I've been writing for as long as I can remember. In fact I recall telling my various family members that one day I would write a novel.
Now I have. More than one, actually.
I'm as of yet only self-published, but I'm not going to give up. One day, you'll see my books on the shelves.
My main influences...I can't really name just one. There are many authors whom I have read and from whom I have learned.
One name, however, does come to mind. My AP Lit teacher in high school, Mrs. Marco. I learned a lot about writing as well as reading from her.