Burden of Proof Book Blog Tour and #Giveaway #LoneStarLit

FBI Special Agent April Ramos has agreed to an interview especially for you. She’s a busy lady, and I appreciate her taking time to share a few insights about her life and Burden of Proof.

April, when did you decide to become an FBI Special Agent?

April: While working on my Ph.D in political science, I realized my future wasn’t in teaching at a university or running for office but being involved with law enforcement to ensure people were protected from crime. So that began an exploration of the various federal agencies for the right fit. I found the FBI would allow me to work directly with those who had the same goals.

When did you choose to specialize in hostage negotiation?

During an abduction case. I observed a hostage negotiator persuade a kidnapper to release an eight-year-old boy and his mother. The process took over five hours. The negotiator never gave up. He was patient, soft-spoken, and wise with how he handled the process. His perseverance paid off because in the end the hostages were released. I knew then that I wanted to work this division.

I understand your parents are not onboard with your career choice. How do you handle their objections?

April smiles. I respect my parents and their opinions. When they voice their thoughts about me using my education to teach or run for office, I thank them for their concern. Honestly, it’s a source of irritation, and I don’t look forward to our times together. My job with the FBI is challenging and rewarding, and I regret they don’t understand. However, since they’ve met Jason and Isabella, they’ve softened. I think it’s the prospect of a permanent relationship.

What was your initial impression of Jason Snyder?

Definitely intimidating. My first concern was the baby in my arms. I assumed the woman who’d passed her off to me was the mother, and he was the father. The situation looked like a classic example of marital conflict, and I refused to put the baby in harm’s way. Later, however, things changed between Jason and me. Radically.

Sweet Briar offered small town charm, which I know you appreciated. What was the one thing that impressed you the most?

The slower pace of life. I know that sounds strange when at times I was running for my life in a string of horrible crimes, but in those rare moments when life provided a break, I appreciated every moment. The air breathed fresher, and people took time to be friendly—most of them.

What do you like the least about Sweet Briar?

Other than a crooked sheriff, I’d say the liver and onions. There’s an adorable little restaurant in the town where people gather for dinner, but the specialty is not my fav. I much prefer all their other yummy dishes.

What did you learn about yourself during Burden of Proof?

Perfectionism is a slow death. It causes high blood pressure, headaches, and too many sleepless nights. I also learned that allowing God to take control of my life is a whole lot smarter, and He does a perfect job.

Where from here?

I don’t want to jump in and say something without Jason’s approval. So let me simply say, he and I are very close and our relationship is growing. How that will work with my role at the FBI is unknown, yet I know it will work out.