Authors: Julie Reece

Crux (27 page)

Acknowledgements

As anyone who has ever traveled the road to publication knows, it takes a myriad of people to make a book happen. For me, the people who’ve assisted in this endeavor were as crucial for its life as air. If I could, I would buy them all cars, puppies, and wash their dishes after dinner every night. (I’m serious)

Alas, the following thanks will have to do.

For my lovely beta readers, Lois, Jill, Monique, Rebecca, Casey and Jen, you girls rock!

To my critique partners (aka the four horses of the red pen apocalypse) Kathleen, Julie, Aimee, and Claire, I’m more grateful than I can say.

Thanks to the amazing people at J. Taylor Publishing for taking a chance on me.

The talented pens sisters and folks over at Scribophile for their incredible critiques—their insight never ceases to astound.

To Blake and Maddie who serve as endless sources of wisdom, inspiration (and brutality), I’d be lost without you. XOXOX

Lastly, a special thanks to those who minister to individuals victimized by human trafficking, and the people committed to eliminating the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

Julie Reece

Born in Ohio, I lived next to my grandfather’s horse farm until the fourth grade. Summers were about riding, fishing and make-believe, while winter brought sledding and ice-skating on frozen ponds. Most of life was magical, but not all.

I struggled with multiple learning disabilities, did not excel in school. I spent much of my time looking out windows and daydreaming. In the fourth grade (with the help of one very nice teacher) I fought dyslexia for my right to read, like a prince fights a dragon in order to free the princess locked in a tower, and I won.

Afterwards, I read like a fiend. I invented stories where I could be the princess … or a gifted heroine from another world who kicked bad guy butt to win the heart of a charismatic hero. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that? Later, I moved to Florida where I continued to fantasize about superpowers and monsters, fabricating stories (my mother called it lying) and sharing them with my friends.

Then I thought I’d write one down …

Hooked, I’ve been writing ever since. I write historical, contemporary, urban fantasy, adventure, and young adult romances. I love strong heroines, sweeping tales of mystery and epic adventure … which must include a really hot guy. My writing is proof you can work hard to overcome any obstacle. Don’t give up. I say, if you write, write on!