My second published novel, The Far End of Happy, is the culmination of a 17-year calling to write about my first husband's suicide and the impact it had on our family and community, an event that seared itself so indelibly into our lives that I constrained the story to its 12 hours. I so appreciate its warm reception! Despite this trial I live a joy-filled life. It has been my privilege to raise two fine sons in the wake of their father's suicide, which taught us to grab the gusto and feed our spirits. It beings me endless pleasure to help other people improve their writing game, and I love any event that brings writers together, which explains why I spend so much time supporting writing groups like the Women's Fiction Writer's Association, the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group, the Philadelphia Writers' Conference, and Pennwriters, as well as leading workshops and hosting writing retreats for women. I'm also a developmental editor at Writing-Partner.com. I've had the pleasure of pursuing many of my passions in life, including reading, lake sports, horses (foxhunting and beginning dressage), dance (as dancer, choreographer, teacher, and dance critic), and now writing, which brings it all together.