This is me at my desk. One of my daughters snuck up on me and snapped that shot. I could've been mad at her, but it came out just right. I look like one of those émigré writers I might have encountered at some odd Russian function in Paris — some talk on politics, or some musical soirée. Romantic and impractical, and oh so inspiring.

I'm afraid I didn't do too well on the practical side. But life brought me a husband who can remember dates, times, and how to fill out a check. We keep each other on our toes. And Russian books on our shelves, because my All-American husband is also a scholar of Russian things. Speaking of which, check out my History section, and then mosey on over (yeah, I speak English with a Russian accent and a hint of Texan, what can you do?) -- so mosey on over to the Folktales area, and then check out how to make medieval Russian Costumes.

So don't leave just yet. Keep looking around. Click on the links above. You will find some Tips For Writers on Research and Craft, and a sample of my Fiction. Then why don't you navigate to my selection of links to some Neat Stuff Out There. While you browse through my site, look for the cartoons (here's one and look for more) courtesy of my oldest daughter. She has her own view of the writer's world. Teenagers are merciless, don't you know!

About Me

I can't remember a time when I didn't tell stories to pass the time, mostly to myself, walking to school or riding the subway train or sitting in a car. I can't remember a time when I didn't read -- anything in front of me, from cereal boxes to street signs, but particularly novels that took me on fantastic voyages. And when the travel guide couldn't supply the right itinerary any longer, I took up the pen myself.

I started calling myself a writer when I realized there was nothing I wanted to do more than tell stories, and tell them well. As I acknowledged that all these characters would never stop talking to me, that all these settings would just keep itching to spill out of my imagination, I dared say it out loud, and admit to my friends my secret occupation.

Now I am a member of the Romance Writers of America, and of our wonderful chapter here, the San Antonio Romance Authors. I've been the review editor for a time, spent two terms on the Board of directors. Now they've entrusted me with the chapter's web page, which is a whole new, enthralling, addicting adventure.

My daughters mostly think it's cool that I have voices in my head, and they like to "help me write," unless of course I need peace and quiet and computer time.

Maybe soon you will discover my romantic suspense novels, or my historical saga, or the dozens of projects I try to keep leashed on the shelves of bookstores. In the meantime, check out my works in progress.

For now, I teach Russian language and folklore with my husband at Trinity University in San Antonio. You can visit my other sites from the Links page and get a taste of Russian tales, legends, and unusual-but-true facts. So you see there's a reason all these Russian heroes keep showing up in my stories.

Deadline Approaching


© Anastasia Holl 2003