Born and raised in California, I suddenly found myself in Tennessee. The experience was sort of like traveling from earth to another planet. So used to the rat-racing freeways and type-A personalities who moved faster than a speeding bullet, I found myself in a laid-back environment where everyone younger tacked a "Miz" on the front of my name, even if we became friends.I came here to be close to my grandson...the love of my life, and since I retired from the University of California, I figured I'd have a whole lot of time to write. I'd like to say I've finished a ton of novels, but life often gets in the way. Besides dealing with a muse that goes AWOL from time-to-time, I also was a pioneer in my family to contact a virus one would normally associate with dogs--Parvo Virus B-19. Trust me, you don't want it.
But, I love living here in Tennessee, have no plans to return to California. Sparta Rose was inspired by a small town in TN, rich in history and beauty. Besides, remember my grandson has me anchored here.
Now, I'm working on a few novels I hope will move me from being traditionally a historical novelist into genres that are selling better and may garner notice from a publisher who can save me from smuggling one of my books into Wal-Mart and leaving it on a shelf. I'm that desperate. *smile*
My husband, Kelly, is my biggest fan...actually the only fan in my family. Unless I can get a book on a shelf somewhere other than my office, I fear I'll never convince them I've accomplished anything. In my heart, I know I have, and I've proud of my work. I thank those of you who have stuck with me through these years and made me feel appreciated. You're dedication keeps me writing.
