Kristen McKendry began writing in her teens, with 10 novels and a children's book published through Covenant Communications and Cedar Fort. She also offers workshops on simple, value-based living. She earned a bachelor's degree in linguistics from Brigham Young University, has always been a voracious reader, and admits to hanging over strangers' shoulders on the subway to see what they're reading. Kristen has a keen interest in urban agriculture and environmental issues and has recently taken on the renovation of an old church. Her books tend to feature strong, independent-minded women who reflect Kristen's own value of self-reliance. A native of Utah and mother of three, she now resides in Canada.