Dark Whispers with Debra Webb

 

Former homicide detective Clint Hayes has his first client as a private investigator: a fragile beauty he isn't sure he can trust. An injury has left Natalie Drummond with gaps in her memory, and she sees and hears things that aren't there. But she's sure she shot an intruder in her Birmingham mansion. So where's the body, the gun, the evidence? When it's clear someone is trying to kill his vulnerable client, Clint appoints himself her protector, working overtime not to fall for her. But someone is dead set that Natalie never regains her memories—or makes new ones with Clint.

 My Review

I have read several of the Faces of Evil books. In addition, to other books by this author. Thus the reason I wanted to read this latest book. While I enjoyed this book I was not in love with it. Although, this book was right in line with this line of books from Harlequin. Which, I have been a fan of on and off again for a long while.

I liked that both Clint and Natalie were not perfect. They both needed each other and in the end, they helped heal one another. There were not a lot of surprises for me when it came to reading this book. Yet, I did appreciate the author's writing, the characters, and storyline. This is a pretty, quick read. Also, a nice introduction to this author. Although, again some of the other books in this series showcase the author's talent better. However, I am still a fan.

 

 

I think Robert Downey, Jr, would be a great fit to play Clint. I loved him in The Judge. For Natalie, I’m thinking Felicity Jones. She has the right look and is capable of playing a strong character who’s still vulnerable.

Q&A with Debra Webb – Dark Whispers

 

1)      Where did you gather inspiration for Birmingham?

My father’s family is from Birmingham so I grew up visiting the Magic City. Many of my fondest childhood memories took place in Birmingham. But the most important and inspiring part of Birmingham for me is the incredible medical services there. You see, my older daughter was born with extreme health issues. The amazing folks in Birmingham saved her life. So you see, for my family Birmingham truly is the Magic City.

2)      How do you think the setting affects the story?

Birmingham is a southern town at its very roots, but it’s also very progressive city—almost like the Manhattan of the South. There’s the intensity of big city living, yet the heart and warmth of small town life. For Natalie, my heroine, it’s home, family and all that entails. On the other hand for Clint, Birmingham has been a bit of a bitter sweet experience—at least until he becomes part of Jess Harris Burnett’s team.

3)      Is anything in your new release based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?

Natalie, in some ways, is me. I suffered a life altering injury and lost a great deal of the use of my right arm and hand. It has taken six years for me to learn to use my arm and hand again. It won’t ever be the same, but I’m learning to live with what I have. It’s amazing what the human mind and body are capable of.

4)      How long on average does it take you to write a book?

Oh my, that’s a tough question. Before my injury I would fly through the pages. You see, the stories have always come to me in wonderful streams of scenes. Now with my hand injury, the stories still come but they don’t get on the page so fast.

5)      What is the biggest misconception about your genre?

Oh my, I really believe any misconceptions about romantic suspense are in the past. Readers know what they want and have a much better understanding in today’s world filled with knowledge what they’re getting when they pick up a Harlequin Intrigue.

6)      Did you hide any secrets in your books?

There are always delicious secrets in a mystery/suspense. Sometimes it’s about the killer, but often times it’s about the hero or heroine and who they really are deep down inside. Clint has some deep and delicious secrets!

7)      Any tips to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Never stop writing. Your writing muscle is like any other it needs regular exercise. Even if you’re not sure where you’re going in a story just write something! I’m always amazed at what’s hidden in my head behind any uncertainty!

8)      How do you relax?

I love junking! Looking for treasures in the cast off of others. Touring homes—old and new. Enjoying my family!

9)      What is your favorite book and why?

Hmm. I don’t think I can pick a favorite book. There are simply too many wonderful ones I’ve read!

10)  What is your current end-of-summer read?

I am waiting for the release of Karin Slaughter’s The Kept Woman!

 

I absolutely love salads! All kinds! One of my favs that we make at home is super easy. We buy the really thin sliced steak (whatever cut you prefer) or you could use chicken or no meat at all! Weather permitting I love to grill the meat until it’s well done with a little extra char. For the salad I throw in everything but the kitchen sink. Whatever greens you love, scallions, grape tomatoes (I can eat those like candy!), radishes, cucumbers, pecans, and, of course, boiled eggs! Another ingredient that makes me happy is some sort of fruit. I often use fresh apples, orange slices, or mangos! The final touch is your preferred dressing! Bon Appetit!

Song Playlist: A prepared playlist of songs that embodies the book’s characters and their love story.

Bon Jovi is one of my favorite artists! I love, love, love his son, You want to Make a Memory. I think this song perfectly embodied the developing love story between Clint and Natalie.

A few other songs that played through my mind while writing DARK WHISPERS were:

Stronger by Kelly Clarkson

Need You Now by Lady Antebellum

Story of My Life by One Direction