Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a Pittsburgh base writer. My third novel, JERUSALEM STONE, was released by Black Opal Books on January 27, 2018. My first novel, DEFECTIVE, explored a the experience of a young woman coming to terms with a bipolar 2 disorder diagnosis. THE KIDDUSH LADIES showed how quickly a lifelong friendship can be lost.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest, JERUSALEM STONE, was written to help me accept my own brother’s death.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Acutally, I do. My husband thinks I’m writing when I sit in front of my computer. But, my real writing occurs when I swim laps at the local Jewish Community Center. I write the story in my head, go home, and type it up.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many…
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a YA Fantasy that I pull out after the release of every book. I plug away at it until a new story idea distracts me, then I file it away, again. Someday I’m going to finish it.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Of course, I love your website. I’ve used it for my first two books and now for number 3. I don’t think there is one best way. So many factors come into play, especially audience age.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I go to conferences and hear first time authors lament over the difficulty of marketing. Many first time authors think they’re going to write a book and make a lot of money. Some do–but very few. Keep your expectations realistic and enjoy the feeling that you published a book. A dream many have, but few accomplish.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write everyday.
What are you reading now?
I’m looking forward to starting a new book. I’m weird, but when I’m writing, I can’t read. It distracts my brain from the story I’m trying to tell. I do all my reading between books.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going on vacation. The last vacation my husband and I took was to Thailand. JERUSALEM STONE is the result of that trip. Hopefully, somewhere in the jungle of Costa Rica is my next story.
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?
James Michener: The Source and The Drifters
Anton Myrer: The Last Convertible
Khalid Husseini: A Thousand Splendid Suns
Author Websites and Profiles
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