She is the author of twelve works of fiction, set mainly in the American Southwest.

Their subject matter concerns women, friendship, love and child rearing and their families.

It shows the women overcoming the problems by love, dedication and a focus on the Carpenter Clan.

Her second novel, Blue Rodeo, was adapted into a CBS television film of the same name, starring Ann-Margret and Kris Kristofferson.

She has taught English and Creative Writing at Orange Coast College, University of California Irvine extension, California State University Fullerton extension, Matanuska-Susitna College and now teaches in the M.F.A.