Author Q&A: Terry Lynn Thomas

Today we're interviewing author Terry Lynn Thomas, who writes cozy Christmas romance, contemporary legal thriller, and historical fiction novels.

Thomas is a USA Today best-selling author who writes contemporary legal thrillers and historical mysteries set in World War II. Her debut cozy Christmas romance, Apple Butter Christmas, will release in November of 2025.

Her stories are known for their strong female protagonists and the emotional connection between her characters. 

SADYE: Which of your characters would you most and least like to trade places with?

TERRY: After writing nine mysteries, I have to say that if I could jump into any of the characters in my books, it would be one of the many characters who live in my mountain town, Hartstone. It’s been such a joy to write about found family, friends and second-chance romance.

I also really like populating my book with older protagonists. I’m on a mission to show how older woman are strong and vibrant. 

SADYE: Which of your characters would you most and least like to become romantically involved with?

TERRY: Alex Kelley is my idea of a perfect damaged alpha male.

Diana really hurt him in the year before Apple Butter Christmas. He’s a perfect combo of strong on the outside but sensitive on the inside.

He’s a lawyer, so his world view is about evaluating facts and backing his theories up with evidence, while Diana is artsy and emotional. I loved throwing these two together! 

SADYE: What have been the most surprising, rewarding, and challenging parts of your writing career?

TERRY: The writing community! I have made so many writer friends since I first published in 2016 and have always been surprised and amazed and how kind and forthcoming writers are.

There’s an unspoken “pay it forward” ethos, and I’ve received so much advice and information, it’s amazing.

With the industry the way it is, you’d expect people to be more cutthroat, but I’ve never experienced that from other writers. 

SADYE: What has been the most touching or memorable piece of reader feedback you’ve received?

TERRY: The mother-in-law of one of my readers has bad dementia, to such an extent that she was unable to read. Despite that, she was able to read, comprehend, and articulate one of my books.

Knowing that my words were able to give this woman some joy touched me deeply. 

SADYE: What message or theme would you like readers to take away from your work?

TERRY: My Hartstone novels are a completely new genre for me, so I feel like I’m starting over in my career. Despite that, my hope is that all my books leave readers with a sense of community, gratitude for loyal friends, and hope for the future.

I plan to give all my characters challenging obstacles to overcome as they navigate their way towards their individual happily ever after. 

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Learn more about Terry Lynn Thomas on her website, where her books can also be purchased, and follow her on Facebook.

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