Meet your favorite dedicated authors both past and present...

 George Pelecanos is an acclaimed American author and television producer known for his crime fiction novels and screenwriting. Born on February 18, 1957, in Washington, D.C., he has written numerous books, many of which are set in his hometown and explore the complexities of urban life, crime, and morality. 

Pelecanos is also recognized for his work on popular television series, including "The Wire" and "Treme," where he contributed to the storytelling and character development that garnered critical acclaim. His writing often reflects social issues and the human condition, earning him a dedicated readership and respect within the literary and entertainment communities. 

  "Owning Up" is a novel by George Pelecanos that revolves around the themes of redemption, responsibility, and the struggles of urban life. The story follows the life of a young man named Chris, who is trying to make a fresh start after serving time in prison. As he navigates his new life, Chris confronts the challenges of reintegrating into society, including the temptations of his past and the impact of his previous choices on his family and friends.

Set in Washington, D.C., the narrative delves into the intricacies of relationships, particularly between fathers and sons, and the quest for personal growth. Throughout the book, Pelecanos explores the harsh realities of life in the city, highlighting the systemic issues that contribute to crime and despair, while also emphasizing the potential for change and hope. With his trademark gritty realism and deep character development, Pelecanos crafts a compelling story that examines the complexities of owning up to one’s past and forging a new path forward.
 

 Ann Rule (1931-2015) was a prolific American author known for her captivating true crime novels and her unique ability to weave gripping narratives that explored the darker facets of human nature. With a career that spanned over four decades, Rule became one of the most recognized and respected figures in the true crime genre, earning a dedicated readership and acclaim for her meticulous research and empathetic storytelling.

 Born on February 22, 1931, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Ann Rule's early life was marked by the values of hard work and resilience. After her family moved to the Pacific Northwest, she developed a passion for writing, which she pursued throughout her education. Rule attended the University of Washington, where she studied journalism, honing the skills that would later define her career.

Before becoming a full-time author, Rule worked as a police officer and a writer for various publications. Her experiences in law enforcement provided her with a unique perspective on crime and the criminal mind, which would later inform her writing. In the late 1960s, she began writing about crime for local newspapers, but it was her transition to true crime novels that would catapult her into the literary spotlight. 

Ann Rule's legacy as the queen of true crime endures through her extensive body of work, which continues to captivate readers with its blend of meticulous research and compelling storytelling. Her ability to humanize the victims of crime while exploring the complexities of the human psyche has left an indelible mark on the genre.  

 Ann Rule's breakthrough came with the publication of her first book, "The Stranger Beside Me," in 1980. This groundbreaking work examined the life of Ted Bundy, one of America’s most notorious serial killers, whom Rule had known personally as a friend. The juxtaposition of her personal experiences with Bundy against the horrific crimes he committed created a chilling narrative that captivated readers and set a new standard for true crime literature.

In "The Stranger Beside Me," Rule explored the duality of Bundy’s charm and charisma alongside his capacity for brutal violence. The book not only documented Bundy’s crimes but also delved into the psychological complexities of both the killer and the victims. This empathetic approach to storytelling became a hallmark of Rule's work, as she sought to give voice to the victims and their families while examining the social and psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior.