J.J. Ranson (friends call her Julie, and after reading her work, you’ll feel like one too) spent most of her working life in education. She’s a voracious reader, able to spot brilliance within the first few pages. She felt destined to consume words, not create them. Then something magical happened. The words that had been flowing in for decades suddenly wanted to flow out. Julie discovered that her years of devouring stories had been secretly preparing her to tell them. What she’s learned from this unexpected writing life: never, ever sell yourself short.

Julie lives in Virginia near her three adult children and one granddaughter. She’s also dog-mom to two rescue pups who’ve trained her well in treat distribution. Her other passions include knitting, gardening, and cooking (where she treats recipes like writing—a little improvisation never hurt anyone).

Julie believes in second chances, everyday magic, and the idea that it’s never too late to surprise yourself.