LURLENE McDANIEL began writing inspirational novels about teenagers facing life-altering situations when her son was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. "I want kids to know that while people don't get to choose what life gives to them, they do get to choose how they respond," she has said. Her novels are hard-hitting and realistic, but also leave readers with inspiration and hope. Her bestselling books have received acclaim from readers, teachers, parents, and reviewers; they include The Year of Luminous Love and its companion, The Year of Chasing Dreams; Don't Die, My Love; Till Death Do Us Part; Telling Christina Goodbye; True Love: Three Novels; and many more.