Vanessa Barneveld

When I was growing up in suburban Australia, at various times I wanted to be a test pilot, lawyer, actress, surgeon, veterinarian, acrobat, psychiatrist, fashion designer, architect, jockey or a make-up artist. Then a moment of horror at school gave me a novel idea. An English teacher (Ms. Janye Graham, if you’re out there, I’m talking about you!) mortified me by reading one of my short stories TO THE WHOLE CLASS an example of A+ work. As she read, mispronouncing a character’s name as Reg-I-na instead of Re-GEEN-a, the other kids stared daggers at me. But quietly I realized I could do whatever I wanted as a writer. All I needed was my imagination...and drive, focus, energy, chocolate, stationery, etc. Fast-forward years later, and I’m writing paranormal and contemporary novels for Young Adults. (I had considered a career as a psychic but I quickly vetoed it due to a lack of natural ability.) My stellar critique partners, Romance Writers of Australia & America have done more than they know to improve my books. Writers House literary agent Robin Rue took me on as a client after her gem of an assistant, Beth Miller, discovered my query in the inbox of an agent who'd left just WH. I also work full-time as a television captioner and editor, providing media access to the Deaf and blind communities. What’s not to love about a job where I can watch TV all day? My musician husband and I are the parents of two adorable cats, who are coping with extensive home renovations which will let in more sunlight and ultimately benefit them the most. (P.S. Ms. Graham, I forgave you a long time ago.)