John Merullo, like the Brimmers, is a native of Massachusetts. He had a 23-year career as a public librarian, specializing in programming for adults and management. He lives in Houston with his husband, George, their dogs, Paul and Ringo, their cat, Pete, and John's mother, Mary.  He enjoys cooking, baking, reading, watching old movies and classic TV shows, and choral singing.

IG: @brimmerverse

Robin Winckler is a YA fantasy author with a love for magic, dragons, adventures, and all things high fantasy. She has been writing for as long as she can remember. Over the years, she has developed a fascination with not only the art of storytelling but with words and language as well; this convinced her to pursue a degree in English. Throughout her studies, she began to dabble in dark fantasy, faerie folklore, and gothic elements with hopes to incorporate these aspects into future works. When she is not writing, she can be found drawing, reading, or sharing pictures of her beloved dog, Pippin.

IG: @author.robinwinckler

Richard C. Erickson, DO, is a retired family practice doctor. His published works include multiple medical journal articles, a handbook on Osteopathic Manipulative Techniques (1993), several copyrighted novels, and a work of poetry.  Dr. Erickson is a devout New Testament Christian who believes in accepting others as they are; that the only way to peace is through persuasion, not dissuasion, love, not hate, and acceptance, not persecution. He has been blessed with five exceptional children, six wonderful grandchildren, and one incredible wife who puts up with his eccentricities above and beyond what any reasonable woman would have.

FB: facebook.com/groups/795730125736437/

Escapism is my drug of choice. As a child, I was angry that my existence was confined to this reality, and I did everything I could to find a way out. Stories made it bearable. Whether it was Thor’s Bifrost, the wardrobe of Narnia, or the mirror in Stephen R. Donaldson’s Mordant’s Need duology, I was hooked. Now, I tell my own stories of escape. I create and invite others to find solace, adventure, love, and passion in fantasy realms, outer space, and reinvented parallel realities. This door is always open. B.G. Vandenberg has always written stories. A native Texan, she works as a middle school science instructional coach in San Antonio, Texas and has three grown children, a loving partner, a dog named Scout, and three exceptionally unusual cats.

IG: @bschonbergauth

Jon Florence’s journey to the written page began in seventh grade English class when he was presented with a story prompt assignment for the very first time. His first book, Gathering No Moss, was published in 2024 and is a coming-of-age love story. His second book, Tales from a Far Place, was published in 2025 and is an anthology of seven stories that span and blend multiple genres including suspense, mystery, the supernatural, and sci-fi with unexpected twists. He lives in Houston and is currently at work on another anthology and a sci-fi novel.

IG: @author.jonflorence

Brian Lazarow was born in Nevada in 1996 but has lived most of their life in Texas. After initially wanting to pursue a career as an “inventor” they soon realized they had very little skill with machines but plenty with stories. They received a Bachelor of Arts in speculative fiction and film from Austin College in 2018 and currently work on their books in their home office in between IT support calls and caring for their tortoiseshell cat, Mochi.

IG: @brianlazarow

R.J. Joseph is an award winning, Shirley Jackson and Stoker Award™ nominated  Texas based writer/speaker/editor. Her creative and academic work examines the  intersections of race, gender, and class in the horror genre and popular culture. Her  next short story collection, My Monsters Ain’t like Yours, will be released in summer  2026 by Quill & Crow Publishing.

IG: @rjacksonjoseph

HellBound Books are the veritable tour de force in the Independent publishing world - For eight years and counting, we have published novels, novellas, and bestselling anthologies of exemplary horror, bizarro, and all things dark - the type of tales from exciting new authors guaranteed to keep you wide awake in the small hours and checking the inky-black, coagulating shadows beneath your bed just one last time before you dare sleep...  We are incredibly Proud to be champions of the newest, brightest upcoming authors as well as home to more established writers. Our objective is to bring to you - our wonderful readers - the very best in the dark genres. We are proud to say all HellBound Books titles are available in traditional-sized paperback and eBook (along with a few very special hard cover books), too and that we never - ever - use Artificial intelligence in any HellBound book's prose or cover art, nor do we condone its use in any way. So, Please do take a little of your time to peruse our ever-expanding bookshelf... 

FB: facebook.com/hellboundbooks/

I have been blessed with the opportunity to be Published. Thank you Mara Prose Publishing for making my dream come true. I have been writing for many years and thrilled to be a part of the Literary Community.

FB: facebook.com/michelle.hallgay

Amanda Waters is a former journalist-turned-librarian, and author of the novel You Again. She’s a midwestern girl currently living in Houston, Texas with her husband and their two children. When she’s not writing or hiding from the humidity, you can find her reading, drinking way too much coffee, or playing endless games of UNO and Exploding Kittens.

IG: @amandamrwaters

Mara Prose is an author, publisher, and the founder of Mara Prose Publishing, an independent publishing company dedicated to helping powerful stories find their audience. Known for her witty, emotionally rich storytelling, she writes across multiple genres including romantic comedy, poetry, and contemporary fiction. Her books—such as The Queen of Marriage, The Davenports: A Battle of Wills, and The Journey to Mara Prose—blend humor, romance, and raw personal insight. Beyond her own writing, Mara works closely with emerging and established authors to bring their visions to life through publishing, branding, and creative development. She is passionate about empowering voices, building literary communities, and making publishing more accessible to independent writers. Through her work, Mara continues to inspire readers and creators alike with stories that celebrate resilience, love, and personal transformation.

IG: @maraprose

Reign Reeves Pearson is a storyteller, voice actor, and professional chaos wrangler, equally at home weaving creeping dread or biopunk rebellion. Based in Houston, she shares her home with her husband, four kids, and three cats who are definitely up to something. A lifelong fan of the eerie and uncanny, Reign threads heart (and the occasional heartbreak) through the shadows. When she’s not conjuring stories, she brings characters to life in animation, audiobooks, and games, plots elaborate D&D campaigns, cries over Final Fantasy VII(again), or stares dramatically out the window while it rains.

IG: @notorious_rrp

I am a native Texan poet, 71 years young, and have written and self-published three books of poetry, Other Worlds, in Other Words (2021), Grief and Her Three Sisters (2022), and Bearing the Weight of Our Wishes: Poems for a New Humanity (2026).  I am interested in the world around me, and as poets do, I always seek to understand what I experience, and put that understanding, or misunderstanding into words.  Much of my life has presented itself as mystical or spiritual, the bones of reality peeking through. Living has seen me recreate myself several times. I would not trade any of my past for a better future. I feel what I have gone through is good enough to write about, and share with others.

IG: @loveladyjerry

A fifth-generation Texan, Paula Peckham writes Christian fiction and has four novels. Three in the San Antonio series are historical romance—Protected, A Father’s Gift, and Accepted. Books 2 and 3 finaled in the Selah contest. Her fourth is a contemporary romance titled Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. She also has work published in three anthologies. Paula divides her time between Texas and Rio Bravo, Mexico. Find Paula on Facebook, Instagram, and her blog. Real people with real-life struggles.

FB: facebook.com/PaulaPeckhamAuthor

K.R. House is the author of The Call of Wind, book 1 of the Unmarked series. She became obsessed with the idea of being a sci-fi and fantasy author in middle school and, despite her best efforts, has never been able to get over it. When not writing, K.R. spends her time reading, running, watching anime, and hanging out with her husband and two cats.

IG: @author_kr_house/

Mallory lives in Texas with her husband and their two young boys. She spends her days homeschooling and full-time parenting. Her nights, and any free time she manages to carve out during the day, are devoted to reading and writing. She has always been a massive bookworm. Books are her preferred outlet when the world is overwhelming or too busy.  Since having kids, she uses books and stories to escape from the day-to-day responsibilities of stay-at-home parenting. Disappearing into magical worlds makes laundry and cooking more entertaining.

IG: @mwanless.author

Maribel Acosta is an author from Houston, Texas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Performance Technology Certificate from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, and a Texas Bilingual Teacher Certification. Over the years, she has taken on a variety of roles, including bilingual/dual language teacher and Reading Interventionist, primarily supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) and early literacy development.  Her books are inspired by the years she spent teaching in bilingual classrooms and by her family life, with the goal of promoting early literacy and a love for languages.  Please visit littlebilingualreaders.com to learn more about her bilingual children’s books.

IG: @littlebilingualreaders

Jeff Folschinsky is a fan of horror, Science fiction, and offbeat humor. He is the author of the Mystery Spot Museum and Burrito Emporium  and the Tales from Little Lump book series. He wrote the story and co-wrote the script for the film, Revenge of the Bimbot Zombie Killers. He is also a playwright, with his shows being produced in theaters nationwide.

IG: @jfolschinsky

Al Hagan served four years in the Marine Corps, completed college, and worked for a major oil company. Bored with that, he next spent a number of years in the intelligence community, mainly running counternarcotics operations in Latin America and the Caribbean. He has recently retired from IT Project Management in the private sector and lives on a wooded property in Texas.

FB: facebook.com/al.hagan.2024

Tim Frankovich is the author of the Amazon best-selling The Certainty of Blood and numerous other novels.  He’s been exploring fantastic worlds since third grade, when he cut up a grocery sack and drew a Godzilla-meets-superheroes story. Since then, he’s gotten a little bit better at the writing part (not so much with the drawing).  At the moment, he is suitably conscious somewhere in Texas with his beloved wife, awesome kids, and a fool of a pup named Pippin.

FB: facebook.com/timfrankovichauthor

Writer, accountant, and anime blogger. Gracie entered daycare fluent in Chinese and completely at loss with English. It was through picture books that she learned to communicate with the kind, patient, and loving daycare workers. Since then, she has become obsessed with stories in every possible medium. Becoming an author has been her dream since first grade, and in 2026, she finally published her first novel. Aside from spending her days writing complicated characters and Asian-inspired worlds, she’s also addicted to anime, Wikipedia articles, and tax law changes.

FB: facebook.com/gracie.qu/

Tarif was born in Damascus, Syria in 1957. He started writing short stories and articles in his early years of elementary school and free style poetry in his college years. He organized many poetry recitals in Houston from year 2009 to 2025, in Arabic and English. He published 8 Children books all available on Amazon. 

FB: facebook.com/tarif.youssefagha

Isaiah Broussard is a Houston born independent cartoonist based in Austin, Texas. His work, “Crackers & White Wine” was named Houston’s best political webcomic by Houston Press. He also created the all-ages comedy/horror comic “Transyltown”, and currently creates “Uppity”, a gag strip about a jazz band living in Jim Crow era America, and the sci-fi extravaganza “The Funktastic Adventure”.

IG: @ibroussard

Samara Kalz is an emerging voice in the world of fantasy fiction. Originally from Colorado, she now lives in Texas with her husband and two children. A lifelong lover of books, Samara holds a B.A. in English Literature and has been passionate about storytelling for as long as she can remember. When she's not immersed in writing or getting lost in a good book, Samara enjoys spending quality time with her family and creating handmade crafts for her home and loved ones. As the eldest of a large family, she developed a strong sense of responsibility and a deep-rooted love for caring for others—qualities that often find their way into the heart of her stories.

IG: @sam.the_writer

Coming from a twenty-year background in ministry and community leadership, Jamie Lee Zenteno is well seasoned in delivering the gospel. Through experiences that God has allowed in her life, she believes that the Lord has given her the ability to see people as He does. Jamie Zenteno Ministries was forged in 2023 with hope of serving others in their healing journeys. Jamie Zenteno was born to wonderful parents and raised in the small town of Santa Fe, Texas. She continues to reside in her hometown with her two wonderful daughters. Often, you may find them spending weekends at a softball field or horse arena.

FB: facebook.com/share/1Cmn3DAAm5

Storytelling has always been a part of Kay Melbrell’s life. From elaborate make-believe as a kid to theater in high school to adding backstories to electrons in college as she pursued an undergraduate degree in Physics, telling stories has always been there. It was the convergence of fate when she was invited to play in a tabletop role playing game. She wrote a three page backstory for a sassy young mage, and wanted to see how far she could explore with this character and world she'd come up with. Eventually, that story became The Lost Spark, published in 2022.

IG: @kaymelbrellbooks

Michelle Mann writes sweet, contemporary small town romances with heartfelt characters and a healthy dose of humor that will have you grinning from ear to ear. She has lived in Texas since she was a very young child. Her readers felt genuine, deep connections to the characters in her novels. Michelle has found a purpose in advocating for individuals with disabilities and includes disability rep in her books. Michelle has many hobbies, but particularly loves spontaneous do-it-yourself projects, reading, writing, traveling, and taking care of plants.

IG: @mjmann_author

Good on Paper is a female-owned independent bookstore located in the Heights neighborhood of Houston, Texas.  We sell a curated selection of new books and stationery for all ages, host book clubs, and host author events. Good on Paper also provides monthly community fundraising events to give back and raise awareness among our customers.  We can't wait to meet you!

IG: goodonpaper.htx

Thank you for the opportunity. My name is Mary Baker. I am a passionate writer and storyteller based in the Southwest Houston area.  I have always loved writing, drama and public speaking.  I love to showcase God's divine purpose and love for those He has created.  I love to write challenging Biblical resources that will allow new believers, home schoolers and those wanting to build a deeper spiritual foundation.  When not writing, I enjoy spending time with my husband, children, grandkitties and sisters and brothers in Christ. I believe in the power of words to transport readers to see God's Word more vividly and spark meaningful conversations.

FB: facebook.com/inspiringlifebooks

“O.J.” Dyer is an award-winning writer and publisher of post-apocalyptic & dystopian fiction and a published poet. O.J. was born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Traveling all across the United States his goal is to inspire people and his five children to chase their dreams, and to show others that they can achieve anything if they put their mind to it. O.J. solely committed to writing fictional novels professionally, and self-funded his craft by investing his personal money into learning the business, then creating his own independent publisher, Half Dead Publishing House to release his novels autonomously. His work in the apocalyptic genre has earned him the epithet “Voice of The Apocalypse”.

IG: @halfdeadoj

Melissa Algood has a love of the macabre and writing stories that will make you cry or have your pulse racing. She’s published 12 titles, including The Greater Good Romantic Thriller series, The Enhanced Being Series, and her award-winning short fiction can be found in one of her anthologies, "Everyone Dies: Tales from a Morbid Author’ and ‘Everyone’s Dead: More Tales from a Morbid Author’.  Melissa is a teacher and a hairstylist. When she’s not working or writing, she’s eating enchiladas and watching reality TV competition shows with her husband.

IG: @melalgoodauthor

Larry Yoakum III is the creator of the Yoakumverse, a shared reality of sci-fi/fantasy with elements of the supernatural.  Larry is a husband, a cat dad, an Air Force vet, and long-time lover of horror, Star Wars, and 80s rock.  A proud Gen Xer, he is either in his office writing or out on his patio with a cold beer and something on the grill. He's always as ready to talk about his favorite bands as he is his books.   Currently with 13 published books and short stories contributed to some multi-author collaborations, Larry is always working on something new to amuse and abuse the public.

FB: facebook.com/larryyoakum3

Dr. Cheranellore (Vasu) Vasudevan is a prolific thinker, writer, and inventor of emerging technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. He retired from IBM after a long professional tenure in research, product development, and technology strategy. He has a Ph. D. in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and several journal and conference publications as well as over 70 US patents to his credit. Dr. Vasudevan is a co-author of five books including two children’s books. At Makerville. Tech, he co-founded a start-up to create engaging books and educational resources that make AI and related technology accessible to young learners, parents, and educators. Dr. Vasudevan also serves as a Technical Advisor to start-ups and SMB’s providing guidance  on AI Strategy and applications.

LI: linkedin.com/in/cvasudevankartha

Emily G Watson is an author of young adult fantasy, urban fantasy, and historical fiction. Since there are no new continents to discover, and buried treasure is pretty scarce these days, she seeks new adventures in the Great Outdoors and as an author, creating her own worlds to explore.

IG: @thistleboundbooks

Austin Brower is a San Antonio–based sci‑fi author, Army National Guard veteran, and co-founder of Battle Bound Branding, a veteran-owned publishing and marketing company. He writes character-driven science fiction, including The Vale Machine and The Echo Machine, and discovered a love for storytelling while completing his business degree at UTSA.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555386538355

Whit McClendon is a fantasy author, martial artist, and proud pug enthusiast from Katy, Texas. Inspired by comic books and kung fu movies, he grew up loving the kind of fantasy stories where heroes battle impossible odds. Today, he writes fast-paced adventures packed with magic, monsters, high-stakes action, and the occasional touch of humor. From epic fantasy battlefields to supernatural showdowns in Houston, his books deliver cinematic thrills with heart. Stop by his booth to chat about books, martial arts, or the undeniable greatness of pugs.

FB: facebook.com/whitmccauthor

With over 25 years in the game industry, Jesse is an award-winning art director and character artist recognized for his strong sense of visual storytelling and distinctive design style. He now channels that experience into writing and creating original comics, bringing new worlds and characters to life on his own terms.

IG: @skankerzero

Julie Gianelloni Connor is an award-winning author and retired senior Foreign Service Officer who opened a small, traditional publishing house, Bayou City Press, in 2019. Julie founded Bayou City Press after spending 33 years as a diplomat. Based in Houston, Texas, Bayou City Press focuses on travel writing, history, international affairs, and anything Houston-related. As an author, her first book, Savoring the Camino de Santiago: It’s the Pilgrimage, not the Hike, garnered no. 1 status on Amazon and subsequently went on to win an eLit silver medal in the travel category. As a diplomat, Julie served first with the U.S. Information Agency and later with the U.S. Department of State. She had nine overseas assignments in seven different countries: Israel (twice), Paraguay, Guatemala, Indonesia, Colombia (twice), Malaysia, and Chile. In Washington, DC, Julie worked on a variety of matters, ranging from nuclear non-proliferation to narcotics control to women’s issues. She has a son, James; three cats, Halloween, Ivan, and Charles Augustus V; and a dog, Zarina.

FB: facebook.com/BCPHouston

Whether you're a first-time author embarking on your publishing journey or an experienced writer with a collection of published books, a professional book editor is an essential member of your publishing team. Whether it's fantasy, closed-door romance, historical fiction, or space opera—I'm here to help. Through thoughtful editing suggestions and a keen eye for detail, I guide writers through the editing stages, ensuring their book is poised for publishing success.

IG: @sarahfrapseditorial

Consider me your Bookpilot: I help your story fly fast and far.  I put my passion for storytelling and narrative to work collaborating with people like you, fiction, memoir and academic authors. My deep love and respect for the story YOU are telling informs my every editing suggestion. My eagle eyes and extreme attention to detail ensure your manuscript is free of grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors. My job, which I take very seriously, is to make your story ready to share. All stories deserve to be shared with others. I help your story fly from the nest and wing its way to your audience.

IG: @allcopyneedsediting

A writer of women’s fiction and romance, G.G. / Gina Andrew is fueled by hot tea and good music. She lives outside Houston, Texas, with her husband and two sons, both of whom are autistic and intellectually disabled and provide her with challenges, joy, and laughter each and every day.  In both genres, she loves to play with words, write her way through challenging plots, and watch her characters develop unexpected connections in love and friendship.  When she’s not penning fiction, Gina is a freelance writer for BookBub who also enjoys yoga, cooking, thrift shopping, genealogy, all things Halloween, and that popcorn smell at the movie theater.

IG: @writerggandrew

Jean M. Roberts makes her home outside of Houston, Texas. Her experiences as a military brat, a serving Air Force officer, and wife of an Air Force pilot have left her with a love of travel, history and a sense of adventure. THE LAST FAIRY WITCH  is her 11th novel. She writes historical fiction, historical fantasy, and cozy murder mysteries in a fictitious Texas town. When not writing, she loves to garden, cook, read and dream of her next book. 

IG: @jeanmrobertsauthor

Amy N. Kaplan is an award-winning author and master storyteller whose imagination knows no bounds. Born in Chicago and having lived across the United States and Australia, she draws rich inspiration from a lifetime of globe-trotting adventures and cherished moments with family. Her diverse catalog spans children's picture books, YA fantasy, RPG supplements, memoirs, poetry, and fiction — something for every kind of reader. Amy is the author of the beloved Nigel Needs a Home, the Free Range children's series, the Chronicles of Adventure RPG supplement series, and the Mirror Kingdom YA fantasy series, among others. When she isn't writing, you can find her rolling dice at the game table, geeking out over Star Wars and Monty Python, or championing literacy in her community. She lives in Texas with her supportive husband and two cats, and loves any chance to visit her grandkids in Tennessee. With ink-stained fingers and a heart full of stories, Amy invites readers of all ages to discover worlds that spark wonder and stay with them long after the last page.

FB: facebook.com/amykaplan.author

Margaret was born and raised in Blessing, TX, a small 600-person town near the Gulf of Mexico. Her best friend growing up was her grandmother, “Mimi,” the elementary school librarian. When Margaret was a young girl, her family would help rehabilitate injured or abandoned animals and release them back into the wild. These careful actions got her a spot on the Houston Zoo Crew volunteer team in middle school, where she learned and interacted with more exotic animals like jellyfish, sharks, and the occasional reptile. Margaret has an industrial distribution degree from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in psychology from Grand Canyon University. She is married to her husband Cameron Bain, who she met in college during an internship in Dallas, TX. They have 3 spunky cats named Kelly, Marco and Polo, and an energetic Australian shepherd named Mabel together in Houston, TX, where they both live and work.

IG: @margaretbain.24

Shalonda McFarland is an author of clean Christian fiction and non-fiction books. She likes to write about Christian Life, offering words of help in her non-fiction books, and telling unique stories that have a message and entertain, in her fiction books.

IG: @shalondamcfarland

C. D. Kester is an author of fiction. He lives in Kingwood, Texas with his wife and two children. Kester has four standalone books. The Bunker, Trailer Park, The Armadillo from Hell, and Chasing Demons. He has also had many stories published in anthologies, ezines, and read in podcasts and YouTube videos.

IG: @cdkester

Tiffany Suson is a physical therapist and author who explores how the clarity of mathematics can illuminate the complexity of being human. For more than twenty years she has worked closely with people navigating pain, injury, and the changes that come with aging and illness.  Her perspective has also been shaped by family life as a homeschooling mother of five, including raising a child on the autism spectrum.  These experiences led her to notice patterns that appear in everyday life.  Her book Math Heals: On the Gift and Weight of Being Human reflects on experiences such as conflict, misunderstanding, growth, and decision making through the lens of mathematics. The book explores how mathematical structure and equations may offer a clearer way to understand emotions, conflict, and the choices that shape our lives.  Suson lives in Texas with her family and continues to work as a home health physical therapist while writing.

FB: facebook.com/authormathheals/

Desiree Hammond is a Swoony Award–nominated author of Texas-based sweet, small-town rom-coms. She specializes in swoony stories about tough, grumpy Texas cowboys with soft centers and the sassy, smart women who steal their hearts. Her novels blend warm humor and heartfelt emotional payoff, offering cozy, character-driven romances that explore love, family, and second chances. Currently, Desiree is living her own second-chance romance in a charming small town near Dallas, Texas. She shares her life with a supportive husband, wonderful daughters, and a pair of lovable dogs that keep her grounded (and inspired).

IG: @desireehammondauthor

Cindy J. Vanous is a Texas-based children’s book author and the founder of the boutique imprint Little Doorknob Publishing. Based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, she is known for crafting emotionally resonant stories that center on empathy, belonging, and quiet bravery. Her work, which includes titles such as Ziva the Great and Maddie – A Little Ghost with a Secret, often blends vintage charm with timeless themes of kindness. Cindy’s storytelling has earned national recognition, including multiple Kirkus "Get It" recommendations and a Mom’s Choice Awards® Gold recipient status. Inspired by real animals and the nostalgia of the 1950s and 60s, she creates "gentle" literature designed to help young readers feel seen and understood. When she isn't writing or managing her publishing house, she is an active member of the literary community, frequently engaging with libraries and schools across the country.

IG: @kurtscuriousities

Michael P. Kihntopf is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and retired high school world history and special education teacher.  He is the author of Victory in the East, the Rise and Fall of the Imperial German Army (2000), Handcuffed to a Corpse, German Intervention in the Balkans, 1914-1917 (2002), The Scent of Roses in Winter (2010), A Day with the Old Folks, Verdun 1916 (2015), Wars Without End, Battles Without Winners, France to Petrograd March 1918-December 1920 (2017), A Remote Army Post in the Desert, Petrograd to Shanghai, November 1919 – January 1922, Unexpected Twists, Berlin 1919 to Madrid 1936, and The Machine Gunner’s Creed, Ukraine to Karachi, 1918-1923.  The first two are works dealing the World War 1 Eastern Front.  The rest are adventure novels with a central theme of individual experience at war and in the world after World War 1.  He has written over 20 articles about World War 1 for such magazines as Strategies and Tactics, Military History, Command, and Relevance and reviewed books for The Journal of Military History.

FB: facebook.com/michael.kihntopf

Sylvia Anne began to write poetry as she sorted through her recent and early life’s trials, finding release and solace in expressing her emotions. Her style reflects the language of the modern middle class, and her open contemplations of life’s trials and uncertainty resonates with her readers who likewise encounter their own challenges.

FB: facebook.com/share/1J16sEC7P4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Elizabeth Thomas earned her B.A. and M.A. in English at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, but now resides near Austin, Texas. She is the author of the historical romance Arden’s Act; romantic comedy Ghost of a Chance; short fiction collection Crossings; and a small book of poems, Everyday Romantic Doggerel.

FB: facebook.com/elizabeth.m.thomas.5

Tequila Smith is an author and educator who is passionate about inspiring children. She is the creator of the Igniting Bright Futures Collection. Her books encourage confidence, leadership, and self-belief in young readers. Through stories like Dream Big Young King, Today A Princess Tomorrow A Role Model, and Wrapped In Gold, she uplifts and empowers children. Tequila believes every child should see themselves as strong, capable, and full of potential. Through education and storytelling, she is committed to helping young minds dream big and build bright futures.

IG: @TequilaSmithTheAuthor

Jill's goal is to encourage students to read, write, and pursue their dreams. It's never too late to meet a goal — she published her first book at 45. As a 6th-grade English teacher, she read many books for young readers and found some too simple and others too advanced. She wanted to write books that bridge the gap between the two types. Her first book, The Fairies of Turtle Creek (2013), has Dallas history mixed with fantasy. Her new book, On Wings of Stone and Light, is loosely based on the French play Cyrano de Bergerac and explores themes such as the reluctant hero's journey, the embrace of one's gifts, and the search for autonomy. This, all mixed up with things she loves to write about: gargoyles, angels, magic, and some romance.

IG: @authorjillksayre

Nancy was born and raised in Massachusetts. After serving in the USMC, she returned home and went to college. Not long after, she moved to California and married. Six kids and multiple moves around the US later, she and her family call Texas home.

IG: @nlmclaughlinauthor

Lindz Deaver writes contemporary romance where logic meets love and the equations rarely add up the way you expect. A sixth-grade math teacher and mom of three boys, she balances lesson plans, family life, and stories about emotionally complicated people finding their happily ever after. Her debut novel, The Equation of Us, blends academia, hidden identity, and music into a slow-burn love story readers can sink into. Her upcoming novel, As a Manor of Fact, introduces a coastal small-town romance filled with found family, sharp banter, and a broody hero who absolutely did not plan on falling in love. She is also a member of The Quills and a contributing author to the group’s tandem dark-romance project Chains of Chaos. Lindz is drawn to grumpy/sunshine dynamics, layered emotional tension, and characters who choose each other on purpose. She lives in Texas with her family and firmly believes both math and love are a little unhinged—in the best possible way.

IG: @authorlindzdeaver

Curtis Koch is the author of the Colocho series, modern coastal fables that explore faith, endurance, and the quiet presence of God in everyday life. His stories were born from early mornings on the beach, where sunrise became a place of reflection, prayer, and renewal. Through simple, layered storytelling, he invites readers to slow down and reconnect with their own journey.  Before writing, Curtis spent over 30 years in the restaurant industry, where he learned that meaningful work is rooted in serving others. That perspective now shapes both his writing and his faith.  He is the founder of Worship at Sunrise and lives in Texas, where he continues to write from a place of honesty, curiosity, and quiet faith.

FB: facebook.com/share/18UJTFfcrR/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Amisty is a Southeast Texas-based indie author and the founder of Bottom Shelf Ink. She writes across genres, weaving gothic atmosphere and emotional depth into every narrative she crafts. Her debut novel Project Switch and its follow-up Project Reckoning introduced readers to her signature blend of tension, character complexity, and immersive storytelling. Her upcoming vampire fantasy novel Feasting on Inheritance, the first book in the Civilized Hunger Duet, is slated for release in 2026 and marks an exciting new chapter in her catalog. With over 500 copies sold and a growing presence in the Texas indie author community, Amisty crafts stories that challenge readers to walk in someone else’s shoes and expand their empathy. When she isn’t writing, she’s adding to her physical book collection or exploring Texas parks with her dogs. She believes deeply in the power of independent publishing to amplify voices and stories that the traditional industry too often overlooks.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

IG: @aamistyy

Award winning author and native Texan, LeeAnn has spent most of her life in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Married to John for fifty years, she is the mother of three grown children and Grammy to six grandchildren. Throughout her life, she has invested deeply in others. Driven by a passion for ministering to women, she led Bible studies, spoke at conferences, and served nine years as Women’s Ministry Director at Trinity Bible Church in Willow Park, Texas. Although now retired from full-time ministry, she still continues to encourage others through her writing. 

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583624563094

Crystal Crist is a stay-at-home military wife and devoted mom of three who has mastered the art of juggling school runs, family life, and daydreams. When she’s not wrangling kids or holding down the fort, she’s crafting love stories that push boundaries and whisk readers into worlds filled with passion, danger, and a touch of the unexpected.

IG: @crystalcrist.author

Robin Alvarez is the author of the #1 New Release YA Ethnic Fairy Tale When Oceans Rise (May 2023). Strong female characters, mythological creatures, and a mixed-race perspective are staples of her work. While she's spent the majority of her life in beach towns, having almost drowned several times, she currently resides in a desert where the waters are less likely to kill her.  Robin's work has been featured on OwlCrate, ABC, NBC, and CBS news affiliates.

IG: authorrobinalvarez

A native Texan, Carol found her way back to Texas after of a five-year detour in The Nederlands and over thirty years in Colorado. Both detours were courtesy of her husband Tim and the US Air Force.  An avid reader at a young age, her strong desire to write came from her love of (her husband calls it her obsession with) Star Trek. It was this early love of Star Trek that led her to the Science Fiction and Fantasy genres.  She lives in Brackettville, Texas, where she spends most of her time writing and publishing other authors as the editor and publisher of WolfSinger Publications and the online magazine The Lorelei Signal.  She has been published in various anthologies and magazines including "Creature Fantastic", PanGaia Magazine, "Stories of Strength", Baen's Universe, Tales of the Talisman and Kepler's Dozen. Her books include: Call of Chaos, Chaos Embraced, The Road into Chaos, and Chaos Challenged.

FB: facebook.com/carol.d.hightshoe

Abigail F. Taylor is an award winning author of speculative and horror fiction, usually set in historical periods and often inspired by her Choctaw-Irish heritage. Her poetry and short fiction has appeared in Fractured Lit, Illya's Honey, Globe Soup, Senteniel Creatives, and Writer's Digest, among others. When she is not reading or writing, she is practicing martial arts or exploring trails. She is currently pursuing her master's in literature and is an engagement officer for her university's Native Americans Connect social club.

IG: @abbyandfurriends

I’m a self-published author of "A Shadow’s Vendetta" and made my debut last year on September 16th. My love of fantasy was shaped by works like The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Batman, and The Witcher, and they continue to influence the kinds of stories I enjoy writing. When I’m not writing, I’m usually reading fantasy, flipping through comics, or playing story-rich video games.

IG: @tj_cooper_author

Ms. Keebler is an independent author and storyteller dedicated to crafting competing narratives that resonate with readers. A proud military veteran, they bring discipline, unique perspectives, and a dedicating to service into their writing. Currently working as a state employee, Ms. Keebler balances a pssion for public service with their creative pursuits. Their debut/latest work, A Fire in Every Hearth & Why Willow Weeps (2-Book set), explores themes of family relationships and bonds through distinct, authentic audience voice. When not writing or sevicing their community, they can be found creating illustrations or hanging with her sons and dogs. Ms. Keebler is commited to fostering dialogue and connecting with audiences through literature.

IG: @KeeblerWritings

Nancy Golden is a wordsmith with an inquisitive mind and adventurous spirit. She writes fiction and nonfiction across several genres, always with the goal to uplift her readers with a fun and entertaining story that includes overcoming challenges while providing positive messages. Nancy Golden Books delivers a great reader experience with well-crafted writing that will brighten your day. Nancy and her husband Phil call Texas home and when she’s not working on her books, you can find her riding either horses or bicycles. Nancy likes to share, “Keep reading—it's one of the very best things you can do. And never pass up the opportunity to ride a dragon!”

FB: facebook.com/nancy.golden.50

Isom Ashe is a fantasy and science fiction author from Texas. A storyteller from a young age, he used to recreate “sequels” of his favorite books out of Lego blocks. He probably created about eight gazillion renditions of Treasure Island before he was ten. Growing up, he learned to pen his ideas, finishing his first novel at eighteen. Exploring perception and imagination is one of his favorite activities, whether in his writing, playing D&D with friends, collaborative projects, Lego dioramas, or just making up stories on the fly to tell his son.   Outside of writing fiction, he is a history professor, an escape room creator, and a board game designer. He enjoys traveling the country with his wife and son to play escape rooms and visit historical sites, museums, and national parks. He is an avid dog lover and has two rescues that his wife graciously tolerates despite her allergies.

FB: facebook.com/IsomAsheAuthor

I'm Jacqueline Patricks, and I write scifi, fantasy and romantasy and paramedic short stories. I'm a paramedic and former Army, so I love adding realistic fight scenes and blood and violence when the story requires it.   Sometimes I write really spicy and dark! (like in Dreams of the Queen) Sometimes mild/moderate (Fairytale Apocalypse) and sometimes LBGTQIA+ like my upcoming epic Fantasy romance Pale Empire (which has a repressed queer male lead in a medieval world who goes on a quest and ends up saving the world while discovering dark things about himself and his world)  My preferred writing POVs are:   deep third limited, multiple POV, which means I get inside each character's head when they're on the stage and explore epic stories  and  deep first person - allows for emotional, impactive, personal stories.

FB: facebook.com/jacquelinepatricks

Kerry L. Malone was born in Texas and raised in Texas and Louisiana. He holds BS and MEd degrees. Following college he was a teacher and a football coach before a successful career as an energy industry executive. He has previously self-published eight works of fiction, including a three-volume series, a collection of novellas, one historical fiction novel and two murder mystery novels. “Darkness on Magnolia Lake”, a Southern Gothic novel, is his latest publication. He is currently working on a coming-of-age story with the same setting. He currently lives in League City, Texas.

FB: facebook.com/kmalone444

Marlin Williams is an independent Texas author who has been crafting imaginative fiction since 2011. He writes stories that blend suspense, fantasy, metaphysical themes, and psychological depth, creating tales designed to entertain while provoking thought. His latest novel, Fall of the Dark Magicians, explores courage, hidden truths, and the power within the human spirit. Influenced by writers such as Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Alfred Bester, Marlin strives to create stories that stay with readers long after the final page. He believes fiction can do more than entertain—it can inspire transformation and awaken deeper reflection. When not writing, Marlin enjoys fitness, classic films, reading, and studying spiritual philosophy. He is currently at work on his upcoming thriller, Mirage.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063570247664

Jordan Petter is an award-winning and bestselling author who was born, raised, and currently resides in Texas. Her love for reading and writing began as a child and progressively grew during her early adulthood. When she's not writing or working as a campus librarian, she spends most of her time with her family, including her husband and their two daughters. Jordan enjoys traveling, the outdoors, and attending athletic events.   Jordan aspires to enlighten young readers to a world full of curiosity and joy by writing adventurous children's books. Her debut children's book, Evalee Goes Fishing, is the first in the Adventures with Mimi series.

IG: @jordanpetterauthor

Suraiya Matandara-Clarke is a fantasy author and speaker. She is passionate about using storytelling to inspire and empower others. Having lived in places such as London, New Zealand, Singapore, and Jamaica, her global experiences shape her unique perspective on culture, identity, and the environment. She enjoys a good escape into a world filled with magic and endless possibilities and is a huge fan of Marvel and Harry Potter. 

IG: @suraiyamatandaraclarke

Dr. Dana Walker is an experienced Educational Diagnostician with over 27 years working in special education. She has an award-winning children’s series “I Got a New”. She also writes young adult paranormal fiction. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel and tend to her garden. She currently resides in Texas with her two sons.

Jay Abiona: A Christ follower, father, grandfather, ordained deacon, nationally recognized security consultant, private investigator, personal protection officer, security professional within his church, CEO of Credible Security Solutions, Inc., public speaker, published author & owner of Books by Jay Abiona, LLC.

FB: facebook.com/share/1B2aJcS6Zc/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Herb had a 42-year career with NASA, spanning from the late 1960s through the beginning of the Artemis Program. He grew up with the kids of the Apollo astronauts near the Manned Spacecraft Center, as well as worked with ABC-TV as a teenager covering 4 Apollo lunar missions and 2 Skylab missions. He now serves on the Board of Directors of both the NASA Alumni League-JSC and the Remembering Columbia Museum in East Texas. He is also a frequent speaker for Space Center Houston and volunteers for the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

IG: herbbaker1

Meet Sharon F. Gibson ~ Local indie author of psychological thrillers, ghost‑story fiction, mom‑lit, and heartfelt children’s books. She is a Texas transplant, “first wife,” mama, Gigi, and lifelong writer. Sharon’s work is rooted in honest emotion, layered characters, and the kind of tension that lingers long after the last page.  Her newest release, SLEEPLESS, is a gripping psychological thriller that pulls readers into a world of fractured loyalties, buried secrets, and the dangerous cost of truth. She’s currently hard at work on her second novel, a haunting ghost story with the immersive, cinematic style her readers love.

IG: @momdawggibby

Rick Tabor: After an accomplished career as a polymer scientist, with 22 scientific articles, two book chapters, and 85 patent publications to his name, he now solves polymer science problems for his clients and writes the occasional novel. Children of the Scroll is his debut novel. 

IG: @ricktabortheauthor

Bekka Laurent is an author and master herbalist whose work bridges storytelling, ancestral memory, and earth-based healing. Rooted in the Gulf Coast, her writing explores the deep connections between land, lineage, and identity, where the past is never fully separate from the present. She is the author of the novels Ma Fille and Twice Marked, which follow the emotional and generational threads carried through families and communities. Her fiction is grounded in history while speaking to modern questions of belonging, inheritance, and resilience. In addition to her novels, she writes nonfiction focused on herbalism and ancestral healing, including Everyday Herbalism and The Healer’s Lineage. Through both fiction and nonfiction, Laurent invites readers to reconnect with the wisdom held in the body, the land, and the stories passed down through generations. Her work reflects a unified belief that healing and story are deeply intertwined.

FB: facebook.com/bekkasplanet

Kit spent years in a Celtic folk band, singing, composing, and playing Irish pennywhistle. She lives on a Texas farm that’s been in her husband’s family for seven generations. She’s an avid reader who enjoys logging her reads (and plotting her life) in her Bullet Journal. She also enjoys drawing, sewing, quilting, knitting, and restoring old furniture to beauty and usefulness. She writes historical romance and contemporary western romance.

FB: facebook.com/kithawthorneauthor

Rebecca Torrellas is a writer and creator of the book series "Wings & Thorns," an ongoing urban fantasy series about love, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and abuse of power among fairies that escalates into the human world, jeopardizing both worlds.  ​In mid-2023, Torrellas began writing another urban fantasy four-part saga called the "Howl Series," featuring books "Howl at the Water," "Howl at the Wind," "Howl at the Fire," and "Howl at the Earth." The series tackles themes including love, passion, duty, responsibility, family dynamics, and bonds of friendship. In December 2018, she also released a standalone romantic comedy titled "One Time at the River." ​Torrellas has also begun a production company, RoseFae Entertainment, producing book trailers and audiobooks in partnership with Marcus Sabom and his company, Friend Indeed Productions. The audiobooks to "Wings & Thorns" have a full cast featuring over 100 actors.

IG: @rosefaeentertainment

A native Texan, Gina Hooten Popp was born in Greenville and now lives in Dallas with her husband and son. Along with writing novels, Gina has enjoyed a long career as a professional writer in advertising. Her debut novel THE STORM AFTER was a finalist in the 2014 RONE Awards, and her book CHICO BOY: A NOVEL was a 2016 Medalist Winner in the New Apple Annual Book Awards. Recently, her novel LUCKY'S WAY, about a young fighter pilot from Houston, was endorsed by the United States World War One Centennial Commission.

IG: @ginahootenpoppauthor

Andie Pands is the pen name for Texas native Andrea Noyola Blanco, whose childhood nickname was Andie Panda. She has always believed in the saying: If you don’t fit in, it’s because you were born to stand out. When she’s not daydreaming of magical worlds, Andie can usually be found with her nose in a book or cheering from the sidelines at her children’s sporting events—sometimes doing both at once! Blanket Fortress Realms is her debut published work.

IG: @pandswrittenwords

Rickey J. Fort is a loving father who enjoyed reading stories to his children at bedtime. Many times, when he did not have a new book to read, he made up the stories and the children seemed more excited for the made-up ones than the ones he read from printed books. Oftentimes his children would tell him that he should write the stories down so that other children could enjoy them as much as they did. So, he finally took their advice and started writing down his stories right after putting the kids to bed so that he would not forget them.  This book is one of those stories. Leelee the frog, was named after one of his daughters blanket, for which she called her “Leelee.” 

FB: facebook.com/share/1BudJQv8Kd/

Alison Craven Roberts has been telling stories for as long as she can remember, discovering her love for writing as a young child and nurturing it throughout her life. Today, she balances her creative passions with a rewarding career as a middle-school math teacher, where she enjoys helping students build confidence and curiosity in the classroom. Alison brings the same patience, insight, and creativity to her writing that she does to her teaching. She lives with her husband and their beloved dog, Jax, who is never far from her side while she works. Whether in the classroom or on the page, Alison is dedicated to inspiring others and sharing meaningful stories.

IG: @stellastarbrightbook

Richard Harris is a retired Air Force Colonel, Fighter Pilot and Top Gun Graduate.  His military career spans 27 years and 66 countries with two combat tours in Iraq and Kosovo, and two staff tours at the Pentagon.  He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, with a bachelor’s degree in Astronautical Engineering, and two advanced master’s degrees in Aeronautics and Political Science.  Colonel Harris is an avid science fiction author as well as a Star Trek aficionado.  

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572210431233

Haleigh Elizabeth is a Texas-based author with a background in childhood education and a master’s degree in literacy. Before writing children’s books, she worked as an elementary school teacher. Her books are inspired by her kids, whose imagination and joy in everyday moments reminded her to see the world through a more playful lens. Haleigh creates books toEncourage young readers to unlock their creativity and view the ordinary as extraordinary! Even the simplest things can spark the most amazing stories.

IG: @space_for_learning_big_ideas

S. E. Shore is a multidimensional storyteller and visionary creative, best known for her mythic romance novel In An Instant: A Voice Only My Heart Hears.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093334030938

S.D. Lettie is an indie romance author who spends her days dreaming up stories that will one day capture the hearts of readers. Her books center around characters that are flawed, relatable, and who'll make you want to scream at their decision making skills - or lack thereof. ​     When she's not writing or catching up on her endless TBR, she can be found on the sidelines of her kids' soccer games (hello soccer mom) or watching her MLS team (lets go verde) play on Apple TV. 

IG: @authorsdlettie

Cassandra Aston writes dark fantasy and romantasy packed with dangerous magic, court intrigue, sharp banter, and love that would burn the world before it lets go. Her stories feature morally gray men, stabby heroines, and brutal choices with consequences that bite.  She is the award-winning author of the completed Prophecies of Angels and Demons series and the Deadly Fae saga. She is currently expanding her interconnected universes with new fae stories, villain-led retellings, and gothic standalones that lean darker, sharper, and more emotionally ruinous.  When she can, she escapes to a cozy mountain cottage to write, fueled by hot chocolate and spite.

IG: @cassandra.aston.author

Alexandra started writing as a young girl. She enjoyed creating books from stapled together computer paper and lots of colorful drawings. Her dream of publishing her first book came true in 2023. The Bee Who Lost His Buzz, was inspired by her students in special education and her love for writing. Today she continues to write for all children to enjoy, especially her own.

IG: @booksbyalexandrafuentes

Betheny Lynn Reid is an award-winning poet, SAS, and fiction writer whose work has appeared in the sun, the white rocker, and big bin literary magazine. After a global career and communications, public affairs, and higher education, leadership, she turned her focus to publishing the fiction and poetry. She had long been writing privately. Her debut novel, Under The Autumn Moon is available at local bookstores and on Amazon and Kindle unlimited. She regularly reads her work at the Wild Detectives Book Buyer. She lives with her husband and their cat.

IG: @bethenylynnreid

Stephen Payne was born in northern Ohio and has lived in Houston for most of his life. He wrote for his high school newspaper staff before attending college and majoring in Journalism with an MA in Political Science. Following graduation, he worked as a freelance movie critic and reporter for local Houston newspapers (The Memorial Spring Sun and the Houston Chronicle, respectively), a trade publication for the energy industry and now works as an instructional designer. He's written two novels, working on more, and remains optimistic about becoming a professional storyteller with a unique vision. "My Claw Is Quick," his debut novel, is the first in a series of sci-fi detective stories with a dinosaur private eye solving cases in near future Houston. His book "Dragons of New York" is a sci-fi action story with the titular dragons dodging gene-splicing villains in the Big Apple. He eagerly looks forward to writing future sci-fi and fantasy novels for a wide audience.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585746981475&notif_id=1776799776824305&notif_t=page_user_activity&ref=notif#

Raised in Michigan but moved to Texas, Kayla has experienced the best and worst of both. She has interests in the dark and macabre and enjoys '80's music and movies. A little neurotic and a huge lover of Halloween, creepy stories and cats are totally her jam.

IG: @kayla.frederick77

Miravalle Books is a publishing company based in South Texas that specializes in publishing New Adult Horror/Thriller, Romance, and Sci-Fi novels.  Whether  you're a fan of epic love stories, futuristic and fantastical  adventures, or steamy encounters, we have something special waiting for  you!

IG: @MiravalleBooks

Melvin E. Edwards is an author, journalist, and podcaster based in Texas. His debut novel,  Nuremberg, Mississippi (Media Well Done, LLC, 2026), is a work of literary fiction examining law,  conscience, and institutional harm in the mid-20th-century American South. He is the creator of  the podcast Stories from Real Life, the 2026 Male Podcast Host of the Year (American Writing  Awards), and the author of The Eyes of Texans and The Strength of a Thousand Sons. He has  received more than twenty writing honors.

IG: @edwards21228

Tom Lee is a Texas law enforcement officer with a career spanning patrol, investigations, and crisis response. Over the years, he has answered calls involving suicides, child deaths, violent encounters, and the everyday realities most people never see but first responders carry with them long after a shift ends.

IG: @Scarsofthebadge 

Esperanza Publishing is a nonprofit company that accepts strong young adult fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. We seek to publish works that impact readers and challenge various perspectives.     Based out of the Mexican-American border region of the Rio Grande Valley, TX, Esperanza Publishing is in an optimal position to print and promote diverse voices in YA literature.

facebook.com/EsperanzaPublishing

Undre Hooper, a dreamer enraptured by the realms of fantasy and romance, draws his inspiration from the legendary tales of other Author. His heart is warmed by the laughter of his small but loving family, the loyal companionship of his pets, and the freedom of the great outdoors that he embraces with open arms.

FB: facebook.com/undre.hooper

Lapetra Collins is a passionate author and devoted mother of three, living a fulfilling life filled with creativity and family. At 33, she draws inspiration from her children and husband, who have been pivotal in her journey to storytelling. Her mission is to craft engaging books that not only entertain but also impart deep meanings, fostering a love for reading in her kids. Each story she writes is a reflection of her experiences and the values she hopes to instill in her family. Lapetra believes that literature can be a powerful tool for connection, learning, and growth, and she is excited to share her tales with the world.

Hailey Huntington is a speculative fiction author, penning tales of wonder, hope, and heroes, with a dash of wit. When not writing or reading, Hailey can be found listening to her favorite film scores, making yet another batch of muffins, or spending time with her family.

IG: @haileyhuntingtonauthor

Chloe Walton writes contemporary fiction about disabled young people navigating bodies and systems that weren't built for them. As an AuDHD author who has been totally blind since birth, she writes from inside the experience of a body the world keeps trying to translate; accessibility isn't a feature of her work, it's the foundation. The Weight of Silence is her debut novel and the first book in the Faultlines series. When she's not writing, she's probably wrangling a busy toddler, explaining the emotional arc of a fictional character to anyone who will listen, disappearing into her ever-expanding series bible, or reminding herself that "almost done with this edit" is a state of mind, not a timeline. She lives in Texas with her husband Jim, their toddler, her active guide dog Odette (a little yellow Lab with opinions), Jim's active guide Orlando, and two retired guides, Kinley and Irwin, who have earned every nap.

FB: facebook.com/chloewaltonauthor

Scott Hill is a poet and high school English teacher based in Houston, Texas who spends his time trying to understand the human experience through wordplay and figurative language. All eleven of his self-published poetry books contain a different theme from his life. His topics range from love to loss, triumph to pitfalls, and mental illness to healing. His first self-published poetry book was released in 2017 with one or two books released every year after.

IG: @scotthillpoetry

Deb Evans is an award-winning author of children’s books, including the iconic Bella’s Tales featuring a charming storytelling golden retriever and her three puppies.

IG: @debevansauthor

Madison Lawson is an award-winning short story author who writes novels full of suspense, social commentary, diverse characters, and complex relationships. And lots of murder. And now sex. The dog NEVER dies, though. Her debut sci-fi thriller, The Registration, and its sequel, The Registration Rewritten, were picked up for a film adaptation by Sony Pictures.  Madison is represented by the Seymour Agency. She received her B.A. in English with a focus on Creative Writing from Texas A&M University and her M.A. in Literature from North Carolina State University.  Growing up in a small Texas town, Madison began exploring through the pages of books as soon as she could read. As her curiosity expanded, she began writing, reading, and traveling to discover the world, make new ones, and understand her own a bit better. Madison currently resides in Texas with her dog, Teddy Lupin.

IG: @madisonlawson

Janelle Martin is an author, speaker, and founder of The Mind Connection, a holistic mental health and wellness practice. In her debut memoir, Losing Her, Finding Us, she shares her powerful journey as a mother navigating her daughter’s addiction and the transformation that followed. Through raw storytelling and dual perspectives, Janelle offers hope, insight, and connection to families facing similar struggles. Her work is deeply rooted in personal experience, professional expertise, and a passion for helping others heal. Janelle is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Functional Medicine, specializing in natural approaches to brain, nervous system and overall mind/body health. She is dedicated to reducing the stigma of addiction and reminding parents they are not alone. Janelle lives in Texas and continues to write, speak, and support families on their path to recovery.

FB: facebook.com/ourbeautifulrecovery

C.A. Hollister's roots are deeply planted in the rich soil of a small North East Texas town, where family gatherings buzzed with the warmth of shared stories and the joy of cooking together. This nurturing environment sparked her imagination, leading her to create her own unique universes from a very young age. In her storytelling, she blends the familiar with the fantastical, weaving tales that resonate with raw emotion and explore the universal longing for connection and love. Her approach to writing marries the everyday with the extraordinary, inviting readers into worlds where magic touches the mundane, and where characters' desires and heartaches echo our own.

IG: @authorcahollister

CH Flint has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Utah. She took additional courses in Pre-med, and later in Court reporting. Currently she edits and writes from her farm outside of Taft, Texas near Corpus Christi. 

FB: facebook.com/colleen.estonia.piano.player

An award winning author who writes in the Urban Dark Fantasy and Christian Horror Fantasy. If not writing, J.R. is educating seniors in Fort Worth at OD Wyatt. He is married to his wife of 18 years, Kim. All their children are grown and doing their own things. The Lightfoots are involved in dog fostering with 6 foster fails in the house.

IG: @bambam2953

Gary A. Keith is a long-time Austinite involved in academia, politics, government—and Austin’s cultural scene. A member of the Writers’ League of Texas, his debut novel Austin Blues was published in 2025, and The Mansions on Woodlawn Boulevard in 2026, both with Atmosphere Press. He has previously written books and articles on Texas politics. His biography Eckhardt: There Once Was a Congressman from Texas (University of Texas Press) was a finalist for the Writers’ League Violet Crown Award. When Keith is not writing his fiction, he is lecturing on Democracy and writing his Substack column of essays and poems https://garykeith.substack.com/

FB: facebook.com/demosthenes.keith

Six weeks is the longest Carlita Kosty has ever been without a dog. Like her heroine Merle, Kosty became a widow when she was on the verge of retirement and had to reimagine the rest of her life. Her canine companion taught her to laugh again. A veteran teacher and a fierce defender of the public schools, Kosty taught most of her forty-four-year career in San Antonio. Now retired to the Texas Gulf Coast, she and her current doggie enjoy frequent gatherings of family and friends when she’s not traveling the world with her boyfriend or working on Merle and Freddie’s next adventure. A longtime proponent of civic involvement, she is a founding member of the local historical society and she serves as election judge for the precinct where she votes. TRAINING FREDDIE is Kosty’s first novel.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578633360339

Tina Grimes is a Texas author with a passion for storytelling that blends mystery, heart, and small-town intrigue. Raised among the piney woods of East Texas, she draws inspiration from quiet backroads, hidden secrets, and the people who make every community unforgettable. She is the author of Scott Free, her memoir, and the creator of the Willow and Kat mystery series, where suspense and friendship collide in the legendary town of Ingles Hollow. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys gardening and spending time with her husband and four children. 

FB: facebook.com/authortinagrimes

Avid reader turned author of second-chance, Juliet McKinley is an author of steamy contemporary romance set in small towns. She believes happiness comes from family, hot coffee, and even steamier romances.

FB: facebook.com/julietmckinleyauthor?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Spending the past twenty years working with drug addicts and defending criminals in the east Texas Piney Woods, Georgia Kimmey is uniquely qualified to write about the people she defends and lives they lead, including the crimes they commit.  Having spent the majority of her life living in Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Nacogdoches and Lufkin, she is able to take the reader to those locations with her characters.  She earned a BBA at SFA, although completed the majority of her course work at UofH, received an MA in theology from the U of St. Thomas, after attending St. Mary's seminary and finished with her law degree from South Texas College of Law.  Ms. Kimmey has also been a graphics artist, religion and drama teacher, research analyst and youth minister.  Her imagination knows no limits.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582420264536

JC Hennington is a minister and Christian Counselor. A fictional writer who profiles his experiences from the pastor’s study, to the pulpit and into real life. His stories focuses on church and mental health. The two can sometimes be on opposite spectrums. His latest book, If 6 was 9, is a story of ministry, schizophrenia, love and faith.

FB: facebook.com/Henningtonwrites

Chris D. Ecke is a law enforcement professional, military veteran, and adjunct faculty member at East Texas A&M University with nearly three decades of experience in public safety. He has served in a wide range of roles across the Houston–Harris County area, including patrol, criminal investigations, homeland security, and specialized operations. In addition to his university teaching, Chris also instructs leadership and incident management courses nationwide through the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX).  A former U.S. Army Non-Commissioned Officer, he brings real-world leadership experience from high-pressure environments, including combat deployments and complex incident response. Chris holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police.  He is the author of Forgotten Panthers of Panama, a work dedicated to preserving the legacy of a unit whose story might otherwise have been lost to history. Through his writing and instruction, Chris is committed to equipping leaders with practical, experience-based strategies that work in the real world.

FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001301241795

Houston author Leslie Schover is a retired psychologist who spent over twenty years on the faculty of the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. In her specialty of helping cancer patients with reproductive health, she created three self-help books, a textbook, and an online resource. Her first novel, Fission: A Novel of Atomic Heartbreak is based in part on her parents’ tales of life in Oak Ridge, Tennessee during the Manhattan Project. Fission won the historical fiction category of the 2025 American Writing Awards.

FB: facebook.com/leslie.schover.9/

Wander Stamped is a creator of interactive travel books designed to turn outdoor adventures into lasting memories. Based in Texas, she creates engaging experiences for families, travelers, and explorers through thoughtfully designed books that inspire connection with nature and history. Her collection includes guided park journals, trail trackers, and kid-friendly coloring and activity books that make exploring state and national parks fun and meaningful. With a background in education, she brings a clear, accessible approach to every product, helping others document their journeys while encouraging real-world adventure. Wander Stamped’s mission is simple: help people explore more, remember more, and stay curious wherever they go.

IG: @wanderstamped

William L Harben is a Texas-born novelist and storyteller recognized for blending crime, mystery suspense and the paranormal. His debut novel, I've Been Waiting, has been recognized for three literary awards. Born in Fort Worth and raised in Dumas, Harben grew up surrounded by adventure and small town charm. After graduating from Texas Tech University he spent years as a teachewr and coach, where his story telling inspired his students. He now lives in the DFW area with his wife, Lita where they raised two children, Logan and Lauren.

IG: @williamlharben

WM Gunn is a native Texan who spent many years in the pharmaceutical industry. He is active in writing groups and volunteering with non-profit groups. He lives in his hometown in Texas with his high school sweetheart bride. To date, he has written hundreds of short stories, three novellas, and three novels, with many more ready to be published. His latest release is And tha novel entitled And The Walls Came Tumbling, plus a new novella entitled Shear Poetry.

FB: facebook.com/bill.gunn.374

Mark Swirsky worked as a biologist at an environmental consulting firm before changing careers and becoming a pastor. He lives in Texas with his wife Julie. His favorite hobbies are reading, gardening, fishing, and playing computer war strategy games. Mark’s love of fantasy and Biblical truth led him to create an epic fantasy series, The Chronicles of Altaran, where the conflict between good and evil forces characters to choose whom they will serve.

FB: facebook.com/thechroniclesofaltaran

Riven Locke is a Houston-area author writing dark romance, supernatural horror, and queer domestic gothic fiction. His work explores the terror hiding inside ordinary homes, perfect neighborhoods, and the people who smile too long from across the street. His series, The KEPT, begins with The Neighborhood, soon to be revised and rebranded as Kept at Home, followed by Kept in the Dark and Kept in Plain Sight. Inspired by suburban Texas, psychological dread, and the idea that love can become a lock as much as a refuge, Riven writes stories where the house is never just a house. He earned his BBA in Management from the University of Houston’s C. T. Bauer College of Business, graduating cum laude with a minor in Marketing and a certificate in Corporate Entrepreneurship. When he is not writing, he enjoys LEGO building, photography, art, history, horror movies, comedy, and spending time with his partner and their very opinionated pig. His signature reminder to readers is simple: you’re stronger than the chapter you’re in.

IG: @riven.locke

Dr. Jacquelyn Wilson is the founder of InnerFlow Family Wellness and creator of the "What Is It to Be Well?" series, an 8-book split-level wellness education system designed to help children and families better understand the connection between brain, body, behavior, and relationships. Developed in two learning levels, the series makes complex wellness concepts approachable and engaging for both younger and older children.  With a background in kinesiology, curriculum design, consumer behavior, and wellness education, Dr. Wilson specializes in translating science-informed concepts into practical tools families and educators can actually use. Her work focuses on supporting today’s overwhelmed youth and “why kids” through accessible, preventative wellness education. In addition to authoring the series, she provides family wellness education, school and community outreach, and speaking engagements centered on helping children build healthier foundations for learning, emotional regulation, and daily life.

IG: @innerflowfamilywellness

L. E. Gay is a native Texan and author of supense/thriller/horror novels. His latest work, That Summer, Book 1 of the Ghosts of Big Pine series, a story that follows the reluctant return of novelist Emily Hargrave to the sleepy East Texas town she once called home while she confronts the demons that drove away, is now available in paperback and audiobook. It's sequel, Ashes of Autumn, is due out in 2026. L. E. Gay also authored The Doll Maker, The Watch Maker, and The Reign Maker. The trilogy, know as the French Quarter Series, follows young Nalia Deminy as she struggles to find her true identity in the midst of a power struggle of New Orleans voodoo culture. 

IG: @legayauthor 

Carl was born and raised in the rural Thumb Area of Michigan. His primary school years were spent learning in an old two-room schoolhouse, working summers on his uncle’s farm, and listening to his grandmother’s stories from her tiny trailer home, sifting through drawers of ancient photographs while savoring her freshly baked breads. Those experiences shaped his love of simplicity and storytelling.  After receiving a Creative Writing MA from Central Michigan University, he embarked on a career in business that took him – and his young family – around the world, while continuing to write and submit poetry, occasionally published in small presses. After a 30-year career in finance, telling stories with numbers, he has returned to the roots given him by his grandmother. ​ Carl lives with his family in McKinney, TX.

FB: facebook.com/reineltcarl

Andrya Bailey is an award-winning contemporary romance writer. She enjoys traveling and visiting museums and historical landmarks where she can learn about art and history, which she usually incorporates into her stories.

IG: @andryabwriter

Mack Little grew up in a rural and small, close-knit community in the Deep south. Growing up in such a way and in such a place provided a spring of experiences from which to gather rich stories with a  discernable Southern Gothic edge drawn from the shadows of the woods surrounding the enclave of her neighborhood.

IG: @zenbabie