Hello
Even as a young child, I would conjure up stories and write them down in journals. I have evolved in some ways, but remain the same in others. I have been writing professionally since 2004 when I was first contracted by a small press publisher. I have no intention of slowing down anytime soon.
About Dr. Tonya Nagle
Dr. Tonya Nagle is an author, educator, United States Marine Corps veteran, editor, audiobook producer, and publishing professional whose career has been shaped by a lifelong passion for storytelling, learning, and creative development.
Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to both creativity and education. She holds a PhD in Higher Education Administration, MFA in Creative Writing, MA in English, MA in Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Design, and a MA in Appalachian Studies. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and an Associate of Arts degree in Fine Arts.
Before pursuing her extensive academic career, Dr. Nagle served in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that helped shape her commitment to service, leadership, perseverance, and lifelong learning. Those values continue to influence her work as an educator, author, and mentor.
Throughout her career, Dr. Nagle has worked at the intersection of storytelling, teaching, and creative development. As an educator, she has helped students develop critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. As an author, she has written across multiple genres and publishing brands, creating stories that explore relationships, resilience, personal growth, and the many ways people connect with one another.
Her multidisciplinary background informs every aspect of her work. Her studies in psychology contribute to her understanding of character motivation and reader engagement. Her creative writing and English degrees provide a strong foundation in narrative craft and language. Her education and curriculum design experience supports her work as a teacher and consultant. Her fine arts background contributes to her appreciation for visual storytelling and design, while her Appalachian Studies degree reflects her interest in culture, history, place, and the stories that shape communities.
In addition to writing, Dr. Nagle works with independent authors through Creative Writing with Dr. Nagle, providing editorial services, audiobook production support, translation review, and publishing consultation. Having navigated both traditional academic environments and the traditional, small press, and independent publishing world, she understands the challenges authors face and is passionate about helping writers bring their stories to readers.
She is particularly interested in the ways emerging technologies can expand opportunities for authors while preserving the heart of great storytelling. By combining traditional editorial expertise with modern production tools, she helps writers explore new formats, reach new audiences, and build sustainable creative careers.
Whether she is teaching, writing, editing, producing audiobooks, or helping another author prepare a manuscript for publication, Dr. Nagle believes that stories matter. They educate, entertain, connect, and inspire. At the heart of her work is a simple belief: every story deserves the opportunity to find its audience.
When she is not working with authors or developing new projects, she can usually be found reading, researching, exploring new creative ideas, or adding yet another book to an already overflowing collection.
My Story
I'm from Louisville, Kentucky. I went into the Marines after high school and was honorably discharged a few years later. I met my spouse while on active duty and we lived a military life until his retirement. We now live in a cabin in the woods in Western, NC.
The Cara North pen name was created in the writing lab when I was trying to find a way to write and publish romance at a time long before it was acceptable in the academic realm. Which is crazy when you think about it since a considerable amount of literature is...gasp...romantic! Anywhoo. I was in NC and the idea of saying Cara North from North Carolina would help someone remember the name. Thus, Cara was born and has become a part of my identity for over 18 years now.
Keeping with the North theme, my YA pen name is September and my non-romance fantasy and sci-fi pen name is Echo. This leads to consistency in the fiction realm and yet differentiates what to expect from the name.
I have a YouTube channel and a Podcast.
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Thank you for stopping by.
I am available for guest speaking. As a faculty member of various colleges and higher education institutions for over 20 years, I am very comfortable in front of a large crowd as well as in in intimate setting.
Muses & Sirens
Podcast
