Monday, May 21, 2012

Becky Melby's "Yesterday's Stardust"


We're happy to have Becky Melby with us today talking about Yesterday's Stardust. Leave her a comment with your email address to register to win a copy and if you've not done so, please place your email address in the feedburner box to the right to get weekly emails about giveaways. To learn more about Becky and Yesterday's Stardust, read on!

Title: Yesterday’s Stardust
Publisher: Barbour

Cover blurb: Journalist Dani Gallagher’s zeal to make a difference hinders her objectivity. While trying to help a teen gang member, her lack of “street smarts” angers Nicky Fiorini, chef and manager of Bracciano Restaurant. Ignoring Nicky’s warnings, Dani is intent on writing a story about gang activity in his neighborhood.

In an alley near the restaurant, Dani finds a tattered journal. The diary, written in the 1920s by a girl caught in the web of organized crime, mentions Bracciano—and a hidden treasure. In spite of their explosive meeting, Dani convinces Nicky to help her uncover what happened to the girl and her secret.

Attraction ignites as they work together, but both are hiding secrets of their own. Nicky isn’t ready to talk about the incident that hardened his heart toward God. When a fight erupts and Dani is caught in the middle, Nicky is furious to find Dani’s been learning about teen gangs by joining one.

The diary leads to a hidden room, and the secret, but have they missed the most valuable treasure?

1) How did this story come to you?
The seeds of this story began many years ago. I was writing with my dear friend and writing partner Cathy Wienke at the time. I was working in a ministry with at-risk teens and we brainstormed a story about a reporter who gets overly involved with a teen gang and a handsome Italian chef who thinks she’s crazy. We had a few chapters written when we decided to abandon the project for another story. When the opportunity for a full-length series came my way, Cathy gave her blessing. I created new characters and plot lines and developed the historical thread, but this story wouldn’t be what it is without her input.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I was blessed to be asked by Barbour, for whom I’d been writing since 1994, to develop a proposal for a full-length series. I’m so grateful they liked the concept for the Lost Sanctuary Series.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I had a near-death experience when I was 26.
2. I wish I owned an ATV.
3. I’ve backpacked in the Tetons, Rockies, and Smokeys.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently between contracts and working on a proposal for a three-book contemporary series. Each story will also include a second plot thread going back to the nineteen-forties, -fifties, and –sixties. I’m also working with three other amazing authors on a proposal for a novella collection. This compilation will include both contemporary and historical stories.

5) Parting comments? Thank you so much for inviting me!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.beckymelby.com/

11 comments:

  1. What a fascinating idea for a story. YESTERDAY'S STARDUST looks like an exciting read.

    marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com

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  2. Becky's book is an important addition to "must read" writings. What a great idea - one I wish I had thought of myself. LOL But, since it wasn't my idea to write about, I fully intend to read this book with the interesting title. Thanks for this giveaway and the chance to win a fine read.

    Blessings,
    Barb Shelton
    barbjan10 at tx dot rr dot com

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  3. Sounds like a great summer read to me.

    skstiles612(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

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  4. Thanks for the giveaway! I haven't read anything by Becky Melby, and I love discovering a new author. Best wishes on the success of your novel!

    emily_reynolds(at)hotmail(dot)com

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  5. Thanks for the opportunity to talk about Yesterday's Stardust, Dawn! I learned a lot while researching this book--even got to "meet" some of the skeleton's in my hubby's family closet. His grandpa was a bootlegger!

    Barbara--They say there are a very limited number or actual story lines. We all borrow ideas from each other and make them our own. So feel free to let this trigger your muse!

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  6. Sounds like a great book! Thanks for the chance.

    nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net

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  7. thanks for the chance to win

    ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com

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  8. This definitely sounds like a good read! Count me in.

    Margaret
    singitm(at)hotmail(dot)com

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  9. luving this storyline! lost peeps, journals and treasures... yep! and ty for the generosity!

    so, you've "backpacked in the Tetons, Rockies, and Smokeys." now you need to add the Brecon Beacons! EnJoy Wales! and i look fwd to enjoying "Yesterday's Stardust"! TY :)

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    Replies
    1. What a gorgeous view. Have you been there? Love the name "Brecon Beacons"!

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  10. Thanks for the chance to win and read this book by Becky Melby, Sounds good.
    Maxie ( mac262@me.com )

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