Dr. Monica Handy

Some stories entertain you. Others make you think, feel, question, and perhaps see yourself a little differently.

Dr. Monica Handy is a Chicago-based author, playwright, and founder of COOTW Entertainment & Literary Works (Coming Out Of The Wilderness). She writes emotionally rich, character-driven stories filled with complicated relationships, unexpected romance, buried secrets, and second chances. Her characters are outspoken, imperfect, and wonderfully human. They make mistakes, challenge expectations, and sometimes discover that the life they thought they wanted isn't the life they deserve.

Monica's love of writing began at nine years old. Raised by her grandmother and great-aunt, she discovered early that putting her thoughts on paper gave her a voice when speaking them aloud wasn't always possible. What began with poetry grew into a lifelong passion for storytelling.

Today, that same passion fuels her novels, plays, and other creative works. Her books include The Tiger in My Head, Watering My Flowers: Ember's Story, Calvin Spears, and The Seventh Whistleblower. From mature romance and women's fiction to psychological suspense, her stories explore the choices people make, the secrets they carry, and the courage it takes to change.

A mother of four, grandmother, ordained evangelist, and lifelong creative, Monica believes storytelling is more than entertainment. It's an opportunity to connect with people, challenge perspectives, and remind readers that their voices matter.

She's also a die-hard romantic who loves family gatherings, laughter around the dinner table, traveling, and exploring nature. And yes, she has a soft spot for charming, complicated fictional men, even the ones she creates herself.

At the heart of her writing is a simple belief: "Another set of circumstances is always possible."

Whether exploring love, redemption, personal transformation, or the complexities of human relationships, Monica approaches storytelling with humor, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the experiences that shape our lives.