I am a huge Clive Cussler fan. I prefer his older works as opposed to his collaboration with other authors.
Earlene Fowler writes a good mystery mixed with quilting jargon and cowgirl gumption.
Recently I have enjoyed steampunk novels by Shelley Adina with, you guessed it, a strong female character.

The Bible because it has everything I need, wrapped in adventure, history, heroes, comfort, and life.
The Blue Sword by Anne McCaffrey. It is a great mix of historical fiction and fantasy.
Gifts From the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Her reflections on life touched me deeply. I have owned several copies but I end up giving them away to people that seem to need comfort and inspiration.
Inca Gold by Clive Cussler. It was what got me hooked on mysteries and adventure stories.

I use my Nexus tablet constantly.

A few years ago, a story came into my mind, and my heart nagged at me ( God was prodding me) till it was all written down. The project got put aside several times as interruptions from my business and family took precedent. It wasn't a matter of deciding to do it now, but, that, finally, things have all come together to make it possible.

My inspiration was the desert and the intrigue of a culture different than my own.

Well the research was two-fold. First I needed to learn about Syria and its people. Travel books were great for giving so much information on all aspects of their country and people. I even went online to get pictures of the inside of hotels and restaurants.
Next, I researched the history of the area from a biblical standpoint, as well as gathering numerois scientific facts and theories.

I am particularly fond of some of the characters in my book, so, you may see another adventure with this cast. There are also a couple of ideas that are niggling at the edges of my imagination. I'll take it one step at a time and follow where the Lord leads.