Authors say that characters frequently take on lives of their own and drive the stories, often in directions unforeseen by the writer. This is very true, but sometimes it goes beyond just driving the stories. At least in my case, the characters and their stories became a driving force to make significant changes in my life. Changes that opened my eyes to the world around me; a world that I seemed to have somehow missed for entirely too many years. Now with the support and caring of my dearest friend, my life has regained adventure and a sense of hope. As I close in upon the opportunity to be free of what seemed like never-ending bondage, the road ahead is finally bright, exciting and new. Each of my books contains a final page entitled “Author’s Notes” in which I attempt to convey to my readers the thoughts and feelings that surged through me as each book made its way from concept through development to conclusion. These are my sincere attempts to connect with my readers and to express my gratitude to them for joining me in the worlds that my characters have created.

I have many achievements, none of whom care to be named here. The awards were, shall we say, non-verbal in nature.