Deborah is a trademark attorney and former homeschool parent with a passion for writing. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Deborah was inspired by her son, as well as her young nieces and nephews to turn her passion for writing short stories and poems into crafting children’s books.  This is how Zorah, a character named after Deborah's favorite author, Zora Neale Hurston, came to be. Zorah and her adventures are based on Deborah's own childhood, and Zorah shares her curiosity, thirst for knowledge and wonderful imagination. 

   Deborah didn't want to stop there. Understanding the importance of representation in children's literature and the need for diversity, she decided to create Leap Forward Publishing, LLC. Her vision is to bring stories that feature relatable, inspiring and diverse characters to the children in her life and children everywhere. She also hopes to help other writers overcome their creative obstacles and tell the stories they have trapped inside through her coaching and publishing services. 

     Deborah’s debut book, Zorah and the Very Big Question, was released in June 2021 and is the first in the Zorah book series, which follows six-year-old Zorah on her journey to understanding the world around her. The second book, Zorah the...Brave? will be released in Fall 2024. Deborah also released When You Give a Girl a Puppy… in 2022 which was featured on Ryan Reynold's new show 'Bedtime Stories with Ryan'. Summer Island, which is a Caribbean adventure to meet her father's family, was released in 2023.

     Deborah is also the founder of Mortimer Legal, PLLC, a trademark law practice specializing in protecting the brands of entrepreneurs, businesses, authors and other creatives. She has appeared on  several podcasts and has been a guest speaker, speaking about brand development and protection for authors and the importance of diversity and representation in children's literature. She's also a member of SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators) , NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), and a financial and active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.