I've been absorbing story from as far back as I can remember, and by age 11 I was writing outside of school. At 13 I entered a short story contest and ended up winning, the prize being publication in my school paper. I didn''t know at the time that I would end up becoming a professional storyteller, but looking back on it now, I'm sure thankful for that kid's interest in the art and craft of it! When other kids were watching cartoons, he was watching powerful dramas like Amadeus and Ghandi. And then there were the literary treasures I'd get lost in, starting in sixth grade when my school put on a reading contest. Such exposure was the foundation to who I am today.

You know, when it comes to opportunity, the world is so random. You can have an amazing talent who spends a lifetime trying to get recognized for their work, while someone who is mediocre will be basking in the limelight of commercial success. Many people who are in the business of finding talent like to say, "Don't worry, if you have talent, you'll be found." In most cases, this is simply not true, and once I realized this I knew I couldn't let others define me. It's one of those tough truths of life. You can't depend on someone else when it comes to your legacy. What you do now is what you're going to be remembered for tomorrow, and so I stopped playing the publishing lottery and became an indie author.

Sure. Like most people, I like to be entertained by a variety of films. Yes I have my favorite genre, drama, but that doesn't mean I don't like to take in a cool sci fi flick every once in awhile. Or thriller, action, etc. I believe the same rings true for any form of storytelling. And when it comes to writing them, I'm just as diverse. To stay locked up in one genre is, to me, too repetitive, claustrophobic, and all-round bad for the creative spirit. Ever since I could remember I've enjoyed many different kinds of stories, so perhaps this is what helped shape me as a versatile author. In my world, it's all about story, not genre.

It's very organic. Each story is its own entity. One might be asked to come to life through heavy dialogue, another, vivid description.First person, third person, etc. No two are alike. There's no precise formula. Of course you've got to prepare properly, whatever research that may entail. But after that, the key is learning the art of listening to the story, letting it guide you to a place of truth. Once you achieve this, once you're in alignment with it, you can't go wrong.

As with all aspects of my work, I put a lot of thought into my covers. I don't believe in spoon-feeding my readers. A great cover will help provoke interest, but at the same time not give too much away. It's a work of art. It's an image that won't be fully understood until the last word of the last page is read, at which time it will leave an impression of an amazing journey that will be reminisced about whenever one comes upon a similar image.

I have a Crime Thriller on Amazon that's now available called Riker's Calling. This is the first story I've written where the character is telling me they'll want to return for at least a sequel, if not an actual series! The Ghostwriter, which is also available on Amazon, is a short story that ties into Riker's Calling. My autobiography, Power of the Pen, has also recently been released on Amazon. Given the fact that I've lived a very diverse life, including having been dealt quite a few obstacles, sharing my personal story is something I couldn't imagine NOT doing.

Well, I guess what they say is true, 'What Doesn't kill you makes you stronger.' But to be honest, it's quite difficult. I went blind in my left eye when I was 16, then, 11 years later, the condition affected my "good eye." Thankfully, doctors were able to save this one, but I was basically left legally blind. I used to read for hours on end, in addition to my writing, but now I have to pace myself, or else my vision gets real strained. Really tough for a lover of story like myself, but when you have no choice but to adapt, that's what you do. The silver lining...? When I write a character that perseveres, it comes from firsthand knowledge, making it that much more authentic. This was especially the case when writing Elsa's Gift, as I was virtually blind at the time, being able to see nothing but light due to having developed a mature cataract. I'd place my finger on the paper I was writing on, using it as somewhat of a guide to try to keep my sentences in alignment. After nearly a year I was finally able to have surgery, which returned me back to the state of being near legally blind. It may sound like not that much difference, but you soon learn that ANY vision is cherished vision!

I'm on all three, but mainly in the twitterverse.
Guess it just fits my personality:)

Whoever follows me:) Well, as long as they're real. I mean, I try and stay clear from the tweeps who are just lookin' to get follow-backs. Can't stand that game!

Sure:) I wanted to provide a place for readers who are on the go to be able to have a quick yet thought-provoking read, hence the tagline, 'Quick Stories of Substance, for when life has you on standby.' Now you might be thinking, "I thought you said for those who are on the go?" Yes, but in many cases, you have to play the hurry-up-and-wait game when you're out and about. Commuting (if you're not the one driving-LOL!), flying, waiting in lines, waiting for an appointment, etc. So yeah, when life has you on standby, I want readers to know they can have a great read that they can finish in one setting, for the times when they just wanna get away from the saturation of fluff that's out there.

And of course others are welcome too, not just those on standby:) If you're cozy in your bed, on the couch, etc. All who want a great read that's not so long, this blog is for you! www.theflashfictionponder.com

Great! I'm really moved by the warm reception it has received! I have a flag counter up on it, so readers, and myself, can see which countries are visiting. Getting hits from all over the globe!

A reader to an author is like a petal to a rose. Everything!