Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m from Leander, TX, where my main job is caring for my three small children. I’ve published three stories so far: two variations on Jane Austen’s works, and a short story about Marie Antoinette.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Marriage and Ministry” is based on Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”. It stars two of the minor characters, Charlotte Lucas and William Collins, who marry for convenience. I wanted to explore their characters and relationship, give them the happy ending they deserve.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
People ask me “how do you get any writing done with three kids?” I tell them “naptimes and early bedtimes.” When the kids go to sleep, that’s when I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jane Austen, and other authors who have written works based on hers, such as Sharon Lathan and Maria Grace. Christian historical fiction authors like Francine Rivers and Elaine Schulte have also influenced my writing.
What are you working on now?
A prequel to Pride and Prejudice that gives a backstory to the antagonist Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It is set in the 1770’s when she is a young debutante, and tells her follies on the way to finding love.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook groups and my newsletter. I’ve used group promos and swaps through StoryOrigin to build my list and share my books with a wider audience.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Do whatever it takes to keep writing! I used fanfiction.net to get my first book written by posting one chapter a week. The feedback I got from readers shaped the final version of the story that I published three years later. Fictionpress.net is a similar site for original works if you want to try my method.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes, even if the work is not your best, even if it’s not related to your current project. Keep your skills sharp.
What are you reading now?
“Enso”, a philosophical tale by Dushica Lavobich. She’s an amazing author I discovered earlier this year. Her work, “Pride and Intentions”, which is based on Pride and Prejudice but set in the 1950’s-60’s, was absolutely incredible. Her style uses a lot of philosophical statements to drive the plot.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m also writing a contemporary romance set in my hometown of Austin.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bible, which is my guidebook for life, Pride and Prejudice, and the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Author Websites and Profiles
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