Besides Natalie’s gymnastics being inspired by my daughter, there are a handful of other true-life inspirations in 18 Hours to Us.

– Colton’s yellow Camaro was inspired by my sister-in-law Brenda’s car – only, hers is a convertible. So fun! Natalie’s grey Honda Accord was inspired by my hubby’s car at the time I wrote the book.

– Some of the character names were inspired by my kids’ friends and classmates. Grant, Olivia, the two Hannahs, Trinity. Only their names were used. The persona...