Writing, for me, is a way to express what I cannot voice. A retreat into another world; if only briefly; driven by an inner obsession; not a need for fame or recognition. I live in the Midwest and published my first novel, The Road Home in Oct. 2013, available at Amazon-Kindle-Ibook-Nook. A historical romance novel set in 1850 Scotland. Not your usual romance novel; there are a lot of twists and plots and some very emotional moments. This prompted me to join writing.com as I realized I had a lot to learn about writing dialect and writing in general. I am now a Rising Star graduate. I have learned so much in the last 18 months.