Ancient legends and the monsters of myth intrigue Dr. Vander Velde, who holds a B.A. in English and Theatre from the University of Portland, an MSc in Medieval Studies from the University of Edinburgh, and a Ph.D. from Boston University. Her work involves the Plinian races, fairy lore, the Arthur legends, sixteenth-century alchemists, and traditions surrounding giants and dwarfs. Wendy has taught in both the classroom and the gym (where kickboxing is her passion), and is proud to serve as a board member of ORACUL (the Organization for the Research of Ancient Cultures). Her love of the mountains, photography, and the Great Northwest led her to Portland, OR where she is currently working on books. Her writing fluctuates between creative and academic, yet there are nearly always monsters involved.