Melissa Cook is an author and avid wedding photographer based in Northern Virginia. Originally from Southern Maryland, Melissa has been crafting stories since high school, and Secrets by the Lake marks her debut novel. When not immersed in writing or capturing timeless moments through the lens, Melissa enjoys life with her husband, Justin, and their dog, Joey. Her work combines a love for storytelling with a flair for uncovering hidden truths, bringing readers into suspenseful, emotional journeys.