[4] One particularly negative review noted that "the plot was illogical," and "awkward phrasing, clinched narrative, and persistent use of passive voice" created an extremely "unsatisfying ending."

Born in Ogden, Utah in 1979, Fitzpatrick developed a love of reading from a young age, being especially fond of Nancy Drew novels.

[7] Fitzpatrick grew up as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and says that while her writing style was not directly influenced by her religion, there are hints of it across her novel in themes like "redemption.

She was a student involved in various activities, including playing clarinet and running cross country, but did not consider herself a writer, saying she was "never making it past fifteen pages" while attempting to write short stories.

She went on to work at an alternative high school in Provo, Utah, where she was employed in a variety of roles, including a teacher and a secretary, but she became overwhelmed with all that was expected of her.