The Within the Walls trilogy chronicles the life of Emilya Hoffman Bowes Florencia?technological genius, collaborator in the newest wave of "tek" enhancements to hit the market, and creator of virtual vacations. As Book 3, The Poet's Treasure opens, Emilya has returned to City Centre, a place where the inhabitants are told they are the last of Earth's population, kept safe from the toxic world outside by remaining within the confines of their tiny homes. Their tek enables them to listen in on the thoughts and conversations of others around them?and participate in a busy, virtual existence where uniqueness and true rest are unknown.
Emilya is beginning to see the gulf between the face-to-face relationships she is now experiencing and the virtual existence of the people in City Centre. She can't help but wonder if she can use her expertise in virtual imaging to entice people out of the illusory security of their neatly edited icons and pre-packaged food?out into the majestic, wild world and true community that are available beyond their walls.

Stephanie Bennett, PhD. is a Professor of Communication and Media Ecology in the School of Communication and Media at Palm Beach Atlantic University in Palm Beach, FL. Currently, Dr. Bennett teaches courses in communication ethics, relationship management, digital culture, nonverbal communication, and rhetoric. She is a member of the National Communication Association, the Media Ecology Association, and the International Jacques Ellul Society.
Stephanie has written articles for a host of organizations and ministries such as Focus on the Family, CCM (Contemporary Christian Magazine), and Break Point.
In all that she does, Stephanie brings her love of writing and close-knit community together with a heart to inspire personal growth. Married to her musician/ drummer husband, Earl, she is the mother of three grown children and grandmother of nine. She enjoys playing tennis, writing songs and sharing life with students, family and friends.