Writing

Complicated family dynamics, the intricate web of social and religious pressures, and the juxtaposition of funny/sad are recurring themes in my work. (My writing has also been described as “sad girl snark,” a badge I wear with pride.)

I write the books I want to read, and they always begin with a question I need answered. Exploring ideas in fiction is my way of making sense of the world.

Where I've roamed

I was born with itchy feet, and the places I’ve lived have shaped my work: American-born, I grew up across four states, with my closest ties to Portland, OR and rural Nevada. I moved to the UK, where I completed a Creative Writing MA and met my husband. After several years, we decided to close our London chapter and return to his home of Perth, Western Australia.

Writing and work background

Like most creatives, I keep the lights on at home through external employment. I write in the mornings, evenings, and weekends around two day jobs (risk and compliance, and casual university teaching), and I do freelance writing and editing on the side. Past jobs include senior business support lead for a financial adviser, swim coach, K-12 cover teacher, drawing and painting instructor, summer camp counsellor, and library assistant.

I have an MA in Creative Writing (Literary Novels) from City University London, and a BA in Creative Writing with a minor in Political Science from Linfield College in Oregon. I had an unconventional education growing up, including a hybrid of homeschool and public school during high school.

Thanks for visiting.