The Local Inspiration

Growing up along the Gulf Coast from Mobile to Gulf Shores to Dauphin Island, the people and the places left an indelible mark on my heart. When I knew I would commit to creating the world, it had to be based along the Gulf Coast. The concept of a world within a world was born with the idea that the regular world is based in Mobile, Alabama and the Fringelands, which is where the series begins, is this dual world that overlaps one with other along the coast of Dauphin Island.

Sand Island and Mobile Bay Lighthouses were the visual inspirations for the portal systems and Book One showcases both along with references to local icons and our way of life that we all love, including that oppressive ‘air you can wear’ as Mint likes to call it. Being able to shine a light on this region, especially Dauphin Island, Mobile, and the Eastern Shore, was a must for me and I am thrilled with how they turned out.

Throughout the series, local places will be weaved into the imaginary world that I have created and many locals will be able to find the easter eggs hidden within the pages. Our coast is absolutely gorgeous, between its geography and its people, and I am fortunate and lucky to call this part of the world home.