Elaine Russell

I am the author of three historical novels and six children's book, and have won numerous awards. Writing is a journey that takes me down many unexpected paths. When I begin a new novel, it feels like my characters soon take over and lead the story. Equally enjoyable as the writing, is the research I do for my books (I have a BA in history). I'm always finding fascinating events or facts that can shape the story. My love of travel and history have contributed significantly to my writing, as I love weaving in the culture and past of other countries into the stories. My latest historical novel, "When the Tamarind Tree Blooms," (April 2024) is about a young métisse, half-Lao/half-French, in 1931 French colonial Laos, trying determine where she belongs in the deeply divided French and Lao societies, where neither group readily accepts her mixed heritage. I am also the author of the historical novels "In the Company of Like-Minded Women" (2018) and "Across the Mekong River" (2012) -- now available in a French, "De l'autre côté du Mékong." My children’s works include two picture books, "All About Thailand" (2016) and "Thai Celebrations for Children," (2022) with Tuttle Publishing. I am also the author of the middle grade Martin McMillan mystery/adventure series, which features skateboarding heroes Martin and Isabel: "The Lost Inca City," "The Secret of the Ruby Elephant," and "The Sacred Stones". And finally, my young adult novel, “Montana in A Minor,” stems from my passion for music, an interest in the complexities of modern family life, and a belief that everyone appreciates a good love story! I was born in San Francisco and raised on the peninsula. I attended the University of California at Davis where I earned a bachelor’s degree in history, then California State University Sacramento for a master’s degree in economics. I live with my husband in Sacramento, California.