Born in Hamilton, Ohio, and raised in the nearby village of Seven Mile, I spent my childhood traveling every summer with my family. From camping throughout the US and Canada to touring Australia and Europe to cruising the world's oceans, exploration and learning are two important parts of my life.

I attended Miami University, graduating in 1975 with a BS in Education.  While working in Baton Rouge, LA, as an assistant restaurant manager / employee trainer, I began working on a novel but never completed it.

In 1979, I returned to Miami University as an assistant manager for the Department of Residence Halls.  While working full-time, I earned an MS in Food Management in 1984. In my free time, I resumed my writing hobby. Persuaded by family, friends and co-workers, I completed a second manuscript for publication.

Before retiring on June 1, 2009, my career at the University included food service manager; staff hiring, discipline and training; culinary specialist; computer systems manager; historian and editor (thus, WickedRedPen.com) for the Department of Housing, Dining & Guest Services. 

Besides traveling, other interests include knitting, quilting, birdwatching, hiking and of course - writing!

My first published novel, Serenity Trail, is dedicated to a friend that I've know since 1st Grade. 

The sequel will be dedicated to another friend, who designed the cover for Serenity Trail before succumbing to cancer at a much-too-young age.  She continues to be missed by all who knew her.