Growing up with three brothers and three sisters, I was the storyteller of the family... what my mother called 'The Liar.'

I started writing short stories. I tried writing horror, mystery, science fiction. I joined a little critique group here in town and ran my stories past them. After about three years, I tackled my first novel, Subterranean. It took me 11 months to write.

The turning point was when I hit my 30th birthday. I thought, if really want to write, it's time to start. I picked up the book How to Write a Novel in 90 Days. The author said to just write three pages a day, and I figured, I can do this. I never got past Page 3 of that book.

I wrote for years before I was ever published, and I don't think I could ever stop. That said, I was also a veterinarian before I sold my first book, and I still volunteer my time to help with animal welfare causes. So that is a career I would be happy to return to - while still secretly writing strange stories back in my doctor's office.

When Lady Gaga says I am her inspiration, you reach kids between 12 and 18. Now I am like a brand - jeans, Coca-Cola.

People are looking for inspiration, and my books are sometimes the vehicles of what people are looking for.

Sports are evolving and always evolving, and people have that determination to keep going and coming back. I think I'm one of those athletes. I stand to show that people shouldn't give up. You've got to just keep going until you succeed.

Becoming a part of the Marvel Universe was my childhood dream. Like most kids growing up, I read a lot of comic books and acted out some of the characters with friends. Since I can remember, I wanted to be a superhero, so it's not just a movie for me - or just another role - it's a fulfillment of my dreams on so many levels.