One thing I’m really grateful for is that I have a spouse who not only supports my writing, but who’s my best sounding board when I’m working out ideas or what needs to happen in a tough scene. That’s why all my books include him on the dedications page.

I have a birthday coming up, and since both of us have reached the point where when we want some material thing (within reason) we just buy it, that means that wrapped gifts aren’t as exciting as they used to be. Instead, I asked for time. I’...