Can you tell us how your writing journey began and what led you to the thriller genre?
My writing journey began in 2021, as I wanted to find a way to help with my traumatic brain injuries (Blast TBI) from my deployment to Iraq. I wrote my first novel in the thriller genre because I have a story idea and it is my favorite genre to read.
What’s your writing routine like—and does the skateboard-and-coffee combo help fuel your creativity?
My writing routine consists of chapter by chapter with a daily word count to strive for, when writing fiction novels, for at least an hour a day. Coffee is essential in writing, I must have a cup, or two! Also, I love to brainstorm for my chapters and plot by getting outside and skateboarding. I find that my creative mind comes alive this way.
How did signing with Provoco Publishing come about, and what has that partnership meant for your career?
I queried to dozens of publishers for my first novel hoping to secure a traditional contract and the London based publishing house, Provoco Publishing, was the first to offer me a contract and book deal. This was not my first traditional deal but my first as a novelist. I am so grateful that they signed me and turned me into a legitimate author in my own right.
Your thrillers are known for gripping tension—what’s your secret to building suspense effectively?
I love to start a thriller with immediate action, putting the reader right into a scene. I find that I love natural dialog with my characters, and building up to the suspense in a way that makes you feel as though you are right there with them. I let it flow organically.
The Only Ones Left introduces a unique post-apocalyptic world where Malia and her son Cole are seemingly the last survivors. What inspired you to explore such a solitary, yet haunting, setting for your debut novel?
I have always loved thriller movies and even horror. My inspiration comes from a hodgepodge of those and books I have read before.
The dynamic between Malia and her son Cole is crucial. How did you develop their relationship to make it feel authentic and grounded in such a surreal, dangerous world?
I have a son with autism, and I drew from my own experiences of being a mom to such an incredible child. In Malia's shoes, I simply thought of how I would react and what I would do to keep Cole safe.
Bodies of Evidence introduces Ava, a mortuary technician in a small desert town, which already feels like an unusual profession. What drew you to create a character in such a unique role, and how did it shape the atmosphere of the book?
The idea for Ava came from a quick search of careers that are obscure but abundant. I thought it was a part of life barely written about and could be an excellent backdrop for a thriller. I think it gives Ava a strong background and draws the reader in, especially if they have never read about that profession before.
What role does research play in your thrillers, and have you ever gone down a rabbit hole for a detail?
Research is everything! I have gone down many rabbit holes, searching for story details. My third thriller, currently with my publisher for editing, is the perfect example. It combines some conspiracy elements that I spent hours looking up.
Do you outline your books meticulously or discover the plot as you go?
I always jot notes on the beginning scene and have the ending figured out, then I let the rest flow as I write.
Grey’s character seems to be someone Ava could confide in, yet he can’t protect her from the dangers she faces. What is the significance of his role in the story, and how does his relationship with Ava develop amidst the danger?
Grey is a character that is there but not there. He is pivotal to the story as he helps her in supportive ways, and then the deeper meaning is revealed at the end. Ava and Grey go from mere acquaintances to lovers throughout the book, but not progressing as one would expect. His role is definitely a 'divinely guided' one.
How do you stay motivated and focused through writer’s block or tough drafts?
I push myself. I lean on my former military life to keep to deadlines that I set for myself, i.e., write when I need to, not when I feel like it.
What advice would you give to aspiring thriller writers trying to break into traditional publishing?
I would say to fellow thriller writers that you are already successful if you have written a novel! That in of itself is a huge feat. Keep searching for the right publisher if you are wanting to go the traditional route. Find the smaller boutique publishers if the larger ones reject you. Don't give up! Traditional publishing takes time.
What’s one thing readers would be surprised to learn about you?
I do not like being in the spotlight, and it took a lot of time to get used to marketing myself and my books.
What can readers expect next from you—any sneak peeks you can share?
I am currently in the editing stages with EP House Publishing on my deployment memoir. It is a very personal recount of my time with combat engineers. That will come out in 2026. Also, my third thriller is coming later this year from Provoco Publishing. I have this last thriller set in the Pacific Northwest and it is probably the scariest one yet!
How were you introduced to AllAuthor, and would you say that this website has been helpful?
I found AllAuthor on Instagram actually and decided to become a member. I love the site and have made so many new writer connections.
