Welcome to New Faces, where we are delighted to introduce some of the newest authors in the romance field. This week the spotlight is on Shirley Harrison, whose new novel Picture Perfect has just been released by Arabesque. Welcome, Shirley!

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in South Florida where I always nurtured a passion for reading, writing, and art. After I received my B.S. degree in Business Administration, with a double minor in Art and Economics, I moved to Atlanta. I'm currently married with two sons.

Are you coming to romance writing from another job?

I am employed, full-time, in the tax accounting field, and continue my avocation as an artist (oils are my current love). And, I'm still an eclectic reader who still finds time to garden.

What led you to write romance?

I read a mix of authors and genres, but my most pleasurable reading comes from mystery, suspense, and romantic stories, and from writers who can lead you anywhere with their adroit manipulation of words and phrases. When I decided to write a novel, it was only natural that I write mystery and suspense stories laden with a healthy dollop of romance.

Tell us about your road to publication.

Actually, I was quite lucky in my timeline. It took me a little over a year to write PICTURE PERFECT, and it was my first try as a novelist. I sent it off as a proposal, expecting a six month wait for a response. About a month later the editor asked to see the entire manuscript. To my chagrin, I hadn't finished the novel. Some months later, I did send it off, and the rest is history. They offered me a multi-book contract. Regarding critique groups, I do belong to a loosely coalesced group of published authors, and we come together as our needs demand.

What kind of research was involved for your first book?

I chose to write what I know for my first book, so I didn't have to research most of the art and business aspects of the story. I did have fun touring Atlanta's beautiful mansions, where some of the parties took place. Most of my research centered on legal issues of stolen identities, art theft, and corporate espionage.

Who are your influences as a writer?

There are a lot of authors to admire, and there are a number I've yet to discover. To name some is to exclude others because I read from a wide range, from contemporary giants like Tom Wolfe, to small, independent voices like Edwidge Danticat, to romantic storytellers like Judith McNaught.

What does your family think of having a romance author in their midst?

They're quite proud and supportive across the board.

Tell us about plans for future books.

My next novel, UNDER A BLUE MOON, is romantic suspense, and is scheduled for release in November, 1999. I expect the romantic mystery I'm now completing to be released in the Spring of 2000, but that date is not yet set.

How can readers get in touch with you?

I can be reached through my email at: sdh108@aol.com. Or, they can write me at P.O. Box 373411, Decatur, GA 30037-3411.

Shirley, best of luck and thank you for joining us! Readers, check out our review of Picture Perfect.

April 21, 1999