Born and bred in New York, Gina now lives in Tornado Alley where she splits her time, and sometimes her personality, as a writer, teacher, and life balance coach. Whether writing fiction or real life stories, Gina infuses faith, vulnerability, laughter, and hope in her stories. An empty nester turned caregiver, Gina dreams of traveling the world, dancing in every country, and writing novels full of adventure and redemption.
You can connect with Gina on social media: Facebook | Instagram | BookBubWhat inspired you to write your latest book, and how did the story idea first come to you?
When I joined the Valentine’s Day collection, the theme—A Valentine’s Day Romance—was already set. My job was to create the characters, location, and conflict. Rosie, the main character, came to me quickly. I knew she would be cynical and disillusioned about love because, honestly, that’s where I am in my own dating life after my 20-year marriage ended, followed by eight years of difficult dating. The other characters, though, just appeared and evolved as I wrote. It’s hard to explain to someone who isn’t a writer, but fellow authors will understand how that creative magic happens.
What do you hope readers will take away from your book?
Are there specific themes or messages that are close to your heart? There are several themes woven throughout the story, but at its heart, it’s about exploring different kinds of love and how they function within the dynamics of a New York Italian family—something I know well, having grown up in one. Through the relationships between the characters, I delve into the unique bonds and challenges of love between mothers and daughters, sons and fathers, sons and mothers, best friends, and even exes. I hope readers see that all types of love need to be celebrated on Valentine’s day.
Your characters feel so real. How do you go about creating and developing them?
Are any based on people you know? Since Rosie is the main character, there is a lot of me in her. But at some point she took on a life of her own. For the supporting cast, I drew inspiration from the diverse individuals in the Italian New York community. While you might notice some stereotypes—they exist for a reason—I’ve also included a range of personalities and experiences. My goal was to create characters that different readers can see themselves in and connect with.
To unearth a killer, you have to get your fingernails dirty. Archaeology Professor Mari Duggins is adjusting to life as a single mom, but she’s caught between the pull of her former flame and her ex-husband. When her colleague is murdered and her ex is accused of stealing an Egyptian artifact, Mari interferes in the FBI investigation, compelled to prove the innocence of her children’s father. Soon she is buried deep in suspects. Her old flame, her student and tenant, the office secretary. No one is who they appear to be, and she begins to wonder where her loyalty and true affections lie. Mari Duggins’ life caves in as she tries to excavate the truth, but realizes only God can dig her out of the hole she’s created. Will Mari sort through her muddled feelings and put her trust in someone else? Or will the truth bury her alive?
