I am Monker. I started reading and writing fanfiction a few years ago in the fandom for the TV show Monk (hence the penname). It's a wonderful show and I recommend it to all. Then I started reading and writing for the Princess Diaries (the movies) fandom and it's there I feel my writing blossomed. I was influenced by many a talented writer in that genre and I learned a lot about what it takes to write a decent story. I like to write short stories the most, just simple oneshots about nothing in particular. This is mainly because I'm not very good at plot. Character development and insight, yes...but plot...not so much.

Most of my writing has been primarily in Monk and Princess Diaries, but I have also written in MASH and High School Musical. The MASH story, I like. But the HSM story was started on a whim and I really have no intention of finishing it. I'm not particularly fond of that story because it's not really my preferred avenue, but I leave it posted because someone out there may enjoy reading it.

Now, I do more reading than I do writing. I enjoy reading things for Princess Diaries, Monk, MASH, Star Wars, x-men, NSIC, and more recently, Hogan's Heroes. When I read a story, I like to leave in-depth reviews. This stems from my writing experience. While it's true that I appreciated the reviews that said simply, "Great chapter! Keep going!" they didn't do much to help me grow as a writer. They didn't tell me what was so great or why I should keep going. So when I leave a review, I like it to be detailed. I will tell you why I liked something or didn't like something, and if it's a mistake I've noticed, I will do my best to explain why that sentence structure didn't work or why that punctuation was misused. My hope is that writers will feel encouraged and informed by my reviews. It's never my intention to come off rude, because I always have the most sincere desire to see writers improve. I will beta from time to time, but don't make a habit of it. However, if you would like me to beta something for you, shoot me a PM about it and I'll be glad to consider it. The only reason I hesitate is because I am sometimes kept from my reading time and so my response time can sometimes be slow.

As for genres, I like almost any form of story as long as it's written well and is in good taste. I seem to enjoy a right bit more stories that involve romance. However, I'm not much of a fan of slash. I've read it and know that it's not my thing. Above all, I like stories that captivate me, and I can think of a number of good writers on this site who have succeeded in doing just that. I love stories that have deep emotions in its characters and can therefore draw from me those same emotions. And I admire anyone who can do what I can't, so I'm impressed with practically any plot driven work.

On a more personal note, I am a follower of Jesus Christ (I would use the word "Christian" except that I've learned it sometimes leaves a bad taste in people's mouths, and in some ways, it leaves a bad taste in my own). I'm firm in my knowing that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that there is no other way to God then through Jesus. And I know with more certainty than anything else in existence that I am profoundly loved by my Creator, though I've done nothing to deserve it. I love stories that support good values or that ultimately teach good lessons. I always love to learn, so if you can teach me through the stories you write, that excites me to no end! I love people and getting to know them, and I've made a few very treasured friends through this site. So if for any reason you would like to talk or ask or rant, feel free to shoot a PM my way! I'd love to hear from you!

--Monker

Update 2/28/11: Some of my stories have been nominated in eight different categories for this year's Papa Bear Awards! These are my nominations...

Best Long Drama: "On the Rooftops of London"

Best Short General Story: "Men and Mice"

Most Unique Story: "Another Time, Another Place"

Best Portrayal of a Canon Character: Newkirk in "On the Rooftops of London"

Best Portrayal of a Canon Extra: Felix in "Men and Mice"

Best Original Character: Stephanie Chambers in "On the Rooftops of London"

Best Quote: From Carter in "Men and Mice" ... "But if you could just see yourself, Felix… you're filthy. No one would even know you're such a pretty white mouse. With all that cinnamon on you, you look like any old Tom, Dick, or Harry of mice."

I don't know if I'll win any of these (I'm am up against so many talented writers!) but I am so honored just to be nominated! There are many other fantastic stories nominated this year. Please be sure to cast your votes for your favorites before the 9th of April when voting closes! Follow this link for more details...

http://www.fanfiction.ws/s/6629503/26/Papa_Bear_Awards_2011_The_Mission_Briefing

Update 4/14/11: I am so honored to have won awards in six of the eight categories for which my stories were nominated! Thank you to everyone who voted. I am so humbled to know that you enjoyed these stories. In a time in my life when I could really use some smiles, this was a huge blessing. Thank you so much for your love and support. You are the best readers any writer could ever want! Here is a list of the awards you voted to give my stories...

1.)Best Long Drama--On The Rooftops of London (gold).

2.)Best Short General Story--Men and Mice (gold).

3.) Best Original Character--Stephanie Chambers/On The Rooftops of London (gold).

4.)Best Canon Character--Newkirk/On The Rooftops of London (silver).

5.)Most Unique Story--Another Time, Another Place (silver).

6.)Best Canon Extra--Felix/Men and Mice (bronze).

Once again, thank you, thank you, thank you!