Sara is a Canadian-born dual citizen (Canadian and American) who moved to the States in 1999 for a technical writing job. When she was laid off two years later, instead of looking for another job, she decided to take a gamble on writing fiction full-time. Fortunately, the gamble paid off and she's working on Ape House, her fourth novel. Sara lives in northern Illinois with her husband, three children, two dogs, two cats, three goats, and horse in an environmentalist community. They are relocating to North Carolina this summer, and Sara already has her eye on another horse and a donkey.
A Northern Light in Provence (2024) Elizabeth Birkelund "A charming and beautifully written novel about self-discovery, the power of language and yes, love! All of which left me yearning for my own Provencal adventure. Elizabeth Birkelund reminds us that sometimes we must step out of our comfort zones to pursue our dreams."
Dark Horses (2021) Susan Mihalic "Dark Horses is a pulse-pounding, unflinching tale of one teenaged girl's iron-willed determination to wrest control of her life from her abuser. Roan Mongtomery's sweeping and raw story of courage, resilience and clear-eyed grace will never leave me."
Never Have I Ever (2019) Joshilyn Jackson "The more Roux and Amy became obsessed with each other, the more obsessed I became with the book. Jackson is a master... Fans of Joshilyn Jackson and newcomers alike will eat this book up. I did, and I’m hungry again."
Sold on a Monday (2018) Kristina McMorris "Kristina McMorris does what few writers can-transport me right into the middle of the story."
The Dying of the Light (2018) Robert Goolrick "Passion, loneliness, decadence, and sexuality are all powerfully portrayed in this beautifully written novel."
The Madonna of the Mountains (2018) Elise Valmorbida "A riveting adventure for the soul, The Madonna of the Mountains is just the kind of evocative historical fiction I love. It transported me to Italy and provided a feast for the senses: I smelled the flowers, tasted the gnocchi, heard the clang and chimes of church bells--and watched a young girl grow into a woman whose faith, love, and innocence are tested by the hardships of war. Powerful and entrancing."
All the Beautiful Girls (2018) Elizabeth J Church "A gorgeously written novel with the bite of a gin martini, All the Beautiful Girls goes beyond the splashy, gaudy dazzle of Las Vegas in the sixties to reveal the beating heart beneath the glamorous facade of the showgirl with big ambitions. Our protagonist Lily's grit, determination, and grace as she discovers the heady possibilities and dark perils of the American dream make Elizabeth Church's second novel unforgettable."
Flight of Dreams (2016) Ariel Lawhon "A fascinating blend of love and murder, big dreams and betrayal, history and pure imagination—I could not put it down."
The Book of Speculation (2015) Erika Swyler "Dazzling. I absolutely loved this book. My only complaint is that I am already on the edge of my seat waiting for her next."
The Blessings of the Animals (2010) Katrina Kittle "In this beautifully crafted novel, Katrina Kittle deftly illustrates the devastation of betrayal and loss, the healing power of love and compassion, and the joy and comfort that comes from knowing - and relating to - animals."
On Borrowed Wings (2007) Chandra Prasad "In Adele, Chandra Prasad has created an inspired and timeless heroine whose intelligence, imagination, and determination has you rooting for her from the very first page. Prasad's powerful prose matches the vital, urgent vigor of youth, particularly the bond of friendship. Her novel combines drama and a strong sense of place that provides both a lesson in history and a fine read."
Whistling in the Dark (2007) (Whistling in the Dark, book 1) Lesley Kagen "[A] bittersweet and beautifully rendered... story of two young sisters and a summer jam-packed with disillusionment and discovery... Whistling in the Dark shines."
