Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?
No. I wanted to be an actress and an Olympic Equestrian Rider first. Funny thing is, in fourth grade I wrote my first ‘book’. It was about horses. Although, the equestrian dream has fizzled over the years, I do think my love of acting helps greatly in developing and feeling out the characters I write.
What authors inspire you?
As far as authors go, I love Cassandra Claire’s flare for characterization and storytelling. Although, I didn’t start reading her work until after my first book, Caged Moon, was into the editing phase. My original inspiration stemmed mostly from Maggie Steivater’s Shiver, Melissa Marr’s Wicked Lovely Series. Julie Kagawa, and her Iron Fey Series are definitely a favorite of mine now.
Is your family supportive of your writing?
Yes, once my parents realized the seriousness of my writing, they became some of my most forefront advocates. My boys two little boys are also probably my best cheer squad.
All the time. They never shut up and sometimes we even argue when they want to go in a direction that I hadn’t planned. The happened numerous times over the course of writing, The Prophecy. They told me to throw out my book outline numerous times. I finally gave up on that. ;)
Do you like it quiet or do you need noise when you write?
It honestly depends on my mood. Sometimes it’s hard for me to focus with music on, because I end up listening to it instead of zoning in on the writing, but sometimes it helps set the mood if I can put into the ‘background’ and focus. It can aid the emotional mood of a scene. If I do have music on, it’s usually non-vocal thematic music from movies.
Yes! The Prophecy is the first book of a series. There is a book two in the works. I’m also finishing up Book two to my Caged Moon Series, which will be out shortly. Right now, we’re looking at an early April release date.
What do you do when you’re not writing?
I have two little boys that keep me pretty busy, but when I do find time to myself, I always enjoy watching a good movie/tv show. I’m hooked on The Vampire Diaries, and Supernatural. I also love reading, and have recently taken up Zumba.
