I’m GJ Maresca, GJ for short, a passionate author with a diverse background that has shaped my unique storytelling style. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, my love for cooking was ignited at a young age. Influenced by an Italian heritage, my passion for cooking and baking was nurtured by grandparents, who were skilled chefs and bakers. As a young individual, I worked in numerous renowned Italian establishments, including restaurants, pizzerias, and bakeries, absorbing the essence of Italian cuisine in the late fifties and sixties.
While I initially believed that my future lay in the culinary arts, fate had a different plan in store. Drawn to explore the world, I joined the Navy and embarked on a journey of adventure that would forever leave an indelible mark. While later pursuing a higher education, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, which ultimately led to a fulfilling career in computer science. Over the course of Forty years, I thrived in the field, enjoying the challenges and rewards it brought.
Upon retiring I finally had the opportunity to revisit my lifelong passion for cooking. I embarked on a journey to Italy to receive formal education in Italian cuisine, particularly focusing on the art of crafting authentic Italian-style pizzas. With the necessary skills and knowledge in hand, I found myself in the sunny state of Florida. Where I ventured into the world of gastronomy as a restaurateur and personal chef, even teaching cooking classes to eager learners.
Driven by the desire to share my culinary creations with a wider audience, I felt compelled to put pen to paper. This led to the publication of two cookbooks, which I thoroughly enjoyed writing, each with its own unique theme. However, my creative spirit yearned for more, and I decided to delve into fiction. My first novel took the form of a memoir, drawing inspiration from a person who had profoundly influenced my life. The story grew so rich and intricate that it had to be divided into multiple parts.
Embracing my love for mystery, particularly the works of Agatha Christie, I ventured into the realm of psychological mysteries. My second novel captivated readers with its intricate plot and unexpected twists. Unfazed by genre boundaries, I’m currently immersed in writing my fourth and fifth novels, both blending mystery with elements of science fiction. I love to infuse charm into my characters, therefore, transporting my readers into captivating worlds.
Eager to connect with my audience, I eagerly await feedback, comments, and reviews, hoping that readers will find my stories as captivating as they were to write. With a genuine passion for cooking and a flair for storytelling, I invite you to embark on an enchanting journey through my books, inviting you to savor the flavors of their culinary expertise and immerse yourself in the captivating worlds they create.
Thank you, GJ Maresca
