The Secret of Emma Pryce Book Signing with Nanette Virden

Emma was coping with her sophomore year in high school and her first love’s crush. She didn’t know it, but on her 16th birthday in her small California town, something strange will happen to her that will change her life forever. And it happened because of a family curse. To discover the source of the curse she will travel around the world to Ireland. Sometimes curses run in the family, don’t they?

Author Nanette Virden was born in the LA area and lived there with her family through her teen years. In the mid-1980s, Nanette moved with her family to the more tranquil Santa Ynez Valley, California, and she still lives there. Having been diagnosed with a seizure disorder at age 10, Nan was shy and withdrawn growing up, but high school English class was where she found the perfect way to overcome those obstacles. Nan realized she loved to write; with her teachers’ encouragement, she began writing short stories and poetry. Over the years, she has continued to find writing a great way to conquer her shyness and says it is “great therapy.” Her love of written expression is accompanied by great interest in reading, especially fantasy. In addition, she is a fan of comedies and historical movies and tv programs.

Nanette’s ideas for her Emma Pryce series developed in 2009 and she completed her first 12 chapters. Those soon grew to 36 chapters, and now comprise three volumes of young adult fantasy featuring Emma, her challenges, quests, and romance. Research for the Emma Pryce series included a trip to Ireland, where part of Emma’s story takes place. Nan also studied Irish languages and folklore. Themes from Nan’s own life permeate her stories about Emma Pryce, from residing in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Olivos areas to the home, family, close ties with friends, appreciation of nature’s bounty, and love of animals. Those elements mirror Nan’s own close relationships with her sister and brother and her passion to rescue cats and dogs and give them a safe home.

Now retired, Nanette spends time writing, being with her family, and caring for her pets. She volunteers her time and efforts to “Support the Troops,” a group that sends supplies to members of the military. Volume I of the Emma Pryce series is now available; with Volume II in early editing.