Rutherford, Mara: - Mara Rutherford began her writing career as a journalist but quickly discovered she far preferred fantasy to reality. Originally from California, Mara has since lived all over the world with her diplomat husband and two sons. A triplet born on Leap Day, Mara holds a Master's degree in Cultural Studies from the University of London. Her favorite days involve books, tea, and Mishka (a small red muppet often mistaken for a dog). She is the author of YA fantasy novels including the Crown of Coral and Pearl duology, Luminous, The Poison Season, and A Multitude of Dreams (Inkyard Press). Her next book, A Curious Kind of Magic, releases Fall '25 from Wednesday Books.