As a couple, they ooze creativity. Individually, they uncover, bring forth and spread a colorful mix of words, images and imaginative possibilities. New York Times best-selling author Cherry Wilkinson finds language to bring characters to life while her husband, David, delivers artistic talent to book designs, social media content and graphic advertising.
“One of my favorite things to do is mentor new authors,” said Cherry Wilkinson, who writes action/adventure, romantic suspense and paranormal action adventure. “I nurture and gently nudge people to write every day to develop their characters and get plots solidified.”
Cherry has written 50 books that offer readers glimpses of literary worldwide landscapes.
Raised in South Africa with stops in San Diego and San Francisco, Cherry’s initial interior design business thrived, but characters and storylines were destined to be told.
After meeting and marrying Seattle native David, the pair moved to Washington 16 years ago with Mount Rainier as their inspirational backdrop.
“I take Cherry’s ideas and get them on paper,” said David, who is known to work 10- to 12-hour days on an image concept for a book cover, video book promotion or newsletter.
“For the past eight years, we’ve averaged about 40 to 50 graphic ads a year, created adult coloring books and developed a coloring book app with illustrations of places we’ve traveled around the globe.”
Another of David’s passions is raising their two standard schnauzers, where he has ample experience as a 16-year canine obedience instructor, including conformation, rally, tracking and agility. He and his dogs, Max and Chase, competed throughout the country and were No. 1 in their breed in agility in the United States for many years.
Since arriving at Village Green a few months ago, Cherry and David appreciate the wooded walking trails, spacious grounds and, being plant lovers, the colorful array of flowers and foliage throughout the campus.
“Now that we’re here I look forward to writing more books,” Cherry said. “Having the extra time I once used to maintain a large house and property and being free to write unencumbered is fantastic.”
