When the man woke Heather and threatened her at knifepoint, her terror went beyond her own safety: Were the kids sleeping soundly in the next bedroom, or did their silence mean something else? Would her husband save her, or would he face the same knife she did? All of them survived the ordeal, but Heather was left terrified, disoriented—and pregnant. Her internationally best-selling memoir, Startling Beauty, tells the story of her courageous journey from rape to restoration. This gripping true-life drama offers undeniable proof that God can bring blessings out of the worst situations in our lives.

Heather is a sought-after speaker for conferences, women’s retreats, and pro-life events around the world. She shares her testimony and other inspirational talks to encourage people to live boldly. Her sweet spirit, confident authenticity, and obvious joy make her uniquely able to identify with her audiences and to inspire them to wholeness.

Previously known for her prolific success in authoring children’s books, including the best-selling Learn to Read Bible, Heather’s memoir has won national acclaim through her appearances on programs including “The 700 Club,” “Montel,” “Naomi’s New Morning,” “100 Huntley Street,” and through associations like Focus on the Family.

Heather is now an English professor in Indiana, fulfilling her passion to help the next generation of writers to find their voices and impact the world.