When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always loved reading, and last year I started thinking about writing. My sister encouraged me, and I took the plunge a few months ago!
Did you have any influencing writers growing up?
I loved Phillipa Gregory, Barbara Taylor Bradford, and Danielle Steele.
Are any of your characters based on people in real life?
No
Where do you draw your book inspirations from?
Mostly from my creative imagination, life experiences, and books.
Do you use have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?
I do have a basic outline but most of it comes from the characters leading the way.
When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?
All in my mind!
Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?
I love watching crime dramas, period dramas, and documentaries while sipping on a glass of wine.
Who are your favorite current authors to read?
Stacy Reid, Phillipa Gregory, Ken Follett, Alyssa Clarke, Amalie Howard, John Connolly, and Micheal Connelly.
What are your favorite books by others?
Accidentally Compromising the Duke by Stacy Reid, and Bad Men by John Connolly.
Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?
I lived in the United Kingdom for over 20 years and have always enjoyed books set there.
Do you write in single or multiple POV?
Definitely multiple.
What do you find to be your best research tool?
Blog sites and books!
Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?
Yes! I only have the one.
What genre do you write and why is this your preference?
I write Historical Romance. I love the pomp and pageantry of the era, the speech, dances, and art.
Tell me something about yourself outside of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky trait...what led to you being you?
I was in the dental profession for almost thirty years!
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
Don’t give up on the dream even if it seems impossible. Work diligently at it each day.
How do you deal and process negative book reviews?
I sometimes find negative reviews that are detailed can help improve my writing to serve a broader audience. I also understand that not every story fits everyone and negative reviews are part of the business.
What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
The extensive research.
What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?
A quiet space with no distractions.
What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?
A glass of wine!
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose? And why?
John Connolly. I find his books fascinating and would enjoy learning about his process.
What is your schedule like when you are writing?
I try to write a bit every day. The hours are not set but I do have that ultimate goal.
Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
Wine! LOL
Do you listen to music when you write – what kind of music is your favorite?
No music when I write. I do love R&B, and Soul music.
Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?
I have no pets.
What is your kryptonite as a writer?
I have not found it yet.
What totally puts you off your game?
Noise.
Have you ever killed off a character that your readers loved?
Absolutely not.
How do you celebrate after typing THE END?
Wine and more wine!
I hope you enjoyed this interview!
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