Kerry Peresta is a suspense novelist known for her gripping psychological thrillers and sharp storytelling. She is the author of the Olivia Callahan Suspense series, a five-book collection, and the standalone thriller "Back Before Dawn," all published by Level Best Books. With the fifth installment of her series set for release in August 2025, Peresta continues to craft tension-filled narratives that explore the dangers lurking in everyday life. Her short story "The Day the Migraine Died" was featured in the Sisters in Crime anthology "Rock, Roll & Ruin" in 2022, showcasing her versatility within the genre.
Before transitioning to fiction, Peresta spent years as an advertising account executive and copywriter, honing her ability to craft compelling narratives. Her Southern roots and wit infuse her writing with a distinctive voice, blending suspense with relatable characters and settings. She has contributed to various publications, including a weekly humor column titled "The Lighter Side" for the Pierre Daily Journal and guest features in magazines such as "Lady Lowcountry," "Island Events," and "Bluffton Breeze." Additionally, she co-created the mystery podcast "Guns, Knives & Lipstick," which ran for three years.
An active member of professional writing organizations, Peresta belongs to Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, and the South Carolina Writers Association. She resides on Hilton Head Island with her husband, embracing the relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle while balancing her writing career with family life, including their six adult children and growing number of grandchildren.