G.L. Pedersen is a South Florida native and an accomplished author specializing in both fiction and nonfiction. Based in Palm Beach County, she has penned numerous works, including Pioneering Palm Beach, Legendary Locals of West Palm Beach, and The Crystal Ball Chronicles. Passionate about uncovering overlooked histories, she focuses on telling the stories of women whose contributions have been forgotten.
Pedersen writes full time, blending meticulous research with compelling storytelling to bring the past to life. Her current project explores the life of Dr. Mabel E. Elliott, a dedicated physician who served overseas in the Near East, saving countless lives. Through her work, Pedersen preserves and illuminates the rich history of Florida and beyond, ensuring that the voices of pioneering women are not lost to time. Whether delving into historical figures or crafting engaging narratives, she remains committed to celebrating resilience, courage, and the untold stories of the past.
When not doing historical research or exploring spooky old houses, Janet M. Naughton loves being near or in the Atlantic Ocean and enjoys swimming, snorkeling, and boating. A permanent resident of Palm Beach County since 1987, the author and researcher is a Librarian at Palm Beach State College.
Naughton earned a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University, a Master’s Degree in History from National University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Florida Atlantic University. Together with G.L. Pedersen, she created the Historic Moonlight Cemetery Tours of Woodlawn Cemetery and Weekend History Stroll series to places of historic interest across Palm Beach County. Naughton credits her passion for research, treasure hunting, adventure and clue seeking to the fictional pop icon, Nancy Drew, whose suspenseful adventures captivated her as a youngster. Janet is a charter member of the international club of Nancy Drew Sleuths.
She is the author of Images of America: Sport Fishing in Palm Beach County and Vintage Postcard Series: Boynton Beach. She co-authored Images of America: Boynton Beach (with M. Randall Gill) and Vintage Postcard Series: Delray Beach (with Dorothy W. Patterson). Her 2012 book, Pioneering Palm Beach: The Deweys and the South Florida Frontier, with G. L. Pedersen, brought to light the hidden history of Palm Beach County. Reviewers applauded the book as a welcome addition to the historical record. Another book, Legendary Locals of West Palm Beach, includes photographs and biographical sketches on over 100 of West Palm Beach’s local personalities spanning 12 decades. In 2023, Naughton co-wrote The Crystal Ball Chronicles with G.L. Pedersen. She also works with the Lake Worth Historical Society on their publications.
Her history blog is found at www.boyntonhistory.org/author/jdevries/