Born to a military family in Munich, Germany, I came back to the states at a young age and lived happily on a Missouri farm with acreage to roam. Nature has always mesmerized me; the quiet, mysterious way she goes about her business. The landscape, with its kaleidoscope of color, sights, and sounds influence every page I write.
I have always loved land. Ours bordered the Mark Twain National Forest, which housed everything from bears to panthers. My most vivid memory was hearing a panther shriek from the creek bed below our house. The sound was comparable to a woman's blood curdling scream. It was something I have never forgotten.
Our area was steeped in ghost stories, too. A relative was always willing to scare me silly with a local legend or something they'd made up on the fly. The whisperings and tales were usually disclosed around a bonfire at campouts. Long after everyone had gone to sleep, I'd remain by the fire, senses raw, imagination in full bloom. A river, starry sky, and a story; what more could one ask for?
Family, that's what. Growing up with eight siblings taught me much about relationships. Even though some personalities are more complicated than others, all require love and understanding to flourish. With three children, the experience has not been wasted. Kids don't come with manuals, although they should. Raising them right will always be my most significant achievement.
Finding time for family, friends, commitments, and writing has been a challenge. There is a balance, but when you're passionate about something, the world makes a way for you.
To learn more about the fictional novel, Jack Rabbit Moon, please visit my author website at: www.dorrainedarden.com You can also purchase the novel online at Cold Tree Press, Borders, Barnes&Noble, and Blackwell.{}
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