Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A1. Born in outside of Chicago, I am a RN with a 35 year career in organ transplantation & retired from UCSF in 2014. My Mystery series has been referred to as page turners – Mysteries with a Mission and a side of humor. I love improv and graduated from Second City in Chicago. In addition to killing people I didn’t like at work and using their organs for transplant I enjoy practicing yoga and teaching it. I also love swimming and meditation.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Cut”?
A2. It was my first work of fiction so it was a steep learning curve and I was grateful to have a coach and a wonderful developmental editor and copy editor.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A3. Louise Penny – Janet Evanovich – Loved the Artist Way by Julie Cameron – really enjoy historical fiction by C.W. Gortner,
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A4. There are many but Chicago is my favorite city since I lived there for 31 years – the food – the people the music so much to do and see – love it especially in the Fall and Spring
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Match’?
A5. I wanted to tell the story of kidney transplantation and how many options there are now – also to highlight the challenges the dialysis can pose.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Hold’?
A6. It took about a year – it was the hardest to write as I lost two close friends while I was writing it so that was tough.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
A7. My books are available everywhere both on audio and paperback. I always encourage people to buy books from their local independent bookstores whenever possible.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Cut’?
A8. My publisher – She Writes Press worked closely with me to finalizing the cover – I also checked with some colleagues who are surgeons to be sure the blade on the scalpel was right.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A9. I created two best friends, who are the main protagonists – Jackie Larsen and Sarah Golden who face a new challenge in each book – their friendship gets them through tough times and they know how to have fun – sometimes they surprise me. Also each book goes to different geographic locations and they meet new characters.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
A10. Consider taking a creative writing class at your local community college – they are so fun and helpful. Read the type of books you want to write and if possible have an accountability partner who can help you achieve your goal.
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