Marie Patrick has always had a love affair with words and books but it wasn't until a trip to Arizona, where she now makes her home with her husband, that she became inspired to write about the sometimes desolate, yet beautiful west. Her inspiration doesn't just come from the Wild West though. It comes from history itself. She is fascinated with pirates and men in uniform and lawmen with shiny badges. When not writing or researching her favorite topics, she can usually be found curled up with a good book. Marie loves to hear from her readers. Drop her a note at Akamariep@aol.com or visit her website at www.mariepatrick.com.