Columbia University Graduate (Economics) and passionate traveler (80 countries+). Accumulated a varied experience in banking, editing, free-lance journalism, college teaching and marketing. Worked 25 years for the United Nations (in FAO as project analyst, ending as Director for Europe/Central Asia).

Lives in Italy with her Sicilian husband whose help was invaluable for the historical research that went into the Fear of the Past. Published several books in Italy in Italian, including an early short version of Fear of the Past. 

Two lifelong passions: writing and painting. Participated in 15 art shows (had two personals) and is a Member of Artistes Indépendants, Paris since 2008. Maintains a blog (Claude Nougat - The Blog) to air her independent views on publishing, foreign affairs, and contemporary art.Is active on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and StumbleUpon.