Gypsy's Game, by Delia Latham

Tell us about your book.

 Gypsy's Game is Book 3 in the Solomon's Gate Series, which also includes Destiny's Dream and Kylie's Kiss. Here's a blurb:

Gypsy Lovell stands to inherit an enormous amount of money from a father who never gave her anything but a ridiculous name. Even now, he doesn’t make it easy. A stipulation in the man’s will demands that Gypsy be married in order to claim what is hers.

Desperate for the monetary windfall that could save her ailing mother’s life, Gypsy visits a Christian dating agency, hoping to find a temporary husband. Someone easy to handle for the required six months, and easy to get rid of when she no longer needs him.

Jal Garridan is neither of those things, but he's willing to take on the challenge presented by the beautiful stranger—on his own terms.

What Gypsy doesn’t know is that Solomon’s Gate is a dating agency with a Divine connection. What she finds there may save more than her mother’s life. It may save Gypsy’s soul.

Can you give us a sneak peek at your new release?

 Sure. I love sharing pieces of my books! J Hope you enjoy this excerpt:

The trembling began in her legs and moved up her torso. She dropped down on the nearest dining chair and covered her face with hands that shook so badly she couldn’t have held a cup of coffee had it been waiting for her.

What have I done? How did I let this happen?

She’d lost control, allowed her heart to become involved. For the first time in her adult life, she’d failed to keep the upper hand. How could she face Jal and retain any emotional distance? This was new territory. She had no knowledge of how to overcome the ridiculous weakness that claimed her heart, mind and body in Jal’s presence.

"Good morning!" His voice startled her, raking her nerves like sharp talons, and she cried out.

He made no sound as he crossed the room, his bare feet silent on the ceramic tile floor. Tousled hair fell in disheveled waves across his forehead and over the open collar of his unbuttoned shirt. A slow smile lifted the scar on his upper lip, narrowed those dark, mesmerizing eyes—and sent Gypsy’s heart on a race for survival.

He knelt on one knee beside her chair and placed a hand on each side of her face. "Ahh, sweet Gypsy! You make the day worth waking up to."

She closed her eyes and leaned into his hand. His lips were only inches from hers, and she realized she desperately wanted him to close the distance and kiss her good morning.

Instead, he grinned and quirked one dark brow as he released her. "I smell coffee. Hope you made enough for me."

"I’ll get it." Anything to give her some distance, some way to regain control. She pulled another mug from the cabinet and poured the steaming brew into both of them.

"How do you take yours?" She tossed the inquiry over her shoulder, completely unable to turn and look at him.

"Black, please."

Are you a panster or do you outline?

I'm definitely a pantster! However, I'm learning to do at least a bit of planning, since I had to provide synopses for all three of the Solomon's Gate books right up front. It forced me to think a little bit ahead, and at least have some idea where the stories were going. Not that the finished product actually followed that guideline to a T… LOL  I still don't actually outline, but I do try to write a synopsis ahead of time.

How long have you been writing?

I like to say that I was born with a pen in my hand. J (It's not actually that far from the truth!) I can remember strutting around with a pen and paper before I had any idea how to write. But as soon as I learned to put words together, I started writing things…little poems and songs—and very bad short stories.

What was the first book you ever wrote?

My first published book was Yesterday's Promise (under a different title). But before I wrote that book, I had started one called Goldeneyes. When I hit a snag along the way, I used a Nanowrimo event to provide a break in the process and free my mind to be creative again. That Nanowrimo book was published in 2006. I was then able to return to the other manuscript and—with a lot of prayer—move on with the story. Goldeneyes released in 2008.

What do you hope readers will take away from this book?

I'd love for my readers to read the last page of this book having found a new trust that, no matter the circumstance, God is in control. Even when it seems He doesn't know and doesn't care, He has a plan in motion. And I'd like to think they'll also come away with a little stronger faith in the power of love.

What is your favorite season?

Spring. There's something about seeing all the signs of new life after a long, cold Winter—I love it. It's beautiful…and, of course, the weather is so perfect. But I wouldn't want to have it year round, because I think I'd cease to appreciate it. It's the return of life after the lifeless cold season that makes it so wonderful.

What project are you currently working on?

A couple of novellas for anthology projects. I've very much enjoyed the Heart's Haven project, which will premiere through White Rose Publishing sometime around Valentine's Day, 2013.

What is your favorite color?

Purple. Always has been, and I suppose it always will be. J But I can't think of a single color I absolutely hate. I love color in general.

What is a fond childhood memory?

Anyone who actually follows my interviews will probably tire of hearing this one, but it really is my fondest childhood memory, so I never share anything different. LOL

It's a tactile memory that I treasure, and it somehow makes its way into my books now and then…. Daddy always had a heavy beard. I mean, he was clean-cut, but he had to shave twice a day to accomplish that. When he came home from work, he always had the most wonderful five o-clock shadow. I'd run out to meet him, and he'd pick me up in one arm while his lunch pail dangled from the other hand. I'd wrap my skinny little arms around his neck and rub my cheek against his. I absolutely loved the scratchy feel of it…I can still feel it when I think about it. Daddy always laughed and pulled away, grinning and shaking his head. "You're going to scratch that soft skin of yours." He said it every time. But I never did…always did it again the next night, and he'd repeat the little ritual all over again. How I miss him!

What book are you currently reading?

I've been out of state for a month, spending time with my family in California and helping my daughter prepare for her wedding reception. I'm not actually reading a thing right now. However, the last book I read was Cindy Woodsmall's The Scent of Cherry Blossoms. It's an Amish romance, and a very sweet love story.

What are your hobbies (besides writing)?

I design bookmarks and book covers for other authors. I love it! It's relaxing and fun. Some of the projects I've worked on are showcased on my design site (www.deliadesigns.webs.com).