Where Ideas Are Born

I’m often asked where I get my ideas for books. I think it’s probably one of the most popular questions authors get asked. For me – ideas are everywhere. The harder question for me is, “Which idea do I choose?” “To which idea do I give birth?”



I think I’ve always known that people see the world differently. Five people see something happen and you get five different perspectives. With five different authors looking at the same picture or object – you get 500 different stories ideas.

For example when I see this antique German Bible my mind runs wild with ideas.

Imagine a newly married couple being given the old family Bible just before leaving for a new life in America. Who were they and why had they come looking for a new life? Who had read this Bible before them? Where had it been purchased?




And then there are these  wonderful Victorian houses.  Who lived here - what did they do - what kind of problems do did they have - what were their goals and ambitions?

I have all sorts of ideas that come to mind and I'm certain you do too.  And how about this awesome family.  Was he disappointed that he only had daughters.  Maybe this was a photo my heroine carried around with her - the only thing she has to remind her of her parents and sisters who are now dead.

How did they die?  How is it that the heroine is still alive?

Ideas are everywhere and recently when I was working on Denver history I had a great time pouring over photos and floor plans for some of Denver's famous mansions. I studied clothes and jewelry that my heroine might have owned and often one single photo - one antique item sent my story off in yet another direction.

So when you look at these pictures - do you see a story?  If so - share a thought or two.

God Bless You!