I was born and raised in Shoshoni, a small Wyoming town where the darkness felt vast and inescapable. That early sense of isolation sparked a lifelong fear of the dark, a vulnerability I now consider my superpower as a horror author. After all, who better to write about fear than someone who lives with it daily? My fascination with the genre knows no bounds—I crave the slow burn of suspense, the chilling creep of the uncanny, and the unapologetic gore of a good slasher.
My path to becoming a writer wasn't a straight line. Growing up gay in a small town taught me about hiding and the strength it takes to finally be seen. Those experiences are woven into the fabric of my stories. I earned an art degree that I now use to design my book covers, and even spent time as a cosmetologist before realizing my true calling.
Writing found me when I needed it most. My first novel, Dreamwalker: The Second Plain, was born from a need to escape the grief of my father-in-law's illness. It was a secret project, a therapeutic outlet that I didn't share with my husband until I held the published book in my hands. Since then, the floodgates have opened, and the stories have continued to pour out of me.
My creative landscape is shaped by a diverse array of influences. The master of beautifully terrifying worlds, Clive Barker, is my ultimate horror idol. Yet, the first horror novel that truly captivated me was Jay Anson's The Amityville Horror, a story that still chills me to the bone. My literary tastes aren't confined to horror; the fantastical realms of C.S. Lewis's Narnia and Lewis Carroll's Wonderland have also left an indelible mark on my imagination.
Music is the soundtrack to my writing, with the iconic sounds of Eurythmics often setting the mood for my darkest scenes. I find inspiration everywhere—from the quiet observation of everyday life to the spiritual whispers of forces larger than ourselves. And, of course, my beloved cats often find their way into my tales, their unique personalities immortalized on the page.
I am a firm believer in the power of community and feedback. On my blog and social media, I share the books and films that move me, championing the work of fellow artists. As an indie author, I know firsthand how vital reviews are. Every review, no matter how brief, is a gift that helps an artist grow. So, I encourage you to share your thoughts on what you read and watch—it's what keeps the creative spirit alive.