What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Little Pinprick?
Once upon a time, many years ago in a far-off land called San Diego, California, I married a man who became an intravenous heroin user. Well, the truth is he would fill his needles with anything he could melt down. I divorced him after he completed ten drug rehabilitation programs (yes 10), over five years.
With all the focus and empathy on my addicted husband, I was left to do everything on my own, while still being caring and supportive of his recovery. There was one thing missing though—I had little support and understanding from those close to me during those years, and that feeling of isolation can’t be forgotten.
Writing the Rainey Paxton series was important because everyone should understand that in the shadow of the addict are the people who make immeasurable sacrifices.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Little Pinprick, what would they be?
The Sound of Silence sung by Disturbed (no, seriously!)
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Horror/Thrillers.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Faces of Fear, John Saul – The God Project, John Saul – Shadows, John Saul – Empty Chairs, Stacey Danson – Invisible Tears, and Abigail Lawrence.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I’d tell you, but that would be a spoiler. More important is what my readers think is their favorite scene. I’d love to hear from all of you!
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I do this emotional and meditative transformation when I am writing. The subjects I write about are difficult social issues related to children. As an author, in my mind, I become each character as I am writing them. I feel their pain, horror, happiness, love, bravery, courage, and every other emotion they experience. You may have heard authors use the term method writer, well, that’s what I consider myself to be.
If I can’t physically be in the situation, I give myself the time to transport my mind into the scenes where my stories take place. I do this to where my vision is blurred by my tears (good thing I know the keyboard well). It’s important to note that the real horrors of life are far scarier than any story I can write. I work to give my novels meaning that my readers can attach to emotionally. If I can inspire one person to advocate for children with any of my stories then I feel as if I have done my job and created change for the good. I also hope that my stories give a voice to so many voiceless victims.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” ~Ben Franklin
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
My books go deep inside crimes against humanity. These are crimes against the most innocent victims of our society. We follow each victim into adulthood and see the long-term ramifications of abuse. Through fiction, I hope to enlighten people about the horrors of child abuse so we may prevent it from happening.
My deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who reads my novels, I haven’t met a perfect person yet so I often remind myself that it is our flaws that make each one of us so perfect. Live, laugh, love, and read Indie authors!!
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