What is one lesser-known fact about your childhood?
The summer when I was nine, Jimmy's Ice Cream truck rolled through my neighborhood each afternoon. My problem was what I had left from my allowance only covered three banana popsicles a week, but I had the solution. I announced to my parents that I was on strike and wouldn't clean my room until my allowance was increased to cover two more popsicles. Amused by my negotiating skills, my dad agreed, ignoring my mother's frown. My sweet tooth enjoyed a summer of banana popsicles, and I had a sure-fire way to gain additional jingle.
Do you remember the first book you ever read? What was it about?
Geez, I'm going to date myself, and we're only on question 2. The book was "Dick and Jane." My first-grade teacher presented everyone with a copy declaring it our ticket to reading. I remember thinking the book looked boring with so few words. I wanted to read my mom's copy of the then scandalous Peyton Place that she and her friends were all aflutter over. Unfortunately for her, I announced this to the class and my teacher.
What was the first piece of work you ever wrote that you felt happy with?
In 9 th -grade journalism class, I wrote a fiction piece titled "Fate of a Blind Man" for our school newspaper. After reading my story, the teacher asked me to write something for each issue and encouraged me to keep writing. I enjoyed complete freedom to pen stories which were different from English class writing assignments. My creative side soared. For the next four years, journalism class fostered my early writing path.
Who is the most supportive person in your life when it comes to your writing?
Don't make me choose one person. �� My husband, daughter, and writing friends all get tapped. Hold on. I suppose I could play it safe and say me.�� Yep, let's go with me. ��
Coming to your book, "Old Mountain Cassie," why do you think writing this book was so important to you?
Cassie has powerful messages and teachings to share with readers.
Here's a funny aside: I first wrote a short fiction piece based on the character of Old Mountain Cassie. The women in my writer's group refused to critique it. They declared Cassie needed to become a book. After them hounding me for months, I reluctantly sat down and penned my first novel.
From the opening page, Cassie and the folks of Divine captured my heart. As the story unfolded, I discovered the value of Cassie's teachings that she shared with her' seekers.' I implemented the lessons into my life and experienced incredible results.
Old Mountain Cassie promises to show us the path to living life amazing. She delivers on that promise, too. I feel such joy when readers tell me how the teachings have changed their lives. I keep getting prodded by readers to hurry and write the next Cassie book. It's on my list.
How many books do you plan to write in "A Shell Isle Mystery" series?
Right now, I have three more Shell Isle Mystery stories dancing in my head. The zany sleuths, Page and Betsy, seem to attract all manner of mischief and mayhem. Again, I have readers tapping me for when they can expect the next Shell Isle romp.
Who inspired the character of Captain Jake in "Red, White, and Boom"?
That's an interesting question. Jake more or less interjected himself early into the story. He's a complex kind of fellow with a reputation for holding people accountability if they veer off the law- abiding path. That character trait cost him his life.
Here's an insight into my character's evolution: When I write, the characters appear in that moment. Yep, that's typically how it unfolds. I don't follow the tenets for writing, like outlining a story, etc.; The truth is I don't know how the story will end. With the mysteries, I don't know whodunit until the end, same as the reader. I know. It's unorthodox, but it's how I write. And, the not knowing keeps me engaged and in my chair.
Is there anyone you know in real life who's been a prominent part of any of your book, A Secret Gift?
Usually, my characters introduce themselves as original. Some may have qualities of people in my world, but the characters are new to me. Many of them I would love to hang out with.
Out of all the books that you've written, which one is the closest to your heart?
That's easy, Old Mountain Cassie: The Three Lessons because it's a story that offers the reader a gift. It's not just an enjoyable and entertaining read. The novel CHARM, which I recently completed, is on Cassie's heels as a favorite for the same reasons.
What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?
That's a great question. The list of writers I interact with grows almost daily. Each writer brings their unique perspective to the craft. I cherish the tips, encouragement, and their rallying around my work. I like that it's an exchange of give and take.
Do you have any strange habits or "rituals" you like to do whenever you write?
So, I've gained a new respect for my writing chairs. I even dedicated A Secret Gift to my two chairs for their continued support. �� I write looking at a mountain lake or the ocean. My story settings reflect that connection to nature. And, I'm super simplistic and no-frills with writing accoutrements. A laptop, an iced espresso, the inspiring views from my chair, and here come the characters chattering away. That's about as strange or ritualistic as I get when writing.
How many hours a day do you write?
When I'm writing a novel, I make a commitment to it. I usually write 5-6 days a week from 9-5. The exception is if my muses don't show up for work, I take the day off. I refuse to stare at a blank page or type a few sentences only to delete. That's a lesson I learned early in writing.
Do you have a specific target group that you aim to strike a chord with through your books?
I write multi-genre. I'd like to think my books cast a wide net for readers.
What's next for you? What are you working on now?
Ahh, I've completed my 5 th novel, CHARM. It's a multi-genre that flirts with elements from The Shack and Celestine Prophecy. It's another book that brings a powerful and timely message for everyone. This story kept me fascinated as it unfolded. It's unlike anything I've written before. I'm looking for an agent or publisher for this series. So, if any are reading the interview, don't be shy about reaching out to me.
How has your experience with All Author been so far? Would you recommend it to your author friends?
All Author is the most helpful and necessary tool in my toolbox for helping me promote books. You have given me the ability to create promotional material for my books. I can't imagine launching a book, keeping it engaging as time goes on, and using social media without All Author. Your customer service is stellar. When I recommend All Author, I see it as a way to give back and help other authors and readers discover an excellent, easy-to-navigate, and welcoming place. There aren't enough stars in the heavens to award you. I'm a grateful and loyal author to All Author.
