I'm a RITA® Finalist!

I'm thrilled to announce that my July 2012 Montana Mavericks Special Edition, THE LAST SINGLE MAVERICK  is a finalist in the Romance Writers of America's^® RITA contest this year in the Short Contemporary Category.

It's always so exciting to be a finalist--and for the second year in a row, too.  I always have such fun working on the Montana Mavericks books with so many of my amazing author pals at Special Edition.  And not only do I get to work with a great crew of authors when I write a Montana Maverick story, I also have the pleasure of working with two of my favorite editors.

The fabulous Marcia Book Adirim writes the over-arching story that connects all the books, as well as the starter notes for each story.  And the insightful and generally brilliant Susan Litman acts as coordinator and continuity-checker as well as editor for each of the books.

It's always a pleasure to write a Montana Maverick book--and it's absolutely lovely to get a RITA finalist nod for one.

THE LAST SINGLE MAVERICK was an especial joy to write because the hero, Jason Traub, just came alive for me from the first line of the book: "Family reunions.  Who needs them?"  Jace was a great guy at a crossroads in life, destined to meet up with his perfect match, runaway bride, Jocelyn Bennings.

Wish me luck at the big awards ceremony at the Romance Writers of America's National Conference to be held in Atlanta in July!