Kait Ballenger / Kaitlyn Schulz

Kait Ballenger is a full-time paranormal romance author, wife, professional bellydancer, and graduate student living in Central Florida. TWILIGHT HUNTER, the debut novel in her dark, sexy paranormal series, the Execution Underground, about an international network of supernatural hunters who fight to protect humanity alongside the powerful women they seduce, releases with Harlequin's HQN line in September 2013. SHADOW HUNTER, a prequel novel to the series, will be featured in the AFTER DARK anthology, releasing on June 25th 2013, alongside a novella by NYT and USA Today bestselling paranormal romance author, Gena Showalter. Kait writes dark paranormal romance with drool-worthy heroes and kickass heroines as Kait Ballenger, and sassy YA urban fantasy and NA under her maiden name, Kaitlyn Schulz. With a B.A in English from Stetson University, Kait is currently a student in Spalding University’s M.F.A in Writing for Children and Young Adults program, where she studies dual-genre in screenwriting. When Kait’s not preoccupied with writing paranormal creepy-crawlies, she can be found slaving over endless amounts of schoolwork or with her nose buried in a good book. She lives in Florida with her husband, their doggie-daughter Sookie (yes, like the heroine in Charlainne Harris’ books), and two mischievous kittens, Elliot and Olivia (yes, like the Law and Order characters), near the love and care of her supportive family. Kait believes anything is possible with hard work and dedication. One day, she will be a bestselling author and have people name their pets after her characters too. Find Kait at www.KaitBallenger.com

Macy Beckett

Macy writes hot and humorous romance set in the fictitious town of Sultry Springs, Texas, where first loves find second chances. Her debut novel, Shaken, Stirred, and Sultry, will be released in September of 2012 by Sourcebooks, followed by two companion novels in 2013. Macy likes to say she grew up everywhere. A former military brat, she graduated from high school in Munich and went on to earn a BA in English from Texas State University. After residing in eleven different states, she finally abandoned her nomadic lifestyle and settled in the heart of Ohio with her husband and three spirited children. When Macy’s not writing, she’s reading across all genres and quite possibly obsessing over Battlestar Galactica. Come learn more about the Sultry Springs series at www.macybeckett.com

Jennifer Beckstrand

I grew up with a steady diet of William Shakespeare and Jane Austen. After all that literary immersion, I naturally decided to get a degree in mathematics, which came in handy when one of my six children needed help with homework. After my fourth daughter was born, I started writing. My goal is to write uplifting, inspiring stories with happy endings and hopeful messages. If my books make readers want to give themselves a big hug or jump up and down for joy, I’ve done my job. I am a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. There are three Amish romances in the Forever After in Apple Lake Series (Summerside Press). Kate’s Song, Rebecca’s Rose, and Miriam's Quilt. My next Amish romance series, “The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill,” is scheduled for release early in 2014 (Kensington Books). You can find out more about me and my books at jenniferbeckstrand.com or on my Facebook page at Jennifer Beckstrand Fans.

Barbara Blais

Barbara Blais is an Inspirational Christian Writer who adores God. Barbara grew up in an Agnostic household, and only began attending church in 2009. Fired from her job, and stressed about finances, and her father’s recent death, she began experiencing God’s love for her by a series of personal revelations from Him. Trying to become closer to God, Barbara realized that she did not know how to pray to Him. She asked God for His help, and soon after He gave her the gift of composing peaceful prayers. Barbara’s life gradually became much, more fulfilling, and peaceful, as she persistently said her prayers, day after day. Barbara has a doctorate in Psychology. Prior to becoming an Inspirational Christian Writer, she worked as an assistant professor at Rice University, and as a business consultant. She lives in Virginia with her husband Paul, and their two, small dogs. Barbara has written a book describing how God lovingly transformed her life, and the 9, peaceful prayers that she wrote. You can follow Barbara’s Blog at www.barbarablais.com God Loves You More, than You Can Possibly Imagine. 

Jake Brown

Music biographer Jake Brown has written 30 published books in his decade-long career, including 14 in his trademarked ‘In the Studio’ series, highlights of which include authorized collaborations with legendary female rock band Heart, metal pioneers Motorhead, late hip hop legend Tupac Shakur, and living guitar legend Joe Satriani (confidential, book not being published till mid-2012). He was also a co-author on late funk pioneer Rick James’ authorized memoir, and is currently co-writing founding Guns N’ Roses guitarist Tracii Guns’ authorized memoir, also due for publication in 2012. His broader catalog includes books on Tori Amos, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Biggie Smalls, Jay Z, R. Kelly, Tom Waits (due Fall, 2011), Dr. Dre, Kanye West, Rick Rubin, Jane’s Addiction, Death Row Records founder Suge Knight, Nikki Sixx, Prince, Lil Wayne, and a host of others. Brown has received major media coverage in USA Today, MTV, Billboard Magazine, Publisher’s Weekly, Classic Rock Magazine among others, has been published by multiple publishers in North America and internationally in UK and broader Europe, Japan/the broader Pacific Rim, South America, the Former Soviet Bloc, etc. He has appeared as the featured biographer of record on Fuse TV’s ‘Live Through This’ series and Bloomberg TV’s ‘Game Changers’ series, and recently was nominated alongside Motorhead founder Lemmy Kilmister for the 2010 Association for Recorded Sound Collections Awards in the category of Excellence in Historical Recorded Sound Research

Diane Burke

Diane Burke, an award-winning author of inspirational romantic suspense, writes for Harlequin’s Love Inspired line. She is the proud mother of two adult sons and is blessed with three talented grandsons. Residing in Florida, she spends her free time either at one of the many, exciting theme parks or enjoying quieter times walking the sands of the closest beach. She is active on Twitter and Facebook. She loves to hear from her fans. They can reach her at: diane@dianeburkeauthor.com

Vannetta Chapman

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania. Her novel, Falling to Pieces, was a 2012 ACFW Carol Award winner for best mystery. All of her books have been Christian Book Distributor bestsellers. She currently writes Amish fiction for Abingdon Press, Zondervan, and Harvest House. Chapman lives in the Texas hill country with her husband.

Ashlyn Chase

Ashlyn Chase describes herself as an Almond Joy bar. A little nutty, a little flaky, but basically sweet, wanting only to give her readers a scrumptious, satisfying, reading experience. She holds a degree in behavioral sciences, worked as a psychiatric RN for several years and spent a few more years working for the American Red Cross where she still volunteers as an instructor. She credits her sense of humor to her former careers since comedy helped preserve whatever was left of her sanity. She is a multi-published, award-winning author of humorous erotic and paranormal romances, represented by the Seymour Agency. She lives in beautiful New Hampshire with her true-life hot, hero husband (who looks like Hugh Jackman if you squint,) and they’re owned by a spoiled brat cat. Where there’s fire, there’s Ash www.ashlynchase.com Check out my news, contest, videos and reviews. Join my facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ashlyn-Chase/101303673285353 Chat with me: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ashlynsnewbestfriends/ …and I tweet as GoddessAsh. Let me sign your Kindle ebook at www.Kindlegraph.com

Samantha Chase

Contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan's Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40's to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

Her second book, a holiday novella titled "The Christmas Cottage" hit #10 on Amazon's Best Seller List on Christmas Eve. It was a great Christmas gift! Watching the numbers rise and fall is a daily roller coaster ride but definitely an exciting one! And coming February 25th, she will be releasing the follow up novella - "Ever After".

When she's not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, blogging, playing way too many games of Scrabble on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 23 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

Marisa Cleveland

Marisa Cleveland loves to laugh, hates to cry, and does both often. She's been called admissions counselor, assistant director, teacher, coach, analyst, friend, and wife. As a writer, she writes. Every day. Perhaps because she married her best friend, her adult romance novels focus on playfully naughty relationships developed through friendship and family-oriented values. She is a member of RWA, and her South Beach series is coming soon from Entangled Publishing. Connect with Marisa on Twitter (@marisacleveland) or through Facebook (www.facebook.com/marisacleveland00). http://www.marisacleveland.com/

Amy Clipston

Amy Clipston is the bestselling author of the Kauffman Amish Bakery series, published by Zondervan. She also has a romantic suspense, Betrayed, with Five Star Expressions. Amy is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). She holds a degree in communications from Virginia Wesleyan College and works full-time for the City of Charlotte. She lives with her husband, two sons, and four spoiled-rotten cats in North Carolina. Visit her at www.amyclipston.com

Carey Corp

Carey Corp lives in the metropolitan Midwest with her loveable, yet out-of-control, family. Between high school and college, she toured for 5 ½ years as part of an interdenominational Christian theater company, ministering in seven different countries. Carey wrote her first book at the age of seven. Writing both literary fiction and stories for young adults, she begins each morning consuming copious amounts of coffee while weaving stories that capture her exhaustive imagination. She harbors a voracious passion (in no consistent order) for mohawks, Italy, musical theater, chocolate, and Jane Austen. Carey’s debut novel for teens, The Halo Chronicles: The Guardian, earned her national recognition as 2010 Golden Heart finalist for best young adult fiction. It is available in print and eBook, and was recently featured at the 2012 RT Booklovers Convention in Chicago in YA Alley, where Carey signed with Melissa Marr, Kelley Armstrong, Margaret Stohl, Kami Garcia, Ally Carter, Veronica Roth, Cinda Williams Chima, Melissa de la Cruz and other bestselling YA authors. When Carey is not writing or indulging her corporate alter ego at Procter & Gamble, she can be found worshipping at Crossroads Church. DOON, a YA reimagining of the classic musical Brigadoon, co-written with Lorie Langdon, releases from Zondervan in 2013. Visit her at www.careycorp.com. facebook.com/authorcareycorp twitter.com/careycorp careycorp.blogspot.com goodreads.com/careycorp

Jen J. Danna

An avid writer during her teen years, Jen stepped away from the keyboard as she earned a degree in biology and started a scientific career, all while raising a family. But as her children grew and became more independent, Jen's love for writing came back with a vengeance, paired with her interest in forensic anthropology. Using her knowledge of science from her career in a University immunology lab, she started writing forensic crime novels. Early on in her writing career, Jen paired with Ann Vanderlaan and the two began a fruitful writing partnership. Ann intended to be a mathematical psychologist, but got sidetracked in graduate school while raising her son and getting a degree in neurophysiology/neuropsychology. Through various career transitions, she mastered systems physiology, metrology (the science of measurement), deception detection and behaviometrics. As a writing team, Jen and Ann craft suspenseful mysteries with a smart, scientific edge. Jen lives near Toronto, Ontario with her husband and two daughters and works in a lab studying HIV infection and mother-to-child viral transmission. She is a member of the Crime Writers of Canada can be reached at http://www.jenjdanna.com. Ann lives near Austin, Texas where she lives with a recently rescued pit bull. She consults with small companies writing research grants and does volunteer work to improve the image of the Pit Bull. You can find her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/AnnVanderlaan.

Jim Davis

I’ve written Bible Studies for years, for use in our own church or small groups. A project on suffering peaked my interest and grew, and grew some more. It became a book, my first, and it’s scheduled for publication in early 2014 from Leafwood Publishers. Why Me? (And Why That’s the Wrong Question) is about the questions people ask about suffering. I started a personal study in the hope of providing answers to hurting class members, looking for answers to the questions we usually ask when we hurt. Instead of finding answers, though, I became convinced that our energy is better directed toward a different set of questions, questions that focus on God and his glory. My book is the result of that study. I am a constitutional attorney in Birmingham, Alabama, where I live with Sonya, my wife of 22 years, and our teenage son Tully. I blog about writing and teaching Bible studies at http://tavbiblestudies.wordpress.com, but soon my blog will be located at http://JimDavisBooks.com.

Valentine Dmitriev

Valentine Dmitriev has a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Special Education and is the published author of three novels and seven books, as well as numerous professional papers and articles, on parenting and child development. A pioneer in infant learning and early intervention, Dmitriev was the founder and past coordinator of the Model Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities at the University of Washington Experimental Unit in Seattle, Washington. In addition to her work at the university, Valentine Dmitriev served as a lecturer and consultant to public schools, developmental centers and university educational programs in over forty cities in the United States. She has also given lectures and workshops in eleven foreign countries, including Australia, England, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Russia and Spain. A widow and the mother of two sons and a daughter Dr. Dmitriev resides in a retirement community near Hackettstown, New Jersey.

Mary Ellis

Mary Ellis grew up close to the eastern Ohio Amish community, Geauga County, where her parents often took her to farmer’s markets and woodworking fairs. She loved their peaceful, agrarian lifestyle, their respect for the land, and their strong sense of Christian community. She and her husband now live close to the largest population of Amish in the country—a four-county area in central Ohio--where they take frequent getaways for reasearch and to enjoy a simpler way of life. Before “retiring” to write full-time, Mary taught middle school and worked as a sales rep for Hershey Chocolate—a job with amazingly sweet fringe benefits. All three of her Amish inspirational romances, A Widow’s Hope, Never Far from Home, and The Way to a Man’s Heart have made the CBA, CBD and ECPA bestseller lists. A Widow's Hope was a 2010 ACFW Carol Award finalist and runner-up for 2010 Holt Medallion Award. Her current release is Sarah's Christmas Miracle from Harvest House Publishers. Abigail's New Hope will be released in March, 2011. Mary can be reached at www.maryeellis.wordpress.com

Pamela Ewen

After practicing law for twenty-five years in Houston, Texas, Pamela Binnings Ewen exchanged her partnership in the law firm of BakerBotts, L.L.P. for a full time writing career. She now lives in Mandeville, Louisiana. Her most recent novel Chasing the Wind, published by B&H Publishing Group in Nashville, was released on August 1, 2012 Pamela is the author of five books published by B&H Publishing Group, including Faith on Trial (a non-fiction book of apologetics in 1999), and the novels Walk Back the Cat, recently re-released in 2010 with a new title as Secret of the Shroud in connection with a rare public exhibition of the Shroud in Turin, Italy, The Moon in the Mango Tree, (2008) ( a 2009 Christy Award Finalist), Dancing on Glass (2011) ( a 2012 Christy Award Finalist, and winner of a Single Titles Reviewers Choice Award. )The Moon in the Mango Tree was also recently honored as winner of the 2012 Eudora Welty Memorial Award given by the National League of American Pen Women in their Biennial Celebration. Pamela’s fiction writing grows out of her faith journey which eventually resulted in her non-fiction book of apologetics, Faith on Trial , published by B&H in 1999. Although written for non-lawyers, together with Lee Strobel’s A Case for Christ, Faith On Trial was chosen as a text for a course on law and religion at Yale Law School in the spring of 2000. Pamela is also featured in the film Jesus:Fact or Fiction produced by Campus Crusade for Christ. An updated second edition of Faith on Trial containing a new study guide is scheduled for release by B&H in the fall of 2013. While practicing law Pamela served on the board of directors of Inprint, Inc., a non-profit organization supporting the literary arts in Houston, Texas. Pamela has also served on the board of directors of the New Orleans Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society and she is currently a member of the Board of Directors of The Tennessee Williams Festival in New Orleans. In 2007 she co-founded the Northshore Literary Society. Pamela received the St. Tammany Parish President’s Arts Award as Literary Artist of the Year in 2009. Visit her at www.pamelaewen.com

Kim Falconer

Bio Kim Falconer is a bestselling speculative fiction author with seven novels out through HarperVoyager Australia. Her work is described as contemporary and ancient, dark and uplifting, shocking and enlightening. Originally from California, she lives in on the far eastern coast of Australia with two gorgeous black cats. Along with her author websites, she runs Good Vibe Astrology, trains with a sword and is completing a Masters Degree. As an eternal student, she has studied everything from Jungian psychology to quantum physics theory and marine biology to socio-technology and web design. Her favorite pastimes, besides daydreaming, include meditation, organic gardening and weight training. Her novel writing is done in the early hours of the morning. Currently she's working on additional books in the Amassia series. Her latest release, Blood and Water, will debut in the Supernatural Underground - Vampires Gone Wild, HarperCollins Avon Inspire anthology with NY Times bestselling authors Kerrilyn Sparks and Pamela Palmer. Find Kim at: Author Website http://www.kimfalconer.com Facebook http://www.facebook.com/kimfalconerfans Twitter: https://twitter.com/KimFalconer

Amanda Flower

Amanda Flower, an Agatha-nominated mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel. She knew at that moment she’d found her calling of making people laugh with her words. Her debut mystery, Maid of Murder, was an Agatha Award Nominee for Best First Novel. She writes the Appleseed Creek Mystery Series for B&H and the India Hayes Mystery Series for Five Star. She also writes mysteries as Isabella Alan for NAL. In addition to being an author, Amanda is an academic librarian for a small college near Cleveland. Visit her online at www.amandaflower.com and www.isabellaalan.com.

Jacquie Greenfield

Since beginning her writing career in January of 2000, Jacquie Greenfield has been a member of Romance Writers of America and the local RWA chapter, Heartland of Iowa Fiction Authors. She has three contemporary single-title western romances published in Hardcover by Five Star Publishing and has received several top reviews. Her manuscripts have placed in several national writing contests including first and third place in the Single-Title Contemporary Romance Category at the Mid-America Romance Authors Fiction from the Heartland Contest, Honorable Mention at the Colorado Romance Writers Heart of the Rockies Contest, third place in the Wisconsin Romance Writers of America Fabulous Five Contest, and third place in the Toronto Romance Writers Original Golden Opportunity Contest. Visit her website at www.jacquiegreenfield.com.

Jeff Gunning

Jeff is a PGA Pro. In his first golf clinic booklet (1983) “Golf Is Easy As 1-2-3,” Jeff reveals the key physical swing positions and playing skills of golf greatest players. Its effectiveness is most evident in the productivity, longevity and successes of his students, as mentioned in his most recent writings. Since that first booklet, Jeff has published informative and entertaining articles for PGA Magazine, contributed to instructional newspaper articles, and is currently developing “Re-Tales”, an entertaining and informative book about the retail and service aspect of the golf industry. He currently lives in sunny, Southwest Florida, where he teaches and plays golf. His first major sale, "The Smart Guide to Golf," is slated for release in 2011.

Lynnette Hallberg

Lynnette Hallberg grew up in Pennsylvania’s Alleghany Mountains, moved to New York, then to the Rockies in Wyoming. Presently she, her husband, and her Siamese cat divide their time between Naples, Florida’s beaches and Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. She has a Master’s in Educational Leadership and taught middle school language arts before leaving it to write full-time. Her books have finaled in Romance Writers of America’s national Golden Heart Contest, PASIC’s Book of Your Heart Contest, and Georgia Romance Writers’ Maggie Contest. Her books include Enchanted Evening from Kensington, and Moonlight, Motorcycles, and Bad Boys, Chantilly Lace and A Pretty Face, and Night Shadows from The Wild Rose Press. Her newest, Just A Little White Lie, is scheduled for a September 2011 release from Carina Press. A lover of books, Lynnette loves to read and write and loves nothing better than to lose herself in her characters’ world. Besides reading and writing, she loves to travel. She’s visited all fifty states with the exception of Alaska. She’s traveled extensively throughout Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, and Central America—always on the lookout for new characters or a new story. Visit Lynnette at www.lynnettehallberg.com

Marianne Harden

Marianne Harden loves a good laugh. So much so, she cannot stop humor from spilling into her books. She’s rarely at a loss for words, which is helpful for a writer, and it would be silly to say she didn't fidget her way through school dreaming of faraway lands. Over the years, she has backpacked through the wilds of Australia, explored the exotics of Asia, soaked up the sun in the Caribbean, and delighted in the historic riches of Europe. Her goals in life are simple: do more good than harm and someday master the do-not-mess-with-me look. She divides her time between Switzerland and Washington State where she lives with her husband and two children. ~MALICIOUS MISCHIEF~ Available October 2013 Entangled Publishing

Yvonne Harris

Yvonne Harris earned a BS in Education from the University of Hartford and has taught throughout New England and the mid-Atlantic. Unofficially retired from teaching, she teaches writing at Burlington County College in southern New Jersey, where she resides. She is a three-time finalist for the Golden Heart, once for The Vigilante’s Bride, which is her debut novel. Yvonne writes for Bethany House.

Joyce Henderson

Joyce Henderson was born in Central Texas (where she sets her Native American Romances). Her mother took her to Southern California (settings for her Turn of the Century Americana Romances) when she was three years old. She met her ever-lovin' at age 14, announced she would marry him someday and did…when she was seventeen. Besides wife, mother, chief cook and bottle washer, Joyce wore several career hats, bookkeeper, manager in a worldwide cosmetics firm, vice president and treasurer of a consulting firm. For many years she farmed avocados and citrus, and owned horses. She began learning how to write romance fiction in 1984. After joining Romance Writers of America, Inc. in 1989, and in 1990, she helped charter Southwest Florida Romance Writers, Inc. She's also a member Novelists, Inc., and she still mentors many writers. She judges for many writing contests offered to members of RWA. In the early 90s, after earning a certificate from Newspaper Institute of America, Joyce detoured into non-fiction writing for a few years. She wrote straight news, human interest stories, and her editorial column, "It Ain't Necessarily So," was well received by readers. Joyce returned to romance writing and has taken the advice given to authors to "write what she knows," to write about a few of those "career hats" she wore. Farming and horses are a significant part of her stories, and she relishes history, Stubborn to a fault (she’s not a Capricorn for nothing!), Joyce wrote for 20 years prior to selling her first book in 2004. Her books have finalled in the National Reader’s Choice Award and the Maggie, prestigious recognition in the world of Romance writing, and several other contests offered by chapters across the country. Married since dirt was still a rock, she and her husband now live in Northern California and have three children. Including “step-grands,” they have nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Joyce loves to hear from her readers: joyce.author@gmail.com Learn more about Joyce and her books at her website: www.joycehendersonauthor.com

Loree Huebner

Loree has had a love affair with American history all of her life. She writes historical fiction and inspirational historical romance. She adores the Civil War era. She shares this passion for history and writing along with her husband, Eric J. Huebner. Loree Huebner and Eric J. Huebner are published in the Indiana Historical Society's Spring 2011 issue/June 2011 - of the IHS's quarterly magazine, Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History. Their ten page Civil War article is titled, Among The Bravest Of The Brave, The Battle History Of The 9th Indiana. Loree and her husband have made the Civil War period a personal study and hobby. They are both living historians and serve as Union Civil War re-enactors with the 9th Indiana Volunteer Infantry Company E, and the 21st Indiana Light Artillery. Loree is an active member of the ACFW, the ACFW Indiana Chapter, and the RWA. She is also the proud mom of three awesome kids. She resides in Indiana with her husband. Loree Huebner Writing romance with one foot in the past... Blog: loreehuebner.blogspot.com on Twitter @LoreeHuebner https://www.facebook.com/LoreeHuebnerAuthor

Kelly Irvin

Former journalist and public relations professional Kelly Irvin made her debut as a published novelist in 2010 with A Deadly Wilderness from Five Star Gale Publishing. The novel was deemed “a solid romantic suspense debut,” by Publishers Weekly. The sequel, No Child of Mine, will hit the streets in September 2011. Kelly recently signed a contract with Harvest House Publishing for two Amish romances. She and her husband, two children, three cats and a couple of dozen fish make their home in San Antonio , Texas . For a sample of Kelly’s work, check out her web site at http://www.kellyirvin.com.

Lorie Langdon

Lorie Langdon has over ten years experience writing online and print advertising for a Fortune 500 company. A few years ago, she left her thriving corporate career to satisfy the voices in her head. Now as a full-time author and stay-at-home mom, she spends her summers editing poolside while dodging automatic water-gun fire, and the rest of the year tucked into her cozy office, Havanese puppy by her side, working to translate her effusive imagination into the written word. She is an active member of Beavercreek Church of the Nazarene, serving on the worship committee, working with Target Dayton (homeless ministry), and participating in fundraising for the church sponsored orphanage in Benin, Africa. Lorie has a Bachelor’s Degree from Wright State University. She is a PRO member of Romance Writers of America and a board member for her local Ohio Valley RWA chapter. She is one of the founding members of the rapidly emergent young adult focused blog, HonestlyYA. Doon, a reimagining of the musical classic Brigadoon, co-written by Lorie and Carey Corp, will debut from Zondervan in 2013. Visit her at www.lorielangdon.com, Twitter.com/lorielangdon, Facebook.com/authorlorielangdon

Lauren Layne

Lauren Layne has been an avid romance reader ever since swiping a Nora Roberts book from her mother’s Costco haul in junior high. After stashing all sorts of trashy reads under her pillow for years, she finally embraced her destiny post-college…not only as a romance reader, but also as a romance writer. Many abandoned stories about dreamy dukes later, Lauren finally discovered her writing voice: humorous contemporary romances with cheeky heroines and sarcastic heroes. When her husband’s job presented the opportunity to move to New York, Lauren jumped at the chance to bump her writing ambitions to the next level. Leaving behind an e-commerce career in Seattle, she settled into a writing career in Manhattan. Lauren has a Bachelors of Science degree in Political Science from Santa Clara University. When not writing, you’ll find her at happy hour with her husband, walking her dog in Central Park, or curled up with a good book. Visit her at www.laurenlayne.com, or on Twitter @LLayne_author.

Jessica Lemmon

Jessica Lemmon has always been a dreamer. At some point, she decided head-in-the-clouds thinking was childish went out and got herself a job. …And then she got another one because that one was lousy. And when that one stopped being fulfilling, she went out and got another…and another. Soon it became apparent she’d only be truly happy doing what she loved. And since “eating potato chips” isn’t a viable career, she opted to become a writer. With fire in her heart, she dusted off a book she’d started years prior, finished it, and submitted it. It may have been the worst book ever, but it didn’t stop her from writing another one. Now she has several books finished, several more started, and even more marinating in her brain (which currently resides in the clouds, thankyouverymuch), and she couldn’t be happier. She firmly believes God gifts us with talents for a purpose, and with His help, you can create the life you want. Jessica is a writer, artist, dreamer, wife, and den mother to two dogs. You can find her blog at www.smilefeelgood.com or follow her on Twitter @lemmony.

Amy Lillard

Amy loves nothing more than a good book. Except for her family…and maybe homemade tacos…and shoes. But reading and writing are definitely high on the list. Fun and contemporary or influenced by the simplicity of the Amish way of life, Amy’s novels are true love stories with a guaranteed happy ending. Born and bred in Mississippi, Amy is a transplanted Southern Belle who now lives in Oklahoma with her deputy husband, their genius son, a spoiled cat, and one very hyper beagle. When she's not creating quirky characters and happy endings, she enjoys going to little league baseball games and boy scout meetings. She also loves gardening, cross stitching, and generally anything that can get her out of housework. Amy is a member of RWA and an award winning author. You can reach her at amylillard@sbcglobal.net.

Caryl McAdoo

Caryl McAdoo was born in Long Beach, California, but got to Texas as quickly as possible at the too-young-to-remember-anything-else age of six months and celebrated her first birthday as a Texan. Growing up in Northwest Dallas, she moved past the city limit sign to Irving where she graduated from Mac Arthur High School, met her husband (an Irving High School football hero) the summer before their junior year, married quick as they graduated, birthed four children, and enjoyed life close to lots of family and friends. Twelve grandchildren were born in Irving as well. It was her life long home until 2008 when she and Ron followed God’s leading to Red River County in far North East Texas. Back in 1962, as a seventh grader at Letot Elementary, she remembers a homework assignment: an essay on ‘What will you be doing in 2000?’ Looking into the future, Caryl saw herself as an inter-galactically famous author, streaking from planet to planet signing books. But it was her husband who started writing first. An avid reader, Ron read a disappointing novel and thought, ‘If that lady can get published, I know I can!’ He began a story in ‘89, Caryl joined in—they do pretty much everything together—and by ‘91 they’d hand written their first three hundred eighty page novel, a Biblical fiction. God directed the McAdoos to the DFW Writers’ Workshop in ’93, and they discovered they’d made all the beginner mistakes a writer could possibly make—every one! But a few of the published authors saw something there, took Ron and Caryl under their wings, and mentored them. Six years later, their first co-authored non-fiction was published. For the next nine years, attending weekly read and critique sessions, they averaged publishing a title a year from four presses: two non-fiction, four novels, and three mid-grade chapter books. In April, 2012, Caryl met Mary Sue Seymour at the North East Texas Writers’ Organization Spring Conference in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, and wrote her first historical Christian romance set in the 1800s especially for Mary Sue. (Whose maiden name was remarkably ‘McAdoo’!) She signed a contract for representation in August, and VOW UNBROKEN sold on 10-11-12 to Howard Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Caryl, also known as Grami, has fourteen grandsugars now, and she and Ron (O’Pa) have been rearing four of the grandsons for the past ten years. She is dedicated to serving God particularly through praise and worship; He frequently gives her new songs. Caryl believes all good things are from Him and that her new books will minister His love, mercy, and grace to readers.

Kate Meader

Kate Meader writes sexy contemporary romance that serves up delicious food, to-die-for heroes, and heroines with a dash of sass. Originally from Ireland, she cut her romance reader teeth on Catherine Cookson and Jilly Cooper novels, with some Mills and Boons thrown in for variety. Her stories are set in her adopted home town of Chicago, a city made for food, romance, and laughter – and where she met her own sexy hero. She has a bachelor’s in law (useless), a master’s in history (not as useless), and another master’s in library and information science (yay, using). When not writing about men who cook and the women who drool over them, she works in an academic library. Feel the Heat, Book 1 in her Hot in the Kitchen series will be released in May 2013. Visit her website at http://katemeader.com and follow her on Twitter @kittymeader.

Lisa Norato

Lisa Norato is published with two sweet romance novel releases from Five Star/Gale/Cengage. I Only Want to Be With You, received favorable reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Booklist, and Where Eagles Fly won the prestigious unpublished Maggie Award. Her next release, Prize of My Heart, coming from Bethany House in the Spring of 2012, is a historical inspirational novel set during New England ’s Federal period. A life-long New England resident, she currently works as a legal assistant specializing in corporate law. When not writing, she enjoys time spent with her dog, family and friends, television and especially British comedy and dramas. For more information, please visit Lisa at www.lisanorato.com

Bobbie O' Keefe

Bobbie O'Keefe loves to read and was blessed with a rich imagination to boot. Even as a child growing up on the northern California coast, she couldn't resist making up plots and characters and interacting them. Then one adventurous day she actually took pencil to paper and put down some of that stuff that was taking up all that space in her head, read it back to herself and then thought, "Hmm." She now has one hardback to her credit and two more on the way, and she hopes she's not done. It's too much fun. She likes mystery, romance, adventure, and she writes with a light hand. Because humor abounds in real life, she believes it also belongs in fiction, regardless of the genre. Visit Bobbie at www.bobbieokeefe.com

Diane O'Key

Diane O’Key can’t ever remember not reading—or writing, for that matter. By the end of eighth grade, she’d written numerous poems and short stories and won an award for having read over 500 books between grades 1 through 8. Her lifelong love of storytelling, classical literature, and history—inspired by incredible and demanding teachers—propelled her into a 22-year secondary language arts teaching career, in which her students and colleagues immeasurably enriched her life...though one of her great points of pride—and greatest fears—is that they remember her as OCD about grammar, spelling, and syntax.... Married for almost 40 years, she and her better-half have one grown son and divide their time between we-love-winters-in Florida (though they’re there most of the year) and their beloved South Carolina Upstate lake home as often as they can get away. A member of SW Florida Romance Writers and RWA for seventeen years, she is a critique partner of two wonderful multi-published author. Diane writes medieval historical romance, contemporary romance, and romantic suspense. Writing as she does “in the mist,” without absolute direction or outlines, is both a challenge and a joy. She delights in those moments when the characters pop full-blown into her head, carrying on a conversation. As that pop is rarely the first chapter, however, the struggle begins to write from that point-first backward, then forward. Keeps her awake at night...and life interesting. Diane’s first novel in a historical series, CHERISH THE KNIGHT, releases from The Wild Rose Press in 2012.

Darlene Panzera

Darlene Panzera is a graduate of the Writer's Digest advanced novel writing school, The Christian Writer's Guild apprentice writing program, and a member of Romance Writer's of America's Greater Seattle and Peninsula chapters. She is the winner of the "Make Your Dreams Come True" contest sponsored by Avon Books, which led her novella, THE BET, to be published with Debbie Macomber's FAMILY AFFAIR released July 2012. The full length novel, retitled, BET YOU'LL MARRY ME, releases December 4, 2012. She is currently working on a 3 novella set for Avon Books, a division of HarperCollins, to be published March 2013 titled, THE CUPCAKE DIARIES. Born and raised in New Jersey, Darlene is now a resident of the Pacific Northwest where she lives with her husband and three children. When not writing she enjoys spending time with her family and her two horses, and loves camping, hiking, photography, and lazy days at the lake. Write to Darlene Panzera at : P.O. Box 1876 Belfair, WA 98528 Or visit her website: www.darlenepanzera.com

Terry Powell

Terry grew up in a Christian home in rural western North Carolina. Being keenly aware of his sin and under conviction by God’s Spirit, he put his faith in Christ around the age of 10. He received a call from God to communicate His Word and serve Him vocationally after two years of college, which altered his plans to major in English and become a writer. He met his wife, Dolly, while majoring in Religion at Carson-Newman College in Tennessee. From there he attended Wheaton Graduate School, where he earned two degrees: a Masters in Communications, and a second in Christian Education. He served as a Christian writer and church staff member in Christian Education before taking M. Div classes at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois. In 1981, He was called to teach in Christian Education at CIU , before completing the M. Div. He earned his Ph.D in Educational Ministry from TEDS in 1993, and has served full time on the faculty of CIU since 1981. On two separate occasion,. Terry has served as part-time Director of Christian Education at Cornerstone Church (PCA) in Irmo (1991-95, and 2007-2011), where he has been a member since 1982. Terry is a licensed preacher in the Palmetto Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church In America. God’s grace has been especially evident in Terry’s life through repeated bouts of depression, particularly in the early 1990s and again in 2002—2005. When medical intervention has not worked, his faith in God’s character and God’s promises have sustained him, and he is still learning that God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Cor 12:9). He has discovered the truth of what another depression- prone leader wrote years ago: “God gets from us most glory when we get from Him most grace” (Charles Spurgeon). In addition to his bride of almost 42 years, Terry has two grown sons, and one 21-month old grandson, plus and a 5-year old dachshund, Farley. His constant prayer is, “Lord, make me the person my dog thinks I am.” You can visit his website for free download of articles, devotionals, faith poems, and more: www.terrydpowell.com

Carl Edwin Prude Jr.

Carl Edwin Prude Jr. is a PK who has dedicated his life to helping people improve the quality of their lives through faith. For over two decades he’s enjoyed dual leadership careers in both the faith and business communities, his influence stretches from the prayer room to the boardroom. In addition to founding Love-In-Action Senior Citizen Outreach in East St. Louis, Illinois, and Living Water Fellowship Community Church in Moreno Valley, California, Carl is a successful technology business development specialist, working with companies like ATT, Bell Labs, Verizon and Cisco. A popular conference and workshop speaker, Carl currently is the director of Centermark, an organization that helps people reach new levels of personal and professional growth. He also serves as part of the Riverside County Sheriff's Dept. Volunteer Chaplain Corp and attends The Rock Church and World Outreach Center in San Bernardino California (the 19th largest church in the United States). Carl majored in Journalism at Southern Illinois University, and Pastoral Studies at Sun Grove Bible College. He lives with his family in Southern California. Carl’s book, Anchored in Light, is scheduled for release in September 2013 by Leafwood Publishers.

Maryanne Raphael

Maryanne Raphael is a freelance writer and non-fiction author. She worked beside Mother Teresa and with Missions of Charity for a number of years in Calcutta, South Africa, Mexico, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and the Bronx. In relating her own stories and experiences while working with Mother, Maryanne illustrates the life-changing potential of Mother's teachings and wisdom. Her novel, What Mother Teresa Taught Me, is more than a biography. It is an engaging primer on how to live a better Christian life.

Don Reid

Don is one of the original members of the Statler Brothers, the most award-winning act in the history of country music. Discovered in 1964 by Johnny Cash they were given their first record contract. Fast forward through a career in the music industry that lasted four decades, awarded them multiple Grammies and over 20 gold and platinum albums. Having songwriting and scriptwriting under his belt, the next obvious step was to write a book. And that book was the scripture-based Heroes and Outlaws of the Bible published in June of 2002 by New Leaf Press. Don’s second book, a humorous and nostalgic collection of virtual memories of a Southern Protestant boy, titled, Sunday Morning Memories, was followed by You Know It's Christmas When... and his fourth novel Random Memories centers on the Statler Brother's career. Visit him at www.donreid.net.

Ruth Reid

Ruth Reid's fascination with the Amish began twenty years ago when she skipped college classes to watch a barn-raising. Today, she’s still captivated by the simple ways of the Amish lifestyle, and in her debut novel, The Promise of an Angel, she begins the story with what started her curiosity with the Amish—a barn-raising. When Ruth is not writing, she is working as a hospital Pharmacist. She lives in Florida with her husband and three children. On a side note: Ruth's proud of her daughter, Lexie, who took the author photograph. Ruth Reid writes for Thomas Nelson.

Cecy Robson

Cecy Robson is a full-time writer, registered nurse, wife, and mother living in the Great Northwest. A member of Romance Writers of America, she attributes her passion for story-telling back to the rough New Jersey neighborhood she was raised in. As a child, she was rarely allowed to leave the safety of her house and passed her time fantasizing about flying, fairies, and things that go bump in the night. Her dad unwittingly encouraged Cecy's creativity by kissing her goodnight wearing vampire fangs. Gifted and cursed with an overactive imagination, she began writing her first urban fantasy series, Weird Girls, in May 2009. Now sold to Jhanteigh Kupihea at Penguin (Signet Eclipse) her first Weird Girl novel releases in early 2013. Visit her at www.cecyrobson.com

Lee Roland

Lee Roland began her writing career in middle school when she wrote a short story for her brother. He turned the story in to his teacher as his own work. To his amazement and terror, the teacher was so impressed that she read it aloud to the class—and asked him to write another one. Lee notes that, other than motherhood, she’s never had an exciting job. She might have dreamed of being a lawyer, nurse or police officer, but finding the right person to share her life with changed her plans. Her only credentials for writing are many classes in craft, a terrific imagination, life experience and the love of words in a good story. She reads voraciously, but particularly loves Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Stephen King. Lee is a full-time writer and a member of RWA National and the Florida based First Coast Romance Writers. Before being published, Lee won many RWA Chapter contests and garnered a Golden Heart nomination in 2008 with her post apocalyptic novel, LILITH’S CHILD. Lee is the author of the Earth Witches series published by NAL, beginning with VIPER MOON in 2011. Visit her at www.leeroland.com

AJ Rompza

Star player for the UCF, AJ is an accomplished basketball player, author and community advocate. When he isn't traveling the world shooting hoops, you'll find him hosting basketball clinics for teens, raising money for local charities or guest speaking. Follow him on twitter @ajrompza or at www.ajrompza.com

D.R. Rosensteel

practicing for his writing career while enrolled in a creative writing course in college. A huge Robert E. Howard fan, Doug’s first novel paid homage to Howard’s sword and sorcery style of storytelling. It failed miserably. So he made the next logical move and become a chemist. Fear of genetic mutation caused him to leave that field. Now he’s a management consultant living in a household of women. A wife, two teen daughters, and two cats. Both female. He brought a tomcat home once to even the odds. It died. Doug believes that the extreme estrogen level in his house contributes to his writing voice. And his hearing loss. After years of writing business articles for his clients, he turned back to fiction. A graduate of the Long Ridge Writer’s Group and the Institute of Children’s Literature, Doug began The Apotropaic as a homework assignment. The notion that thoughts could be turned into weapons with the right technology led to an underground Academy where students are trained in an ancient fighting form dubbed the Mental Arts. Doug’s high school experience of being an outcast befriended by outcasts led to the oddly shaped, politically imperfect cast. And the idea of repentance led to a Mental Weapon that can change a person in the most profound way. Check out The Psi Academy at www.psifighteracademy.com

Jaime Rush / Tina Wainscott

Born and raised in sunny Southwest Florida, Jaime Rush is the pseudonym for bestselling author Tina Wainscott. Author of eighteen novels for St. Martin’s Press and Harlequin, her recent sales include the successful Offspring series. Missing the romance, relationship drama, and action of her favorite television shows, X-Files and Roswell, New York Times bestselling author Jaime Rush created her own mix in the Offspring series, from Avon Books. The Offspring: Sexy…dangerous…outcasts. They possess extraordinary abilities, and they're being hunted by the government. Together they must find the truth and fight an enemy out to destroy them. The first book in the series garnered a Reviewer's Choice Award from RT Book Reviews, and the most recent won three Top Picks. Drawing on her love of the supernatural—and sexy, powerful heroes, Jaime has crafted a new series, The Hidden. A place filled with dark magick, and the kinds of demons and monsters that haunt nightmares and fairy tales … and it’s right there, hidden behind the glamour and sunshine of Miami. Straddling the line between the normal world and the Hidden are Crescents, humans who hold a sliver of the essence of deities. Dragons, Angels, and magicians, Crescents walk the knife's edge, protecting both Mundanes and the existence of their magick, because to expose the Hidden means death. Never easy with bored and frustrated gods wreaking havoc on the humans they blame for tempting them. Or the other beings who bedevil. Or the dissention between the classes of Crescents. Their biggest challenge, though, is fighting the seductive lure of their magick, their bloodlust, and holding on to what makes them human. Look for THE HIDDEN in 2012 from Grand Central Publishing. You can find more information about this talented author at: www.jaimerush.com or www.tinawainscott.com. Author Website: www.jaimerush.com. GoodReads http://www.goodreads.com/JaimeRush Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jaimerushauthor Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jaimerush http://harpercollins.com/authors/35145/Jaime_Rush/index.aspx www.tinawainscott.com

Jessa Russo

Jessa Russo has been creating stories in one form or another for as long as she can remember. Though somehow, even when recognized in college for her writing ability, she never realized she was meant to follow her passion and actually become a writer. Years later, a rediscovered love of reading combined with a heavy love for paranormal romance led to writing her first novel. Jessa began writing seriously in 2009. She has no plans of stopping.

When not writing or reading--or raising the coolest kid ever--Jessa enjoys making memories with her amazingly supportive family and friends, while secretly planning her next trip to New Orleans. She will always call Southern California home, where she lives with her husband and daughter, and a Great Dane who thinks he's the same size as his cranky sister, the Chihuahua.

Kate SeRine

Kate SeRine (pronounced “serene”) primarily writes urban fantasy/paranormal romance. Kate faithfully watched weekend monster movie marathons while growing up, each week hoping that maybe this time the creature du jour would get the girl. But every week she was disappointed. So when she began writing her own stories, Kate vowed that her characters would always have a happily ever after. And, thus, her love for paranormal romance was born. Her novel, RED, the first in her Transplanted Tales series, debuted with Kensington in August 2012. The next two books in the series, THE BETTER TO SEE YOU (February 2013) and ALONG CAME A SPIDER (August 2013), will be available soon at most major online retailers. Kate is a member of Romance Writers of America and of Indiana RWA and has been a finalist in the Fire and Ice Contest (2010), the Finally a Bride Contest (2010), and The Emily (2012; first place). She’s represented by Nicole Resciniti. Kate lives in a smallish, quintessentially Midwestern town with her husband and two sons, who share her love of storytelling. She never tires of creating new worlds to share and is even now working on her next project. For more information about Kate, visit her website: www.kateserine.com. You can also find her at Facebook.com/kateserine and Twitter.com/KateSeRine.

Shelley Sabga also w/a Shelley Shepard Gray

Shelley Sabga writes as Shelley Galloway for Harlequin American Romance and as Shelley Shepard Gray for Harper Collins' Avon Inspire line and for Abingdon Press. Since 2000, she's sold over 30 novels to several publishers. Shelley's novels have won the RT Reviewers Choice Award, the Holt Medallion, and have made numerous lists, including USA Today and The New York Times Bestseller's Lists. She has two websites, www.shelleygalloway.com and www.shelleyshepardgray.com. She's also active on Facebook. Shelley writes full time in her small town near Cincinnati, Ohio.

Glen Sasscer

Glenn Sasscer is an author, columnist, freelance writer, and software trainer/consultant. Born in Maryland, though now living in Northwest Ohio, Glenn has worked in various professions, including engineering, tool design, project management, computer systems administration, and general contracting. He is ordained in Ohio and Michigan through the Alliance for Renewal Churches (http://arcchurch.org). Glenn has articles published in The Suburban Press, The Christian Citizen News, The Active Christian News, The TAPSAC Magazine, and The Evangel Magazine, as well as writing novels, a Scriptural column for a community newspaper, a Sunday School Curriculum, and technical software manuals. The author lives in Northwest Ohio with his wife and three children.

Chantele Sedgwick

Chantele Sedgwick grew up playing the harp and singing with her sisters. Little did anyone know, she always had stories in her head, and was surprised when someone told her it wasn't normal. After she had her second baby in 2007, she finally realized she should take her daydreams seriously and write them down. The discovery of first love, first kisses, and the many emotions teens go through, pushed Chantele to find her niche in writing young adult fiction. Some of her stories share a few of her own experiences, but most of them are just fantasies she wished happened to her as a teen. She's a sucker for a great love story and always enjoys a happy ending. Her debut Not Your Average Fairy Tale was published in 2012 by Crescent Moon Press, with the sequel coming in 2013. When she's not writing, Chantele can be found spending time with her husband and four silly kids, reading the newest YA novel, or driving her sisters crazy with random story ideas. You can find Chantele at: http://chantelesedgwick.blogspot.com/, or on Twitter: @chantelesedg

Laura Simcox

After spending twenty years in professional theater as a costume designer, Laura abandoned the nomadic lifestyle to sit in a comfy pleather office chair at a beat up second hand oak desk and write. The result? Romance novels! Her favorite thing ever since she was, oh, about twelve. She is thrilled to be counted among the romance authors of this world and enjoys reading all genres. She writes contemporary, light novels and enjoys creating quirky characters and funny dialogue. Sometimes it's even juvenile dialogue, but hey, who couldn't use a dose of silly humor every now and then? Still, the love story is the focus and Laura has a huge soft spot for a sappy, happy ending. She is the author of SUMMER PROMISES, a recent release from Crimson Romance. Laura lives in North Carolina with her husband (true love is real!) and her adorable, high energy three year old son who is currently obsessed with pirates. And that's cool, because she loves 'em too. You are welcome to visit Laura at www.laurasimcox.com

Dann Stadler

Like many writers, Dann Stadler lives a life dominated by curiosity and a thirst for the thrill of authentic living in an increasingly virtual world. ‘Bored’ is a term foreign to Dann, whether traveling with his wife Tracey, sharing time with his daughters, hiking with his dog and enjoying the outdoors or fulfilling his passionate need to write, he longs to experience life in its rawest details. He is an energetic speaker, author, father, husband, and tireless advocate for Christ. He writes novels, other stories and his blog, www.saturdayspromise.com. Dann and Tracey live just outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin - where they both grew up and raised their three daughters. In a life dominated with both burdens and blessings, the greatest adventure in Dann's life is his quest to discover and fulfill God's surprising plans for his life. A huge part of that effort has culminated in his first book, Angels in the Fire - an amazing true story of angelic intervention that saved Tracey and him from a horrific, fiery death in a midnight crash caused by a drunk driver. Published by Bethany House, Angels in the Fire is slated for release in June of 2013. He can be reached at dann@saturdayspromise.com.

Teri Anne Stanley

Teri Anne Stanley grew in the Interstate 75 valley, north of Cincinnati before moving to the ‘Nati as a newlywed. She has since migrated south into Kentucky, but swears she will never leave her beloved I-75 corridor, with its lush rolling semis and musical rumbling tire sounds. She’s been writing forever, beginning as an earnest and dramatic teenage diarist. She also tried the roles of snarky recipe columnist and dry scientific treatise creator before recognizing her true calling as a hopeless romantic. She has also worked as a fashion designer for body builders and a sexual therapist for rats. She is currently a neuroscience research assistant and parental figure for a variety of teenagers and dogs. In her spare time, she and the most awesome Mr. Stanley enjoy boating and watching farm runoff flow past their weekend estate, Camp Swampy.

Jenny Lee Sulpizio

Jenny Lee Sulpizio, M.S., is a wife, business owner, and mother of three fabulous kiddos residing in the beautiful state of Idaho. In her free time (*enter audible laughing*), she enjoys writing about anything and everything under the sun, but especially loves to instruct, motivate, and guide other moms with practical advice, tips and a whole lot of comic relief in the process. Originally stuck in a secular world, Jenny has since emerged to find her rightful place in Christianity with the whole-hearted desire to share its message with the world, one gal at a time. Her experiences in dealing with life (both with and without Christ) are candid, heartfelt, and relatable. Her pursuit throughout each of her books is to not only glorify God, but to “stir emotion to a place of action,” within her readers. Jenny has authored two children’s picture books (Mommy Whispers, 2010 and There’s Just Something About a Boy, 2011), and has several Women’s Non-fiction WIP’s in her arsenal. To find out more about Jenny or to follow her blog, visit www.jennysulpizio.com

Pat Trainum

Pat Trainum, who writes as Patricia Bradley, lives in a small town in Northeast Mississippi. She began writing when the characters in her head wouldn’t go away until she told their story, selling the first short story she wrote to Woman’s World. Three stories later, God arranged a detour—ten years of working with teens, promoting Abstinence-Until-Marriage. During that time, she and a friend co-wrote Rise to Your Dreams, a curriculum used in Mississippi schools to teach teens how to make good choices. For the past four years she’s honed her fiction skills at My Book Therapy and Susan May Warren’s Deep Thinker’s Retreats. Her award winning manuscript Shadows of the Past has been contracted by Revell in a three-book deal for their romantic suspense line. When she’s not writing, she loves to throw mud on a wheel and create unique pieces. Her pots and the jewelry she fashions from the clay are much in demand. You can find Pat at www.ptbradley.com or http://mbtponderers.blogspot.com/ or follow her on Twitter: @PTBradley1

Jennifer Lynn Turano

Jennifer holds a BA in Clothing and Textiles but hung up her heels after the birth of her son when she realized a crazy retail career was hardly conducive to motherhood. She began dabbling in writing when her son was in elementary school after he remarked that her made up stories were more entertaining than the series they were currently reading. After experimenting with a few different genres, she finally came to the conclusion she needed to write what she enjoyed most: romance. When she is not writing or boring her family and friends endlessly with new story ideas, she can be found watching her teenage son participate in various activities, walking her dog or occasionally, when she has a spare minute, reading. She lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado with her husband, son and neurotic cattle dog. Jen recently signed a two-book deal with Bethany House.

Nikki Urang

Nikki fell in love with books at a young age and looked forward to reading a book with her mom before bed every night. She has always had an active imagination, but didn’t write her first novel until she was nineteen. That first attempt wasn’t the greatest, but it fueled her passion to keep writing. By day, she’s an alcohol and drug counselor at a treatment center. By night, you can usually find her in front of her computer or spending time with her husband. She loves to dance even though she doesn’t get to do it much anymore. Her favorite author is John Green and she loves iced chai lattes, but hates hot beverages, including coffee. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and two cats. Nikki blogs about her writing at http://nikkiurang.wordpress.com and tweets under the handle @NikkiUrang. She is interested in working with other writers to create a blog tour, holding contests on her blog, and speaking at local libraries to help promote her book. She is currently working on creating an author Facebook page and a Goodreads account and she is interested in attending future SCBWI and RWA conferences.

Mary Annslee Urban

Mary Annslee Urban grew up watching old-time romance movies, which she attributes to her passion for sweet romance, true love and happy endings. A daydreamer at heart, Mary began her writing journey when the youngest of her five children started school. For several years she worked as a freelance writer for newspapers in her community and has written for magazines and online publications. Shadows of the Past, Mary’s first book with Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, will be released sometime in mid 2014. Raised in the foothills of Arizona, she survived temperature shock when she and her husband moved to Western Pennsylvania before settling in North Carolina. Aside from writing, Mary works as a Registered Nurse part-time in the Behavioral Health field. She is a member of ACFW, and is currently vice-president of Carolina Christian Writers. She has tow published novels with White Rose Publishing and another book, In Love's Defense, Write Integrity Press, will be out in September, 2013. She writes under Mary Annslee Urban and Annslee Urban. When she isn’t writing, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling to faraway places, spending time with grandbabies and all things chocolate! You can visit Mary on Facebook or at maryurban.blogspot.com.

Krystal Wade

Krystal Wade can be found in the sluglines outside Washington D.C. every morning, Monday through Friday. With coffee in hand, iPod plugged in, and strangers--who sometimes snore, smell, or have incredibly bad gas--sitting next to her, she zones out and thinks of fantastical worlds for you and me to read. How else can she cope with a fifty mile commute? Good thing she has her husband and three kids to go home to. They keep her sane.
Connect with Krystal through her website: www.krystal-wade.com or on Twitter @krystalwade

Julie Ann Walker

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Julie grew up in a house full of women - she has three older sisters. As you can imagine, there was no lack of drama... or romance. Her mother enrolled her in a book club as soon as she began to read and it was the small park that ignited her voracious appetite for the written word. Because of Julie's early immersion in literature, she found writing came quite naturally. In high school, she won multiple writing contests and was the proud senior editor of The Tiger's Tale - her high school newspaper. During her college years, however, she longed for a challenge. "Reading and writing felt like second nature to me, so I looked for something to stretch my intellectual capabilities," she recalls. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree, Julie began teaching advanced high school mathematics. "I loved working with the students and facing the challenges of the classroom, but I longed for the occasional snow day when I could race to the local book store, buy two or three new novels, and curl up in front of the fire to read for an entire day." It wasn't until a fortuitous move to Chicago that Julie once more returned to her first passion. "Thankfully, my husband - my own personal hero - encouraged my decision to write full time." Now Julie lives on beautiful Lake Shore Drive with her husband of thirteen years and her fat and happy Labrador Retriever named Cooper. When Julie isn't writing, she enjoys camping, hiking, cycling, cooking, travel, and ... reading, of course! Visit her website: www.julieannwalker.com or follow her blog at mychicagolife.wordpress.com. And look for her back-to-back releases from Sourcebooks, Hell on Wheels, Rev It Up, and In Rides Trouble, hitting the shelves in August 2012.

Kate Welsh

Kate lives in Havertown, a small community outside Philadelphia, with her husband of 29 years. One of Kate's two daughters still lives at home and all three of them share the house with Kali, the family cat, and Echo, their Chesapeake Bay retriever puppy. She writes full-time. When she's not at work creating stories and the characters that populate them, Kate fills her time with other creative outlets. There are few crafts she hasn't tried at least once! Kate has been known to tackle almost any job around the house, from painting and wallpapering to refinishing furniture; from making wedding gowns and bridal bouquets to trying her hand at vinyl siding. "Inheriting talents from both your parents can make for a busy life," says Kate of her odd array of talents. "When a hero or heroine in one of my books gets out a hammer, a drill, a sewing machine, or a glue gun, you can usually be sure I've done something pretty similar." Kate chaired Romance Writers of America's Readers for Life Literacy book signing in 1996. Also in 1996, for her work on the local level with her RWA chapter and for her work in the cause of literacy, Kate received Romance Writers of America's regional service award. Literacy is a cause dear to Kate's heart because she herself suffered from reading problems into her adult years. It was a challenge from her husband that gave Kate the courage to write her first book. Having never really read a book for pure enjoyment, let alone written one, it truly was a leap of faith. The constant exercise of reading her own work helped solve some of the eye muscle problems that had caused most of Kate's reading difficulties. She sees that as the Lord's way of healing her while showing her His plan for her life. In the same way, she hopes to entertain her readers while showing them His principles. She's written over twenty novels for Harlequin.