Are your stories fiction or inspired by true events?
Fiction! Places I’ve visited that inspire me do make their way into my writing – all the time. The characters in my books are completely made up. Sometimes I might create them by piecing together subtle personality traits of people I’ve met along the way. No character is a representation of a single person; it would be presumptuous of me to even try.
Do you listen to music when you write?
I believe that music has the power to change lives, policies, history, our moods – many things. But it consumes me when I hear it, so I am unable to listen to music when I write. However, music is always playing when I’m not writing. It’s one of the best tools to help me center. I write a lot about how to tap into the power of music in my blog and email newsletters.
I most often write with my sliding glass door open to a terrace of potted fruit trees. Nothing awakens the senses like the fragrance of orange blossoms. I love it so much, it will surely get written into a book sooner than later.
Dogs or Cats?
Both and All!
I’m a bleeding heart animal lover. I move a lot, so I have one dog to make life simple. His name is Winston, he’s a rescue. A hopeless romantic like the rest of us, he’s very popular with the lady dogs in the neighborhood. He’s a bit of a Casanova.
What do I care about?
- I am a fierce supporter of access to education, and more specifically, girl’s education. I firmly believe that education is a human right and the only means by which individuals can open up new opportunities for their lives.
- I believe that voting is a right, but a fragile one if we are not vigilant in exercising it. I encourage everyone who is able to vote to do so. Your voice is powerful. Let it be heard.
- Animal rescue. (see above) I feel that we have a duty to be the voice for those creatures who do not have one.
Can you share something personal?
I grew up in the Midwest, the black sheep in a family of five. My appetite for travel is insatiable.
MORE – THIS OR THAT
Cake or Pie?
An impossible choice. Pie – if it’s my grandma’s recipe. Cake – if it’s Funfetti. I’m a child in an adult’s body.
Football (American) or Football (soccer)?
American Football. It’s in my hard wiring.
Hybrid/Electric or Sexy Sports Car?
If you’ve read Conflicted Interest, it’s probably obvious! There is nothing sexier than a man driving an electric or hybrid car. I instantly find these men beyond smart — which, for me, is the ultimate turn on.
Bath or Shower?
Bath if I have one in my home. Otherwise, assuming I’m not in a drought region (hello, California – I love you), long unecological showers. Sigh.
Work Hard or Play Hard?
Both. I want it all. Doesn’t everyone?
Going to the movies: Candy or Popcorn?
Nachos from a machine, or I won’t go.
Pop or Rock?
Rocker girl at heart. But I’ll always react to pop – if it makes me want to dance.