Born in Glasgow, Karen Murdarasi spent a number of years in England before returning to Scotland to study. She earned a first in Ancient History from the University of St Andrews and then studied Theology as preparation for becoming a missionary. She served as missionary in various parts of Albania for four years. Her first novel, Leda, is informed by her experiences in Albania. Karen has been writing professionally since 2007, and it has been her main career since 2012. She spends her time writing and editing, interpreting Albanian, and babysitting her adorable nieces.