Kerry Peresta

Kerry Peresta is a former advertising account executive and copywriter. After decades of crafting punchy headlines and persuasive campaigns, she traded the corporate world for full time writing and the salty air of Hilton Head Island, SC. Kerry is the author Olivia Callahan Suspense, a five-book series; and standalone thriller Back Before Dawn, all released by Level Best Books. Her humor column, “The Lighter Side,” appeared weekly in the Pierre Daily Journal from 2009-11; and her articles, stories, and interviews have appeared in Local Life Magazine, Lady Lowcountry Magazine, Island Events Magazine, and Bluffton Breeze. Her short story, “The Day the Migraine Died,” appeared in Rock, Roll & Ruin, an anthology by Triangle Sisters in Crime, 2022; and she and three other female mystery writers created the crime fiction podcast “Guns, Knives & Lipstick.” Kerry is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, South Carolina Writers Association, and Island Writers Network. Oh yes, and also, three annoying cats.

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Kerry has lived all over the USA, plus short stints in Japan and Germany, compliments of her father's  distinguished military career. She and husband Jim had barely said "I do" before relocating from Little Rock, AR to Pierre, SD; followed by a transfer to the Baltimore area for five years, finally putting down roots in the charming coastal community of Hilton Head Island. She enjoys the beautiful beaches, Lowcountry marshes, vast creative community, and amazing venues which populate the island.  Kerry and her husband have six children and an ever-expanding flock of grandkids, whom they adore.