<strong>Valerie D. Wade,</strong> author of the debut novel, <strong>Ivy Lee’s Rue</strong> and the upcoming novella, <strong>Leaving Jacksonville</strong>, is a lifelong resident of Michigan; born in Detroit and raised in Highland Park. She is a Research Administrator, alumna of Wayne State University, published poet, literacy tutor, and animal lover. Her love of writing began in her teen years. She loves spending time with her adult children and grandchildren, and plans to continue her dream of learning to play drums.
