About the Dogs–

    Let's face it . . . you think the dogs are more interesting, don't you? I understand completely.

    Digger from FOOLS RUSH IN is named for and based on my dear doggy Digger. He is a black lab mutt, as friendly and dopey and sweet as a Lab can be, a great friend to my kids and a father figure to our cats, Hyacinth and Cinnamon.

   Colonel from CATCH OF THE DAY is based on a special dog in my life, Brendan. I adopted Brennie from a dog pound and gave him to my mom just after my father had died. He proved to be one of the world's great dogs, as gentle and sensitive as Maggie's Colonel.

   My mom's dog, Derry (named for Derek Jeter), is a frequent guest at our house and Digger's best friend. She is a lovely, not-very-bright dog with a crush on my husband. Her only flaw is that she likes to stand in the road and wag at passing cars.

   In upcoming books, you'll meet Buttercup, an exercise-challenged bloodhound mix, and Angus, a very naughty West Highland terrier.

   Will I always have a dog in my books? Well, my cats may stage a coup and demand some press time, but for now, I'll stick with dogs.

Sir Brendan Braveheart
(he came with that name, I swear)

Derry Bernadette, Yankees Fan