USA Today bestselling author Jennifer L. Hart

Ah cover design. A year ago I knew nothing about it beyond that a book needs one and ugly covers don't sell worth beans. I've had my share of ugly covers and the hits just keep on coming. So I decided to take matters into my own hands. Easier said than done. Photoshop and I are NOT friends. I have come to the conclusion that I am just too stubborn and forgetful to use that program. Then my fabulous friend and co-blogger on Writers Gone Wild, Maree Anderson, introduced me to the wonders of Gimp. From there I was able to design the cover for Who Needs A Hero? And the rest is history. Obviously I'm no savant when it comes to cover design. But I know what feel I want my books to have. Well, usually. The rerelease of Laundry Hag 1 gave me headaches. I mean, the book is good old fashioned screwball fun, with a few deep moments tossed in. The cover I settled for in July gave that feel, you know the one I'm talking about, the aqua with the fishnets. Maggie was snickering about...

Not all of my books have playlists beforehand. I don't usually listen to music while writing, I'm an only child who grew up in a rural area, quiet is my preferred working enviornment. But every now and then a story screams at me to make a playlist, and this one demanded it, no substitutions, exchanges or refunds. It is a snazzy playlist, if I do say so myself. Piper, my new mystery heroine is absolutely thrilled, because her song choices are in there along with Mama Rosetti's and Nona's. Being third generation Italian babalicious pasta shop owner is kind of like being wallpaper, she's present but is oftentimes overlooked in favor of the more colorful scenery. I'm not above bribery to get her to talk to me.