1 what inspired the idea of your story?

I taught high school art in a prestigious 150-year-old boarding school near my home. The grounds are simply stunning, and yes, there are rumours of it being haunted. I even experienced some strange things during my time there! I thought it would be interesting to write a story in such a setting. I've always been fascinated by the paranormal, and writing a story like THRUSHWOOD seemed like a perfect opportunity to indulge my curiosity!

2 what is something you struggled constructing with your story?

Hmmm...Interesting question. I think the struggle is yet to come (as the story is not complete). There will be flashback moments to seventeen years in the past, so knitting those scenes into the story might prove challenging.

3 what did you enjoy writing most of your story?

I am really enjoying writing the character of Rowan. She is such a badass! I think I am living vicariously through her. I was a quiet, shy person way back when I was in school, so writing a character who is anything but is extremely gratifying.

4 what's the overall response of your story from your readers?

So far; so good! I think it's clear that readers like ghosts and all things creepy!

5 is your story a stand alone novel or a piece of a series ?

This one will be a stand alone. I think...

6 what would you like your readers to take away from your story?

I think the fact that close friendships can form between two very different people, and that there is strength in numbers!

7 what advice would you provide to fellow writers, when it comes to focusing on their own story?

Oh, wow. That one's easy. Keep at it every day. Even if you are only putting down 50 words. Just do it. Don't wait until "you are in the mood." If you wait for those days, you'll end up NOT writing about 361 days a year. Writing is a muscle that needs exercise. It's like anything else; you have to show up and do the work. Every damn day.

8 does your main character share any similarities to yourself?

I think Rowan is able to express the sentiments I never had the courage to, and Lou is a big time people-pleaser; a syndrome I suffered for a very long tme.

9 what is something about your story you believe would draw in new readers?

It's a bit of a mash-up. Ghosts. Witches. Mean girls. Romance. Something for everyone!

10 do you have any future projects?

I'm working on two submissions for the ONC, as well as finishing The Peculiar Language of Llamas, a humorous coming-of-age story, and Super Nova, another YA novel to boot. My 4th published book, The Picasso Project, is now available in eBook and paperback formats on Amazon.