How would you describe your hometown Steubenville in five words? Tell us a little about your childhood like what your parents did for a living and what you wanted to be when you grew up?
Steubenville -bigger city 20 miles outside of small town, average, My father was a mechanic and my mother was a homemaker. My childhood was nothing fancy went outside and played went hiking and berry picking in the woods behind my home. We were a normal small town family. I wanted to be an archaeologist when I grew up.
Since you are a romance author, I think it's only fair to ask if you could tell us a little about your love story and how you met your husband. When did you know that he was "the one"?
I met my husband at work. At first we were just having fun dating neither one was looking to fall in love. Just enjoying each other's company and I guess I knew he was the one the night he rolled over taking me in his arms and told me " I love you! It was about six months after we started dating.
What are your secrets to writing a good romance? Do you think that real life love works the way it is portrayed in books and movies?
Well you have to really enjoy what you do. Let your characters lead you as you write your story. When a story starts out one way and ends up taking you in a different direction entirely that is when magic happens. Absolutely, I believe some real life love stories can happen like in movies and books.
When you create characters, do you tend to model them more after yourself, the people around you, or just start from scratch? Who do you think is the most vulnerable character you've ever created?
My characters have a little bit of myself in them and people who are in my real life. My most vulnerable character is definitely Josie from Popstar Lover Series.
When did you start writing The Popstar Lover series? Who is the most famous celebrity you've ever met?
I wrote my Popstar Lover Series about 17 years ago. I have met Darren Hayes ( lead singer) former one half of Savage Garden. Also, met a couple other famous people.
Besides The Popstar Series, you also have The Talent Agency series, both of which feature musically talented protagonists. Would you say that music plays an important role in your life? What kind of research did you have to do, regarding research, when writing these books?
Yes, music absolutely plays a role on my life. I travel to different places learn about different cultures.
If you weren't you, which of your books do you think you would enjoy the most?
Definitely, Popstar Lover Series.
Have any of your books ever moved you to tears? Which of your books was the hardest to write?
Definitely, my books have moved me to tears, anger and frustration. Some of my characters I have become so invested in them. Heart of Hearts Popstar Lover Series Book Three very hard emotionally for me. I have lived these characters for so long they've become a part of me, living with them for years.
What made you decide to write paranormal romance? What did you love most about writing "The Darker Side of Me"?
I have always been intrigued by paranormal things. I guess it is because it has such a mysterious element to it. Hot sexy vampires what's there not to love.
What are some interesting new ideas you hope to implement into future books in the Rogue Vampire Saga?
Well Rogue Vampire Saga is complete however might do a book from Avery's POV or even a spinoff of their son Draven and his special powers. Possibly, his own quest to find love.
What are some ways you like to keep your skills sharp and your writing from getting dull or boring? What advice do you have to offer about writer's block or similar struggles to a new author?
I do workshops and take classes always reading about ways to improve writing. Well my advice is to walk away from your computer and take a walk in the woods. Then go back to it!
What kind of poetry do you write? Do you plan on publishing more books of poems in the near future?
Of course perhaps one day. Right now I'am have a lot of fun writing my novels.
