Posted on October 30, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Sadye Scott-Hainchek
Today we're interviewing author Betta Ferrendelli, who writes mysteries and contemporary fiction.
Ferrendelli has been an award-winning journalist since 1989, having worked at newspapers in Denver, Seattle, and Albuquerque, New Mexico.
She is also the author of the award-winning Samantha Church Mysteries.
SADYE: How did you come to see yourself as a writer, and what inspired you to seek publication?
BETTA: I began writing when I was in the seventh grade as a means to cope with going to a new school. The first thing I wrote was a poem about the rain.
I received my bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1989 and I have been writing professionally ever since. My main character is a journalist. She covers her stories the exact way I would. (I wonder why!)
SADYE: Tell us something about your writing process that’s unusual or that you haven’t revealed before.
BETTA: I write standing up at a Varidesk and have for years. I seldom sit down during the day.
SADYE: What has been the most surprising, rewarding, or challenging part of your writing career?
BETTA: Probably the most rewarding is the meaningful interaction I’ve had with readers and some of the wonderful friendships I have made over the years, either meeting people from the stories I’ve covered as a reporter, or books I’ve written.
SADYE: What has been the most touching or memorable piece of reader feedback you’ve received?
BETTA: There have been many reviews from readers that I have greatly appreciated, both good and bad. One came for Revenge is Sweet, the second book in my mystery series, the one that’s likely the most difficult to read.
The title of the review was “This Took My Breath Away” and the review read: “Betta Ferrendelli knows how to take you on the journey through the story. You almost feel as best up as the actors in the story. I have to rest before starting the next story.”
I want my readers to live many lives while reading my books and this review pretty much says it all.
SADYE: What message or theme would you like readers to take away from your work?
BETTA: There’s always hope in anything and everything we do.
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Learn more about Betta Ferrendelli on her website, where her books can also be purchased; like her on Facebook; and follow her on Twitter.
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Categories: Author Interview