Gabrielle Charbonnet, writing under the pseudonym Cate Tiernan, is an American author primarily recognized for her "Sweep" series, which chronicles the Wiccan experiences of high school students. This series is known internationally under different titles, including "Wicca" in several countries and "White Magic" in Italy and France. Prior to her success with the "Sweep" series, Charbonnet established a career writing children's literature for various series such as "Princess," "American Gold Gymnasts," and "Disney Girls." She also contributed to young adult fiction through collaborations with James Patterson. Charbonnet began her writing career after studying writing and Russian language and literature at New York University and Loyola University, and working in the children's book department at Random House. She has since authored approximately 75 books under various names, including her own and as a ghostwriter. Despite not identifying as Wiccan herself, Charbonnet has expressed an appreciation for the "woman-centeredness" and "female identity" inherent in the practice, stating she can "really relate to Wicca."

Gabrielle Charbonnet utilizes the pen name Cate Tiernan for her most widely recognized works, particularly the "Sweep" series focusing on teenage Wiccan adventures. This series achieved international recognition, appearing as "Wicca" in markets like the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Australia, and as "White Magic" in Italy and France. Under her birth name, Charbonnet is known for her contributions to children's literature, having written extensively for series such as "Princess," "American Gold Gymnasts," and "Disney Girls." Her versatility as a writer is further demonstrated by her collaborations with author James Patterson on young adult novels, "Sundays at Tiffany's" and "Witch & Wizard." Across her career, Charbonnet has written around 75 books, employing multiple pseudonyms and also working as a ghostwriter.

Born in New Orleans in 1961, Gabrielle Charbonnet's academic journey included studies in writing and Russian language and literature at New York University, followed by a degree in Russian from Loyola University. Her professional path began in the children's book sector at Random House, where she also gained editorial experience, including work on L.J. Smith's "The Secret Circle." After an initial period in New York, she returned to New Orleans to raise her family and commence her "Sweep" series. Charbonnet has articulated a personal connection to Wicca, appreciating its "woman-centeredness" and "essentially female identity," despite not being a practitioner herself. She currently resides in Durham, North Carolina, with her family and pets.

“can really relate to Wicca”

“woman-centeredness and its essentially female identity”