Tell us about your background and your life growing up. What do you miss the most about your childhood?
I grew up outside Tarpon Springs, Florida in a rural area that is now Holiday. My parents and grandparents owned a furniture store and family life revolved around the business. Since we had no neighbors, I spent a lot of time alone reading. When we took our weekly trips to the library, I checked out six books (the maximum allowed) and devoured them within a few days. Then, I entertained myself by making up my own stories. In the summer I took swimming lessons at Weeki Wachee and idolized the mermaids that swam in the springs. I miss those days of diving into the crystal-clear water and pretending I was one of those gorgeous performers.
How did you discover being a mermaid was not a viable career choice?
Eventually, I learned about the requirements to become a Weeki Wachee mermaid. They must be able to complete a timed endurance swim, tread water for at least ten minutes, become certified for scuba, and perform underwater ballet moves while holding their breath. I realized I would never meet the physical requirements.
Why did you decide to become a clinical social worker?
I became a clinical social worker because I wanted to help people. Social workers provide many services including counseling, discharge planning for hospitalized patients, referrals to community services, coordinating and administering non-profits, and much more.
When did you begin writing the stories of mermaids, mages, and magical creatures?
My debut novel, Water Dreams released in 2016 but I worked on it for seven years before I submitted it for publication.
What was the leading factor that motivated you to write a book on paranormal romance?
Paranormal romance is my first choice when I read, so, that’s what I write. However, I also read in most all other genres, and in the future, I may write in some of them as well.
How did your friends and family react to your first book?
They were excited and supportive.
What inspired the plot of your book, The Sea Witch and the Mage?
I wanted to write about an edgy, powerful female character who was also relatable. I created Athenia who stalks and traps Thorne and steals his mage powers, but for the best of reasons. Then, when Athenia is caught in her own web, Thorne saves her, but...she still has a price to pay.
How much time did you spend researching while writing the book, Siren Descending?
Siren Descending is a retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus. I encountered the myth many years ago and always felt the ending was wrong. It’s a tragedy that could have been avoided. Yet, it is a cautionary tale about human nature. I wondered, what if a siren traveled to the underworld to rescue her lover? Would she make the same mistakes as Orpheus? Would her song help her? I have been studying Greek myths for many years and knew the Orpheus story well. However, there were many things I researched for this book including demons, devils, conjuring, spells, properties of crystals and stones, incense, incantations, denizens of the underworld, types of songs, and more than I can even remember!
What was your favorite part, and your least favorite part, of the publishing journey?
Like many authors, I love writing my stories. I even love editing them. My least favorite part of the publishing process is waiting for my book to be released.
How has holding a master's degree in social work helped you in your career?
I was a social worker for 20 years before I retired and started writing. Social work training helped me understand people, their problems, their emotions, and their interactions with one another. I use all of that for the characters I create, the problems they deal with, and their relationships with one another.
What is it about writing a series that you enjoy so much?
Writing a series allows the author to take time to develop the characters and their relationships with one another. Each book has its own plot, and the characters grow from one book to another while an overarching plot line takes the story to a complete finish.
Who was the first reader that reached out to you? What did they say and how did you respond?
One of my first readers wrote a 5-star review emphasizing how much she loved reading about the small-town setting of Tarpon Springs because she lives there and recognized the places in the book. I was thrilled and will always be grateful for her lovely review.
What common writing advice do you disagree with?
Much is made of the idea of “writer’s block”. I don’t believe it exists. We all have fears and resistance to the process of writing at times, but I don’t think there is anything mystical about it. Once someone understands what is standing in the way, they can find a solution.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
Oh my gosh! I have so many ideas that I will never live long enough to write them all! The stories waiting to come into this world are infinite. Right now, I’m working on a second book in my new Cassadaga Collection. It will be a Christmas story set in the Florida town famous for it’s psychics and mediums and stars a swoon-worthy hero.
How has your experience of being associated with AllAuthor been?
I am so happy with AllAuthor! You have provided me with lots of exposure, and I love the mockup banners and other tools. I’m now pro with four books with AllAuthor and will soon make it five. Keep up the good work!
