I’ve always loved reading. Before getting into the romance genre, I used to read classics and non-fiction.  I was a teenager when I first discovered Kathlenn E. Woodiwiss’s The Wolf and the Dove, The Flame and the Flower, and Ashes in the Wind. I fell in love with the genre. All of those tales filled with the passions of strong men and courageous women against the backdrops of bitter wars in exotic locales transported me to other places and times.  Soon after, I discovered Tears of Gold by Laurie McBain,  Hidden Fires by Janette Radcliffe,  Hearts Aflame by Johanna Lindsey, as well as countless Harlequin Romances. I especially enjoyed Carole Mortimer’s stories (I ‘ve discovered Betty Neels’s books—oldies but goodies.).

Different places, people and events inspire every storyteller. For me, travel has always been a great resource for my own writing. While visiting the pyramids in Egypt, and later sailing down the Nile, I thought of Cleopatra and Marc Antony. How did they meet?  What where they thinking?  What did they see in each other?  Why is it that such a torrid and doomed affair could be so memorable?   On another occasion, while touring the lake towns of Italy, I imagined returning there for my own honeymoon. I always find romantic spots in the places I’ve visited. Being in different countries and experiencing their cultures through their foods, their customs, their people, awakens my senses, my dreams and stimulates my imagination.

Although I’m no expert in the kitchen, it may not be too surprising to tell you that I have recently discovered a new love: Cooking. If I am not writing or traveling, I’m often trying a new recipe and infusing it with flavors that will awaken the senses and fire the imaginations of those with whom I share my delicacies. And what better way to enhance a romantic encounter than through an aphrodisiac?

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