She’s in every single person she touched, and with 94 years on this planet, she touched many. I’m so thankful for the time we had, even if it never would have been enough. And I’m so thankful she can rest now.

As a storyteller, I find myself drawn to the interplay of characters bound by blood. Their nuanced, complicated relationships are universally relatable, and a never-ending source of content.

Cozy fantasy transports us to worlds where mystical creatures may roam and everyday troubles yield to the comforts of life, whether they be warm drinks or good friends.

Themes of identity and belonging have been major ones in my own life, so I’m drawn to writing about these aspects of existence. I’ve always been fascinated by human identity and the search we all seem to have for a place to call home.

I think it’s so important to embrace diversity in perspectives, and oftentimes later-in-life stories are neglected. I want to be a part of changing that.

It’s my 40th birthday! Grab a drink, your favorite snack, and a cozy blanket while I get all introspective about life, writing, past mistakes, and the many lives I’ve lived.

Rooted in my own identity as part of the diaspora (mixed 2nd gen Japanese American), these kinds of stories almost always explore the delicate topics of identity and belonging, which I love.

The decision to write strong female characters is rooted in my belief that literature has the power to empower, inspire, and challenge the status quo.

Mental health narratives play a crucial role in so many important stories, and as someone personally affected by mental health struggles throughout my life, it’s important to me that my work reflect those realities as well.

My choice to write characters with disabilities is a personal statement in many ways, that our voices matter. But it is also quite simple: I believe all kinds of people, with all kinds of stories, should be able to see themselves in literature and other media.

I’ve benefitted so much from others in the publishing industry—whether authors, agents, or editors—who have shared their experiences and expertise. I’m no expert, but I want to pay it forward by being transparent about my own process.

Writing fantasy is not just an indulgence in escapism; it's a deliberate choice to weave dreams into reality. The genre offers a boundless playground where imagination reigns supreme, complex themes find expression, and readers embark on journeys that transcend the ordinary.

My choice to write LGBTQ stories is not just about checking boxes; it's a heartfelt commitment to authenticity, visibility, and celebrating the diverse spectrum of love and identity.

Beyond the academic discussions and clinical perspectives on the importance of discussing generational trauma, acknowledging it is an act of collective healing.

Musings on life, aging, and self-discovery as I approach my 40th birthday this year.