My love of writing began as a young girl, exchanging letters with my grandparents. My mother also appreciated folkloric tales and poetry; she recited them to me and inspired me to create my own stories, plays, and poems. In this way, I never actively decided to become a writer. Writing is something I have always done. 

Yes! So many authors, poets, and storytellers — I love nonfiction, too! I couldn’t even name a single favorite! With regard to inspiration for Golden Apples, I must acknowledge the work of  herbalist and author, Gail Faith Edwards. Her books and teachings weave herbal wisdom and folklore, spirituality and science, story and medicine in a soul-nourishing way that I find spellbinding!

Writing is such a mysterious process. The characters begin to reveal their story to you as you write. I enjoyed how that unfolded and the special relationship between the protagonist and the wise and loving Zia Lilliana, whom she meets in Southern Italy. We discover so much about ourselves as we write and read, and there is an appendix in the book with a writing workshop for readers to explore and discover their creative voices. 

I would first congratulate them — there is magic in beginnings! We all have a story to tell and never know how it might be of service to others. Honor that wish inside you.  Also, be patient with yourself and the process.