1. When and why did you first start writing? 

My mom took me on vacation and I would write postcards to my dad. I would write about seagulls, conch fritters, and sunburns with what he termed “flair.” I loved making him laugh and from then on, it became a mission.

2. Before you published your novel, you wrote commercial scripts. When and why did you decide that you wanted to pursue a different type of writing? 

For many years, I really loved advertising. Writing commercials was fun and I worked at agencies all over Los Angeles and went on some fabulous shoots to British Columbia, Buenos Aires, NYC, and all over California. But they’re typically just 60 or 30 seconds long. I craved writing something a little longer, where I could create and develop characters and then throw them into situations to see what they would do. Novel writing is much more satisfying, but also much more of a commitment.

3. What was the inspiration behind your novel “Beware the Mermaids”? 

I was visiting a friend and her mom was telling us a story about how she and her friends recently bought a sailboat in the Delta up near Stockton. They called themselves The Dynamite Girls and they were the only all-female owned boat in the entire marina. Something sparked. Additionally, I knew I wanted to write a story to pay homage to my mom who died far too young. She was feisty and fun and loved a good challenge and I wanted to give her a better ending than the one she got. I connected these two ideas and I had the beginning of my story. 

4. Apparently, the PV Peninsula influenced your novel’s setting. Has it played a part in your other works?

The peninsula is unbelievably beautiful but it also has some pretty interesting places. I’m working on a murder mystery next and I can say for certain that the PV Peninsula will feature prominently.

5. Is there any advice you would give to young writers?

Write from your heart. The more honest you are with yourself, the better your writing will be.

When inspiration strikes, sit down and write. You think you’ll remember later, but you won’t.

If you laugh or cry when you’re writing something, chances are the reader will too.

You don’t have to know your whole plot to get started. It’s way more important to know your characters and their motivations.

And lastly but most importantly, don’t let self-doubt cripple you or stop you. That mean little gargoyle in your head is a liar. Tell it to shut up and then start writing.