I have been writing since I was eight and self published a book of poems. Major literary influences are Jane Austen, the Bronte's, Francesca Lia Block, Anne McCaffrey, Ray Bradbury, JK Rowling, Maria V. Synder...too many to name. I had an English teacher in the seventh grade who encouraged me to write no matter what else I was doing. I have kept that mantra throughout my life.