Why I Started Writing:

My mother was an elementary school teacher and an avid reader. She encouraged us to read any genre we desired. Summer contests at the local library to read twenty books challenged me to dive into new worlds and exciting adventures. As I traversed our 180-acre wooded farm I began to create stories in my head and watch them play out.

I never had an opportunity to take creative writing in high school or college due to the small enrollment of both. But I had a teacher who saw potential in me and motivated me to explore my creative side. I began to write poems and short stories that she gently critiqued and influenced me to continue my journey.

I guess I am a late bloomer. But my world is exploding with new stories and exciting adventures for my characters. I always try to present a positive message (especially relating to God) in the core of my work.

Authors Who Have Influenced Me:

I read a lot of different genres, so I have experienced a variety of different writing styles. The authors that have piqued my curiosity are not necessarily Christian writers. I have been intrigued by their sharp and unique styles.

I have read a couple of Ken Bruen books. He is an Irish author and is his work is usually very, how should I put this? ... Worldly. But his style is very unique.

I am particularly fond of Maeve Binchy’s work. She was an Irish author. Her writing style is reminiscent of Jane Austin in the manner that she is greatly adept at describing things without being too wordy.

When I first read Frank Peretti’s book, This Present Darkness, I knew I had to read more. The content was amazing, but how he structured and illustrated his characters was genius. He was so skillful at pulling you in and out of scenes without losing the core story.

Books I Have Written:

I have written two nonfiction books:

1. Lifestyle Worship: The Worship God Intended Then and Now (Foreword by four-time Grammy nominee, four-time Dove award winner, seven-time SESAC songwriter of the year, humanitarian, and author, Margaret Becker)
2. Verb: The Act of Knowing God

What I'm Working On Now:

1. Sequel to Ronan
2. Ghost writer for autobiography (escape from a cult)
3. A YA book
4. Study Guide for Small Groups
5. Textbook
6. Allegorical books