Tell us a bit about your family and childhood.
I was an introverted child. When I wasn’t buried in a book or scribbling in a journal, I would spend hours outside lost among the tiny untamed stretch of creek and forest that bordered our neighborhood. Summers were spent wading in the water and exploring hideaways hidden beneath the foliage. A world tucked away and all my own.
Do you need to be a good reader in order to become a good writer?
Being an avid reader all my life, books and stories where an extension of myself, and I truly believe that one cannot really dive into writing without having a deep appreciation for the craft of storytelling. One may not be a “good reader” per say, but I think all writers love a good story.
What is the best thing to do in Southern Oregon?
I live in a valley nestled around a mountain range, so you don’t have to drive too far to find a lake, river, or endless stretches of hiking trails. Being surrounded in nature is home for me.
What was your expectation about writing poetry and become a poetess and what is the reality now that you are a published poetess?
Poetry has always been my anchor, the rock I cling to when turbulent waters get too deep. It is my lifeblood, the song I sing when I need to be heard, the friend that is always there. I write for myself, and there are no expectations, only a celebration of the inherent power of words.
What sparked the idea for your novel, Awakening?
I have always been fascinated by the vampire archetype. But I wanted to breathe new life into an old trope, I wanted to explore the concepts of mysticism, sexuality, and healing, and to weave all those into a framework that not just fans of paranormal romance could enjoy.
Do your book ideas usually start with the characters, story/plot, historical events, or something else?
I am not a plotter by any means. I just start writing and see where the story takes me. I become both the reader and writer, and it is such a fun ride to go on.
What has the reception been like for your book "Awakening" so far? Have you received any fan mail?
Self-publishing has its challenges as we all well know. I started this journey with a low bar in terms of how my book was going to be received, but I have been pleasantly surprised by the outcome.
Which option do you prefer, reading some books or watching movies adapted from them?
Definitely reading books. There is so much depth and detail that you miss out on when you watch an adaptation. Though I do enjoy watching those as well, to see how a story is interpreted.
Are you friends with any other authors? If you are, how do you think they help you grow?
I have met so many amazing writers on this journey of mine, and a lot of them have become very close friends. We have encouraged and supported each other, talked each other off a few ledges, and are always there to bounce ideas around with. They have become such an intrinsic part of my writing experience, and I don’t know where I would be without them.
While choosing a name for your character, what aspects do you consider that determines what you finally call them?
I am an over-thinker in all aspects of my life, but when it comes to writing I am able to let all that go and allow the characters to speak for me. Names have always come to me without thinking, almost as if the character is whispering in my ear, telling me… “this is my name.”
What should every aspiring writer know about writing?
Writing is about the journey, not the destination. Don’t write for fame or accolades, write because it fills your soul and gives you purpose.
Is it better to encourage children to read anything, regardless of literary merit, or should parents and educators select books for children that are well-written but potentially boring or too challenging?
I think reading should be something children do because it is fun, because it inspires them, and gives them an independent place to disappear into.
Is writing your full-time career? Or would you like it to be?
I would love for writing to one day be a full-time career. For now, though, it is more of a full-time hobby.
What are your plans for the future as a writer? Are you working on anything new?
I have just finished up edits on my second novel “Light Among the Shadows” and it will be out on pre-order in a few weeks. My third book is still in its infant stages, and I look forward to diving into that process again.
How has your experience with AllAuthor been?
Amazing. You guys are such a great resource for independent and emerging authors. Thank you for all that you do!.
