Claudia McCants was born in Washington, D.C. and lived in its Maryland suburbs for most of her life. She now lives in Jacksonville, Florida, with her husband and son. She says, "I have written since I was a child. My mother tells me I created 'books' before I could even write. I can see that interest in story telling developing in my young son even now. It must be genetic!"

She had a diversified career before returning to her first love -- "Writing!" -- at age 37. She explains, "My first job was working as a secretary for a company that designed and manufactured electronic warfare devices. I was fingerprinted and took a pledge to keep TOP SECRET documents a secret. That wasn't a problem because I didn't understand anything I typed." Even so, that job was nerve-wracking and she left after a year. That's when she attended travel school and pursued a career as a travel agent for several years. She admits that was her favorite job "because I had an opportunity to travel extensively." She has managed restaurants, designed homes, and even operated a multimillion dollar truck stop. She adds, "I've met lots of interesting people and been put in some awkward situations...the kind of 'stuff' that helps me create interesting characters and (hopefully!) believable stories."

Her Brave New Woman mysteries are about women who reconnect with their spirit while solving a mystery. Her first novel, DREAM TAPESTRY, was published in 2001, and will be followed by BROKEN ANGEL in 2002.

For more information about Ms. McCants and her books, visit her official web site.