Q & A

How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing, seriously, since joining Sisters in Crime years ago. I took lots of classes and read a lot of books on the craft. I started with the short story format and had a story accepted in a Capitol Crimes chapter anthology. Finally, I was a published author! It took me five years to learn how to write a full-length novel which became A DEADLY COMBO.

What inspires you to write?

I come from a family of storytellers. If told well, you are transported to another world and it feels very real. I find that fascinating.

What do you like to read?

My go-to is mystery. But I read all genres. I love any book that keeps me glued to the pages. I aspire to be that kind of writer.

Other than boxing, tell us more about you.

My parents are big readers. Mom read to me and my three brothers as children—Babar, Madeline, Little House on the Prairie. Mom would take us to the library often. I even worked at the library in my hometown of Martinez, California. Dad encouraged my brothers and I to get involved in sports. I played volleyball and softball. Currently, I take boxing lessons to stay in shape. It started as a challenge to myself, as I was a little afraid to try the sport. But now I’m hooked. (Get it?)

In 2025 I was president of Capitol Crimes, the Sacramento chapter of Sisters in Crime. I encourage anyone who aspires to be a writer, or is a writer, to join an organization for writers. Writing is a solitary endeavor, but when you join a group such as SinC, you are not alone!

Why Bigfoot?

Thank you for asking! I’ve always been fascinated by the cryptid. I decided “he” would be an excellent way to get my amateur sleuth, Rocky Nelson, out of her normal environment and into the woods where Bigfoot lives and, well, anything can happen.