written response to fan mail?

A: I answer E-mail as frequently as U.S. Mail -- within a few weeks. It's the only way I can keep up with a demanding writing schedule and still create the best books I possibly can.

Q: I know someone who loves your books and would like to send you a note, but doesn't have access to the web. How can he/she contact you?

A: Send your letters to me c/o:

Rainbow Connection Enterprises, Inc.
16 Mount Bethel Road #500
Warren, NJ 07059-5604
USA

(Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for a response. Outside the United States, please attach an International Reply Coupon in lieu of postage.)

Q: Why the switch to hardcover? The price of paperbacks is easier on my wallet.

A: I completely empathize with your situation. The truth is, the decision to publish in one format or another lies with the publisher. HarperCollins felt this was the right time to make the switch, since so many readers prefer the hardcover format. But don't worry; all my hardcovers are re-released in paperback edition within a year of the original publication date.

Q: I’m having difficulty finding some of your books. Where can I get them?

A: All of my titles have been listed in the “Novels” section of my website. Clicking on a specific book from the list shows you to a page with links to online retailers and resources -- these links will help you locate available copies of that title.

Q: Can I have an autographed picture of you?

A: Unfortunately, I am not in charge of my photos. Everything these days is created and stored electronically through my publisher. Which means even I don’t have a copy!

Q: I enjoy reading your contemporary novels, but miss the historicals. Will you be writing any more historical romances in the near future?

A: I wish I could answer that. The truth is, I don't know. Right now, I'm totally immersed in writing my contemporary romantic thrillers and loving every minute of it. But I loved writing my historicals, too. So who knows what the future may hold? All I can promise is that I'll keep you, and all my readers, posted on where my creative muse is currently taking me.

Q: When are you going to write [fill in the blank: Thane, Chloe, etc.]'s book?

A: It's a wonderful compliment to me that so many of my readers care enough about my secondary characters to request they get their own books. Believe me, I'm attached to these characters, too. But I never write a beloved secondary character's book until a counterpart and a storyline worthy of him/her pop into my head. When that happens is up to serendipity. All I can promise is that I'll keep my readers posted when and if a spin-off is on the horizon.

Q: Which of your historical novels "go together"?

A: Visit the "Related Books" page on my web site for the answer to this one.

Q: Do you have a printable list of all your novels on one convenient page?

A: Even better!  Click here and you'll find a handy shopping list of all my novels that you can print and take with you to keep track of which books you already own and which ones you want to purchase.