Sit Down with Author Nancy Mehl about Fatal Finale

Kristen here. I'm honored to interview Nancy Mehl, our fearless leader at the Suspense Sisters, about her latest release, Fatal Finale. She's giving away one copy of the book, so keep reading to the end to learn how to enter the giveaway.

Nancy, it's such a joy to chat with you about your new release today. What sparked the first seed of this story—an image, a question, a character, or a “what if” moment?

I needed a dramatic end to Erin and Kaely’s story. My “what if” moment was wondering what would happen if Kaely was kidnapped and Erin was the only person who could save her life.  

I've got goosebumps already! Did any real‑life location, person, or experience quietly inspire elements of the plot or setting? If so, how?

I set this series in the Great Smoky Mountains. I decided it was the perfect place to hide a kidnap victim. Lots of forest and spots to hide.  

If you could step into one scene from the book—not the dangerous ones—where would you go and why?

Interesting question. I guess I can’t lead the police to the spot where Kaely is being held? LOL! Okay, then I guess I’d want to join whoever is left at the end of the book. (See what I did there? I didn’t say that everyone would make it out alive!)

Haha, no spoilers here! What’s one part of your daily routine that quietly fuels your creativity or keeps you grounded?

Praying while I’m writing – asking the Holy Spirit to help me – reminds me that this is more than just entertainment. I want to touch people for Him. That’s the reason I write. 

I love that advice, and it's so relevant for all of us, no matter what we're doing throughout our day. What’s one theme in this book that reflects something you’ve personally wrestled with or learned in your own life?

I think the most pervasive theme of “Fatal Finale” is trust. Kaely must trust God through her ordeal – and Erin must trust Him to find Kaely in time. It’s easy to trust when things are going well. A lot harder when they’re not. 

I feel you there. What are you working on now?

I’m writing book two in my new series. It’s titled “The Holmes and Watson Files.” The series revolves around two police detectives – Nathan Holmes and Rachel Watson. It’s my first series involving the police, and it’s something I’ve wanted to write about for a long time. I hope readers enjoy these books. Book one, “Redux” releases in February. It’s followed by book two, “Resurge” and book three, “Reborn.”

I can't wait to hear more details about those stories soon! Where can your readers learn more about you?

I’m active on Facebook. Readers can also contact me through my website: nancymehl.com. My books are available online and in stores across the country.

Thanks, Nancy, for sharing your time and story with us! Keep reading to learn more about Nancy and how to enter to win a copy of Fatal Finale. 

Nancy Mehl is the bestselling author of over 50 books. She’s won three Daphne Du Maurier Awards, as well as an ACFW Mystery Book of the Year Award and a Carol Award. She was a finalist for the Selah award as well as the prestigious Christy award. Her short story, Chasing Shadows, was in the USA Today bestselling Summer of Suspense anthology. Learn more about her at www.nancymehl.com and on her blog, the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com.

Now, here's more about Fatal Finale.

They'd started back to the house when they heard a male voice behind them. Then a shot rang out.

"Run!" Kaely said.

When bestselling author Erin Delaney's novel gets picked up for a movie deal, she eagerly awaits her friend Kaely Quinn-Hunter's arrival in Tennessee before they head to California to observe the film's production. However, when Kaely does not arrive at the scheduled time and Erin can't reach her by phone, her concern grows.

A cryptic phone call from Kaely's kidnapper confirms Erin's worst fear--she has exactly six days to save her friend's life by solving his twisted clues. The message comes with a warning: Contact the police or FBI, and Kaely dies. But Erin works for the Sanctuary Police Department, and Kaely's husband is with the FBI, putting her in an impossible situation. As Erin races against time, she's forced to crack the kidnapper's chilling puzzle before it's too late.

Nancy is giving away a print copy (U.S. only) or an eBook for an international winner. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment along with your email address.