Ann S. Epstein writes novels, short stories, memoir, poems, essays, and book reviews. Her character-driven work is often historical but also addresses contemporary issues. Her awards include a Pushcart Prize creative nonfiction nomination, Walter Sullivan fiction prize, Historical Novel Review Editors’ Choice selection, and St. Lawrence Book Award Finalist nomination. Her novels are On the Shore; Tazia and Gemma; A Brain. A Heart. The Nerve.; The Great Stork Derby; Love, Loss, and Secrets; One Person’s Loss; and The Sister Knot. Her stories and nonfiction work appear in North American Review, Sewanee Review, PRISM International, Ascent, The Long Story, and elsewhere. In addition to writing, she has a PhD in developmental psychology, MFA in
A Best of the Net nominee, Carolyn R. Russell’s poetry, essays, and short stories have been featured in numerous publications. She has also authored four books, including a flash fiction collection called “Death and Other Survival Strategies” (Vine Leaves Press, 2023). Carolyn lives on and writes from Boston’s North Shore. More at http://carolynrrussell.com/
Catherine (Cathy) Shields writes about parenting, disabilities, and self-discovery. In debut memoir, The Shape Of Normal, A Memoir Of Motherhood, Disability And Embracing A Different Kind Of Perfect, Cathy explores the truths and lies parents tell themselves. Her book was named a category WINNER in the 2023 American Writing Awards, and her writing has twice been nominated for a Pushcart. Her essays have been published in NBC Today. Newsweek, Bacopa Literary Review, Grown and Flown, Brevity Blog, Mother Magazine, U Revolution, and Write City Magazine. Cathy resides in Miami, Florida with her husband. They enjoy taking long bike rides and kayaking. Follow her on her Instagram @cathyshieldswriter..
