Millions of readers eagerly await the release of Janet Evanovich's NY Times bestselling Stephanie Plum novels. In them, bounty hunter Stephanie Plum solves crimes with the help — and sometimes well-meaning hindrance — of the women in her life. There's her mom, who'd just like her to settle down. Her smart-mouthed, former prostitute side-kick, and her plucky Grandma Mazur. You can't buy the newest Plum book, "Plum Lucky," until the moment it hits shelves January 8, 2008. But, you're in luck! Janet gave this exclusive insight into Stephanie Plum, and the place Stephanie calls home, sweet home.

How has Stephanie Plum evolved since the first novel in your Stephanie Plum series, "One for the Money?" What has Stephanie learned about herself?

Stephanie is more in control of her life and has a much better understanding of her self now. She knows she can do a difficult job and stick with it. She knows she has a problem with romantic commitment. She knows sooner or later all the doughnut binges are going to catch up with her.

Stephanie Plum doesn't follow the "rules" set for women, and doesn't apologize for it. Why do women of many generations find her so appealing, even those who weren't brought up to be so "liberated?"

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I don't think Stephanie's appeal has anything to do with breaking rules or being liberated or marching to her own drummer. I think people like Stephanie because she's a good person who eventually succeeds. Stephanie is far from perfect, but she's not a quitter, and she has a sense of humor about herself.

You write humorously, yet rather lovingly, of New Jersey. Why do the state, and the people who live there. make for such great characters?

There's a lot of energy and a lot of diversity to Jersey. It absolutely is the American melting pot.

Get a sneak peek at the latest installment of the Stephanie Plum series, "Plum Lucky."