Summer S Ritz

Summer Ritz is a storyteller, children’s author, and Appalachian enthusiast who brings adventure, mystery, and folklore to life. She is the creator of the Whispers in the Pines series, a junior mystery collection that sparks curiosity and imagination in young readers. From solving clever puzzles to navigating thrilling adventures, Summer’s stories engage, entertain, and inspire.

Her writing also extends to adult Appalachian fiction, where she blends suspense, folklore, and the haunting beauty of the hollers. One novel explores Halloween legends with playful spookiness, while another weaves tension and mystery into tales where the hollers are always watching. Across all her work, Summer’s characters, settings, and plots reflect authenticity, heart, and a love for her home region.

Professionally, Summer is a dedicated training and development specialist, holding certifications in CPTM, Green Belt, PCQI, OSHA 30, UX Design, and leadership development, and she is pursuing her Certified Instructional Trainer certification. Her career in safety and instructional design informs her storytelling, bringing depth, realism, and problem-solving to her characters and plots.

Summer is actively involved in Leadership Cocke County, mentoring future community leaders and promoting growth, inclusion, and connection. Her work in the community mirrors her approach to life: leading with honesty, heart, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel supported and empowered.

When she isn’t writing, working, or mentoring, Summer enjoys exploring the trails at Windrock and cherishing time with her family—her supportive husband Ben and their daughters, Violet and Charlotte, who inspire her every day. Her love for family, community, and the natural world fuels her creativity, bringing warmth and authenticity to every story she tells.

Whether writing for children or adults, Summer Ritz crafts stories that entertain, challenge, and inspire. She invites readers to explore the magic of Appalachia, the thrill of adventure, and the power of curiosity and courage. Through her books, she creates worlds where readers feel seen, welcomed, and inspired to embrace imagination and wonder.