Ruth was born in Wellington in 1964, where she also did her schooling. At Wellington Polytechnic Ruth did a Visual Communications Design Diploma, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree at Victoria University. She is currently continuing with her Bachelor of Law studies. Although Ruth's present occupation is writing and illustrating she has in the past been a waitress, actor, student, postie, receptionist and commercial illustrator. Ruth lives in Makara, near Wellington, with her partner Chris and two children Eli and Billy.