Melissa graduated with a degree in business from Baylor University and went on to earn her MBA from Baker University. She currently works as a writer and a children's bookseller. Melissa specializes in books for juvenile readers. She is currently writing a series about the American Colonies, beginning with the voyage of the doomed ship, Sea Venture.    She lives and works in a suburb of Kansas City where she volunteers at the local zoo, and a nearby animal shelter. She also enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephew who give her feedback on her books.