I’m often asked about what authors have influenced me the most. Invariably I get the answer wrong. So, to set the record straight, the two authors who’ve influenced me the most and helped shape my writing style are Vijaya Schartz and Toby Heathcotte.

Early in 1999, I got the silly notion I could write a novel. I completed one that year, but it wasn’t until Vijaya and Toby invited me to join their critique group that I learned how to write novels. Vijaya taught me to write sensory details and Toby taught me about avoiding passive writing, particularly the use of the dreaded word “was.”

Over the years, they’ve given me advice and encouragement and whatever success I’ve achieved, I trace to the day I was invited to join their writers group.

Vijaya was born in France. She acted on stage and television in Paris. She not only had to learn to speak English, but to write professionally in a new language. Try that sometime! With over twenty-five titles published, Vijaya writes action adventure laced with sensuality and suspense in exotic, medieval of futuristic settings. Her most recent work is a contemporary novella, Asleep in Scottsdale. You can download it for just 99 cents!

Toby is a former high school speech and drama teacher and wrote a book for drama teachers Program Building: A Practical Guide for Teachers. She’s served several years as President of the Arizona Authors Association. 

In addition to writing, Toby is an excerpt on psychic phenomena and dream analysis. She’s written a book Out of the Psychic Closet and writes a blog of the same name. Check them out.

I wanted to acquaint you with these two fascinating people with such deep and diverse backgrounds. It’s a pleasure calling these two talented writers my friend. I thank Vijaya and Toby for the expertise they’ve shared over the years, as well as their friendship.

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