Where did you grow up and how big of an impact, do you think, that has made in your writing?
I grew up in New Jersey however I spent my summers in Vermont. I love the mountains and being outdoors. I have used many Vermont places ( Hapgood Pond, Manchester, old swimming hole) in my books.
What were some of the first stories you wrote about? Did anyone besides you read them?
When I was young I wrote stories and once entered one in a writing contest. I won 3rd place. My senior year in high school I did a senior internship at our local paper and wrote a few articles.
Do you relate to the protagonist Grace, from "Neighbours", in any way?
I've often dreamed of owning a small farm/ranch and I did use many familiar feelings and thoughts when creating Graces character in Neighbors.
Where and how did you get the idea for your book "Guarding Fate"?
Guarding Fate just came from my imagination . However, I used Kent, Obio, where I went to college, Troy, NY where my dad is from and Vermont as the settings.
On a typical day, how many hours do you spend writing? What else do you do to kick back and relax during your spare time?
I can spent 6 or more hours writing especially when the story idea flows. My downtime is spent playing Pickleball, golf, reading and enjoying retirement with my husband.
How do you balance between giving the readers what they want and writing what it is you believe and want?
I write what I’d read. Romantic suspense. Happily Ever Afters and stand-alone books.
According to you, what makes a good suspense and romance novel?
I believe a good story is a believable story. I love it when the reader has no idea who the bad guy is. Both my sister called me after they finished Die For You, Saving Bliss, and Proof telling me they were captivated until the end because of the twists and turns the storyline took.
Your stories are interwoven with suspense, mysteries, and romance. How do you make sure that one does not overpower the other?
I’m self-published and wish I had an editor to bounce ideas off. I have become a better writer and editor throughout the years. I believe I have found a good balance, especially with the steamy scenes.
How many of your stories have your 81-year-old ex-Marine uncle read and which are his favorites? Have you ever modeled a character after him?
My Uncle, now deceased, read my books up to Finding Happy. After he read them he’d take them to his VFW and share with his friends. He liked Someone To Come Home To because of all the twists.
What is your biggest fear as a writer?
I hate making grammar and spelling mistakes, but again, self published AND I write for fun so paying for editing is not an option. I’m embarrassed with bad reviews.
Which is the next book you are working on? When will it be out?
I published Proof this past summer and then concentrated on editing and republishing Finding Happy. I have started writing a new book, but its at the beginning stages so I have no idea when it will be finished
When did you join AllAuthor? How has your experience been?
I honestly do not remember when I joined All Author. I love the tweets and banners I can create. This is the only site I am spending money on to promote my books. I know I’ve gotten some followers through the site.
