J ulie Reece Deaver was born on March 13, 1953, in Geneva, Illinois, to Wilds and Dee (Rider) Deaver. During her formative years, Deaver was encouraged in her writing by her parents. The family is one in which literary efforts have played a significant role: Deaver's father was an advertising writer, and her brother, Jeffery Wilds Deaver, has written several mystery novels. Originally planning to write for television, Julie Deaver has adopted the techniques of that medium in her fiction; most notably, she uses a great deal of dialogue in her writing.

Deaver has contributed illustrations to magazines and newspapers. Say Goodnight, Gracie, her first novel, appeared in 1988, and was warmly received by critics. It was chosen by the American Library Association as one of the best books for young adults. She followed this novel with First Wedding, Once Removed, in 1990.