Could you offer us some insight into your early life? Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small town in southern Georgia (USA) before moving outside Savannah, Georgia in middle school.
What were some of your aims and goals as a child? Have you achieved any or all of them?
Thank goodness, no! :) One of the jobs I wanted as a child was gas station attendant. I also wanted to be a writer, so at least I accomplished that.
What was the first book you ever published? What year was this?
A Journey Spared was my first book. It was published in September 2022, followed immediately by book 2 and 3 in the trilogy.
What took you so long to finally fulfill your childhood dream to write a book?
I think it was a lack of ideas and headspace. It wasn't until COVID-19 slowed down my job demands and with my kids becoming more independent, I finally had time to dream and allow the ideas to flow.
How did your first novel evolve into a series?
The flow of the main character's journey (Jackson) was too much and too important for one book. I didn't intend for it to expand into multiple books in the beginning, but as I was writing, it evolved into a trilogy. I doubt many people want to read a 1,000-page book. :)
What inspired the plot of your novels in The Journey Series?
I've always had a profound respect for military personnel and veterans. But what sparked Jackson's trilogy was a short documentary I saw on Micah James Herndon's Boston Marathon run.
Are any of your stories inspired by true events or are they all pure imagination?
The story is pure imagination and it's been the most glorious ride!
Have you ever visited Richmond, Virginia? Why did you choose this place for Jackson?
I wanted a big city that I was familiar with (I also live in Virginia). When I thought of Jackson and his family, Richmond was the first place I saw. It was meant to be.
How did you come up with the conclusion of Jackson's journey in the third book?
I don't want to give any spoilers, but book three pulls everything together and answers all the remaining questions from books 1 and 2 into the most beautiful happy ever after.
Who is your target audience? What are some things you wish your readers would take away from your books?
My target audience is anyone (but usually women of all ages) who loves a beautiful story of overcoming the odds and sweet romances. After reading The Journey Series, I hope that readers feel inspired and moved while gaining a new respect for military personnel, their sacrifices and struggles.
Has your husband read any of your books?
Yes, and he loves them!
What is it like to live in Virginia?
There's not much to tell. I'm a full-time public servant, follow my kids (both busy teenagers) around, and write during every free moment. I have only nine years before I'm eligible for retirement and take this author thing full time!
Why is binge-watching so popular?
Because our lives are busy and we hate waiting for the things we love.
Which is the next book you are writing? What are some goals that you wish to accomplish with this book?
The prequel novella to books 1-3, A Journey Worth Taking, is being released on March 11, 2023. Later this year, I hope to release book 4, Spirit of the Journey, which picks up where book 3 ends, but follows different main characters. Unlike books 1-3, both are standalones, but will be better read in order (books 0.5-5).
When did you first join AllAuthor and did you join as a free or pro-member first? What are your thoughts on this website?
I love AllAuthor! I immediately joined as a pro-member and use many of the website services every week!
