Born at dawn in Portland, Oregon, I buried my head in books from the time I could read and since the age of eight, have dreamed of publishing a novel. In 2005, that dream came true with a contract for Hero Worship. (My agent reports that she has since regained her hearing.)

By day, I work in corporate and government communications, bolstered by a resume that includes a stint with a wildly creative advertising and public relations agency. I live in the rain belt of Washington state with my husband, two daughters and a bossy, but adorable Mini-Schnauzer. At every opportunity, I pack up my laptop and head for the nearest Starbucks to relax in a comfy chair, down venti nonfat lattes, and write.