Erin Mason's love for storytelling began long before she ever dreamed of becoming a published author. As a child, she spent countless hours folding printer paper from her father's study, stapling the pages together, and filling them with her own illustrated stories. At just eight years old, she won her first national poetry competition, marking what she likes to consider her first published work.

Fast forward to today, and Erin still spends much of her time reading, writing, and telling stories, though these days, they usually involve depositions, court transcripts, and cross-examinations. As a practicing attorney, Erin has developed a deep appreciation for the art of persuasive storytelling and knows firsthand the power of a compelling narrative (especially when presenting one to a jury).

While she loves practicing law, Erin has never let go of her childhood dream of becoming a published novelist. She understands both the excitement and the challenges of pursuing a creative passion alongside a demanding career, and she firmly believes that writing should never have to be a solitary journey.

Inspired by the incredible literary talent throughout Sarasota and the surrounding Southwest Florida community, Erin founded the Sarasota Authors Collective with a simple vision: to create a welcoming space where writers of all backgrounds and publishing journeys can connect, collaborate, celebrate one another's accomplishments, and champion each other's work.

Through the Collective, Erin hopes not only to foster meaningful, lifelong connections among local authors but also to give back to the community by promoting literacy initiatives and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.

After all, every great story deserves to be told, and every storyteller deserves a community cheering them on.