Whenever I meet DAFFODILS' fans, they invariably ask if my characters are based on real people. The answer is "No" unless specifically mentioned in the acknowledgments at the beginning of the book.

Like most authors, my characters are composites. Composites of people I've met over the years -- a quirk from this one, a saying from another, someone else's philosophy. In the case of Timothy, it was a friend's body. I will reveal nothing (other than to reputable modeling agents--with his permission) except that his real name is Chuck, he's a prince of a guy, and a VERY good sport to allow me to post these pictures.

Until now, Penny Sue has been the major focus of readers' attention. For curious sorts, she's loosely modeled after my late sister, though my sister never drank, smoked, or carried a gun.  Me?  I'm somewhere between Leigh and Ruthie, but there's a lot of fiction in both. (I do occasionally smudge the house, especially before starting a new book.)

But, for now, the subject is Timothy who was singled out by Shelley Glodowski, Senior Reviewer for Midwest Book Review:

"Timothy had changed into a tank top and running shorts. I had to admit the man was a fine specimen of humanity. Penny Sue obviously agreed, since she was swigging wine with her eyes fixed on his muscular thighs. Considering the oppressive heat -- the heat index had to be 103º-- I was afraid she might burst into flames."

Here's Timothy. Hopefully you don't burst into flames!