Kathryn Shay is a renowned author of contemporary romance novels. She has written numerous successful series, including Bayview Heights, America's Bravest, Hidden Cove Firefighters, O'Neil Brothers, and Ludzecky Sisters. Shay's love for writing dates back to her teenage years when she wrote her first "romance" story about a young female journalist trying to make it in a male-dominated world. However, she took a detour and pursued a career in teaching before returning to her first love, writing.
Shay's writing focuses on strong women in unusual circumstances, such as firefighters, female secret service agents, and anti-gang specialists in New York City. She sold her first manuscript to Harlequin Superromance after enduring two years of rejections, persevering to become a successful author. Shay's writing is known for her powerful characterizations and heart-wrenching, emotional stories. She has won several awards, including five RT BookClub Magazine Reviewers Choice Awards, three Holt Medallions, two Desert Quill Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Shay built a successful career in the New York state school system, enjoying her work with adolescents. She retired from teaching in 2004 to focus on her writing career. Shay lives in upstate New York with her husband and has two children. She considers herself fortunate to have pursued and achieved her dreams.