Real Life Inspiration

Back in the late 1900’s I was an exotic animal trainer at the San Diego Zoo. All those years of experience contribute heavily to my writing today. My books all feature animals as primary characters, and I love exploring the human-animal bond in my latest, Salt, Sky, and Fire. I often get asked, what was … More Real Life Inspiration

Have you ever written your pet into your book?

I sort of wrote my chicken into my book, Salt, Sky, and Fire. I mention sweet Speckles but morphed her into a starling, because it fit the story better. You can read the excerpt below: From Chapter Seven – where Captain Fraser Connell, a mercenary, meets with Ozora a mage for hire: “Prove otherwise—” She … More Have you ever written your pet into your book?

The Scene That Wasn’t – Deleted from Salt, Sky, and Fire

This is a scene from Salt, Sky, and Fire that I eventually pulled. It’s set in Ozora and Fraser’s past, and shows their breakup scene. Enjoy – *** When I brought her aboard Skirmisher she was instantly suspicious. “Why have you brought me here?” Ozora barely stepped away from the gangway, planting her feet and … More The Scene That Wasn’t – Deleted from Salt, Sky, and Fire

Dog Training Basics – Consistency in Communication

Training your dog involves teaching her a wide spectrum of behaviors. Some behaviors you’ll expect her to do all the time, without being told; for example, not eliminating in the house. For others, you will give a specific command, like “sit.” Since you are the trainer, the burden falls upon you to be absolutely clear and precise … More Dog Training Basics – Consistency in Communication