America is a country that seems forever to be toddler or teenager, at those two stages of human development characterized by conflict between autonomy and security.

I would be the most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves.

I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves.

Look back, to slavery, to suffrage, to integration and one thing is clear. Fashions in bigotry come and go. The right thing lasts.

When I was married to an abuser, he'd tell me he wouldn't have to get so angry if only I'd be less demanding, more supportive, more understanding. I hid the truth from everyone, especially myself.

I'm a woman. Every woman, I think, wants to get married and wants to have children.

I believe in 'soulmates,' especially growing up and seeing how much my parents loved each other. They always said that they had been married in past lives, too.

I'm so thrilled to have won the RITA. The award is particularly special because it is given by other romance authors. It's deeply rewarding and not a little humbling to be honored by such a talented tribe of writers.