1. Did you choose the writing profession or did it choose you?
Writing actually chose me. The events which took place in the industry of legal prostitution were so bizarre, and most times comical, that no one would believe it if you were to tell them in casual conversation. Therefore, Legal Tender was born. I also felt it was important for people to have an accurate understanding of the industry and the people who work in it.
2. What is your background? (education, work, etc.)
I have some college, but my professional background is in gaming management (25 years) prior to being a Madam.
3. When did you 'know' you were a writer?
When my manuscript was picked up by a publisher.
4. How would you describe your style of writing?
My style of writing reflects my personality.....light-hearted, humorous and straight-forward.
5. What is your writing process?
I simply sit down at my computer and start putting my thoughts on paper. I write like I live my life. I am a big fan of the K-I-S-S system. Keep It Simple, Stupid. Everything in my life is on a scale of 1 to 10; 10 being the most important. Anything that isn't a 10 doesn't get a lot of my attention. My life is relatively stress-free and so is my writing process.
6. What was your path to publication?
I was lucky. The first publisher I submitted my manuscript to committed to publishing Legal Tender. I really didn't know a thing about the writing industry and my publisher taught me so much. I am very grateful.
7. What is your favorite self-marketing idea?
I tend to think out of the box. My thought process is unconventional therefore it is easy for me to think out of the box. I like unique approaches which targets multiple market segments. The cover of Legal Tender is a perfect example of this. Most books about the brothel industry have girls or some sexy picture on the cover, which ultimately appeals to a male audience. Legal Tender has a cover which I believe would compel both males and females to pick this book up.
8. What are the biggest surprises you've encountered as a writer?
My biggest surprise was the support I received from my publisher and everyone involved with the evolution of Legal Tender. It was phenomenal.
9. How do you inspire yourself? What are your sources of creativity?
My source of creativity is life itself. We are all here for a very short time and it is always my goal to make the most of each day. My philosophy is "for each day you don't laugh; you've wasted a day." I laugh a lot. Life is very funny if you don't take it too seriously.
10. What is your proudest writer moment?
My proudest moment was when my publisher placed the first copy of Legal Tender in my hands. It was the same feeling I felt when my children were born and the nurse placed my baby in my arms. Receiving your first copy of your first book is like having a child......minus the contractions!
11. What's the best advice you were given about writing?
The best advice I received was not to be too wordy. At times we feel the need to overcrowd our sentences with unnecessary words.
12. What is your most embarrassing writer moment?
As I was writing certain portions of the book I found myself typing away with tears streaming down my face. Remembering and reliving certain aspects of the book really tugged at my heartstrings.
13. What business challenges have you faced as a writer?
I am an East Coast girl and my lifestyle is very fast paced. I find it hard at times to slow down and let things take their course. They say patience is a virtue, and I believe them, however I haven't experienced it first-hand!
14. What is your writer life philosophy?
Believe in what you write.
15. When you're not writing what do you do for fun?
I am an avid animal lover. I have 7 dogs of my own and I love to spend time with them. Legal Tender was written to help me reach my biggest goal ever. I formed a non-profit corporation, Symphony Animal Foundation (SAF) which was named in memory of my 2 original St. Bernards; Beethoven and Mozart. I want to build a no-kill animal facility in Pahrump and I am hoping that Legal Tender will open doors which will give SAF the necessary exposure to help secure funding.
16. Who do you like to read?
I like to read a variety of authors; mostly true stories, however I do read fiction from time to time.
17. What’s your advice for new writers?
Your heart and head should always be in sync. Write what you believe and believe what you write. This holds true for fiction and non-fiction alike.
18. What are you currently working on?
I do have another book in mind. I haven't started on it as of yet. I want to make sure I stay fully focused on Legal Tender before taking on another project.
