Look and Listen

Biography

Like most if not all writers, I love reading, and learned at an early age. Working at the local library during High School years was, for me, as delightful as working in a candy store. Later, as an Elementary School teacher, I did my best to instill and encourage reading and writing skills in my pupils. Those were the days before computers, and children were expected to spell, use dictionaries, and have a firm grasp of grammar. I enjoyed teaching, carrying on after marriage until our first daughter was born. Then I was a stay-at-home mom, raising our two girls, assorted cats, dogs, and at one time, Quarter horses. We moved to Australia for several wonderful years before returning to Canada, settling in Southern Ontario. Oddly, although I read voraciously and had always enjoyed writing stories, I didn't consider trying for publication until about fifteen years ago, and even then I didn't focus on it. My life was too busy. I first tried romances, and twice finalled in the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart contest. Then I discovered Regencies, and was hooked. Writing became an obsession. Historical fiction has always been a favourite read, although I enjoy mysteries, spy stories, and biographies. In fact, I enjoy any good story.

Inspiration

I remember, as a child, settling down with a book or at a movie with a delicious sense of anticipation. I was about to be transported to another place or time. I would meet new people or become one with animals, involved in their lives and adventures. Every night, I would snuggle in bed, relax, and let my imagination create my own adventures. I thought everyone did that. Because I believed my imagination wasn't 'special' or 'different', I doubted anyone would be interested in any stories I wrote. It took a great jolt of self-confidence to submit my first manuscripts. Then my first Regency was accepted. Amazing! When good reviews came in, I was stunned. Now, when readers tell me how much they enjoy my books, and how they transport them in time and place, I take that as the highest praise.