The Basics and then some...

I studied history in general, floating between early American courses and the ancient world of Greece and Rome. Historians are natural storytellers, and I was fortunate enough to study under Dr. Diane Harris and Dr. Victor D. Hanson. The first introduced me to my first real love in the ancient world: Alexander the Great. The latter guided my master’s thesis on Alexander’s use of clothing as a political tool, and how he forged a rough and brutal version of “multi-culturalism” (the buzzword in the 1990s).

While studying Alexander, I came across a story that Plutarch told: that he slept with a copy of the Iliad beneath his pillow. I thought it strange that someone like Alexander would do such a thing. So, I began reading Homer—and never looked back. That was well over twenty years ago.

The Homeric Chronicles series is dedicated to merging dozens of Greek myths, including Homer’s epics, with ancient plays, history, and archaeology. My work approaches myth through a matriarchist lens—a perspective that honors both the masculine and feminine, restoring balance to stories too often told from one side. I strive to give equal voice to heroines and heroes, exploring their humanity, their desires, and their consequences. I wanted to tell a story that connected all the pieces together in an epic chronological saga—graphic and passionate, brutal and beautiful, tragic and hopeful.

I’ve always loved romance and historical fiction. I wanted to be a writer ever since I can remember, but was told that wasn’t practical—except by my freshman English teacher who said, “You should consider writing as a career.” I did the “right thing” and went to school, got an education, and then got a job. But telling stories has always been what I’m most passionate about. Now, as I grow older, I can finally follow that lifelong calling.
​
I don’t know where you are, Mrs. Reisenbichler from Concordia Junior High, but I’m finally writing now. Thank you for saying that to me over forty years ago.

Never underestimate the power of your words on young people... don't tell them they can't or shouldn't or won't become who they hope to be. Be a step for them to climb higher, not a stumbling block.