Castro Valley Journalist-Turned-Social Worker Publishes First Novel at 70

Former journalist and social worker Virginia Degner's new book, "Without Consent," is a compilation of her personal experience dealing with the traumatic circumstances of children and young adults and a love of mysteries.

A late bloomer to the world of book-writing, 70-year-old Degner feels her inspiration to finally write this novel came in the form of a serious incident involving her health.

"In August of 2007, my heart stopped and I hadn't written this book that I'd been musing about all these years," said Degner. "I thought to myself, how do I want to spend this life? I'd been given a second chance."

The book is about social worker, Ariel Frazer Houston, who realizes after the murder of her husband and her step-mother that she is the real target. She then discovers that she has been the victim of medical experiments without her knowledge.

Degner emphasized that "Without Consent" is ultimately about the importance of family connections and the innate strength of people to overcome hardship.

Though no specific incident stuck out in her mind, her history working with foster children gave her a deep understanding of coping with trauma.

"It's all amazing, the journey people's lives are and what they go through and that they survive it is remarkable" said Degner. "There is a wonderful ability of people to recover from trauma."

Originally from Niagra Falls, New York, Degner moved around a lot growing up. Her parents were musicians and opera singers who traveled wherever they could find work. 

"I went to about 20 different schools growing up," said Degner.

Degner said she knew she wanted to be a writer when she first learned to write cursive on a tablet when she was 6.

"I just wanted to use that whatever that was," said Degner. "I called it the lure of God."

Through the process of writing the book, she said her husband Duane was her greatest support.

"I read it and I enjoyed it," said Duane. "And I was the first one to say it should be made into a movie."

The book has been marketed in 18 different countries, and Degner admits that it has taken on a life of its own. She intends this book to be the first of a series.

Ultimately, Degner wishes her readers will take away a positive message about love and family.

"[I hope] people can take away a sense of hope, a sense of that they can reconnect with people that they love at during times of change." 

Ten percent of the book proceeds will go to a rotary-sponsored program called PolioPlus.

For more information on Degner and her book, visit her website http://sbpra.com/virginiardegner/ or Facebook page.