Fantasy writer and essayist H.M. Snow (b. November 24, 1977) grew up in rural Minnesota, where corn and soybean fields provided the backdrop to a highly imaginative childhood. Raised in a family of readers, Snow was introduced early in life to such authors as C.S. Lewis, Lloyd Alexander, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Anne McCaffrey, among others. After an eclectic education, ranging from homeschooling in junior high and high school through a B.A. in English at the University of Minnesota, Snow settled down in Saint Paul, MN to build a career as a fantasy novelist. She has held many jobs: egg-picker, factory worker, custodian, librarian's assistant, bookstore clerk, high school secretary. Writing has remained constant throughout her life as her vocational first love.