Maribel Acosta ^{NEW FOR 2025}

Maribel Acosta is a local author from Houston, TX. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology 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.

Her books are inspired by the years she spent teaching in bilingual and dual language classrooms, where she exchanged valuable teaching and learning experiences with her students and community, as well as drawing from her personal experiences with her children. She believes deeply in the power of early exposure to reading and has always been passionate about the learning of languages.

Maribel lives with her family, including their two rescued cats, Lola and Lexi, and their new puppy, Luka. She is a proud mom of two: a son who attends Texas A&M and a daughter who attends the University of Texas at Austin, as well as her nieces. 



Visit littlebilingualreaders.com to learn more about Maribel and her work.

Joy Harris-Bird NEW FOR 2024!

Joy Harris-Bird is a writer, creative storyteller, and faith-filled visionary behind Inspire+, a platform celebrating faith, family, and culture.

She crafts heartfelt devotionals, children’s series and books, and meaningful narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages.



Joy’s work is rooted in hope, inspiration, and the beauty of life’s journey. When she’s not creating, Joy enjoys spending time with her husband, engaging with her community, and finding joy in everyday moments.

Visit Joy's website to learn more at www.JoyHarrisBird.com

Pat Daily

Pat Daily is the CEO of Boundary Layer, Inc., a company dedicated to improving human performance in high-risk endeavors. He is a polymath, serial entrepreneur, gamer, and the author of The SPARK Chronicles, a near future science fiction series.

Pat began his professional career as an engineer and Air Force test pilot. After leaving the military, Pat worked at NASA’s Johnson Space Center on both the Space Shuttle and International Space Station programs before launching his first company. He has worked globally as a human performance and safety consultant.

When not writing or trying to bring new airplane designs to life, Pat can be found gaming. He is a fan of role-playing games – particularly open worlds with engaging storylines where actions have consequences.

Pat and his wife live in Houston. They love spending time with their dogs and cats, but most of all with their daughters, sons-in-law, and grandkids.

Learn more about The SPARK Chronicles at www.ThePatDaily.com.

Sydney Dunlap NEW FOR 2025! APPEARING SUNDAY ONLY

Sydney Dunlap is an award-winning author and former elementary school teacher who has worked extensively with youth facing challenging circumstances. She enjoys reading and writing heartfelt, hopeful books that explore tough topics that aren’t often addressed in middle grade literature.

Her 2023 debut novel, It Happened on Saturday, tackles social media safety and has received several medals as well as a Crystal Kite Honor. It is currently featured on three state reading lists and has also been selected for all-community and all-school reads.

Her subsequent novel, Racing the Clouds, has been called a “hopeful, heartfelt story of resilience” by Kirkus and “a satisfying emotional journey” by Publisher’s Weekly. It delves into addiction in the family and released in February 2025.

Sydney loves yoga, horseback riding, and animals, and she lives with her husband and their two dogs and three cats, all rescues.

See more at sydneydunlap.com

Deb Evans

Deb Evans writes wholesome and positive children’s books for the entire family.

Bella’s Tales is an 8-book series centered around a Golden Retriever who shares stories with her three playful pups.

Deb was inspired to write children’s books by her work as a private tutor teaching reading to struggling and dyslexic children.

Deb, an Empty Nester Mom, lives in Cypress with her husband, three dogs, and one cat.

Visit her website at https://www.debevansauthor.com

Rose Garcia FAN FAVORITE!

Rose Garcia is a USA Today bestselling author and screenwriter. She believes that no matter how dark the world may seem, there is always a sliver of light if you look hard enough. This theme permeates every aspect of her being and threads itself through the fabric of her stories.

A lawyer turned writer, Rose writes YA and NA fantasy with Hispanic characters, complicated romance, powerful families, and dynamic friendships.

Rose lives in Houston with her family.

Discover more about Rose at https://rosegarciabooks.com/

Myunique Green NEW FOR 2025!

Myunique C. Green is a versatile and celebrated author whose work spans across genres, including mystery, thriller, young adult fiction, dystopian science fiction, and personal memoir.

She began her literary journey with the independently published Bloodlines: Everything That Glitters in 2012, which climbed to the Top 10 on Amazon Kindle’s Bestseller list. Since then, she has continued to captivate readers with her unique voice and compelling storytelling.

Her titles, such as 713, a chart-topping mystery short story, and Grand Rising, a dystopian epic, showcase her ability to explore complex themes and engage audiences with fresh perspectives.

Known for her innovative approach and emotional depth, Myunique’s writing reflects her passion for tackling challenging narratives that resonate with readers on both an emotional and intellectual level. She has received accolades for her work, including an award for Excellence in Writing from Readers Favorite.

When she’s not writing, Myunique is a dedicated teacher, student, and parent, continually pushing boundaries and inspiring others to find strength in their own stories.

Explore Myunique's works at www.myuniquegreen.com.

Teresa Holman NEW FOR 2025!

Teresa Holman wrote her first story for Readers Digest at the age of 9. (winning $50) Her writing is a wild ride inside a dark world, usually the one your living in.

On the surface, the stories begin ever so gently, easing towards the darkness you don't see coming.

She is a bold, clever, imaginative creator of story; refusing to hold back the darkness of reality. Nothing thrills her more than the gasp of a reader caught in the shock and trauma of a plot twist.



Believing that truth is best understood inside a story, she catches you when you are not looking. It is her goal that when you close the book you will have a thousand brilliant ideas swirling through your mind.

Teresa lives in Texas where she hugs cows and steals eggs from chickens (that's the chickens' story).

Thomas Jung NEW FOR 2025!!

APPEARING SUNDAY ONLY

Thomas C. Jung is an children's book author and screenwriter originally from New Orleans.

He enjoys writing with his wife and son while surrounded with their three dogs and cat, binging the latest drama series, yelling at his football team, and drinking coffee.

Visit him online at www.jungworks.com.

Dottie Lee NEW FOR 2025!

Dottie Lee is an award-winning, bestselling author who believes in the power of storytelling to bring families closer together. A proud Texan, she has called Houston home for over 40 years, drawn to its vibrant diversity, rich culture, and unbeatable food scene.

Growing up across the street from her town library, Dottie fell in love with books filled with adventure, mystery, and laughter—sparking a lifelong passion for reading. Now, through her heartfelt children’s stories, she inspires self-confidence, inclusion, and empathy with relatable characters that connect with young readers. She hopes her books spark meaningful conversations among children, parents, and grandparents, turning storytime into cherished moments that bridge generations.



When she’s not writing, you might find Dottie enjoying a good cup of coffee, walking her fluffy Bichon Frise, or dreaming up the next big adventure for Frances Flamingo.

Find out more about Frances and Dottie at www.TheDottieLee.com.

Alisha McMillen NEW FOR 2025!

A Dog Named Chuck quietly lived in Alisha McMillen's mind and heart for about 15 years while she was busy being a stay-at-home mom to her twin girls, now 21! When they were in pre-school, Alisha would make up stories to help the time pass in the car while driving between activities.

A Dog Named Chuck became a favorite story and Alisha knew she wanted to share it with the world, hoping other young children would enjoy it as much as her twins did.

Alisha lives in Texas and has two goofy, lazy dogs. Moose is an enormous chocolate lab at 136 lbs. Scout, a typical golden retriever, is the small dog at 74 lbs.

Learn more about Alisha and Chuck at A Dog Named Chuck, by Alisha McMillen



Sharlene Novak

Sharlene Novak is a transplanted New Yorker currently living in Texas.

Lucy Learns to Share is the first book in her Happy Tails Camper Stories series,and was chosen to be sold at the Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival and at the John Cooper School Signatures event last year. The book has also won two awards.

Sharlene is an avid reader and sometimes writer, hoping to add more stories to the Happy Tails series. 

Monique Randle NEW FOR 2025!

Monique Randle began writing The Benjamin Series after 8 years of caring for her son who has experienced a multitude of medical issues. At 9 months, Benjamin was diagnosed with Alagille Syndrome, a rare disease that effects all major organs, growth and nutrition intake. At 2, he was diagnosed an immune inflammatory disease -- and if that wasn’t enough, at 6 he was diagnosed with epilepsy, as well as suffering from hearing loss, asthma and ADHD.

For years, they were been told Ben wouldn’t live a normal life like other children and is considered disabled. Being a Christian, Monique knew that God has the last say. With tons of support, continuous prayers, and modern medicine, Ben has been able to play sports, attend public schools and performs well academically.

Monique started this book series about Ben’s life in hopes to motivate, support and encourage other families around the world.

Born and raised in Texas, Monique is a corporate leader by day and a children’s author by night. She is blessed to be a wife and mother, and when she is not writing you can find her grabbing a cup of coffee, practicing yoga, or watching a good movie.

Learn more about Monique and Ben at www.moniquerandle.com.

Rebecca Torrellas ^{FAN FAVORITE!}

Rebecca Torrellas is the writer of the Howl tetralogy. In December 2018, she released the standalone romantic comedy One Time at the River, a hilarious and intriguing story about star-crossed lovers at the river.

Next is Wings & Thorns, an ongoing urban fantasy series about love, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and abuse of power among warrior fairies that escalates into the human world, jeopardizing both humans and each other.

Rebecca earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism at Texas A&M University and is currently a managing editor for an international trade publication in Houston.

She finds inspiration for her stories in her daily experiences with friends, family, and those she's loved, lost, and admired. 

For more information on the author, visit www.rebeccat.com.

A.B. Wade NEW FOR 2025!

A. B. Wade was born in the great state of Texas. Growing up, he was surrounded by a love of learning thanks to his science-teaching mother and school counseling father. While most kids were reading novels, he found himself captivated by encyclopedias and textbooks, fueling his curiosity about the world around him.

A. B. finds inspiration for the stories he creates from the world around him, drawing further creativity from the nightly storytelling routines he shares with his two children.

Get to know more about A.B. Wade at www.abwade.com.

Mallory Wanless

Mallory Wanless is the author of the Enchanted series, a young adult fantasy trilogy following the adventures of two teens who must save the fate of magic in their world.

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.

Wander into Mallory's world at www.mallorywanless.com

Oscar Whiting

Oscar Whiting is an author of heartfelt and haunting YA horror. It's like Goosebumps for grown ups.

His debut (4.19 on Goodreads), Tales From Grimlock Cove Vol. 1, is a collection of stories from the same cozy, seaside town. These tales are haunting and humorous, tragic and triumphant, with chilling twists and unforgettable characters. For fans of Lovecraft, Shirley Jackson, Ray Bradbury, and Stephen King.

His newest novel, The Candlelight Society, will be available as an exclusive prerelease at the Author Fair. Armed with a map and an old adventurer’s journal, the three friends enter the heart of Grimlock Forest—the darkly magical Gloom. Supernatural haunts and chilling horrors await. Some will find purpose, some will find fate, but one will find a dreadful end.

Oscar's storytelling began with a guitar, playing all over from dive bars in Texas to London's West End. He found songwriting to be a gateway into the world of fiction. Now, he enjoys exploring what lurks in the shadows, and invites you to read along.

Find out more about Grimlock Cove at www.grimlockcove.com!



Danielle Blinka ^{NEW FOR 2025!}

Danielle Blinka is a poet, writer, podcaster, artist, and performer living in Houston, TX. Her poetry has appeared in Pulse Magazine and has been featured in Houston's Words + Art. She spent six years as an editing fellow and content creator for wikiHow, and she's also written for Rare Houston and the Boomtown Film & Music Festival.

In addition to writing, she's also an artist, loves collecting records, and has the world’s cutest cats.

Get to know Danielle at danielleblinka.com

Cris Burl

Cris Burl is an award winning author who writes across several genres. Comedy is her forte, which she demonstrates in her original work, Musings of a Deranged Mom.



She dabbles in paranormal RomCom with a bit of contemporary romance on the side, and also writes psychological thrillers under the pen name EVILyn Reigns. Whether you want to laugh or cry, Chris has something you'll enjoy! Visit her on the web at www.crisburl.com.

Taylor Enochs NEW FOR 2025!

Taylor Enochs is an American poet and author originally from a small town just south of Houston, Texas.

She holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Houston-Downtown and will be pursuing her MFA in creative writing this fall at the University of Texas-El Paso.

A lover of lyrical storytelling and atmospheric worlds, Taylor finds inspiration in fantasy novels, poetry, and the quiet moments in between. When she’s not writing, she enjoys painting, spending time with her two cats, and listening to Noah Kahan on repeat.

Connect with Taylor on Instagram @taylor.e.enochs or at taylorenochs.com

Cleo Franklin Jr.

Cleophus "Cleo" Franklin Jr. blends 35+ years of international leadership with a passion for writing and teaching. His career spans agriculture, heavy equipment, academia, and entrepreneurship.

Franklin has authored eight books, including the "Coffee with Cleo" leadership series and "Lessons From Our Mothers and Fathers." His literary talents extend to poetry, with his poem "Ink" from "Words From My Heart" featured in the 2024 Texas Bards Poetry Anthology.

His March 2025 poetry book, "More Words From My Heart," transforms personal revelations into universal truths. He writes: "It is where you can hear the ink sparkle—as stories flow through my pen with each word, beckoning for more.." His new work invites readers to discover profound connections to their own emotions.

Franklin's children's book "What Do You See When You Look at Me?" showcases his writing talent with his son Michael. As founder of Franklin Strategic Solutions and the Morningside University—Franklin Leadership Foundation, he serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston—Downtown, and inspires through contributions to business, education, and literature.

Learn more about Cleo at www.coffeewithcleo.com

Phylisha Gold NEW FOR 2025!

Phylisha Gold is a novelist, artist, poet, playwright, and screenwriter, but above all else, a lover of words. She has been an educator for over two decades with

experience spanning higher education to elementary, so it reasons that her audience would span those areas as well.

Regardless of the audience age or subject

matter, she focuses her art in one direction: to provide a path for others to find healing, wholeness, and purpose.

Her current and future projects are: Brown Eyes (novel and feature film), the Asia Speaks! Children's book series, N'yah to Castonia, and Texts, Tea, & Tragedy.

Phylisha has a distinct way of taking heavy subjects and making them easy to carry while exposing her audiences to new options. Her passion for people spills

over to her non-fiction writing in her weekly blog SALTtea and podcast of the same name.

Find out more on her website.

Mack Little

Mack Little, the award-winning author of Daughter of Hades, is devoted to giving her readers fast-paced, high-stakes adventures with a love story sure to melt their hearts.

Grand prize winner of the Chanticleer International Book Award In early Historical fiction in 2023 and several other awards,

Mack is lauded for her meticulous research, attention to detail, and lyrical prose. By day, she is an IT Analyst, but at all other times, she is writing.

Visit Mack's website at http://www.mack-little.com

Chrissa Sandlin

Chrissa Sandlin is a poet living in Spring, Texas with her husband and two dogs and the usual backyard complement of feral lizards, birds, and mason bees.

She has published two collections of poetry, Blue Coconut Days and Imromptu.

When not writing, Chrissa can be found in her backyard, daydreaming about trellises, squash, and the kingdoms therein.

Visit Chrissa's blog at https://theexpendabledraft.blogspot.com/

Shree NEW FOR 2025!

Shree is an award-winning author, film writer, speaker and entrepreneur.



She holds a master’s degree in IT, and is deeply interested in subjects like health, lifestyle, women empowerment, medical science, philosophy, parenting and child psychology.

Being an Asian-Indian trained in Indian classical dance and music, as well as a British national, Shre brings unique amalgamation of cultural perspective to her stories.

Learn more at https://meanderingthoughtswithshree.wordpress.com/

Dennis Waller ^{NEW FOR 2025!}

Dennis Waller, Master Herder of Cats, Bestselling Author, and Speaker, is recognized as an authority on Buddhism, Zen and the Tao Te Ching. His translation of the Tao has been a long-standing best seller and is used throughout the academic world. He is the second person to translate Nagarjuna's Tree of Wisdom into English since WL Campbell's translation in 1919.

He also is known for his series of "Texas Jack's Famous Recipe" books, a collection of southern recipes that have been #1 best sellers on Amazon. From pralines, caramels, to making your own hard apple cider, the Texas Jack series has built up a strong and loyal following.

Dennis has also published a series of titles offering different points of view from supporters and critics of the mythical creatures of the Tingit, comparative mythologies along with thoughts from the science community and firsthand accounts of encounters.

His first novel, Obsession, was released in May 2024. A noir thriller, it brings back the days of Raymond Chandler with a modern twist--followed by Nevermore - Scary Stories and Tales of the Paranormal and Supernatural in October of last year.

Jerry Whitus ^{NEW FOR 2025!}

Born and raised in East Texas, Jerry Whitus studied American literature and fiction writing in the graduate program at the University of Texas, Austin.

His stories have been published in many leading literary journals, including the Chicago Quarterly Review, Ploughshares, Los Angeles Review, and MÄNOA.



Before turning to fiction, he spent years as a writer specializing in film and video for education, industry, government, and entertainment, winning many national awards.

Get to know Jerry at: jerrywhitus.wixsite.com/author



Starla DeKruyf

Starla DeKruyf writes caffeinated, comical, and swoony love stories. Her love of romance novels began when she borrowed her friend’s copy of Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume and kept it hidden from her mom.

When she’s not slinging coffee, volunteering with youth, or taxiing her kids around, you can find her jamming out to her book playlists and writing her next swoony romance, usually by hand. She lives in Spring, Texas, with her husband, three children, and a rescue pup.

Visit her web site at starlawrites.com.

M.K. Dwyer NEW FOR 2025!

Accountant by day. Writer by night. Mom always. According to M.K. Dwyer’s six-year-old’s last Mother’s Day card, she is in her forties, 12 feet tall, and really good at shopping. (Only one of which is true.)

M.K. is in love with love, and in her stories, everyone finds their happily ever after. She’s living her own love story in a suburb of Houston, where some days she slays dragons and other days, she reads a whole book in one sitting.

Find out more about M.K.'s works at https://authormkdwyer.com/

Mary Felkins

Mary A. Felkins is a multi-published, award-winning author of closed-door romance. Her stories deliver no shortage of sizzle, sass, and satisfying happily ever afters. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Faith, Hope and Love Christian Writers, My Book Therapy, and Novel Academy. 

She can be lured from her creative writing space if presented with a large, unopened bag of Peanut M&Ms. A surprise appearance by her teen idol, Donny Osmond, would also do the trick, although she’d likely pass out.

If, upon introduction, she likes your first or last name, expect to see it show up in one of her novels.

To receive Mary’s monthly author newsletters, subscribe via email at www.maryfelkins.com

New subscribers receive a link to download one of her award-winning books for FREE!

Tami Mason NEW FOR 2025!

Tami Mason is a small town indie author who writes contemporary and dark romance. After years of reading other’s words and being a wild at heart romantic, she decided to try her hand at stringing her own words together for the pleasure of others.

When not on Honey duty to one of her four grand blessings, you can find me with a Sonic drink in one hand and a paperback in the other. From one wild heart to another, Tami enjoys engaging with her readers and other authors.

Fall in love with Tami's works at www.tamimason.com.

Bella Pursell NEW FOR 2025!

Bella Pursell is a closed door romance author from Houston, Texas. Having grown up an avid reader and feeling seen in books, she strives to create the same feeling for others in her stories.

Under her repertoire, you'll find common themes of found family, relatable characters, and supportive friendships while pursuing love.

Visit Bella's titles at: https://linktr.ee/authorbellapursell

Laura Sutton NEW FOR 2025!

Laura Sutton writes steamy romances with compelling, hot, sexy, heroes that dominate the page and the heroines that fall in love with them.

Her day-to-day is full of time at the beach, playing fetch with her dogs in in the backyard, and often thinking up new ideas and worlds that help bring her books to life.



Laura is a small town Texas girl who likes to dream big and put those big dreams down on the page!

Jennifer Torseth

Jennifer D. Torseth is an author of paranormal romance and fantasy, known for her books Adele Wolf and The Emergence Sera.

When she isn't crafting plot twists or writing about heroines in need of rescue,

Jennifer enjoys beautiful warm afternoon walks and working in the garden. She's an optimist who always sees the good in a bad experience. It's what builds character and teaches us to remember to keep smiling even when life tries to get you down.



Visit Jennifer on the web at https://linktr.ee/jenniferdtorseth

Mel Algood

Melissa Algood is a true-crime-obsessed dyslexic who read Helter Skelter and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in one sitting. Although not at the same time.

Melissa writes stories that make people cry out of fear, anguish, or over a touching moment. Her award-winning short fiction can be read in Everyone Dies: Tales from a Morbid Author. The Greater Good romantic thriller series has a make-out count that matches the body count, and The Girl in the Fog follows a telepath on the run from the lab that created and continues to test on her in a re-imaged 2020 Baltimore.



Melissa has moved over twenty times in her life, including California, Puerto Rico, and D.C., before making Houston her home. She's a hairstylist in the real world and lives with her longtime love, Izzy, and Madame Bijou, their tuxedo cat.

Get to know Melissa's works at www.melissaalgood.com.

Scott Finley NEW FOR 2025!

A graduate of the University of Texas with a degree in journalism, Scott Finley enjoyed a career in broadcast news, followed by media work for non-profit entities.

Along the way he collected one Emmy nomination, 19 Telly Awards, three Aegis Awards, two Addy awards and five Best Newscast in Texas awards from the Associated Press.

Voyages of the Queen is his first mystery series.

Learn more at www.voyagesofthequeen.com.

Jeff Folschinsky

Jeff Folschinsky is a fan of horror, Science fiction, and offbeat humor. He is the author of the Tales from Little Lump book series.

He also wrote the story and co-wrote the script for the film, Revenge of the Bimbot Zombie Killers.

A man of many talents, Jeff is also a playwright, with his shows being produced in theaters nationwide. He hosts the weekly podcast Meaningless Minutia, which informs audiences about all the things they didn't know and probably could care less about.

Learn more about Jeff at https://jfolschinsky.wordpress.com.

Terry Korth Fischer NEW FOR 2025!

Terry Korth Fischer is the author of Rory Naysmith Mysteries, a cozy-crime series featuring a seasoned city detective relocated to small-town Nebraska.

Terry lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and two guard cats. When not writing, she loves reading and basking in the sunshine, yet, her heart often wanders to the country's heartland, where she spent a memorable --ordinary but charmed--childhood.

Get to know Terry at www.terrykorthfischer.com

Paul Johnson NEW FOR 2025!

Paul Johnson writes books that are based throughout the southwest. Sedona Chi Mysteries follow the adventures of Skip Rhodes, an Arizona tour guide with a secret past, and his friend Kulkulkan Balthazar. 

Paul is now hard at work on his fourth book in the sets, which finds Rhodes in Barcelona searching for a missing child which dovetails with the story of a Sinagua man living in an Arizona cliff ruin in 1392.

Explore Paul Johnson's Southwest at www.sedonachi.com

Steven Malone

Steven D. Malone is a 5th generation Texan who writes hard-boiled Prohibition Era mysteries and Civil War Era historical fiction all taking place in Texas.

Character driven stories show the struggles of the men and women who make their way in a harsh world. The wry humor and subtle empathy Mr. Malone displays will engage and delight.

Steven lives in Texas with his wife and son. He is the author of both historical fiction and historical mystery novels.

Take a trip into the past with Steven's works at https://www.stevenspen.com/

Alexander Marriott

Alexander Marriott is a trained historian and amateur world traveler who writes on topics in American intellectual and political history, as well as contemporary culture and society.

He also publishes detective novels featuring his sleuth from Chicago (where Marriott hails from originally), Virgil Colvin, transplanted for life's second act in Greece.

When not engaged in the scribbling trade, Alexander teaches history at a Community College in the Houston area where he lives with his family.

Visit Alexander's web site at Https://www.historymystery.blog

Jessica Raney FAN FAVORITE!

Jessica Raney is the author of seven books: two collections of short fiction: Oddballs and Dreadful Pennies, and four novels, Tooth and Nail, The Hard Truth, Rack and Ruin, and These Violent Delights,.

She has also co-written two collections of short fiction, Tales from the Den, Volume I and Open Your Mouth, with co-author Jae Mazer.

A native of Southeastern Ohio, Jessica Raney grew up looking for the Mothman and other monsters of Appalachia. These days she lives in Houston Texas and translates her love of creepy and crime fiction into her writing, blending it all to create Appalachian supernatural noir. When not writing, she's doing art, making gumbo, and enjoying the Gulf Coast with friends and her weird little dog, Gimli.

See all of Jessica's work at www.jessicaraney.com

Marcus Sabom FAN FAVORITE!

Born and raised in Houston, TX, Marcus Sabom always had a love for writing. As an insecure angsty teenager, he wrote bad poetry that will hopefully never see the light of day, because, of course. But as an adult, after stumbling onto the local film scene, his love of writing turned to storytelling, and since then he's written four full length novels, a short story, and even written scripts for short film contests.

Marcus has written a novelization of his movie The Good Friend, the full-length novel Nikki, and the short story Melting Point. Marcus has also contributed two novels to the YA urban fantasy fairy series Wings & Horns, started by his dear friend and long suffering editor, Rebecca Torrellas.  

When he isn't at work or pursuing his other passion of photography, Marcus is working on his next story under the close supervision of his pet cats. 

C.L. Thomas

C.L. Thomas grew up in Southern New England in the 1970's playing outside every chance he could and has been writing stories since he was a sophomore in high school.

Growing up in East Hartford, one of his favorite games to play was cops and robbers. Little did he know as an adult, first in the United States Army, and later for the city of Houston, he would get to play cops and robbers for real.

On several occasions he would come home from work and tell his wife, "I would have done this for free." For eight years, C.L. was a member of a tactical unit in one of the worst parts of the city. Working alongside five highly trained and dedicated officers, C.L. put his life on the line for the citizens of the City of Houston.

C.L. brings his gritty work world reality to the pages of his first full-length novel, The Hollow, painting a picture of the world very few people ever get to see.

Learn more about C.L. Thomas at www.authorclthomas.com.

Teresa Trent NEW FOR 2025!

Teresa Trent is the author of the Swinging Sixties, Henry Park, Piney Woods and Pecan Bayou mystery series. She writes cozy, paranormal and historical mysteries.

Her latest release is I Can't Get No Satisfaction, the fourth book in the Swinging Sixties Series.

Teresa is the voice of the Books to the Ceiling Podcast and is a a member of Sisters in Crime and has books published with Level Best Books and Harbor Lane.

Browse all of Teresa's works at TeresaTrent.com

Jenna Barrett

Jenna Barrett is an award-winning author who writes fantasy novels and is currently at work on the Keepers of Imbria series following the release of her debut novel, Orabelle. She weaves complex emotional dichotomies and breathes life into strong female heroines and villains that you love to hate.

Jenna currently resides in Texas with her three-legged dog, Artemis, and is a freelance photographer and avid adventurer who enjoys rock climbing and mountaineering.

See more on Jenna's website www.jbarrettauthor.com

Kelly Lynn Colby FAN FAVORITE

Kelly Lynn Colby has tried to write mundane stories but magic always sneaks its way in. The result? The YA epic fantasy duology The Recharging (complete) and the paranormal thriller series Emergence (book three coming in 2023).

She’s learned a ton from her short stories as well, which you can find in a plethora of anthologies.

When she’s not traveling the country attending publishing or pop culture conventions, Kelly writes and edits and answers an inordinate number of emails at her cluttered desk in Houston, Texas.

You can follow her adventures on social media @kcolbywrites or subscribe to her blog at kellylynncolby.com.

RA Cooper NEW FOR 2025!

USA Today Bestselling author Rachel A. Cooper writes progression fantasy, blending LitRPG and western cultivation to craft tales of power and self-discovery.

A Texan juggling family and an assortment of questionable “pets,” she finds inspiration from the paranormal, travel, and neuropsychology. She thrives on fast-paced adventures that blur reality and fantasy.

Co-authoring with Aoife Wai, Rachel brings stories such as Wolf and Flame to life, crafting immersive worlds that challenge and inspire.

Find more on Rachel's works at: https://www.wolfandflame.com 

Brian Delaney NEW FOR 2025!

Brian Delaney is the author of Dòchas, Birth of the Dragon Conqueror, his debut graphic novel.

Memorable characters and settings uniquely presented with an innovative storytelling approach. The book seamlessly blends prose, world-building, and comic book panels, creating a dynamic narrative that captivates readers as the story unfolds.

Brian is a husband and dad. His daughter was and continues to be the inspiration for my lead character, Dòchas.

He is a creative professional with over thirty years of experience as a designer and artist. and also teaches master's and undergraduate classes in design methodology at the college and university levels in the DFW area.

Enter the world of Dochas at www.silversparrowcomics.com

Cheryl McClamrock NEW FOR 2025!

Cheryl McClamrock is an author, business owner, and an ordained minister and speaker.

As a student of the Word she is passionate about seeing people know God deeply while finding true freedom and wholeness in life through Yeshua/Jesus the Messiah.

Cheryl, her husband and three boys reside in the Houston, Texas area.

John Merullo NEW FOR 2025!

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.

Behold All the Dwellers Upon Earth is his debut novel. Explore its universe at www.Brimmerverse.com.

David Millar FAN FAVORITE!

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, internationally published and award-winning author David H. Millar is the founder, owner, and author-in-residence of A Wee Publishing Company, a business formed to promote Celtic authors and literature.

David is the author of the five-volume, ancient Celtic-based Conall series and the spin-offs The Dog Roses, The Dog Roses: Resolution and The Blood Queen.

David resides in Houston, Texas, with his family, and two recent family members, tuxedos Beau and Stiletto.

See David's works at www.aweepublishingco.com

E.M. Rensing NEW FOR 2025!

E.M. Rensing crafts unique science fiction and fantasy stories you’ll love to get lost in.

Hooked on speculative fiction at a young age, E.M. Rensing grew up reading tales of heroism and sacrifice, and found herself inspired to join the military. While perhaps more mundane than fighting dragons or alien invasions, she still enjoyed a thirteen year career in the Air Force as a Cyber Operations Officer.

Now, E.M. Rensing writes what she loves; hidden worlds, brave characters, and of course, the military. When not writing, she enjoys sewing, raising the next generation of little readers, and planning a trip to Mars.

Visit the other worlds of E.M. Rensing at rensingwrites.com



Edward White

Edward White is a man of many interests and experience. He is an Air Force veteran, a retired US Postal Inspector (Federal Agent), a martial artist (black belt), a musician (piano), and a writer.

His novels, all based in and around the Houston area, include Chances Are, Bolivar Ferry, The Spectre trilogy and a new fantasy series, Core of Darkness.

A University of Missouri, St. Louis graduate, Ed moved to Houston, Texas in 1987. Ed now resides with his wife, Kimberly, in northwest Houston.

Visit Edward on the web at https://edwardlwhite.com/



E.A. Williams

E.A. Williams attended the University of North Texas where she channeled her love of storytelling into film and play writing. She was the only female writer selected for UNT’s 2014 playwriter’s showcase.

While completing her film degree she also helped run a bi-monthly writer’s collective aimed at community engagement in the arts and stretched her creative limits by studying special effects makeup.

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in film, she works as a makeup artist in both film and photography, and is now the author of the line of Tepes supernatural thriller series.

Born and raised in Houston, where she now lives with her dog, Williams is inspired by the diverse and challenging landscape of her home state.

Learn more about E.A. at https://eawilliamsbooks.com/

D.L. Young

D.L. Young is a Pushcart Prize nominee and winner of the Independent Press Award.

He's the author of the Dark Republic series, a post-apocalyptic trilogy set in Texas, and the bestselling Cyberpunk City series. His Empire and Ashes space opera trilogy will be coming out later this spring / early summer, but you can purchase advance copies at the event!



If you like page-turning, edgy science fiction, you’re definitely his kind of reader. Learn more at www.dlyoungfiction.com

Tim Frankovich NEW FOR 2024!

Tim Frankovich has 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).

He’s the author of the epic fantasy series Heart of Fire (complete), the YA science fantasy series Dragontek Lore (complete), and The Certainty of Blood trilogy (book 3 coming soon!).



At the moment, he is suitably conscious somewhere in southeast Texas with his beloved wife, awesome kids, and a fool of a pup named Pippin.

Discover Tim's fantasy worlds at www.timfrankovich.com

E.R. Bills NEW FOR 2025!

E. R. Bills is an award-winning author and freelance journalist. His nonfiction works include Texas Obscurities: Stories of the Peculiar, Exceptional and Nefarious and The 1910 Slocum Massacre: An Act of Genocide in East Texas.

His fiction includes The Halloween in Me..

Explore E.R.'s other works at www.erbillsbooks.com

Tavia Bradford NEW FOR 2025!

Tavia Bradford combines artistry and transformation as a veteran cosmetologist, mentor, and storyteller. From California celebrity clients to Texas living, her 20-year beauty career has earned national recognition.

Her memoir, Blessings In The Chaos, shares an intimate journey through loss, faith, and redemption, while she uses her gifts to edify, empower, and educate others.

Discover her story at www.taviab.com

Chelsea Esquivel NEW FOR 2025!

Chelsea Esquivel is a born and raised Texas girl with a snappy attitude. Her love of animals started in utero. This love has deepened like fine wine or good cheese; so much so that she has said on too many occasions, she prefers animals to humans.

Her husband's main worry is that she will bring home another pet. Their current household is only three dogs--so far.

Follow her on Instagram at Chelsea.Esquivel_author

D.S. Howell NEW FOR 2025!

D. S. Howell is an Associate Professor at Lone Star College, in Houston, Texas. He is from New Mexico, having moved to the Houston area, after military service, to work at Johnson Space Center, for NASA. He is the author/editor of a history, The Bohannon Gang.

He also wrote a children's mystery, The Acer Detectives and the Museum Robberyunder the nom de plume of Red Beard.

Chris Pike

Chris Pike grew up in Connecticut. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1988 and served as an active duty officer for 24 years, leading Airmen in a variety of missions and programs, primarily transportation and logistics.

He retired in 2012 at the rank of Colonel after 13 assignments to 9 States and 3 foreign countries, as well as short term deployments to the Gulf War (1991) and Iraq (2006). Following his military career, Chris moved to Texas, where he worked in the commercial sector before retiring last year.  

Chris’ book Leading to Win starts from the premise that the key to great leadership is knowing how to assign the right people to the right task. Chris shares moments throughout his military career when he learned important lessons that explain how he came to think about leadership this way, and then he defines a set of supporting principles that will enable readers to develop this same talent. The end result is a model that can guide any leader to deliver wins for the organization. 

In addition to a BS from the Air Force Academy Chris holds four master's degrees and is an avid reader and traveler with a lifelong passion for history. He is currently a full-time student again, pursuing a PHD in History from Texas A&M University.

Chris has been married to his wife Libby for 27 years. The Pikes live in The Woodlands with their son and daughter, both of whom are now starting careers of their own.

Visit his website at Leading to Win

Michelle Sandlin NEW FOR 2025!

Michelle Sandlin doesn't just write stories --she lives them. A bestselling author and award-winning writer, Michelle has a gift for weaving words into powerful narratives that resonate with readers.

From journalism and poetry to memoir writing, her work has been featured in top publications like the Houston Chronicle (where she penned a weekly column for over seven years), the Houston Business Journal, and Mobility Magazine.

Follow Michelle's story at https://michellesandlin.com.

Lynn Chatman NEW FOR 2025!

Lynn Chatman grew up in Houston, Texas, and never left the state until she was an adult. After her two youngest children were born, she and her husband led a gypsy-type life, moving every year or two following his work, and sometimes just for the adventure of it – both overseas and in the States.

After being an artist and photographer for many years, Lynn now produces coloring books featuring her work. Helping others to grow and find inspiration in themselves through art continues to be one of her greatest pleasures.

View her works at www.lynnchatman.com

Regina Deemer

Regina Deemer is the owner of Enchanted Pixie Cottage, offering a magical mix of artisanally crafted sweet treats and handmade clothing and accessories..

Regina is a self-taught craftsman, but was also fortunate to inherit some spectacularly scrumptious recipes from the naturally gifted women in her family as well.

Regina resides in the Houston area and is the mother of two beautiful children, proud to be married to her loving high school sweetheart for 26 years!

Visit Enchanted Pixie Cottage online.

Lara Hagan taught kindergarten and first grade teacher for 26 years before retiring to follow her true passion, art!

Lara Hagan

Lara Hagan is a former elementary school teacher of 26 years that is now a co-owner and operator of a small family arthouse in Old Town Spring.

Hagan Artistry creates one of a kind pieces ranging from artwork, bookmarks, jewelry items, resin pieces, math/family games, crochet items and photography. We also offer weekend resin classes. 



Visit Hagan Artistry online at https://www.haganartistry.com