• What got you started in writing?

I’ve always liked to write. I really started to write when I was 12. I started with my Katelynn series. I think the moment I really decided I wanted to get published when my Teacher Mr. C at Quail Valley had told me to remember him when I got published. He was the first person and teacher who encouraged me. My English teacher Mr. Mullen had told me the same thing when I was in tenth grade.

• where do you get your ideas from?

I get ideas from everywhere and anything. One time I got an idea for a car chase for my Madison Rose series. I’ve always got notebooks and pens with me. They are all over the house, in the car, next to my bed, and in my purse.

• Are your characters extensions of you?

I think parts of them are. They are things I see in myself or wish I could be. I also think they are extensions of people I know too.

• Do you write for you or your fans?

Yes, I want them to enjoy what I have written for them as much as I loved writing it. I hope they laugh in the parts I laughed at or cried when I cried. Without fans there would be no one to enjoy what I’ve written.

 

• What advice would you give to someone who want to be where you are (a published writer)?

My advice is to never give up your dreams. It’s hard to swallow all the negative stuff people say. Just try to remember that not everyone enjoys everything that you will. A strong support system is helpful, but in the end you’re the only one who can make your dreams come true. If you don’t try then you’ll never know if you’ll succeed.

• Who is your inspiration?

Other writers have inspired me, and music does too. Admittedly though, my biggest inspiration is my sister Jamie. She went through some tough times when I was growing up, and she still managed to become a nurse like she wanted to.

• What helps get the creative juices flowing?

Music and talking to people. I don’t think I would get much writing done if I didn’t have facebook and aim always open. It’s nice to have people to bounce some of my ideas off of.