BARBARA MCCAULEY is the author of over 30 best-selling romance novels, including "Blackhawk's Sweet Revenge," the first volume of her popular SECRETS! series for Silhouette. Her work has been nominated eight times by the Romance Writers of America ® for Best Short Contemporary in the prestigious RITA contest. She has also received numerous "Top Picks" from Romantic Times magazine, plus several Best Short Desire and "W.I.S.H." awards for her hunky heroes, and two Career Achievement Awards. All of her books have appeared on the Walden Romance Best Seller lists. A native of Southern California, Ms. McCauley enjoys spending time with her husband and two children and working in her garden when she can manage to break away from her computer. "I love to cook," says Barbara, "but when I'm on a tight deadline, quick recipes and take-out are essential." The youngest of five children growing up, she discovered early the peaceful satisfaction of daydreams and reading a good book. She remains an avid reader today, indulging her love of romance whenever possible.