Have Questions Need Answears

1) Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Actually, no, but I’ve always been a bit of a storyteller. I didn’t start writing until my thirties and then only because someone dared me to try. When my first book sold, I was hooked and the rest is history.

2) What did you do before you began to write?
I was a businesswoman. I have a BA in English and an MBA with an emphasis in marketing. I worked for large advertising agencies as an account supervisor. My specialty was fashion and travel.

3) What are the most important attributes an aspiring writer needs?
Discipline, a sense of humor, a sense of adventure and at least one person who unconditionally believes in your ability.

4) Who are your favorite authors? Why?
Stephen King, Nelson DeMille, Michael Connelly, Wilkie Collins.
These contemporary authors stretch their imaginations and create
incredible characters. I’m very big on characterization. Wilkie Collins wrote what is considered to be the first legal thriller, The Woman in White. Published in the 1800s it is a masterful piece of writing and one I use for inspiration.

5) You seem to focus on lawyers and the law. Is there a reason?
My husband was an Assistant U.S. Attorney for many years before he became a judge. I draw on his experiences for inspiration. Attorneys not only have to be smart, they are also quick thinkers and often are put in situations the rest of us would turn our backs on. Being a lawyer can be a thankless job but there are times it is a heroic calling. Just imagine what it would be like to stand between the might of the law and a weak or falsely accused client.

6. Why are your books paperbacks?
I love writing in a paperback format. I think that makes my work more accessible to readers because of cost and the ability to carry the book with them. It does sadden me that paperbacks are not reviewed.

7. Are your books still a good read for book groups?
Definitely! Yes! I’ve visited many book groups who have chosen my work as a monthly selection. I work from the basis of a theme. When there’s a solid theme there’s always something to discuss. Take a look at the suggested discussion topics under the book group heading. If you have anything to add, let me know. I gladly take suggestions.

8. Do you visit book groups?
I’m very grateful when a reader’s group chooses my work but time and costs make it difficult to travel around to visit small groups. However, if a book group is in my local area I try very hard to fit a visit into my schedule. I have met the most wonderful people this way.

9. Do you ever speak to larger groups or at conferences?
One of my favorite things is to participate in conferences. Besides writing, talking is one of my favorite pastimes. It’s because I’m so passionate about what I do and how I came to do it. There are creative opportunities out there for everyone and I like to encourage people to grab them.

10. Do you participate in any ongoing community efforts?
I work with a wonderful group of women who run the Young Writer’s Conference. These ladies put on fabulous writing conferences for schools. I am one of many authors who conduct kid-friendly presentations to get children fired up about writing and the creative process.

11. Do your children write?
Yes! They both write beautifully. Alex, the oldest, is passionate about the movies. He has a wonderful editors eye and we are working on a script together. It's a romantic comedy called "Saving Seymour". My youngest is a published playwright and is incredibly prolific.

12. When you’re not writing, what do you do?
Travel when time permits. My husband and I love Europe. We recently were in Costa Rica and Panama and would like to explore that part of
world a bit more. Other than that, you’ll find me on the tennis court or in a fabric store. I play in a doubles league to keep my competitive edge
sharp. I’ve been sewing since I was a little girl and love to quilt and sew.

13. Are you working on a new book?
Always! I never stop working. I see a unique face, hear a voice that inspires me, read an article or see something intriguing on the news and I’m
off on a new story.

14. Do you work at home?
I take my computer to a great coffee shop in the Redondo Beach Village on Catalina Avenue. It’s called Coffee Cartel. It’s full of mismatched furniture, other writers and artists and interesting people. It’s my home away from home. My favorite table is the one in the corner next to the suit of armor!