In 2025, the Christian World is under attack!
Two seemingly unconnected events set in motion a diabolical plan. Ellie and John Zimmerman find themselves embroiled in a life-threatening investigation, fighting shadowy enemy.
After a terrorist attack on Washington, D.C. in the near future, Ellie plans a trip with her young son, Peter, and they become separated. At the same time back home, John witnesses a buggy accident with unusual circumstances.
Caught between strained family relations and ominous warnings from a faceless enemy, the couple rely on God for wisdom and protection.
The truth of a past tragedy is revealed. While they may expose the culprits, will they survive the heartache it brings?
1) How did this story come to you?
I started off as a non-fiction writer, but switched gears and began writing fiction after an experience in Gettysburg. Surrounded by history, I "heard" the voices of the forefathers as fading echoes. Attempts to writer a poem or non-fiction piece were unsuccessful, so I put the thoughts aside and prayed.
Eight months later, my late husband and I were discussing that event when he declared, "That's your book, and it will be written in 4 months and be called Ghosts of the Past."
The first draft was written in 4 months and underwent a name change to Echoes of the Past. Later, it became The Moses Conspiracy. After 2 years of caring for my husband through cancer until his death and 6 years of honing my fictions skills, The Moses Conspiracy was published.
2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
When I first presented the manuscript at conferences, I was told: A) It was too short (55,000 words) and B) My writing techniques needed improvement. I attended workshops, read articles online, had people critique my work, entered the ACFW Genesis Contest, and read craft books. The lessons were applied to the manuscript, and gradually editors and agents began telling me they liked my writing. The next hurdle became the genre. The professionals had difficulty identifying a category. Some indicated they thought it was Sci-Fi (sorry, no aliens or spaceships), Futuristic (not that far off), Suspense/Mystery (closer), and Political intrigue (not really). I finally presented it as Christian Speculative Fiction, which encompassed several of these elements.
An author friend, Kathi Macias, introduced me to my publisher in January 2013. Within a few weeks, I'd signed contracts with Joyce Hart, of Hartline Literary Agency, and Helping Hands Press (a small, royalty publisher). The Moses Conspiracy was released as an e-book in March 2013 and in print on May 17th.
3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
A) Took a course in Sign Language, and do specials at church.
B) Like to wear silly socks when my style tends to lean toward the classic.
C) Write by the seat of my pants. Outlines and plotting make me break out in a cold sweat.
4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now, I'm editing my second book in the trilogy, which has a working title of, The Scent of Fear. I'm also writing a Christmas novella that bridges The Moses Conspiracy and The Scent of Fear. The last book of the trilogy is mostly in my head.
5) Parting comments?
If you're a writer, I suggest you spend time learning the craft and not be in a rush to show your manuscript to the professionals. I could have saved myself a lot of rejection and embarrassment if I'd waited. Also, patience and persistence pays off. In 2012, I wanted to quit. I'm thankful I stuck with the program because it paid off.
6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I blog at http://susanjreinhardt.blogspot.com. You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Google+.
