In Escape, a couple makes a connection, but they are prevented from exploring a relationship when a missile strike devastates the country and thrusts them both into dangerous circumstances. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The inspiration for Escape came from a vivid nightmare. I woke up with my heart racing and scrambled to find something to write on. In the dream, my main character, Beth, was being swept away by a fast-flowing river, desperately fighting to keep her head above water. As Beth struggled, she questioned why she was even trying to survive, leading her to make a profound choice. This moment haunted me, and as I scribbled the thought, ‘Why does she want to die?’ on paper, I realized this scene would become the heart of my story. From there, I built my post-apocalyptic romantic thriller around Beth’s journey of survival and inner turmoil.

What draws you to the adventure fiction genre? 

My love for adventure fiction began when I discovered the first Mad Max film at a Blockbuster video store. I was young and impressionable, and the intensity of that world pulled me in. From there, I fell in love with franchises like Indiana Jones and Star Wars, which not only deliver high-octane action but also weave in elements of romance. The blend of danger, exploration, and human connection in these stories has always fascinated me, and it’s what continues to draw me to the genre as both a reader and a writer.

Do you have a favorite scene in this story? One that was especially enjoyable to write? 

Yes, one of my favorite scenes is when the reader first sees the compound, Reed, the morning after my main characters arrive. Two characters sit across from each other, locked in a battle of wills, while nearby two others play chess. I had written myself into a corner, needing a way to defuse the tension without violence. I loved the parallel between the battle at the table and the chess game, both strategic and intense. Then, out of nowhere, two more characters—Hoss and Donovan—appeared in the scene. At the time, they were just names on paper with no backstory, but their presence felt right. Hoss, the lighthearted one, and Donovan, the serious, controlled counterpart, formed an instant bond. They mirror each other in fascinating ways, and their friendship unexpectedly became the backbone of the series. Creating their dynamic was a turning point, not just for this scene, but for the direction of the entire series.

Can you give us a glimpse into book 2 in the Haven Series? Where will it take readers? 

In book two of the Haven Series, the lingering question of ‘Where is Sadie?’ finally gets explored. While others have made it to Haven, Sadie’s journey has taken a different path. Unlike Beth, Sadie is confident and clear about what she wants in life, but that doesn’t mean her path will be easy. Her journey is full of unexpected challenges, and the theme that emerges is that life rarely unfolds the way you plan. While the journey may feel familiar, it’s Sadie’s strength and determination that set her apart, making her story compelling in its own right.

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