Usually by searching a genre or favorite author.

It was a fictional account of Deborah Sampson, a real woman who lived during the Revolutionary War, who disguised herself as a man so she could fight in George Washington's army.

I'm pretty organic; I get an idea and try to figure out where I eventually want the story to go, then let the time, place and characters dictate the rest to me as we go.

"The Innocents Abroad" by Mark Twain, because it still makes me laugh out loud.
"The Benjamin January" series by Barbara Hambly, because of the amazing characters, and also because it feels like she plunks you down in that time of history, and you really live the time and place.
"The Knights Templar" mysteries by Michael Jecks, because, again, I'm a history junkie.
"The Woman in White" by Wilkie Collins, because Marion Halcombe is such a rich, strong character and Count Fosco is perhaps the most interesting villain ever.
"Sherlock Holmes" by Arthur Conan Doyle, because I always loved the stories and it's like sitting down to a cozy cup of tea.

Mysteries, historical fiction, detective stories, urban fantasy, just about anything really.

Kindle.

Controlled mess.

Dallas, Texas, but I spent a lot of time with my grandparents in west Texas. It introduced me early on to rich traditions, strong characters, and a strong work ethic.

When I moved to New York City at 18, I wanted to be an actress, but after awhile I decided I wanted more control over the stories; so I began writing in Los Angeles when I was 25 years old.

Those times when it feels like the story is almost telling itself and you have to type like mad just to keep up. Also, I love it when you can provide entertainment or pleasure to other people.

I'm working on a thriller suspense and a historical fiction story that I've tinkered with for years - I'm waiting to see which one takes me over first.