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What inspired you to start writing?
I've always loved to write, but my employment path took me in a different direction until age 51, when I was able to put my passion for writing into play to see where it could possibly take me. I enjoy letting my imagination run wild, and it has served me well.
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Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is Return to Autumn Part 2, which is the concluding novel in my Autumn Trilogy consisting of The Perils of Autumn, Return to Autumn, and Return to Autumn Part 2. The story takes place in the early 70's in Kentucky in a posh, fictional area outside Lexington known as The Meadows, where you find the celebrated Landon Lawns Stables, winner of many equestrian awards including a Triple Crown winner. Young, newly graduated RN Autumn Leeves, is sent to Landon manor to care for the terminally-ill wife of English Horsemaster Cyril Landon. Duff Taylor, world renown jockey who is tops in his field, lives fulltime above the tack room at Landon Lawns and enjoys the many benefits it brings, but he also has a dark secret surrounding an unsolved racing incident from his past that he will go to any length to protect. Autumn arrives to Landon Manor in time to be thrown into the fray, and finds herself caught in the ongoing disruption that ensues.
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How do you create your characters?
I love character creation, and they come from my imagination. I envision the story I wish to set them in, and then create them to fit their role.
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What does your typical writing day look like?
It can be eclectic in many ways. I don't have a regimented time frame, I write when my muse speaks to me, and that can be anytime during the day or night.
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What has been the most rewarding part of being an indie author?
My own direction, and choice of and for my work.
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What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your writing journey?
Marketing on a set budget.
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Do you have any favorite writing tools or apps?
I use Microsoft Word 365, love the program, it's very straight forward without a lot of headaches trying to figure it out.
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What advice would you give to new or aspiring indie authors?
Write what you know or have experience with, but still research as there is always something new to discover. Be realistic, choose your path wisely. Be able to accept rejection and critique, but rememeber that critique is valuable in helping to build a better story. Most of all, enjoy yourself and trust in your ability.
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How do you handle book promotion as an indie author?
I have used both professional marketing and my own experience in marketing. I try to be straight forward in my approach as only I know my monentary amount available. I use YouTube to promote my work, as well as all the assorted social media I can handle. A well designed website is a must.
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What’s next for you? Are you working on a new book?
I'm currently writing a prequel to my Autumn Trilogy titled Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, that I plan to publish and release late this fall. The story centers on the Autumn Trilogy's Cyril Landon, his meager beginnings in England, and how he came to be a celebrated Horsemaster and owner of the prestigeous Landon Lawns Stables.
