After writing, photographing and self-publishing three childrens books in my native Australia, I decided to embark on my first novel. I spent two years researching from the inner city streets of Melbourne & Sydney to the outback town of Kalgoorlie and it's infamous Hay Street. My subjects were complelling ... prostitution and adoption ... and how the two draw similar stigmas in society. I first started writing the screenplay, and then decided to write and release the novel first. After 9 years work, 'Sisters Of Mercy' was born. I have always been influenced by authors, even when my whole artistic streak centered around photography. I have always been a fan of Dr. Suess, and had the very special privilege of meeting him when I was a child. Another big influence was A.A Milne and the wonderful writings of Winnie The Pooh, even as an adult I love to read his treasure of simplicity. Four other authors that inspired me to reach out and write are the incredible Bryce Courtenay, whose letter many years ago drove me forward, the wonderful John Grisham and his collection of novels, Sara Henderson and her tale of life in the remote Australian Outback and the legendary rocker, turned author, Billy Thorpe whose 'Sex, Thugs and Rock n Roll' let me know I had it in me to write. R.I.P Billy.