I began writing at a very young age, around seven or eight years old.

There's a kind of relief one feels when an idea that's been nagging at them finally gets to paper. It's like taking a breath of air after being underwater for too long. As the owner of a wandering mind, that relief doesn't come often, so when it does it is almost euphoric.

Some of the authors who have influenced my love of reading over the years are Jim Butcher, Rachel Caine, Erin Hunter, and a few other fantasy/YA authors. They all have a special place in my heart, even if I no longer read their books.

Sometimes it can be hard to find a reason to wake up and face the day. For me, my reason is often my dog, Star. I have to stay strong and be responsible for her-- and for now she is my biggest motivation.

I work, as is the curse of adulthood. I also get together with friends, attend classes at my community college, watch movies, and think about writing.

Often, just on Amazon or on the Barnes and Noble website. I'll just scroll through the books mindlessly until I see something that looks interesting!

It was a story I wrote when I was six, I think, about a young Dalmatian puppy with a torn ear, aptly named "Tory."

I tend to come up with ideas by listening to music, looking at art, reading about historical events, or watching shows. Once an idea is formulated, I try to let it evolve naturally until I have a few characters, a situation, and a setting. When my brain has put that together, I start writing on paper. I try not to plan too much outside of some loose boundaries, and let the characters do the rest. It's very rare for me to complete a draft, but if I do, then I read it. I go over what I like and don't like, then rewrite it based on that. Then I edit, usually three or four times, and rewrite at least once more, until I feel satisfied with it.

My phone! It's too convenient and accessible to pass up.

Very messy! Pens, paper, half-baked ideas and character designs, drawings, notes, and usually a few things that don't belong but somehow made it there anyway. I'm a very scattered person, and my desk definitely reflects that.