Q: What were your first experiences as a writer?

A: I first began writing in high school. I had been infatuated with popular singers and actors since elementary school, but it was during those teen years when I began to put my fantasies on paper (That’s funny…that’s what I do now!). My younger sister began to write romantic stories, too. We would put our notebooks under the mattress when we went to school, so Mom wouldn’t stumble across our “racy romances”.

Q: When did you begin to think about becoming a published author?

A: I’ve always loved reading. In fact, I’ve said if I ever ran away, my husband would check the library first. I go there every week! Well, about two years ago, my best friend (also an avid reader) and I were talking about the sexy storylines in the books we were reading. Actually, we were complaining about how we had to wait till almost the end to get to the part where the couple “seals the deal”. We wanted more action closer to the front cover! She said offhandedly, “We should write a book like that!” That night I wrote an erotic short story about a sexy woman and a refrigerator repairman! The next thing I knew, I had joined the local chapter of RWA and here I am! It is fulfilling to be able to share my stories with others.

Q: Where do you get your ideas for a story?

A: Although it may sound strange, I find inspiration in music. I love to sing, so I listen to all types of music in the car, while in the kitchen, and when working on the computer. I tend to “visualize” the music, and see a mini-movie in my head. After hearing the song a few times, I have a story based on the lyrics, or some scene I conjured up in my mind that is set to a specific rhythm or beat in the song. One Sizzling Summer started when I couldn’t resist developing a story around a scene in my head set to Bryan Ferry’s song, Slave to Love. The book I’m working on now, MemphisHeat, came to me while listening to Hands All Over by Maroon 5.

Q: What is a typical day of writing like for you?

A: It is rare that I write during the day. I am a teacher, and when I get home, I do laundry, run errands, and cook dinner, and that is just for starters! I have to wait until everyone goes to bed and I can have complete silence without any interruptions. It is usually the weekend or holidays that I get the most accomplished. My husband is very supportive of my writing, and does so much to help me have time to devote to my craft. I still end up sitting in front of my laptop until I am falling asleep as I type. Fortunately, I am a night owl, and can make it without a lot of sleep. I must admit I have mastered “zombie walking”, and am fully functional with four hours or less of shut-eye. So, I guess you could say my time for writing tends to be more “vampirical” in nature! I think that tends to be true for many writers with full-time jobs!

Q: Do you have any advice for those writers still waiting to have their workaccepted by a publishing company?

A: I would suggest joining a writing group such as Romance Writers of America (RWA). This group is comprised of writers of all genres. Some are published, and some in the same boat (that being the wishing/waiting boat). RWA chapters all over the country hold writing contests where judges offer invaluable advice/suggestions about all entries. I did this for about a year, using the suggestions/writing tips to improve each new entry. Also, the other members of the chapter are so supportive and encouraging, always happy to help you on your journey to becoming a published author. The women in my group have critique sessions after our monthly meetings. They make suggestions without making you feel like you should never give up your day job! Because some of them are already published authors, they can hold your hand and advise you when you DO begin the publishing process. They are the best group of cheerleaders on the planet. Finally, the most important thing you can do is keep an open mind, and consider the suggestions you are given. This is not the time to wear your feelings on your sleeve, or carry a chip on your shoulder. Do this and you will see your work in print in no time!! Stay positive!!!!!!

Q: What can readers expect from you in the future?

A: I have two books I am working on right now. One is called Memphis Heat, and is the story of the director of a facility geared toward assisting inner city families and a multi-millionaire vying for the same piece of real estate for a sports bar in downtown Memphis. There is a lot of hot, steamy sex taking place as they fight each other, as well as the deepening feelings developing between them. The other story, presently untitled, is about a beautiful, vivacious plus-size woman and her “hunk of a landlord” who finds himself fantasizing about bedding her, even though she is physically unlike any other woman he has slept with before. When it finally happens, he can’t get enough of her curvaceous body and the wild passion that is unleashed between them. He then has to convince her she isn’t just a private “Big Girl” fantasy, but rather his only fantasy. It isn’t your average romance story, but one I’m certain will strike a chord with many readers.