First time author Chanda Bell puts into words what every mother feels in her non-fiction book Pregnancy, Birth, and Becoming a New Mom. Unlike other pregnancy books, which are rather dry and scholarly, Chandra writes in a prose accessible to women interested in something fun and informative. Readers will receive insight on everything from weight gain, to the man's perspective on pregnancy, to the benefits of adoption. With Pregnancy, Birth, and Becoming a New Mom, mothers everywhere will laugh through the toughest of times so that they may enjoy the best of times that follow.

J.T. Ford is president of Words Ink, an international communication consultancy. He is a nationally syndicated astrological advice columnist, publisher of The Executive Speechwriter Newsletter, and has been a creative director and writer. J.T.'s book ZODIAC MANAGER: AN ASTROLOGICAL EXPOSÉ OF EVERYONE IN THE OFFICE (Career Press) is the inside story on different zodiac personalities in the workplace. J.T.'s bright, clear, and amusing writing has delighted readers.

James Farley is currently the Chief of Police in Crystal River, Florida. His background includes heading a nationwide child abduction investigation, Tactical Operations Commander and SWAT Commander for the Fort Lauderdale Police Dept., directing Crime Prevention Units for the Fort Lauderdale PD and Broward County Sheriff's Office, becoming a leading expert on safeguarding children from pedophiles. He has been invited to participate at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, introduced the Amber Plan to Citrus County, FL, and teaches child safety programs in more than 50 schools. His project, KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE: How to Protect Your Children From Predators, is a must for any parent in these turbulent, troubling times.

Galit Feinreich's laugh-out-loud self-help book, HOW TO DUMP YOUR MAN IN TEN EASY STEPS, is full of relationship wisdom and humor. Written by break-up expert Feinreich (self-proclaimed but very good), it empowers women to seek out healthy and fulfilling relationships and guides them through the mixed up emotions that result from a break up. A marketing professional, Feinreich provides witty and candid advice that subtly mixed with useful insight and valuable guidance.

TJ Forrester's adventure travel journal chronicles his amazing attempt to hike the Triple Crown-The Appalachian Trail, The Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail. This is a feat that very few hikers have ever accomplished and is told in a wonderfully warm, approachable style that really transports the reader. His project, THREE TRAILS, FIVE BEARS AND A FRENCH KISS, is ready for submission.

Cheryll Gillespie is editor-in-chief of At Home: Canada's Complete Home Magazine, and the author of many articles on home design. Her national radio program, "At Home with Cheryll Gillespie" is a weekly one-hour talk show, and her design and decor column is published weekly in the Sun chain of newspapers. Cheryll appears weekly on CTV's Good Morning Canada and has made numerous guest appearances on a variety of news and talk programs across the country. She is also a highly sought-after public speaker. Her first book, DIVA DOMAIN: The Modern Diva's Guide to Home Decor, is sure to reach a wide audience and should be ready soon.

A stylist to celebrities and newscasters as well as the public, David Groshen owns and operates FACE STATION, one of the most successful styling shops on New York's Upper East Side. David's salon has been featured in American Health, Bride, Bazaar, Harper's Bazaar (UK), Downtown, Glamour, and Ladies Home Journal. His book THE HAIR YOU WANT is an essential guide to understanding and communicating with your stylist to achieve the perfect style.

Internationally bestselling author Gillian Kemp is a freelance writer and astrologer based in the UK. She has written astrology columns for a number of UK magazines and entertains as a clairvoyant at upscale events. She is the author of THE GOOD SPELL BOOK, THE FORTUNE-TELLING BOOK, THE DREAM BOOK and THE LOVE MAGIC BOOK, all published in the US by Little, Brown and in a dozen foreign countries as well. She has also created a number of kits that have been published in the US and abroad.

Greg Polkosnik's work has been featured in several magazines, including Nylon, Glamour, Fashion Wire Daily, Bazaar.com, and most recently, Teen Vogue. COSMICALLY CHIC: DISCOVERING YOUR FASHION SENSE THROUGH ASTROLOGY, published by Andrews McMeel, is a fascinating look at the style and decor of different zodiac signs and a guide to developing your own zodiac style.

Kimberly Davis' stellar novel LOVE IS A LITTLE LIFE THREATENING is a smart, quirky romp though the love life of the Hope Larkwhistle, a lost soul librarian who inadvertently becomes a klepto, a near-killer, and a stalker-all in an effort to find a man (not to mention, discover the secret truths about postmodern love). Lyrical, ironic, energetic, and witty, Davis asks tough, philosophical questions about identity and what it is to be a single, thirty-something woman in America. Davis has her MFA in writing from Emerson. Her next novel will be an insightful memoir, exploring the ways canine obedience school can offer startling insights into everyday life.

HOLLYWOOD MAKEUP TIPS is Jodi Gastaldo's wonderful debut novel. Despite her reluctance to be an LA mommy, single makeup artist Brielle Crawford finds contentment and a successful career while falling for a celebrity who charms her foolish notions. This manuscript should be ready for submission by October.

A LUMINOUS ART is the beautifully written debut novel from Debra Lew Harder. Harder, a physician and concert pianist has written a wonderful story of a troubled concert pianist who has derailed both professionally and personally. The story follows the simultaneous arcs of the protagonist's career and personal life as a chance meeting with media technology entrepreneur thrusts her back into the spotlight and makes her examine her choices years ago. This book, which is mainstream women's fiction written with a literary bent, just won the prestigious Golden Heart award of 2004.

ADVENTURES OF A SALSA GODDESS is JoAnn Hornak's witty debut novel that puts a great new spin on the age-old search for love. In her novel, Samantha Jacobs is challenged to defy the daunting statistic that a single, 40-year-old woman has a better chance of winning the lottery than ever getting married. The results of her efforts are both hilarious and realistic, and readers will appreciate Hornak's wonderful writing style and voice. The book was recently sold to Berkley Publishing at auction.

Jonathan Methven's hip and incisive satire SMALL REVOLUTIONS is the story of unlikely allies who struggle against a culture that is increasingly dominated by consumer and commercial interests. An artist bent on stealing back his own work, a Pakistini-American on the brink of a one-woman revolution, and an optimistic (read: naive) journalist band together when circumstance forces them to come to the aide of a pregnant homeless woman. Jon's wit and insight make him an exciting new voice in American literature.

Gary Socol is a dynamic Hollywood producer for E! Entertainment and was the creator and/or producer for a number tremendously popular shows such as TALK SOUP, THE GOSSIP SHOW, REVEALED, and 101 COUNTDOWN. He's also authored many magazine pieces for Movieline, McCall's, Cosmopolitan, and Genre. His first play, THE SHADOW OF GREATNESS, starred Richard Chamberlain in a production at the Berkshire Theatre Festival in 2000. His play, BICOASTAL WOMAN, enjoyed a successful run at L.A.'s highly-esteemed Pasadena Playhouse in May 2003. Currently, Gary is working on a refreshing work of women's fiction. Gary does a terrific job of invoking mood and feeling with his snappy, pithy dialogue.

Always a bridesmaid and never a bride. That's the sentiment expressed by the protagonist in June Portnoy's smart and funny debut novel, THE MARRIAGE EPIDEMIC. An irreverent and insightful look at the craziness that takes place when all of your friends become Bridezillas, Portnoy's character feeds into the urgency to get married and finds herself saddled with a whole host of potential grooms. The growth and insight that occurs along the way makes for an extremely satisfying read. Portnoy is currently at work on her second novel.

Elizabeth Barrett has published young adult and romantic suspense novels for a number of years. A former editor, Elizabeth is well-versed in the publishing process. Currently she is working on a terrific thriller, BLACKBIRD, which gorgeously showcases her voice and style.

Jacquelyn Blain's novel, PRIME CRIME THURSDAY, is an impressive debut. The story, both murder mystery and journey of self discovery, is dead-on accurate with it's description of the Hollywood television industry. Blain's style is so engaging that the material is hard to put down. Blain writes what she knows, having spent seven years as a network television writer-producer, working on shows like Diagnosis Murder and Martial Law. With other books proposed for these series, Jacquelyn Blain is a definitely a talented new author to watch.

MIND'S EYE, a psychic thriller by first-time novelist Brian Dillmore, will grip readers with its chilling account of a man who can see crimes before they happen. Brian is a Director of Operations at Villanova University and an avid devotee of the martial arts.

Roberta Isleib, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in private practice in New Haven. In addition to her position at Yale University Health Services, Roberta finds time to write about her passion-golf. A contributor to Golf for Women and National Golfer, a mystery series focusing on golf is a natural evolution in her writing career. Agatha and Anthony Award Finalist, Six Strokes Under (Berkley), is an intriguing, fast-paced mystery. Roberta's second book of the series, Buried Lies, was released in spring of 2003. PUTT TO DEATH debuted in April of 2004 and FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN is slated for March 2005.

Linda O. Johnston is the author of numerous books of romance and romantic suspense and has sold in many foreign countries. A corporate attorney, Johnston has just sold a three book mysteries series featuring amateur sleuth Kendra Ballantine, a lawyer-turned petsitter. The first book in the series, SIT, STAY, SLAY will be published in January 2005 by Berkley PrimeCrime.

Kathleen Gregory Klein is the editor of Great Women Mystery Writers (Greenwood), 1995 finalist for both EDGAR and AGATHA awards. She is also a graduate of the Landscape Design Program at the New York Botanical Garden. Her first gardening mystery, DEADLY GARDEN TOUR, will be published by Five Star (Thorndike) in October 2004.

Kathy Long sold three books in the span of a week. Her first romantic suspense, SILENT WARNING, will be published by Harlequin Intrigue in May of 2005.

Steven Martin's excellent debut thriller, DENIAL OF DUTY, is a labyrinth of espionage and intrigue, replete with crooked politicians, die-hard journalists, jaded FBI agents, merciless blackmailers, and power-hungry war-lords. Steven lives in Colorado with his family and a "troubled" Labrador. This book will be ready for submission in September.

Denise Tiller is a hot new writer with a terrific voice. Filled with sass and pizzazz, her first mystery, Calculated Risk (Timberwolf Press) was an incredibly quick sale. This fresh author resides in Kansas City, MO and is currently working on her second mystery.

Retired Navy Commander Clayton Umbach has served as a Naval Aviator, flight instructor, and Pentagon Officer. His military and high profile career has provided him with a wealth of material for his gorgeously conceived Peter Logan series. A prolific and enormously talented new author, Clayton is positioned to become the next James Lee Burke or Lawrence Block.

Currently working in the film industry, Barret Schummacher has worked on features such as The Paper, Marvin's Room, The Ice Storm, In and Out, and Ransom. Barret's debut paranormal thriller, FEAR ITSELF, was published by Tor Books to great reviews. His next project, THRESHOLD, is currently being submitted. Incredibly focused, Barret is wonderful to work with and extremely media-genic. He's the M. Night Shaylaman for the book world.

Linda Zimmerhanzel, writing as Laura Bradley, has written books of romantic suspense and romance for Scarlet (UK) and St. Martin's Press. Zimmerhanzel's voice is full of sass and sarcasm, which has translated well to her most recent project. Currently, Zimmerhanzel has sold a two-book Hairdressing series to Pocket Books. The first book, THE BRUSH OFF, was released to great reviews in March 2004 and will be followed by SPRAYED STIFF in May of 2005. Incredibly talented and media-genic, Zimmerhanzel will surely drive the PR machine with her hair-raising mystery series.

Steve Savile editor and writer, this UK author has written for everything from Jurassic Park series books to his newest collection of short stories Angel Road (which, published by Elastic Press - just went back for it's second printing). Currently, Steve is working on a trilogy of graphic novels, that begins with the sensual and heart-wrenching 'literary' fantasy, FRAGRANCE OF YOU as well as looking for a US publisher for ANGEL ROAD a hauntingly beautiful collection of short stories.

Robert Sammelin has done cover art for Windstorm Creative and Prime Books in the US, and was the cover artist on Steve Savile's Skrattande Pojkens Skugga in Sweden. Robert has done art work for several heavy metal bands in Scandinavia and for an ambient music radio station in the UK.

Brenda Beagley is a fresh, spunky writer with a talent for creating memorable, marketable hooks. Her first book, THE COWBOY AND THE BRIDE, is a fun, sexy category romance which was sold to Harlequin American follow quickly by another three sales. Her next two books are due out in 2005.

Sandy Blair is earning a name for herself in the paranormal historical romance market. Winner of the 2003 Golden Heart Award (Paranormal), Blair's book, A MAN IN A KILT, went on to be part of a multi-book deal with Kensington. To be released in September 2004, Blair has already earned glowing reviews and quotes. Her next book, ROGUE IN A KILT, will be released in Dec. 2004.

Pam Crooks is fast becoming a "powerful voice in historical romance." The author of three books by Leisure, Crooks sold THE MERCENARY'S KISS, at auction, and it is being released August 2004. She has received terrific reviews from her books and is fast drawing a large and loyal readership.

Margaret Daley, is the author of over 30 published books. A solid writer of romances with interests in inspirationals, paranormals and suspense, Margaret is building an incredibly broad readership. She is currently writing books for the inspirational market and is under contract with Harlequin. Her next book will be entitled GOLD IN THE FIRE and will be released in October 2004. Margaret is a top seller for Steeple Hill.

Erotica writer Kathy Desmaris crafts sensual, fulfilling romances that are incredibly appealing. Her work has been published by Black Lace and Red Sage. Currently, Kathy is working on a sexy single title romance.

Ravenhook is Carla Dewhurst's delightful debut novel. A true gothic in every sense, Ravenhook hits all the right notes and makes fine use of the author's skillful narrative and drawn out tension to create a thrilling romance. This book will be ready for submission in September.

Megan Frampton's debut Regency A SINGULAR LADY (Signet, '05) pits a destitute debutant against the only lord in the ton who would rather make the world think he's a pauper than let a woman seduce him for his money. Combing an extensive knowledge of classicism and a voice that's both charming and witty, Megan is bound to become one of Regency's most endeared authors.

Bonnie Gardner is a strong writer with a flair for telling stories that readers both enjoy and can relate to. Gardner's stories are solid romances; she's great at developing emotional, character-driven stories and her appealing storylines and commercial voice are elements of past-proven success in this genre. The author has sold books to Silhouette Intimate Moments, Kensington Publishing, and is currently completing a multi-book series for Harlequin American.

KISSED BY MAGIC, Gloria Harchar's first book, was published in January 2004 by Dorchester publishing. Her story concerning romance and fairies captured readers' interest and Dorchester just signed up two additional books from Gloria. Her next book, ENCHANTED BY MAGIC will be released in December 2004.

Cheryl Howe is the author of three books purchased by Dorchester Publishing. She has received glowing reviews for her books, AFTER THE ASHES, THE PIRATE AND THE PURITAN, and TEMPTING JEWEL. Her unique wit and style will prove her a favorite among contemporary romantic comedy readers.

Carolyn Jewel is a promising new writer known for her versatility and unique voice. Author of THE SPARE and LORD RUIN (Dorchester), Carolyn has a deft hand for writing racy regencies. Her ability to manipulate complex and risky power dynamics between hero and heroine is unmatchable, and her sex scenes are hot hot hot! Carolyn is currently contracted for her next book with Dorchester: an energetic, futuristic fantasy. She plans to return to regencies soon.

Winner of Affair de Coeur's 1996 best Sci-Fi romance, Yvonne Jocks has published both paranormal and historicals under her name and the pen name of Evelyn Vaughn. Her publishers include Silhouette, DAW, and Leisure. Her unique approach and wonderful voice lends Yvonne a distinctive style. Yvonne is currently in the middle of a multi-book deal and is a lead author for the new Bombshell action line.

Linda O. Johnston is a seasoned, published writer who has sold numerous time travel romances to Leisure and Berkley and stories of romantic suspense to Harlequin Intrigue. Linda, also a mystery writer, is carving a large niche for herself in romantic suspense and her books have been gaining a large audience overseas as well.

Tracy Kelleher sold her first romance to Kensington Precious Gems. Harlequin Temptation bought her second novel, Everybody's Hero, quickly afterwards. She published two more Temptations, IT'S ALL ABOUT EVE and THE TRUTH ABOUT HARRY within the following year. A Harlequin Flipside, THE FRENCH CONNECTION, will be released in April 2005, and an alternative-dating anthology for Harlequin Signature is scheduled for February 2006. A former newspaper reporter and magazine editor, Tracy is a real pro.

Pam LaBud is a new historical writer for Kensington books. Her first novel, LADY HALVERSON'S GHOST, will debut in April 2005 and Kensington has already snapped up the rights to her second novel as well.

Connie Laux has worked as a journalist, editor, and creative writing teacher. The author of dozens of books in both historical and contemporary genres, Connie has been nominated for the RITA award as well as RT's Best Historical. Currently published by Bantam, Connie has earned fantastic reviews for her works and is a frequent Doubleday Bookclub choice.

2004 Golden Heart winner Kimberly Logan had her debut novel, A KISS IN THE DARK, will be published in March 2005. Foreign rights for her novel have already been sold and she has just signed another deal with Avon for her next two books.

Kathleen Long is an exciting new author who has just made her first two-book sale to Kensington Books. Her first book, BUNNY LOVE, will hit the market in December of 2004. Her second book, CHERRY ON TOP, is slated for late 2005. Kathleen is garnering film interest in both of these books.

Julianne MacLean is a bright new star on the romance horizon. Julianne is a USA Today Bestselling author, a double Rita nominee for 2004 and winner of RT's Best Historical of 2004. Julianne's Avon debut, TO MARRY THE DUKE, was extremely well received and was followed in February 2004 with AN AFFAIR MOST WICKED. Currently Julianne hard at work on two more historicals that Avon will publish in 2005.

An author of 10 published historical romances with Harlequin, Margo Maguire is no stranger to the industry. With her terrific characters and evocative prose, Margo's writing transports the readers to period of chivalrous knights and beautiful maidens. With her 11th novel, Isabel's Choice, Margo switched houses and has recently signed with Avon Books for her next two medieval romances.

Billed as "one of Avon's youngest authors, (with) an exciting future ahead of her," Anne Mallory is an up-and-coming young writer. Her debut novel, MASQUERADING THE MARQUESS was a Golden Heart Finalist in 2003 and was published by Avon in October of 2004. Her second book will follow six months later and she has already earned terrific reviews for her debut.

Marianne Mancusi is a brand new author of a unique genre-time travel chick lit. Her debut novel, A CONNECTICUT FASHIONISTA IN KING ARTHUR'S COURT, places a fun, fashion-obsessed woman in a medieval time period-with hilarious results and was bought by Dorchester Publishing. The novel is due out sometime next year.

Judith McWilliams has been writing solid, successful romances for over fifteen years. Her wry, witty stories have been a cornerstone of Harlequin and have been published all over the world. She recently won RT Magazine's Best Category Award for 2004.

Rae Monet's list of careers has been impressive (FBI Agent, Private Investigator, former Air Force, and more), but she has found her true calling in the world of publishing. THE LOST WOLF WARRIOR (available to editors June 2005), is a red-hot, gritty, no-holds-barred medieval with subtle paranormal elements. In a land where dreams can mean death, Monet's heroine is charged with protecting her hero and returning him to the mysterious land of his birth. Monet doesn't coddle her readers: her heroine isn't afraid of a little blood and her sex scenes are not for the faint of heart. In the future, Rae may return to her FBI roots to write sexy, action packed romance.

A rising star of romance, Celeste Norfleet is an African-American author who pens stories that hold universal appeal. She is the author of four well-received books published by BET, with two more coming out next year. Her reviews have been tremendous and her audience has been increasing by leaps and bounds.

Sheila Rabe is the author of three romantic comedies published by Berkley/Jove. Her love of funny, irreverent storylines has led her to write her most recent project, THE MAN MAGNET. This book, the first of a series, is an ugly duckling story with a twist and is sure to make readers laugh and cheer. Sheila is also hard at work on a charming inspirational Christmas Chick Lit, Chistmas in Carol.

Stacey Kay Miles-Snyder makes an excellent debut with her superb romantic suspense, STRANGER FROM HER PAST. Snyder deftly combines compelling characters with an engaging plot that showcases her ability to skillfully weave romantic tension with a fast-paced storyline that leaves readers eager to turn the next page. Snyder is definitely a new author to watch.

I DO? Candis Terry's delightful debut novel, won the 2000 RWA Golden Heart contest. I DO?, a compelling story of love at first sight and second chances, is sure to be a success, and Candis is currently working on several other titles

Patricia Thayer Wright, aka Patricia Thayer, has sold over 23 romances and has many more coming over the next year. Nominated for a Reader's Choice award and winner of the Romantic Times Review's Choice Award, Pat is emerging as a reader's favorite.

Diane Tyrrel has written dazzling interpretation of Victoria Holt's much-loved MISTRESS OF MELLYN. Entitled ON THE EDGE OF THE WOODS, this Berkley Sensation debuted in 2004 to great reviews. Her second book, ON THE EDGE OF THE WOODS, will be released in April 2005. With gorgeous imagery and language, Diane invokes a feeling of suspense and danger while simultaneously following the new experiences of the modern-day heroine.

Alethea Kontis is the author of a children's picture book, the TELEPHAB that is being released by Candlewick Press in the spring of 2007. Her current project, HAVEN, is a YA horror/thriller about a young woman who must save her town from a 200 year old witch that had been burned at the stake seeking her revenge. This book is due to be completed by April 2005.

Luc Reid is a talented author of YA books that will be a big hit with boys ages 12-18. His book, THE CURSE KEEPER, is about a young man eager to go to college, if only he can break the curse that keeps anyone from offering anyone in his family assistance. He recently completed the first book of a juvenile Fantasy/martial arts series, THE LATTERWORLD WARS (collaborating with fellow WotF winner Steve Bein): A boy, confined to a wheelchair in this world, is drafted as a possible successor to the dying Protector of the Latterworld, where he has almost unrestrained strength. Luc Reid is the two-time published winner of the Writers of the Future contest. Luc Reid is also currently polishing an adult fantasy novel, VOICES OF GODS AND DEMONS.

Janie Emaus is an award winning writer and children/YA author (her past projects include writing for the R.L. Stine series, Goosebumps). Janie's book, MERCURY IN RETRO LOVE, is about a high school student who uses her position as a school paper's astrologist to get her first boyfriend, her first kiss, and her first realization that sometimes things that "aren't in the stars" can still be fated.

Jenny Ryun Foster's tentatively titled YA, RIDING THE SKY, is a cross between Alias and the Fearless series. The first book in a proposed trilogy, is a fast-paced read about Ginger Coltraine - a girl who has attended more schools and has had more identities than an uncover agent. But, Ginger isn't working for the government, she's running from them. At least she thinks it's the government. All Ginger knows is that she has certain talents, and that there are people out there that think she belongs to them - both her and her talents. But who has time for a real life (not to mention a super cute boyfriend who has is own problems) when you're constantly running away from bad guys?

Steve Savile's recent project, Angel Road, was lauded as being a "magical, disturbing, and thought-provoking journey that readers will want to make more than once." He is currently finishing a proposal with artist Robert Sammelin for a graphic novelization of three Angel Road stories.