What things inspire you as a writer?

I’m assuming you’re talking about what sparks an idea? If so, the answer is anything. Scriptures, passing conversations, dreams, miscellaneous events—just anything.

Where did the idea for Trapped come from?

Actually, TRAPPED is the result of two vivid yet very different dreams I had a couple of years ago. The first involved a child caught in a deadly trap where her father had to sacrifice himself so she could live, and the second portrayed a fantastical scene of sacrifice, complete with character motivations, that ultimately became the basis for my finale.

What research did you do for the book and have you visited any of the locations?

My family and I went to Salzburg, Austria in 2006. We also traveled through the Alps to both Slovenia and Germany during that visit, and I loved it! It’s so gorgeous there. But to further answer your question, I used personal experiences and the settings from that event, but I also did a lot of book and online research.


Who are you mentors/ heroes?

My heroes include anyone who uses their talents to further goodness in this world, but I also look to an English professor from Ricks College, Dorla Jenkins, as the woman who most set me on my path.

Describe your favorite scene to write in Trapped.

That’s a toughie. There are so many scenes I really enjoyed writing, even some that weren’t fast-paced, because they were so important to Emi’s story. However, if I have to choose one, I’ll say the scene where Emi and Daniel reveal their love for each other, even while dangers, not to mention Lucas’s relationship with her, still threaten them.

Any new books in the works?

Yes. I’ve begun a historical, romantic suspense novel, but I’m also thinking strongly about writing a sequel to TRAPPED with new characters. Emi’s story—the Traugott and Tillman story—has really only just begun.

If you could recommend three books to us what would they be?

Besides the Book of Mormon, I’d advise you to read anything that YOU love. Go to the bookstore and find a book you want to read. Not your kids or your spouse or your neighbor. YOU. That way, you will find something that speaks to YOU, and you will be enriched.

What has been the most rewarding experience as an author thus far?

This is a toughie, too, because I feel I’m richly blessed to be doing what I’ve been working toward for so many years. But you know, even with my magazine articles, my greatest reward has always been hearing from readers that my writing has touched their heart or blessed their lives.

Ronda has generously offered us five author signed bookmarks. We have the FIRST ones out there! To Enter to Win: simply comment blow with your email address. Contest ends September 9, 2010 and is open internationally.