Janet grew up in a family that cherished the past and had a strong creative streak. Her father was a storyteller, like his father. The yarns her father and grandfather told instilled in Janet a love of the past and the desire to tell stories on paper. At twelve Janet wrote her first “novels,” even illustrating her little books, but when it came time to choose a career, she wanted to teach.
After college, Janet married her college sweetheart, then taught first grade before leaving teaching to rear two daughters. During those early years together, Janet and her husband found the church they still attend, joined Bible studies and developed a love of scripture and a closer walk with God. Janet volunteered in her daughter’s schools, taught Sunday school at her church and pursued creative hobbies.
With her daughters almost grown, Janet turned to her girlhood dream. Her journey toward publication took nine exciting, sometimes painful years of learning her craft and dealing with rejection. Fascinated by history and the role of strong women in our nation's past, Janet brings both together in her faith-based love stories.
Today Janet writes inspirational historical romances for Steeple Hill. Her stories of maintaining faith in trying circumstances show the power of God to strengthen families. Her debut Courting Miss Adelaide, September 2008, was a Reviewer’s Choice finalist, National Reader’s Choice finalist, Golden Quill finalist, Booksellers Best finalist, Gayle Wilson finalist, Maggie finalist, Book of the Year finalist. Her second book in the Courting series, Courting the Doctor's Daughter released May 12, 2009. Her third book The Substitute Bride, February 9, 2010, is a mail-order bride story set in Iowa.
When she isn’t writing, Janet enjoys rubber stamping greeting cards, playing golf and reading. The Deans enjoy travel and spending time with family.