FAQ:
Q: What inspires you to write?A: I’m fascinated by people.
I’m especially inspired by people in transition, by characters who have to face a challenge and dig deep to accomplish a goal, whether to solve a mystery, save the day, or simply find love. (Ha! Simply! ;))
I’m also inspired by a love of books. I grew up reading from a young age and used to come home from the library with an armload of books. We all need stories, I think. We need to be immersed in another world now and again, whether that’s through books (the best source, of course ;)), or movies, TV, songs, etc… We’re all hungry to share our stories too. It’s part of what makes us human.
Q: What's your writing process like?
A: Whatever works!
Each book seems to require a different process — which keeps me on my toes. A lot of times I start with a character in a tough spot, so an inciting scene. I may go from there as long as I can, just writing along, until I need to stop and do research, plot, brainstorm, explore character bios, etc…
I write freehand. I write on the computer. I write on the back of napkins. I’ve dictated into a tape recorder (not my favorite!). I've used Dragon Naturally Speaking (a speech-to-text software). I use index cards, huge sheets of craft paper & colorful markers, and I make copious notes. Whatever works. When I get stuck, I go for walks, drive, daydream, chat (complain) with writer friends, read books on writing, read novels, watch movies/TV… (But not all at once. And I may also pull at my hair, but only a little. ;)) I collect images of characters and landscapes that inspire me. I design book covers. I do more research. Mostly, I remind myself that I get to make up stuff and it’s supposed to be fun. It’s work though too, so I treat it with the respect of any other job. I set aside time. I invest in it.
I love being a writer. Creating new worlds has to be one of the best jobs ever. :)
Q: Where do you like to write/read?
A: My ideal writing spot is either my office or Panera.
And I love to read in my favorite Craftsman-style, leather recliner with my feet up. Basically, I prefer a quiet spot that's my own personal little nest.
Q: What's the content rating on your books?
A: My books are generally PG to PG-13, meaning:
no explicit sexual content
no profanity
no graphic violence
and a guaranteed HEA (Happy Ever After)
Some of my books, like Songstone, touch on some darker subjects, such as abuse, but always with a redemptive, positive focus on overcoming the odds.
Q: Are your books Christian Fiction?
A: I'm a Christian who writes fiction. Sometimes my books are shelved under Christian fiction and sometimes they're not. To me, my stories are simply my stories, and I write what I love. I write about what fascinates and entertains me. And the themes that weave their way through my stories are definitely influenced by my worldview and so may appeal to a Christian readership. The Brides Series and The Language of Souls in particular seem to have cross-over appeal. (Readers of Inspirational/Christian romance and "sweet" historical romance seem to enjoy these books.)
Where to Buy My Books
Hobbies and Interests
I live in a scenic small town in Massachusetts with my family. Besides wanting to be a writer, I always wanted to be an artist. Although I ended up enjoying a fulfilling career in software engineering and web design, I still absolutely love design. Nowadays, I employ my computer and artistic skills designing book covers.For TV, I'm into ELEMENTARY, BONES, & PSYCH (a series I missed the first time out and just recently discovered on Netflix), and my PBS favorites: DOWNTOWN ABBEY, THE BLETCHLEY CIRCLE, and SHERLOCK. And ENDEAVOR, which is addictive. (Which is probably why a lot of my writing has a thread of mystery or suspense in it... :)) I also like almost any reality TV show where they show a person transforming or evolving as an artist, like THE VOICE. I'm also a big RAISING HOPE fan, mostly because it makes me laugh so hard I have to pause Netflix so I don't miss anything.
I’m very active in my church and also love just hanging out with family and friends, especially while watching movies or football. (Go, PATS!!) I also going for walks around a nearby lake (often accompanied a very spoiled Black Lab).
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