Melissa spent several years pursuing a science career (she holds a doctorate in conservation genetics) before deciding it would be fun to write fiction, too. It turns out that there is even more research involved in writing, but luckily that’s one of her favourite things.

She enjoys combining facts that seem fantastical with actual fantasy, and creating quirky characters with a sense of humour. She often ponders how mythical creatures would solve problems. She loves wildlife photography, and has a collection of blurry animal photos to prove it. Melissa is also passionate about conservation, and spends far too much time looking at climate change predictions.

Melissa writes YA and cosy urban fantasy/climate fiction crossover and speculative fiction stories. Under the name Melissa R Gunn she writes science-related educational books for kids.