SHERRY ROBINSON is the author of two previous novels, Blessed and Echo Her Lovely Bones (first edition titled Her Secrets Cry Aloud). She holds a PhD in English from the University of Kentucky and an MA and MFA from Eastern Kentucky University. Robinson spent two summers at the Hindman Settlement School's Appalachian Writers Workshop under the mentorship of Silas House. Robinson is a native of Lexington, Kentucky. She recently retired as vice provost and professor of English at Eastern Kentucky University, where she spent thirteen years specializing in American literature before moving into administrative positions.