I worked in Hollywood as a reader and a would-be writer for about 6 years before I sold my first story.

What I do is put my characters into situations that are so precarious there is no way to get out. And then I figure how to get them out.

If. A two-letter word for futility.

Abraham Lincoln because he was a man filled with great compassion who believed that all men are created free and equal, and was not afraid to stand on that platform. The way Lincoln lived his life has served me well in mine.

I try to give both my heroes and villains an emotional dimensionality which provides the motivation for their actions.

I will survive, Tracy thought. I face mine enemies naked, and my courage is my shield.

The fact that my female characters have strong personalities but are also physically attractive probably reflects the women I've known in my life.