KATHRYN JENSEN lives in Maryland, happily sandwiched between two of the most exciting cities in North America--Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. But the Mid-Atlantic hasn't always been home. The many places in which she's lived--including Italy, Texas, Connecticut and Massachusetts--as well as others visited, have inspired over 40 novels of adventure, romance, and mystery beloved by readers of all ages.

Her books have hit Waldenbooks bestseller lists, been nominated for the esteemed Agatha Christie Award and honored by the American Library Association as a Best Book for Reluctant Readers. She has served as a judge on the Edgar Allan Poe Award Committee and continues her advocacy for literacy among children and adults.

Today Kathryn lives with her husband on the outskirts of the nation's capital and visits her grown children and granddaughter as often as she can. Kathryn spends most of her summers aboard Purr, their classic Pearson 32' sailboat, cruising the Chesapeake Bay. When book deadlines loom, she keeps on writing on her laptop while hubby trims the sails. Their two cats, Tempest and Miranda (named in honor of Shakespeare's final play and its heroine), generally prefer to remain on land, although their mistress can't understand why!