The Inspiration Behind the Z-Inc Series: A Real Life Love Story

Every good story has some sort of inspiration behind it. It might be something as simple as the writer seeing something unique and beautiful as they go about their daily lives. For others, the story might stem from talking with someone who then sparks an idea. For Z-Inc Lost and Found, a real-life love story became the foundation of the love between Z and Maria. Wondering just how much of the love story made it into the book? Keep on reading to find out just how much was a real-life experience.

Z-Inc Series

Who is Z-Inc Lost and Found Based On?

This story started decades ago. Z (who also gets referenced as Don Diego many times) is based on another Don, although this one is writer D A Shearing. And the love of his life? Mary — who is the basis of Maria. D A and Mary's story began at a gathering. The young D A Shearing saw that a woman was receiving unwanted advances. He knew the woman and stepped in — becoming the white knight in shining armor, much like the charming Z — and claimed the role of her boyfriend. That is where it all began.

What Elements of Their Story is True?

The fun part of the writing process was incorporating true elements of D A and Mary's story in Z and Maria's. So, what elements are based on fact and what is purely fiction? Here are the things that made it into the story:

Age Gap

The age gap between them is more than what was portrayed between Don and Maria. Where Z and Maria had a 10-year gap, Don and Mary had over 20 years separating them. Their struggles regarding their age gap were real. As they dated, they heard the whispers, “Oh, she’s awfully friendly with her son.” Mary corrected them and told them that he was her boyfriend, not her son.

Relationship Struggles

The age gap between the two lovebirds leads us to the top struggle that Z and Maria had that D A and Mary also dealt with at the beginning of their relationship. Each party had to come to terms with the age difference on their own, and the internal battle almost ended things for both couples. In the end, their love for each other trumped everything as the couples determine that they would face the future and all its struggles hand-in-hand. It took two years for them to realize that they would regret not taking a chance.

Having Twins

D A and Mary also had twin baby girls who provided the inspiration for books two and three in the Z-Inc series. After graduating high school, the twins joined the U.S. Air Force. Baby B served eight years before separating and completing her master’s degree. Baby A is still on active duty as a Master Sergeant. Both Nevah and Zoey share many similar traits as their real-life counterparts.

Birth Story

After they married, D A and Mary embarked on a journey to conceive. They sought the help of specialists, as depicted in the book. After six years of marriage, they decided to try In-Vitro fertilization. The first attempt was a triumph, and the arrival of the twins brought a wave of joy and relief, washing away all their past struggles.

The story of their birth — as depicted in the book — was based on actual events, too. After Twin A was born early, the doctor removing her from the delivery room bumped and unplugged the ultrasound by accident. The ultrasound that the doctor trying to deliver Twin B was using. Holding the two ends of the cord, Twin A's doctor laughed. The doctor trying to deliver baby B was not as amused.

Eager to Learn More About the Real Life Love Story?

While Z-Inc Lost and Found has many aspects that cross over from real life, there is still more you can explore. Explore the Los Angeles Times archive or read the lighthearted article in the OC Register to see more behind the veil.

Want to Explore This Love Story Firsthand?

Now that you know just how much of the tale is based on the love between D A Shearing and his wife, you might just see Z Inc Lost and Found in a whole new light. Go check it out on Kindle or Kindle Unlimited. Can you guess how many other parts of the story are true?