Q:  How long have you officially been a writer?

A:   I've been writing officially since 2003.  Before that time, I did quite a bit of writing for various groups, but all of my works were donated. I wrote short stories, poems, and plays.  Since writing at that time was simply a hobby, I rarely kept copies of my works.  I regret that now!

 Q:  Who are the writers that inspire you most?

 A:   I am most inspired by Eric Jerome Dickey. Although our writing styles and our genres are very different, I admire the way Eric is able to capture the essence of a character and truly bring him/her to life. I am also inspired by Terry McMillan who I believe pours her heart out on paper as I do, and who reveals much of who she is through the characters she creates. I love the writings of T. D. Jakes as well. I don't know of anyone who has mastered the English language to the degree Jakes has. He's just awesome!

Q:  What mistakes have you made as a writer?

A:   Just as anyone else in the profession, I have made several mistakes as a writer.  My biggest mistake though, would have to be following the advice of others instead of following my mind and my heart. When I was told, byt hose who rank high in the literary world, that I had to include sex, innuendoes, and language in my books in order to hook my readers, I heeded the advice.  I was told no one would want to read a book that was "too clean". As a result, I felt uncomfortable with my debut novel.  It doesn't reflect who I am and it does not attest to my values. That's why I no longer promote my debut novel and that's why I officially changed my genre to Christian fiction. I am proud of my works now, and contrary to what I was told, I have a great following.  Many dedicated readers support my worksand have helped to spread the word about me!

Q:  In addition to being an author, you are a full time educator.  Why don't you write full time?

A:  Making writing my full time occupation would prove too demanding a task for me at this stage in my life. I am a mother to young children. Writing full time would also require promoting my works full time. I won't leave my children to promote my works.  I love being at home with them and writing in my spare time. Once they are older, I intend to make writing my full time occupation.

Q:  Although you only write on a part time basis, you have managed to produce on average a book a year. How do you do it?

A:  The answer to that question is simple - I don't sleep! (She smiles)

Q:  Which of your characters did you enjoy writing the most?

A:   The character I enjoyed writing the most would have to be Etta Mae from my book Afflicted. Etta Mae is a sanctimonious and meddling mother-in-law who spews humorous antics. Etta Mae could care less about using standard English and following grammar rules.  She could also care less about hurt feelings.  If she's got something to say, she says it,... and there ain't no sugar coating to it!

Q:  How willing are you to travel to meet with readers or to promote your works?

A:  I am very willing to travel to meet with readers and to promote my works. As long as my travels won't keep me away from home for too long, I'll board a plane, ride a bus, or drive a distance to meet with those who support me. I welcome signing invitations to weekend events or those that take place during the summer months when my childrens' schedules are flexible. Those who would like to meet with me or would like to schedule me for a signing should most definitely do so.

Q: How can readers reach you?

A:   Readers are welcome to reach me directly at dorinu@hotmail.com . I welcome E-mails and I promptly respond to each one I receive.