Linton author receives best fiction award

Ruby Moon-Houldson

The novel, along with her first book in the "More Than Angels" series, was also nominated by the Oprah Book Club.

Moon-Houldson says she will soon be traveling to Los Angeles, Calif., for book signings and a visit with Leonard Nimoy who served as inspiration for her "Angel" series that include "More Than Angels: Once Upon a Broken Heart" and "More Than Angels: Once Upon A Lifetime."

"The book series has received several rave reviews," noted Moon-Houldson, "but winning the National Indie Excellence Award for fiction makes my success as a writer even sweeter."

Ruby says she has been asked to add another "More Than Angels" book to the series but hasn't, as yet, made that decision.

"If I do decide to add to the series, I know it will be called, 'More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream'," Ruby said.

She added that writing the "Angel" series wasn't easy for her as she had to relive sad moments from her own childhood, recall unpleasant memories of school days and write about losing her sister.

That is the reason she says she has said no to requests for film rights.

"To read the books is one thing," Ruby noted, "but to think about the characters coming to life on the screen and having to watch them work through troubling life challenges is something I don't wish to even contemplate."

Moon-Houldson says she thinks the success of the books is because they are based on lived experiences and witnessed events, which enables readers to relate to the characters in the stories as they feel their pain and joy.

As she was writing the series, Ruby says her heroes, many of whom are mentioned in the books, supported her throughout the writing process and gave her the strength she needed to author the touching series.

"Without them, I would never have been the person I am today," she added.

Another book series authored by Moon-Houldson, the "Guardian Series," has also received countless rave reviews and recognition.

Plus, a music soundtrack entitled "Night Sins" that is based on the "Guardian Series" has also recently been released and will be featured on the front cover of books eight through 10 of the "Guardian Series."

Ruby says this summer will be busy for her as she is working on her PhD dissertation, working on two new "Guardian Series" books, traveling for book signings and speaking engagements.

"I would also like to do something simple such as having my living room painted," she quipped with a smile.