Interview with Missy Tippens: Craftie RITA Finalist YAHOO!!!

We're so excited to have a RITA finalist among us. Missy has been a member of the Craftie Ladies since its beginnings.  Here's a picture of her book that finaled.

So, Missy, what first made you pick up your pen (keyboard) and write a romance?

I'd always read tons of romance novels. In 1994 when I was put on bed rest while pregnant with my middle child, I read a TON. That's when I decided I wanted to try to write one. I waited until we got our first computer a few months later to actually do the writing. It took about 12 years before I made my first sale of a full-length novel.

What led you to Harlequin's Love Inspired?

Once I realized the books I was writing were inspirational romance, I started checking out different publishers of Christian fiction. Since I had always read Harlequin books, Love Inspired seemed like a perfect fit!

How many books have your published?

My 6th, Georgia Sweethearts, just came out in April.

How many times have you entered the RITA?

I've entered with every book--so 5 times! I'll be able to enter with the most recent book next year. I'm sure I'll continue to enter. I've always dreamed of being a finalist for a RITA. This is a dream come true!

What made this book stand out?

I think maybe the emotion and theme of forgiveness in A House Full of Hope touched readers.

What is your writing day like?

It varies so much! I'm still a stay-at-home mom, so the kids and their activities always come first. But now that they're older, I have more time to write. I write while they're at school (on days when I don't have church related commitments like Bible study). I also work in the afternoons and, near deadline time, the evenings. I usually try to save those later times for getting online. But it's tough not to spend too much time online!

What can we expect to see next?

I'm waiting to hear back on a proposal for another book. I hope to make another sale to Love Inspired!  

We're so proud of you, Missy.  You go, girl!