Author, substitute teacher for Greeley-Evans School District 6
27 Years Old • Evans
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
As a little girl, I started creating stories and fantasies to escape from my reality. By the time I was old enough to have crushes and experience the idea of romance, my imagination ran wild. Growing up surrounded by brothers and male figures, the thought of talking to them about these feelings was terrifying, so instead, I wrote them all down. Writing quickly became my safe space—a way to process emotions I didn’t feel comfortable saying out loud. From there, it spiraled into a passion and ultimately led me to become the author I am today.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
I’m a romance author. My journey began in the summer of 2019 when I started writing what became “The Enchanted Luna.” In the winter of 2022, a publisher picked it up, and for two years it was available exclusively as an eBook. In 2024, alongside the release of my second novel, “Breaking Tradition,” “The Enchanted Luna” was adapted into an audiobook. After reaching more than 1.5 million listeners, I knew it was time for the next step. Now, in 2025, I’m thrilled to complete the trifecta with the print release of “The Enchanted Luna.”
In what ways do you give back to the community?
When I’m not writing, I enjoy giving back by working as a substitute teacher in my local school district. I also serve as the chairperson on the parks and recreation committee in Evans, helping to keep our parks clean and safe. Additionally, I mentor high-risk students, providing support and guidance to help them express themselves through their own writing.
What do you consider the biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
While serving in the military, I injured my dominant arm, leaving me with only 20 percent function. I’ve spent years in hospitals trying to manage the pain, but writing still hurts every time I sit down to do it. Even so, I keep going because the thought of not writing hurts far more. Writing is my purpose, my healing and my strength, so I refuse to let anything stop me from doing it.
Tell us something unique about you.
During the summer, I enjoy participating in barbecue grilling competitions and have won awards for smoking pork ribs to perfection. Outside of grilling and writing, I love collecting and creating miniature book nook scenes, which are tiny, detailed worlds that sit between your books or on a shelf. Whether it’s the smell of ribs on the smoker or crafting a magical alleyway in a bookshelf, I find joy in creating experiences, both big and small.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
In five or 10 years, I’ll still be writing. My hope is that by then, I’ll have published several more books and continued to grow as an author. With each new book, I hope to reach more readers, build meaningful connections and create a lasting impact through my work.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
You will be OK. I used to hate hearing “It’ll get better,” especially from people who didn’t realize how much I was suffering. As a child, what I needed most was hope and someone who truly cared. That’s why I try every day to be the person my younger self needed.
How do you come up with your book ideas?
I’m naturally curious and inspired by all kinds of things. Sometimes I’ll witness something or imagine a situation and ask myself, ‘What if?’ That simple question can spark dozens of possibilities. If one of those ideas pulls me past the second sentence, I know I’m onto something. From there, I explore the ones that excite me most or seem capable of unfolding into a complete, layered narrative.
What led you to serve as a chairperson on the parks and recreation committee in Evans, and what do you get out of that experience?
My love for the outdoors and the beauty of Colorado inspired me to serve on the committee. It’s a way for me to give back and help ensure our local parks are safe, fun and accessible for everyone. More than anything, it gives me a deep sense of pride knowing I’m helping to keep my community as beautiful as the state I love.
Local business shoutout:
My go-to spot for barbecuing ingredients or answers to any grilling questions is Frank’s BBQ Trading Post at The Promenade Shops at Centerra in Loveland. They’re a family-owned business with high-quality, affordable meat, plus award-winning rubs, spices and everything you need to perfect your barbecue.
