I have always loved telling stories and seeing the expression on people's faces when my writing has stirred something inside them. Some of my favorite authors are Anne Rice, Stephen King, Patricia Cornwell, James Patterson, and Mary Higgins Clark.  However, my biggest influence was my mother. She always told me growing up that I could be whatever I set my mind to. She knew my love of writing and encouraged me to continue. Now that self-publishing is more widely available, I am able to finally make my dream a reality. My mother passed away on January 1, 2007 before she had a chance to see my first published book. However, I know she's watching me from above.