Starley Talbott Thompson was raised on a Wyoming ranch. She traveled the world and lived in four countries and has been a freelance writer for more than 40 years as of 2026. Starley began her writing career as a photo-journalist with the Saratoga Sun weekly newspaper in Saratoga, Wyoming. She holds a BS degree from the University of Wyoming and an MS degree from the University of Nevada. At the age of 60, Starley joined the Peace Corps and served briefly in South Africa. Starley's world travels are detailed in her book, "Lasso the World." Her interest in history, especially local history in Southeast Wyoming, led her to author a number of books on the topic. She is a member Wyoming Writers and the Platte County Historical Society, among other organizations.