Please note to check last minute updates on our Instagram @thewritewomenbookfest in case of any changes in the roster.
While all of the authors and vendors listed here intend to participate, life happens.
While all of the authors and vendors listed here intend to participate, life happens.
AUTHORS IN ATTENDANCE
These are tabling authors you will be able to meet in person, purchase and/or have their books signed.
There are also some author services included in this list.
These are tabling authors you will be able to meet in person, purchase and/or have their books signed.
There are also some author services included in this list.
A.L. Kaplan
A. L. Kaplan’s love of books started as a child and sparked a creative imagination. Born on a cold winter morning in scenic northern New Jersey, her stories and poems have been included in several anthologies and magazines. Her most recent publications are her debut novel, Star Touched, Hummingbird, a short story, and Mark of the Goddess. She is a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association, is the Maryland Writers’ Association’s President, and holds an MFA in sculpture from the Maryland Institute College of Art. When not writing or indulging in her fascination with wolves, this proud mother of two lives in Maryland with her husband and dog. Learn more about A. L. at ALKaplanAuthor.com, @ALKaplanAuthor
A. L. Kaplan’s love of books started as a child and sparked a creative imagination. Born on a cold winter morning in scenic northern New Jersey, her stories and poems have been included in several anthologies and magazines. Her most recent publications are her debut novel, Star Touched, Hummingbird, a short story, and Mark of the Goddess. She is a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association, is the Maryland Writers’ Association’s President, and holds an MFA in sculpture from the Maryland Institute College of Art. When not writing or indulging in her fascination with wolves, this proud mother of two lives in Maryland with her husband and dog. Learn more about A. L. at ALKaplanAuthor.com, @ALKaplanAuthor
A.S. Carter
A.S. Carter is the author of Serve to Protect: Hate Crime Unit book series. Along with being a multi-genre author she is a director and producer who received her masters of fine arts in cinema and television. A Norfolk, VA native, she loves to travel and grab inspiration from all walks of life. She’s currently multitasking; writing on her second book series titled 7 Kids & Dating and is in the development phase of her film project titled Vilacrium. You can visit her online at any one of her social platforms: www.facebook.com/writeraquarius and www.instagram.com/writeraquarius
A.S. Carter is the author of Serve to Protect: Hate Crime Unit book series. Along with being a multi-genre author she is a director and producer who received her masters of fine arts in cinema and television. A Norfolk, VA native, she loves to travel and grab inspiration from all walks of life. She’s currently multitasking; writing on her second book series titled 7 Kids & Dating and is in the development phase of her film project titled Vilacrium. You can visit her online at any one of her social platforms: www.facebook.com/writeraquarius and www.instagram.com/writeraquarius
Amy L. Bernstein
Amy L. Bernstein writes stories, essays, and poems that let readers feel while making them think. Her novels include The Potrero Complex, The Nighthawkers, Dreams of Song Times, and Fran, The Second Time Around. Amy is an award-winning journalist, speechwriter, playwright, and certified nonfiction book coach. When not glued to a screen, she loves listening to jazz and classical music, drinking wine with friends, and exploring Baltimore’s glorious neighborhoods, which inspire her fiction. Join her email list for a special literary gift: https://amywrites.live
Amy L. Bernstein writes stories, essays, and poems that let readers feel while making them think. Her novels include The Potrero Complex, The Nighthawkers, Dreams of Song Times, and Fran, The Second Time Around. Amy is an award-winning journalist, speechwriter, playwright, and certified nonfiction book coach. When not glued to a screen, she loves listening to jazz and classical music, drinking wine with friends, and exploring Baltimore’s glorious neighborhoods, which inspire her fiction. Join her email list for a special literary gift: https://amywrites.live
Angela Ayres
Angela Ayres was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan and raised in Inkster, Michigan a suburb of Detroit. She comes from a big family of 12 children and is the youngest girl. She graduated from Wilberforce University, with a BS degree in Business Management and is a retired paralegal. Since her retirement she has volunteered as a special education advocate, helping children with special needs to obtain the appropriate educational program and placement. She co-wrote and published a children's book entitled Rainbow Zebra with her youngest son, that deals with the topic of bullying. One of her short stories titled Theater of the Mind; it is a true account of the trials and tribulations of dealing with an adult child suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and was published in Chicken Soup for the Soul Tough Times Won't Last But Tough People Will. She also wrote a fictional adult romantic novel entitled Commitments that is due to be released in June of 2022.
Angela Ayres was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan and raised in Inkster, Michigan a suburb of Detroit. She comes from a big family of 12 children and is the youngest girl. She graduated from Wilberforce University, with a BS degree in Business Management and is a retired paralegal. Since her retirement she has volunteered as a special education advocate, helping children with special needs to obtain the appropriate educational program and placement. She co-wrote and published a children's book entitled Rainbow Zebra with her youngest son, that deals with the topic of bullying. One of her short stories titled Theater of the Mind; it is a true account of the trials and tribulations of dealing with an adult child suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and was published in Chicken Soup for the Soul Tough Times Won't Last But Tough People Will. She also wrote a fictional adult romantic novel entitled Commitments that is due to be released in June of 2022.
Aressa Williams - The Write Women Book Fest Poet Laureate
Aressa Verdell Williams, a retired DC Public School teacher and a retired Assistant Professor of English at Anne Arundel Community College, is also a teacher consultant, creative writing presenter, and poet. Professor Aressa is an active member of Pen in Hand, Poetry X Hunger, and Poetry Nation. Equally important, the poet accepted the new role as a Literary Leader for the Prince Georges County Arts and Humanities Council. In the sixth grade, the aspiring message-maker wrote her first book of poems to earn a Girl Scout badge for Creative Writing. Today, Aressa has three self-published books, entitled Soft Shadows, The Penny Finder, and the most recent Pancakes & Chocolate Milk. Her inspiring poems strike universal notes about family, friends, resilience, and hope. Aressa believes that poems are word snapshots of our experiences. Moreover, she defines poetry as word music. The word-weaver enjoys walking at School House Pond, journaling, and interpreting dreams. Other interests are reading short stories, posing poll questions, and sky-watching. A good day for Aressa includes morning meditation, afternoon tea, and if possible, a nap. The poetess is the proud mother of Aaron Coley and grateful grandmother of Aressa Coley.
Aressa Verdell Williams, a retired DC Public School teacher and a retired Assistant Professor of English at Anne Arundel Community College, is also a teacher consultant, creative writing presenter, and poet. Professor Aressa is an active member of Pen in Hand, Poetry X Hunger, and Poetry Nation. Equally important, the poet accepted the new role as a Literary Leader for the Prince Georges County Arts and Humanities Council. In the sixth grade, the aspiring message-maker wrote her first book of poems to earn a Girl Scout badge for Creative Writing. Today, Aressa has three self-published books, entitled Soft Shadows, The Penny Finder, and the most recent Pancakes & Chocolate Milk. Her inspiring poems strike universal notes about family, friends, resilience, and hope. Aressa believes that poems are word snapshots of our experiences. Moreover, she defines poetry as word music. The word-weaver enjoys walking at School House Pond, journaling, and interpreting dreams. Other interests are reading short stories, posing poll questions, and sky-watching. A good day for Aressa includes morning meditation, afternoon tea, and if possible, a nap. The poetess is the proud mother of Aaron Coley and grateful grandmother of Aressa Coley.
B.K. Lockamy
B.K. Lockamy grew up in a large family in Virginia, with five brothers and two sisters, and a ton of cousins. Where we all went to church together and sometimes got in trouble together. Family and church have always been a big part of my life, when I loved it or saw the challenges in it. I was never big on reading as a young child but fell in love with it when I was in my late teens. We were coming home from a road trip and I read the whole way home. That summer, I remember reading seven or eight romance novels, and was hooked. I remember falling in love with all the different leading men, from jean-clad cowboys, Lords and Dukes, to Vampires and werewolves, and made myself the leading lady every time. No matter the type of story, it always came down to the same thing; which was the love, the forbidden, unwanted, and desired. Now a mother of a teenager, who soon will be off to college, I wanted to see what else I can feel good about besides just being a mother. Although it is rewarding, soon my son would be off living his life and I want to see what else I can offer the world. When I started writing, I always believed if a tale is weaved well, you can fall in love with any type of lead character but I wanted to tell stories that, although fiction, had real life characters behind them with imperfections. Love stories that depict people I would see in my life, in situations that were relatable. I wanted to write about love, hurt, forgiveness and God's grace. As a new writer, I am hoping this new chapter in her life with feel as wonderful as the raising my son, traveling and laughing with friends and family.
B.K. Lockamy grew up in a large family in Virginia, with five brothers and two sisters, and a ton of cousins. Where we all went to church together and sometimes got in trouble together. Family and church have always been a big part of my life, when I loved it or saw the challenges in it. I was never big on reading as a young child but fell in love with it when I was in my late teens. We were coming home from a road trip and I read the whole way home. That summer, I remember reading seven or eight romance novels, and was hooked. I remember falling in love with all the different leading men, from jean-clad cowboys, Lords and Dukes, to Vampires and werewolves, and made myself the leading lady every time. No matter the type of story, it always came down to the same thing; which was the love, the forbidden, unwanted, and desired. Now a mother of a teenager, who soon will be off to college, I wanted to see what else I can feel good about besides just being a mother. Although it is rewarding, soon my son would be off living his life and I want to see what else I can offer the world. When I started writing, I always believed if a tale is weaved well, you can fall in love with any type of lead character but I wanted to tell stories that, although fiction, had real life characters behind them with imperfections. Love stories that depict people I would see in my life, in situations that were relatable. I wanted to write about love, hurt, forgiveness and God's grace. As a new writer, I am hoping this new chapter in her life with feel as wonderful as the raising my son, traveling and laughing with friends and family.
Britt DeLaney/L.E. DeLano
Britt DeLaney writes Paranormal, Fantasy, and Contemporary Romance chock full of heart, humor, and heat. Though mostly raised in New Mexico, she now makes her home in Amish country, Pennsylvania. She has a deep love of snarky men, fierce women, clever plot twists, quirky supporting characters, and fantastical places. In her spare time, she watches too much Disney+ (mostly for the Marvel mancandy), eats too much refined sugar, and tries to thwart her cat’s plans for world domination. This has been unsuccessful on every level. In addition to her romance titles, Britt is also an award-winning Young Adult (YA) novelist under her alternate moniker, L.E. DeLano.
Britt DeLaney writes Paranormal, Fantasy, and Contemporary Romance chock full of heart, humor, and heat. Though mostly raised in New Mexico, she now makes her home in Amish country, Pennsylvania. She has a deep love of snarky men, fierce women, clever plot twists, quirky supporting characters, and fantastical places. In her spare time, she watches too much Disney+ (mostly for the Marvel mancandy), eats too much refined sugar, and tries to thwart her cat’s plans for world domination. This has been unsuccessful on every level. In addition to her romance titles, Britt is also an award-winning Young Adult (YA) novelist under her alternate moniker, L.E. DeLano.
C. Rose Dahl
Writer, teacher, mother, and beach lover, these words best describe C. Rose Dahl. An American storyteller, Dahl was raised in Ypsilanti, Michigan, a small college town in the southeastern corner of the state. She is the youngest of three children and the only girl. Growing up, she could be found dancing ballet on Saturday mornings and playing street hockey with friends in the afternoons. She has always enjoyed writing and filled countless notebooks with stories of friendship and adventure. She fell in love with romance novels at an early age when her mother gifted her Beverly Jenkins’s third book, Indigo. She was just fifteen years old. She became an avid romance reader, attending book signings, and then reading and re-reading all of Jenkin's novels. She draws inspiration from bestselling authors like Jenkins along with E. Lynn Harris, Brenda Jackson, and Alyssa Cole. Dahl's experiences living in Philadelphia, where she worked as a high school Spanish teacher, inspired her to write her debut novel, Love, Rebooted. An enthusiastic solo traveler, she enjoys summers on the road, seeing sights like the clear blue waters of La Playa Ocean Park in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Writer, teacher, mother, and beach lover, these words best describe C. Rose Dahl. An American storyteller, Dahl was raised in Ypsilanti, Michigan, a small college town in the southeastern corner of the state. She is the youngest of three children and the only girl. Growing up, she could be found dancing ballet on Saturday mornings and playing street hockey with friends in the afternoons. She has always enjoyed writing and filled countless notebooks with stories of friendship and adventure. She fell in love with romance novels at an early age when her mother gifted her Beverly Jenkins’s third book, Indigo. She was just fifteen years old. She became an avid romance reader, attending book signings, and then reading and re-reading all of Jenkin's novels. She draws inspiration from bestselling authors like Jenkins along with E. Lynn Harris, Brenda Jackson, and Alyssa Cole. Dahl's experiences living in Philadelphia, where she worked as a high school Spanish teacher, inspired her to write her debut novel, Love, Rebooted. An enthusiastic solo traveler, she enjoys summers on the road, seeing sights like the clear blue waters of La Playa Ocean Park in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Calla Claire
Calla Claire is an independent romance author with a flair for the dark side. She's a native of the D.C. area, which perhaps explains her twisted mind. Though she’s been writing romance for years, her current series (Rogues to Riches) is the first under the Calla Claire pen name. Set in the mountains of Northern Virginia, Rogues to Riches is a new adult gothic series with a dark academia aesthetic. Each of the five books features a brooding alpha male with a heart of gold-- as well as a feisty heroine with whom he can’t resist sparring. Calla Claire has two small boys, so free time is a distant memory. However, she loves being a homebody with her husband, wrangling their toddlers, and looking forward to precedented times. She’d be honored if you hung out with her on any of her social media platforms to share self-publishing tips, rave about junk food, or reminisce over ‘90s nostalgia. She truly hopes to see you around!
Calla Claire is an independent romance author with a flair for the dark side. She's a native of the D.C. area, which perhaps explains her twisted mind. Though she’s been writing romance for years, her current series (Rogues to Riches) is the first under the Calla Claire pen name. Set in the mountains of Northern Virginia, Rogues to Riches is a new adult gothic series with a dark academia aesthetic. Each of the five books features a brooding alpha male with a heart of gold-- as well as a feisty heroine with whom he can’t resist sparring. Calla Claire has two small boys, so free time is a distant memory. However, she loves being a homebody with her husband, wrangling their toddlers, and looking forward to precedented times. She’d be honored if you hung out with her on any of her social media platforms to share self-publishing tips, rave about junk food, or reminisce over ‘90s nostalgia. She truly hopes to see you around!
Cardyn Brooks
The Write Women Book Fest Outreach Director & Co-Organizer
Cardyn Brooks, outreach coordinator for The Write Women Book Fest, is a reading fiend, compulsive writer, swim enthusiast, and inventor. She created the "Trope Spin" and "Literary Canon Fodder" book review columns for MediaDiversified.org, and riffs on bookish topics on BlerdyBingeReader.blogspot.com. She's reviewed books for InDtale.com and currently reviews books for RomanceDailyNews.com. She writes edgier erotic fiction as C. X Brooks (in which the X honors her enslaved ancestors who were forbidden by law to learn to read and write). Her most recent title is When She's on Top by C. X Brooks, published by BlackOpalBooks.com.
The Write Women Book Fest Outreach Director & Co-Organizer
Cardyn Brooks, outreach coordinator for The Write Women Book Fest, is a reading fiend, compulsive writer, swim enthusiast, and inventor. She created the "Trope Spin" and "Literary Canon Fodder" book review columns for MediaDiversified.org, and riffs on bookish topics on BlerdyBingeReader.blogspot.com. She's reviewed books for InDtale.com and currently reviews books for RomanceDailyNews.com. She writes edgier erotic fiction as C. X Brooks (in which the X honors her enslaved ancestors who were forbidden by law to learn to read and write). Her most recent title is When She's on Top by C. X Brooks, published by BlackOpalBooks.com.
Carolyn Wilson
Carolyn Wilson is The Fearless Magnified Educator™. A multi-award winning film-maker, 5x best selling author, including International Best Selling Author with legendary Les Brown, motivational speaker, certified life coach, master resilience trainer and transformational health & wellness lifestyle expert featured on ABC, CBS, Dr. Oz, Huffington Post, i-Heart Radio and Woman’s World Magazine. A survivor of Sexual Child Abuse and Domestic Violence turned advocate intentionally created a transformative healing journey that created a new narrative for her life. Her soul mission is to educate women globally how to overcome fear, live their life fearlessly (especially after trauma & abuse) by aligning to heal the total mind, body & soul for their divine purpose. Carolyn is the CEO of MYE Institute, Magnify Your Essence, CYWC & Expo, Beacon’s Light Retreat, writer, director & producer of The Good Life Documentary, author of Magnified Thoughts: A Transformational Journey To Reveal Your Amazing You and Visionary of H.E.R.Story Anthology (Healed, Empowered, Resilient).
Carolyn Wilson is The Fearless Magnified Educator™. A multi-award winning film-maker, 5x best selling author, including International Best Selling Author with legendary Les Brown, motivational speaker, certified life coach, master resilience trainer and transformational health & wellness lifestyle expert featured on ABC, CBS, Dr. Oz, Huffington Post, i-Heart Radio and Woman’s World Magazine. A survivor of Sexual Child Abuse and Domestic Violence turned advocate intentionally created a transformative healing journey that created a new narrative for her life. Her soul mission is to educate women globally how to overcome fear, live their life fearlessly (especially after trauma & abuse) by aligning to heal the total mind, body & soul for their divine purpose. Carolyn is the CEO of MYE Institute, Magnify Your Essence, CYWC & Expo, Beacon’s Light Retreat, writer, director & producer of The Good Life Documentary, author of Magnified Thoughts: A Transformational Journey To Reveal Your Amazing You and Visionary of H.E.R.Story Anthology (Healed, Empowered, Resilient).
Cherease Richardson
Cherease Richardson was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She is happily married to her husband of six years, and they have two beautiful children. She has a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Morgan State University. Her passions are painting portraits, landscapes, and murals. She also loves to write parables and poetry.
Cherease Richardson was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She is happily married to her husband of six years, and they have two beautiful children. She has a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Morgan State University. Her passions are painting portraits, landscapes, and murals. She also loves to write parables and poetry.
Cheryl Woodruff Brooks
Cheryl Woodruff Brooks, MBA/MA completed her first book, Chicken Bone Beach: A Pictorial History of Atlantic City’s Missouri Avenue Beach (Sunbury Press) in 2017, which was nominated for a 2017 Literary Award with the Schomburg Center in New York City, used in classrooms at Purdue University and referenced in The Oxford Handbook of American Folklore and Folklife Studies. Cheryl has written three books and co-authored a fourth with her Sunbury Press Colleagues. Her most recent book, The Story of Chicken Bone Beach (a children's book) received the 2021 Sunny Award for best selling in its literary category. Cheryl has been involved in speaking engagements discussing her literary work at museums, schools, universities, and special events.
Cheryl Woodruff Brooks, MBA/MA completed her first book, Chicken Bone Beach: A Pictorial History of Atlantic City’s Missouri Avenue Beach (Sunbury Press) in 2017, which was nominated for a 2017 Literary Award with the Schomburg Center in New York City, used in classrooms at Purdue University and referenced in The Oxford Handbook of American Folklore and Folklife Studies. Cheryl has written three books and co-authored a fourth with her Sunbury Press Colleagues. Her most recent book, The Story of Chicken Bone Beach (a children's book) received the 2021 Sunny Award for best selling in its literary category. Cheryl has been involved in speaking engagements discussing her literary work at museums, schools, universities, and special events.
Courtney Duke Foster
Courtney is a lawyer/mom by day, turned fiction writer/mom by night, and day, and all the time. Her storytelling career started early when she would relay to her very loving and patient grandmother every. single. word and detail of movies and television shows she had seen. Bitten by the writer bug a few years ago, she has written dozens of poems and short stories. Two of her short stories have been published in the Bay to Ocean Journal, and she will publish her debut novel Passing Notes this year. A graduate of Spelman College and Duke University School of Law, Courtney grew up in Maryland, where she lives with her two awesome daughters and an extremely snuggly cat. In her spare time, she enjoys, well, writing stories, but also watching movies and attending musicals and comedy shows. She loves the art of storytelling in all forms.
Courtney is a lawyer/mom by day, turned fiction writer/mom by night, and day, and all the time. Her storytelling career started early when she would relay to her very loving and patient grandmother every. single. word and detail of movies and television shows she had seen. Bitten by the writer bug a few years ago, she has written dozens of poems and short stories. Two of her short stories have been published in the Bay to Ocean Journal, and she will publish her debut novel Passing Notes this year. A graduate of Spelman College and Duke University School of Law, Courtney grew up in Maryland, where she lives with her two awesome daughters and an extremely snuggly cat. In her spare time, she enjoys, well, writing stories, but also watching movies and attending musicals and comedy shows. She loves the art of storytelling in all forms.
Courtney Kittrell
Courtney Kittrell is a native of Greensboro, North Carolina and a 21-year active duty Master Chief with the United States Navy. Her military experiences have made a mark on her life through personal and leadership struggles. Courtney has deployed onboard USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, USS JOHN F. KENNEDY, USS ENTERPRISE, and USS GEORGE H. W. BUSH. Her journey has taken her to many countries including Spain, Portugal, England, Turkey, Bahrain, Dubai, Israel, Italy and scores of other places. Courtney is a leader of many and a friend to all. She has been motivated to be a voice for others who are battling depression, suicidal thoughts, and mental health issues.
Courtney Kittrell is a native of Greensboro, North Carolina and a 21-year active duty Master Chief with the United States Navy. Her military experiences have made a mark on her life through personal and leadership struggles. Courtney has deployed onboard USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, USS JOHN F. KENNEDY, USS ENTERPRISE, and USS GEORGE H. W. BUSH. Her journey has taken her to many countries including Spain, Portugal, England, Turkey, Bahrain, Dubai, Israel, Italy and scores of other places. Courtney is a leader of many and a friend to all. She has been motivated to be a voice for others who are battling depression, suicidal thoughts, and mental health issues.
Chaundra Scott
Chaundra Scott is a Maryland native with professional roots in social work and education. For over 15 years, Chaundra has provided case management and community outreach services to children and families in Maryland and she has earned her MSW Degree. The birth of her daughter, Aubrey, sparked an interest in becoming a children’s book author. To date she has self-published five book titles. She started her literature business called Curls and Coils Literary Solutions in 2015. Her company specializes in hosting literary events, freelance writing, writing services, kid accessories and much more. Chaundra is also a freelance writer for several media publications such as Sheen Magazine, Bronze Magazine, and the Pretty Women Hustle Magazine. Scott also founded a community program known as Little Curls and Coils to mentor girls through project based learning. The program has an emphasis on academic achievement, self esteem building, social emotional learning and STEM. Chaundra currently resides in Maryland with her daughter, Aubrey. She is seeking her PhD in Social Work. She enjoys crafting, binging tv shows; and spending time with family and close friends.
Chaundra Scott is a Maryland native with professional roots in social work and education. For over 15 years, Chaundra has provided case management and community outreach services to children and families in Maryland and she has earned her MSW Degree. The birth of her daughter, Aubrey, sparked an interest in becoming a children’s book author. To date she has self-published five book titles. She started her literature business called Curls and Coils Literary Solutions in 2015. Her company specializes in hosting literary events, freelance writing, writing services, kid accessories and much more. Chaundra is also a freelance writer for several media publications such as Sheen Magazine, Bronze Magazine, and the Pretty Women Hustle Magazine. Scott also founded a community program known as Little Curls and Coils to mentor girls through project based learning. The program has an emphasis on academic achievement, self esteem building, social emotional learning and STEM. Chaundra currently resides in Maryland with her daughter, Aubrey. She is seeking her PhD in Social Work. She enjoys crafting, binging tv shows; and spending time with family and close friends.
D.A. Jennings
D.A. Jennings is an award-winning author of children’s books. Her latest illustrated story, The Tapping Stick, received the silver medal in the 2021 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards. Her other award-winning books include Mia, Ripples in the Water (a youth chapter book) and Cheese? Yes, Please! (a children’s illustrated book). The sequel to Mia, Mia, The Crooked Road, will make its debut this summer. Her other books include Seize the Cheese; One Hundred Lives; and American Sports Legends: Your Turn to Score. Ms. Jennings' educational background includes an undergraduate degree in Broadcasting from the University of Texas at El Paso, a master's in Public Human Resources Administration from Central Michigan University. She is also a graduate of the Army Management Staff College. She teaches creative writing classes at Harford Community College, is a member of the Harford Writers' Group, and helped develop the teaching curriculum for the Harford Community College Writers' School. She holds a special affinity for the American Soldier, based on her years of working as a civilian for the Department of Army.
D.A. Jennings is an award-winning author of children’s books. Her latest illustrated story, The Tapping Stick, received the silver medal in the 2021 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards. Her other award-winning books include Mia, Ripples in the Water (a youth chapter book) and Cheese? Yes, Please! (a children’s illustrated book). The sequel to Mia, Mia, The Crooked Road, will make its debut this summer. Her other books include Seize the Cheese; One Hundred Lives; and American Sports Legends: Your Turn to Score. Ms. Jennings' educational background includes an undergraduate degree in Broadcasting from the University of Texas at El Paso, a master's in Public Human Resources Administration from Central Michigan University. She is also a graduate of the Army Management Staff College. She teaches creative writing classes at Harford Community College, is a member of the Harford Writers' Group, and helped develop the teaching curriculum for the Harford Community College Writers' School. She holds a special affinity for the American Soldier, based on her years of working as a civilian for the Department of Army.
Dea Schofield
Dea Schofield is an indie author of supernatural tales. Currently a resident of the Metro Washington, D.C. area, she has lived in several countries and traveled extensively. Like her written work, she considers her life an unconventional fusion of experience, knowledge, and tastes. She enjoys combining disparate ideas and genres to create fun, rich, thought-provoking stories. She is a Gen X grandmother three times over, but still keeps her punk spirit strong.
Dea Schofield is an indie author of supernatural tales. Currently a resident of the Metro Washington, D.C. area, she has lived in several countries and traveled extensively. Like her written work, she considers her life an unconventional fusion of experience, knowledge, and tastes. She enjoys combining disparate ideas and genres to create fun, rich, thought-provoking stories. She is a Gen X grandmother three times over, but still keeps her punk spirit strong.
Donna Koros Stramella
Donna Koros Stramella is a writer from Maryland whose fiction and nonfiction pieces have been published in Adelaide Literary Magazine, Scarlet Leaf Review, Columbia Magazine, and the Baltimore Sun. She is a previous award-winning journalist, video writer-producer, and corporate communication consultant. A graduate of the University of Tampa MFA in Creative Writing, she authored Coffee Killed My Mother (published by Adelaide Books of NYC and Lisbon) and is currently working on her second novel, Among the Bones. When not writing, she enjoys hiking and listening to live music--especially one of her husband's bands. She credits her grade school teacher, Sister Madeline Cecilia with discovering (and inspiring) her writing abilities.
Donna Koros Stramella is a writer from Maryland whose fiction and nonfiction pieces have been published in Adelaide Literary Magazine, Scarlet Leaf Review, Columbia Magazine, and the Baltimore Sun. She is a previous award-winning journalist, video writer-producer, and corporate communication consultant. A graduate of the University of Tampa MFA in Creative Writing, she authored Coffee Killed My Mother (published by Adelaide Books of NYC and Lisbon) and is currently working on her second novel, Among the Bones. When not writing, she enjoys hiking and listening to live music--especially one of her husband's bands. She credits her grade school teacher, Sister Madeline Cecilia with discovering (and inspiring) her writing abilities.
Donna Knutson
Write Journeys Book Editor | Writing Coach
Chapter One: What I Do
Did they say, “You should really tell your story?” Did you think, “It is time to finish that book I’ve always wanted to write.” Well guess what, you can tell you own story. If you’ve let fear and doubt keep you from becoming a published author, it is time to make your dreams of writing your book come true. You may just need support to get started, organize your thoughts, create a writing practice, identify your ideal reader and your genre, map put the structure and flow that best suits your storytelling. You’ll also need a cheerleader and someone to keep you on track. I’m Donna Knutson, and I want to help. I am a book editor and writing coach. Chapter Two: Who I Am Donna Knutson spent 25 years in television news writing, producing, and managing. She taught high school students to write, report, produce, and anchor their own newscast. She taught college composition courses. Mrs. Knutson has degrees in English (Poetry) and Professional Writing. She’s edited business books, children's books, young adult fantasy, essays, poetry, and memoir. She loves problem solving—that moment where the author has an unresolved issue with their piece, and together author and editor uncover new possibilities and directions in the work that allow the author’s true voice and intention to shine through. Get your writing and editing polished and ready to publish. Email Donna at: [email protected].
Write Journeys Book Editor | Writing Coach
Chapter One: What I Do
Did they say, “You should really tell your story?” Did you think, “It is time to finish that book I’ve always wanted to write.” Well guess what, you can tell you own story. If you’ve let fear and doubt keep you from becoming a published author, it is time to make your dreams of writing your book come true. You may just need support to get started, organize your thoughts, create a writing practice, identify your ideal reader and your genre, map put the structure and flow that best suits your storytelling. You’ll also need a cheerleader and someone to keep you on track. I’m Donna Knutson, and I want to help. I am a book editor and writing coach. Chapter Two: Who I Am Donna Knutson spent 25 years in television news writing, producing, and managing. She taught high school students to write, report, produce, and anchor their own newscast. She taught college composition courses. Mrs. Knutson has degrees in English (Poetry) and Professional Writing. She’s edited business books, children's books, young adult fantasy, essays, poetry, and memoir. She loves problem solving—that moment where the author has an unresolved issue with their piece, and together author and editor uncover new possibilities and directions in the work that allow the author’s true voice and intention to shine through. Get your writing and editing polished and ready to publish. Email Donna at: [email protected].
Dr. Karyne Messina
Dr. Karyne Messina is a licensed psychologist, psychoanalyst, and author. Her previous books include Aftermath: Healing from the Trump Presidency (IPI Press, 2020), and Misogyny, Projective Identification, and Mentalization: Psychoanalytic, Social, and Institutional Manifestations (Routledge, 2019). She is a supervising and training analyst at the Washington Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis and is on the medical staff at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, MD, part of Johns Hopkins Medicine. Additionally, she maintains a full-time private practice in Chevy Chase, MD. Messina received a BA from Florida Atlantic University, and then earned a MA and a doctorate from George Washington University. She is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Washington Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis, the American Psychoanalytic Association, the Washington School of Psychiatry, the American Board of Psychoanalysis, and the Internation Psychoanalytical Association.
Dr. Karyne Messina is a licensed psychologist, psychoanalyst, and author. Her previous books include Aftermath: Healing from the Trump Presidency (IPI Press, 2020), and Misogyny, Projective Identification, and Mentalization: Psychoanalytic, Social, and Institutional Manifestations (Routledge, 2019). She is a supervising and training analyst at the Washington Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis and is on the medical staff at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, MD, part of Johns Hopkins Medicine. Additionally, she maintains a full-time private practice in Chevy Chase, MD. Messina received a BA from Florida Atlantic University, and then earned a MA and a doctorate from George Washington University. She is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Washington Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis, the American Psychoanalytic Association, the Washington School of Psychiatry, the American Board of Psychoanalysis, and the Internation Psychoanalytical Association.
Dr. LaTanya Wilkins
In my memoir: I Choose Me, I explore the various myths women have been told since childhood about sex, marriage, abortion, love, and children. The story presents the notion to women, “What if you choose yourself?” Women are told to wait to be asked for marriage. Society tells wives to eat last and feed their husbands first. Our mothers teach us that a good mother puts her children before herself, but what if you put yourself first? Are you a bad person, mother, and wife? After years of abuse, and sacrifice I realized that I am as equally important as any member in my household. I saw me in my two-year-old daughter. I saw 22 years into the future. My daughter searching for a hero, only to be rescued by a monster. I chose me! This book is for any woman doubting their abilities, and afraid to take that leap. Join me on this journey as you read what happened when I decided to love myself, and place me on a pedestal.
In my memoir: I Choose Me, I explore the various myths women have been told since childhood about sex, marriage, abortion, love, and children. The story presents the notion to women, “What if you choose yourself?” Women are told to wait to be asked for marriage. Society tells wives to eat last and feed their husbands first. Our mothers teach us that a good mother puts her children before herself, but what if you put yourself first? Are you a bad person, mother, and wife? After years of abuse, and sacrifice I realized that I am as equally important as any member in my household. I saw me in my two-year-old daughter. I saw 22 years into the future. My daughter searching for a hero, only to be rescued by a monster. I chose me! This book is for any woman doubting their abilities, and afraid to take that leap. Join me on this journey as you read what happened when I decided to love myself, and place me on a pedestal.
Dr. Ophera Davis
Dr. Davis is a disaster expert and the author of The Overlooked Voices of Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Black Women Survivors Resilience and Recovery. She is an interdisciplinary social scientist, public intellectual, and a 20-year affiliate faculty member at colleges in Boston and Virginia. Her Bachelors & Masters degrees are from an HBCU and Ph.D. from a PWI. Use this link to order: https://opheraadavis.com/book/overlooked-hurricane-katrina/
Dr. Davis is a disaster expert and the author of The Overlooked Voices of Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Black Women Survivors Resilience and Recovery. She is an interdisciplinary social scientist, public intellectual, and a 20-year affiliate faculty member at colleges in Boston and Virginia. Her Bachelors & Masters degrees are from an HBCU and Ph.D. from a PWI. Use this link to order: https://opheraadavis.com/book/overlooked-hurricane-katrina/
E.R. Griffin
E.R. Griffin is an author and veterinary assistant. She has an obsession for hardcover books, all things Legend of Zelda, and international travel. The Queen of Ruin is her first novel. You can find her on Instagram @egregiouserrors. She lives in Maryland with her dog, Hermione.
E.R. Griffin is an author and veterinary assistant. She has an obsession for hardcover books, all things Legend of Zelda, and international travel. The Queen of Ruin is her first novel. You can find her on Instagram @egregiouserrors. She lives in Maryland with her dog, Hermione.
Edlinguist Solutions - LaNysha Adams
Author of ME POWER. Workforce Development & Student Success Strategist. Speaker at universities, companies, and events. Founder of Edlinguist Solutions. With 20 years in education research roles at the high school, university, school district, and state levels, I am on a mission to revolutionize the way people learn by co-creating the tools and resources they need to lead their own development. I argue that the heart of all learning, within and beyond school, is Me Power, the true meaning of empower. My top strength of authentic connectedness has made me a sought-after public speaker, trainer, and facilitator. I’ve presented at high schools, community colleges, universities, and organizations such as the College Board and the Ford Foundation. At Edlinguist Solutions, my greatest accomplishment has been helping over 100 graduate students finish their degrees faster and with less debt. When I’m not working, I love connecting with old and new friends, spending quality time with my family, and traveling. I’m 6 states away from 50! Let's connect on Linkedin, social media @edlinguist, or on my Substack, www.ourmepower.com
Author of ME POWER. Workforce Development & Student Success Strategist. Speaker at universities, companies, and events. Founder of Edlinguist Solutions. With 20 years in education research roles at the high school, university, school district, and state levels, I am on a mission to revolutionize the way people learn by co-creating the tools and resources they need to lead their own development. I argue that the heart of all learning, within and beyond school, is Me Power, the true meaning of empower. My top strength of authentic connectedness has made me a sought-after public speaker, trainer, and facilitator. I’ve presented at high schools, community colleges, universities, and organizations such as the College Board and the Ford Foundation. At Edlinguist Solutions, my greatest accomplishment has been helping over 100 graduate students finish their degrees faster and with less debt. When I’m not working, I love connecting with old and new friends, spending quality time with my family, and traveling. I’m 6 states away from 50! Let's connect on Linkedin, social media @edlinguist, or on my Substack, www.ourmepower.com
Elle Cole
Author of children's books about sickle cell.
CleverlyChanging.com
SickleCellBooks.com
@cleverlychanging on Instagram
Author of children's books about sickle cell.
CleverlyChanging.com
SickleCellBooks.com
@cleverlychanging on Instagram
Enchanted Children Castle
Enchanted Children Castle is a publishing company the creates fun and stimulating children’s book and educational resources. Enchanted Children Castles’ main goal is to provide a platform where children can dream, explore, and imagine with no limitations on their creative expression. This company is owned and operating by Raecheal Ware. Raecheal Ware is mother of two teenagers who has always had a passion for education and inspires to one day be a kindergarten teacher. In her free time, she volunteers at a childcare facility where she tutors children and creates engaging projects in art, math, reading, and science. Enchanted Children Castle published their first book “Where is the Moon”. “Where is the Moon” is an imaginative story where young readers’ explore possible locations of a missing moon. In this book each page uncovers a new location where the moon could be located. It is a very interactive book and children are always eager to find the moon as they read along. Enchanted Children Castle have several other books that will be released soon to include “Brian is Joining a New Team”. “Brian is Joining a New Team” is book by teen author, Brian Ware Jr. This book is about Brian’s adventures as he joins a new soccer team. It explores his feelings of excitement, nervousness, and eagerness to excel. This book is great for young athletes. Enchanted Children Castle is excited to share and expand distribution of premier learning books and resources to children worldwide.
Enchanted Children Castle is a publishing company the creates fun and stimulating children’s book and educational resources. Enchanted Children Castles’ main goal is to provide a platform where children can dream, explore, and imagine with no limitations on their creative expression. This company is owned and operating by Raecheal Ware. Raecheal Ware is mother of two teenagers who has always had a passion for education and inspires to one day be a kindergarten teacher. In her free time, she volunteers at a childcare facility where she tutors children and creates engaging projects in art, math, reading, and science. Enchanted Children Castle published their first book “Where is the Moon”. “Where is the Moon” is an imaginative story where young readers’ explore possible locations of a missing moon. In this book each page uncovers a new location where the moon could be located. It is a very interactive book and children are always eager to find the moon as they read along. Enchanted Children Castle have several other books that will be released soon to include “Brian is Joining a New Team”. “Brian is Joining a New Team” is book by teen author, Brian Ware Jr. This book is about Brian’s adventures as he joins a new soccer team. It explores his feelings of excitement, nervousness, and eagerness to excel. This book is great for young athletes. Enchanted Children Castle is excited to share and expand distribution of premier learning books and resources to children worldwide.
Golden Angel
Golden Angel is a USA Today best-selling author and self-described bibliophile with a "kinky" bent who loves to write stories for the characters in her head. If she didn't get them out, she's pretty sure she'd go just a little crazy. She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
Golden Angel is a USA Today best-selling author and self-described bibliophile with a "kinky" bent who loves to write stories for the characters in her head. If she didn't get them out, she's pretty sure she'd go just a little crazy. She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
H.L. Brooks
The Write Women Book Fest Founder & Co-Organizer
H.L. Brooks is an author of fairy tales with a little spice, erotic short stories, and cozy witch mysteries. She places an emphasis on strong female characters of various ages and body types, often featuring body positivity and plus size characters. She's feminist, sex-positive, body-positive, chatty, and curious about oh just all sorts of things. She's been called a natural-born cheerleader and is happiest when she's writing, helping, making art, or planning something. She also likes cuddling with her husband (who is also a writer) William in their almost 200 year old home. H.L. Brooks is an author advocate and encourager and will begin offering writing retreats in 2023! If you are interested in more information about her writing retreats please fill out THIS form and she will send you information. She is the founder of The Write Women Book Festival, and The Write Women Network Facebook group that offers monthly writing salons and workshops for free. H.L. is a self-declared sensualist, a fan of cats, autumn, Halloween, soft slouchy socks, love letters, chocolate, and tequila.
The Write Women Book Fest Founder & Co-Organizer
H.L. Brooks is an author of fairy tales with a little spice, erotic short stories, and cozy witch mysteries. She places an emphasis on strong female characters of various ages and body types, often featuring body positivity and plus size characters. She's feminist, sex-positive, body-positive, chatty, and curious about oh just all sorts of things. She's been called a natural-born cheerleader and is happiest when she's writing, helping, making art, or planning something. She also likes cuddling with her husband (who is also a writer) William in their almost 200 year old home. H.L. Brooks is an author advocate and encourager and will begin offering writing retreats in 2023! If you are interested in more information about her writing retreats please fill out THIS form and she will send you information. She is the founder of The Write Women Book Festival, and The Write Women Network Facebook group that offers monthly writing salons and workshops for free. H.L. is a self-declared sensualist, a fan of cats, autumn, Halloween, soft slouchy socks, love letters, chocolate, and tequila.
Ingrid Bough
“Violet Loves the Letter V: Virgin Islands Pride” written by author Ingrid Bough. In a story set in a tropical island paradise, we meet Violet, who is named after the violet flower. She loves her name and discovers the colors violet and purple have long been associated with royalty and majesty. This inspiring book weaves so much VI history & culture into a storyline that is fun and engaging, even adults will enjoy all of the adventures that Violet gets herself into. Violet tries to identify as many V words on her beautiful island and while creating a story using as many V words as she can, discovers her island territories are rich in history and culture. The book features attractive original illustrations by artist/illustrator Stuart P. Rames that captures children's attention. This is Ingrid Bough's first children's book. She is a former educator and library professional with thirty-one years of combined experience in the private, federal (Library of Congress) and local Virgin Islands government sectors. Bough a former Library of Congress Copyright Specialist is a presenter and reader at many literary events and book festivals both in the VI and on the mainland. For more than 15 years through the Library of Congress Center for the Book, she implemented, organized and coordinated the participation of the U.S. Territories: American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the National Book Festival Pavilion of the States. Ingrid holds degrees from Howard University, University of Maryland College Park, and a Juris Doctorate degree in Intellectual Property Law from the University of Baltimore School of Law. She is a graduate of the National Leadership Institute. Ingrid splits her time between Maryland and the USVI.
“Violet Loves the Letter V: Virgin Islands Pride” written by author Ingrid Bough. In a story set in a tropical island paradise, we meet Violet, who is named after the violet flower. She loves her name and discovers the colors violet and purple have long been associated with royalty and majesty. This inspiring book weaves so much VI history & culture into a storyline that is fun and engaging, even adults will enjoy all of the adventures that Violet gets herself into. Violet tries to identify as many V words on her beautiful island and while creating a story using as many V words as she can, discovers her island territories are rich in history and culture. The book features attractive original illustrations by artist/illustrator Stuart P. Rames that captures children's attention. This is Ingrid Bough's first children's book. She is a former educator and library professional with thirty-one years of combined experience in the private, federal (Library of Congress) and local Virgin Islands government sectors. Bough a former Library of Congress Copyright Specialist is a presenter and reader at many literary events and book festivals both in the VI and on the mainland. For more than 15 years through the Library of Congress Center for the Book, she implemented, organized and coordinated the participation of the U.S. Territories: American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the National Book Festival Pavilion of the States. Ingrid holds degrees from Howard University, University of Maryland College Park, and a Juris Doctorate degree in Intellectual Property Law from the University of Baltimore School of Law. She is a graduate of the National Leadership Institute. Ingrid splits her time between Maryland and the USVI.
Irmgarde Brown
Irmgarde Brown is a retired librarian manager, a long-time blogger, a photographer, a playwright and director, an active volunteer in the Havre de Grace arts community, a friend of the Village of Hope, Zambia, and a student in the Living School for Action and Contemplation. She is a widow, the mother of three adoptees from Eastern Europe (now grown), and a grandmother of two (soon to be three).
Irmgarde Brown is a retired librarian manager, a long-time blogger, a photographer, a playwright and director, an active volunteer in the Havre de Grace arts community, a friend of the Village of Hope, Zambia, and a student in the Living School for Action and Contemplation. She is a widow, the mother of three adoptees from Eastern Europe (now grown), and a grandmother of two (soon to be three).
Jacqueline P. Walker
Jacqueline P. Walker is a self-published author and inspirational blogger. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts with three areas of focused concentration – those being Psychology, English, and Communication Arts). She earned professional certificates in Workplace Communications, Data Analytics, Business Strategy, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. Jacqueline is also a Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC). Her professional experience covers leadership positions in Project Management & Implementation, Customer & Business Communications, Documentation Management, and Leadership Training. Additionally, Jacqueline joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. during college is currently an active general member of the organization.
Jacqueline P. Walker is a self-published author and inspirational blogger. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts with three areas of focused concentration – those being Psychology, English, and Communication Arts). She earned professional certificates in Workplace Communications, Data Analytics, Business Strategy, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. Jacqueline is also a Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC). Her professional experience covers leadership positions in Project Management & Implementation, Customer & Business Communications, Documentation Management, and Leadership Training. Additionally, Jacqueline joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. during college is currently an active general member of the organization.
Jaimie N. Schock
Jaimie N. Schock is an author, editor, and journalist with almost two decades of professional experience. She has been published in newspapers and magazines and has released eight fiction novels, including The Pyre Starter, The Fired Gun, The Circus Crown, The Queen’s Pain, The Crystal Call, The Magic Pact, The Burning Key, and Visions of Iotan. Her books feature LGBTQ+ and disabled main characters. Her series The Talisman War is a seven-book urban fantasy adventure, while Visions of Iotan is a sci-fi story.
Jaimie N. Schock is an author, editor, and journalist with almost two decades of professional experience. She has been published in newspapers and magazines and has released eight fiction novels, including The Pyre Starter, The Fired Gun, The Circus Crown, The Queen’s Pain, The Crystal Call, The Magic Pact, The Burning Key, and Visions of Iotan. Her books feature LGBTQ+ and disabled main characters. Her series The Talisman War is a seven-book urban fantasy adventure, while Visions of Iotan is a sci-fi story.
Jamala Murray Arland
Jamala Murray Arland is an infertility, congenital heart defect (CHD), child loss and grief advocate. Coping with the grief of child loss at the onset of a global pandemic has made her passionate about supporting the community for bereaved mothers and normalizing grief through writing and speaking engagements. Writing, philanthropy and becoming a first-time author is how she parents her son still. Jamala is from Barbados and live in Richmond, Virginia. Just Beyond Imagination, A Tale of Love, Child Loss, and Friendship is a gift book for parents who have lost a child. It is a compassionate fairy tale capturing the unimaginable grief surrounding the death of a child, with breathtaking watercolor illustrations and beautiful prose a bereaved parent can return to time and again.
Jamala Murray Arland is an infertility, congenital heart defect (CHD), child loss and grief advocate. Coping with the grief of child loss at the onset of a global pandemic has made her passionate about supporting the community for bereaved mothers and normalizing grief through writing and speaking engagements. Writing, philanthropy and becoming a first-time author is how she parents her son still. Jamala is from Barbados and live in Richmond, Virginia. Just Beyond Imagination, A Tale of Love, Child Loss, and Friendship is a gift book for parents who have lost a child. It is a compassionate fairy tale capturing the unimaginable grief surrounding the death of a child, with breathtaking watercolor illustrations and beautiful prose a bereaved parent can return to time and again.
Jamila Romero
Jamila is an award-winning educator, with over a decade of experience in education. She holds multiple degrees in Education that include Elementary Education & Curriculum Instruction from George Mason University as well as Educational Leadership & Development from George Washington University. In addition, Jamila has earned Sociology and Psychology degrees from the University of Southern California. She enjoys writing books of empowerment to uplift and inspire children of color who are often underrepresented in children’s literature. Her A-to-Z Affirmation Books were created to fulfill the need of representation for Black Boys and Girls. Through this representation, young Black Children are able to envision what they can aspire to be or achieve while affirming their worth and greatness. Jamila resides in Maryland with her husband and son.
Jamila is an award-winning educator, with over a decade of experience in education. She holds multiple degrees in Education that include Elementary Education & Curriculum Instruction from George Mason University as well as Educational Leadership & Development from George Washington University. In addition, Jamila has earned Sociology and Psychology degrees from the University of Southern California. She enjoys writing books of empowerment to uplift and inspire children of color who are often underrepresented in children’s literature. Her A-to-Z Affirmation Books were created to fulfill the need of representation for Black Boys and Girls. Through this representation, young Black Children are able to envision what they can aspire to be or achieve while affirming their worth and greatness. Jamila resides in Maryland with her husband and son.
Janique Muckelvene
Janique has always loved words, from the time before she could spell or write in cursive. Writing poetry in the margins of her school notebooks, on scrap pieces of paper. When her Father passed in 2010 of Prostate Cancer, her Mother and sisters coped with his passing by staying involved with the non-profit organization he and one of her sister's co-founded during his battle: Warriors Fighting For His Cure They also focused on publishing two books: "Getting Lost" and “The Very Awesome Adventures of RuRu & Rudy"
Janique has always loved words, from the time before she could spell or write in cursive. Writing poetry in the margins of her school notebooks, on scrap pieces of paper. When her Father passed in 2010 of Prostate Cancer, her Mother and sisters coped with his passing by staying involved with the non-profit organization he and one of her sister's co-founded during his battle: Warriors Fighting For His Cure They also focused on publishing two books: "Getting Lost" and “The Very Awesome Adventures of RuRu & Rudy"
JayMedia Publishing - Christine Johnson
Providing hybrid and self-publishing consulting services to new and aspiring authors.
JayMediaGroup Website
Providing hybrid and self-publishing consulting services to new and aspiring authors.
JayMediaGroup Website
Jennifer Schick
Jennifer Schick has been a law enforcement officer for more than 20 years, a writer for more than 30 years, and an animal lover her entire life. Her children's books are a tribute to her rescue dog and their adventures together. Jennifer grew up in Wyoming and Pennsylvania. She currently splits her time between Virginia and Nairobi, Kenya.
Jennifer Schick has been a law enforcement officer for more than 20 years, a writer for more than 30 years, and an animal lover her entire life. Her children's books are a tribute to her rescue dog and their adventures together. Jennifer grew up in Wyoming and Pennsylvania. She currently splits her time between Virginia and Nairobi, Kenya.
Jill Homiak
Jill aka One Love Vegan, comes from generations of incredible cooks who were also meat-eaters. As a self-proclaimed foodie with Italian heritage, she never imagined she might one day discover the deep satisfaction of a vegan lifestyle. After her vegan journey began, I had no idea it would mean that I would be happier than I’ve been in my life. I refrain from being preachy about the philosophical reasons for eating as a vegan. But I do suggest that eating vegan is not only about satisfying our appetite - it’s about the connections between our body, mind, and spirit. If you're interested in experiencing the flavors & texture you know and love using all whole food plant based ingredients, or simply love incredibly flavorful & satisfying recipes, my LIVE BOLDLY ECOOKBOOK is a great resources.
Jill aka One Love Vegan, comes from generations of incredible cooks who were also meat-eaters. As a self-proclaimed foodie with Italian heritage, she never imagined she might one day discover the deep satisfaction of a vegan lifestyle. After her vegan journey began, I had no idea it would mean that I would be happier than I’ve been in my life. I refrain from being preachy about the philosophical reasons for eating as a vegan. But I do suggest that eating vegan is not only about satisfying our appetite - it’s about the connections between our body, mind, and spirit. If you're interested in experiencing the flavors & texture you know and love using all whole food plant based ingredients, or simply love incredibly flavorful & satisfying recipes, my LIVE BOLDLY ECOOKBOOK is a great resources.
Joanne Sanders
Joanne Sanders is a children’s author who resides in Baltimore, Maryland. Her first book, Mommy, Mommy, What is Gratitude?, was published in February, 2022. Sanders credits her children for her inspiration and her decision to return to school to get her bachelor’s degree after having become a mother of three. Sanders earned her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology at Coppin State University. She fell in love with writing and the psychology of positive thinking. The knowledge propelled Sanders to chase her dreams of being an author.
Sanders continued her educational pursuits earning a Master’s degree in Education with a specialty in Family Counseling. She is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Higher Education at Notre Dame of Maryland. Sanders is a member of Psi Chi, the Golden Key International Honor Society, the American Counseling Association, and the American Psychology Association. She enjoys gardening, doing jigsaw puzzles, and motivating others.
Joanne Sanders is a children’s author who resides in Baltimore, Maryland. Her first book, Mommy, Mommy, What is Gratitude?, was published in February, 2022. Sanders credits her children for her inspiration and her decision to return to school to get her bachelor’s degree after having become a mother of three. Sanders earned her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology at Coppin State University. She fell in love with writing and the psychology of positive thinking. The knowledge propelled Sanders to chase her dreams of being an author.
Sanders continued her educational pursuits earning a Master’s degree in Education with a specialty in Family Counseling. She is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Higher Education at Notre Dame of Maryland. Sanders is a member of Psi Chi, the Golden Key International Honor Society, the American Counseling Association, and the American Psychology Association. She enjoys gardening, doing jigsaw puzzles, and motivating others.
Julia Inserro
My name is Julia, and I’m a mother of three, wife, recovering-expat, author, publisher, ethical vegetarian, and spider-saver. I can be convinced to go practically anywhere there is wildlife to view or back alleys to explore. Over a decade ago, almost six months to the day after our wedding, my husband and I were on a plane with two cats heading to our new life in Cairo, Egypt. I will admit there were a lot of tears on that flight; I’d given up my career, my home, my friends, my family, and all semblance of life as I knew it to follow this crazy, lovable man to what felt like the ends of the earth. And in essence, they were the ends of the earth as I knew it. But it was fabulous and eye-opening and expansive in only a way an expat can experience. And it was the first of many leaps of faith I would be taking; frankly, I’m surprised I haven’t strained anything. Since that fateful flight, we have lived in five countries (America, Egypt, Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain) and most importantly, we have gained three children. It’s been a bit busy. But through it all, and when I have time and brain-power of late, I still love writing. I now just have to squeeze it in between tantrums, nose wipings, artwork admirations, and story time.
My name is Julia, and I’m a mother of three, wife, recovering-expat, author, publisher, ethical vegetarian, and spider-saver. I can be convinced to go practically anywhere there is wildlife to view or back alleys to explore. Over a decade ago, almost six months to the day after our wedding, my husband and I were on a plane with two cats heading to our new life in Cairo, Egypt. I will admit there were a lot of tears on that flight; I’d given up my career, my home, my friends, my family, and all semblance of life as I knew it to follow this crazy, lovable man to what felt like the ends of the earth. And in essence, they were the ends of the earth as I knew it. But it was fabulous and eye-opening and expansive in only a way an expat can experience. And it was the first of many leaps of faith I would be taking; frankly, I’m surprised I haven’t strained anything. Since that fateful flight, we have lived in five countries (America, Egypt, Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain) and most importantly, we have gained three children. It’s been a bit busy. But through it all, and when I have time and brain-power of late, I still love writing. I now just have to squeeze it in between tantrums, nose wipings, artwork admirations, and story time.
K.M. Bishop
K.M. Bishop is an author from Southern Maryland who thrives on coffee, early morning workouts, books, scary movies, and podcasts on true crime. She has completed NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) every year since 2012 and keeps it interesting by changing the genre she writes in, which include murder mystery, thriller, horror, satire, period dramas, and murder-mystery period dramas. Jane Austen became a long-time inspiration for K.M. Bishop immediately after reading Pride and Prejudice in high school. She continues to reread Pride and Prejudice every year. K.M. Bishop is a talented, witty, approachable professional always willing to read a good book, pet a nice dog, exchange ghosts stories, or share a sangria at sunset. Get to know her further by reading her debut novel, The Nameless from Shellville Press, or by following her on Instagram @author.k.m.bishop and Goodreads!
K.M. Bishop is an author from Southern Maryland who thrives on coffee, early morning workouts, books, scary movies, and podcasts on true crime. She has completed NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) every year since 2012 and keeps it interesting by changing the genre she writes in, which include murder mystery, thriller, horror, satire, period dramas, and murder-mystery period dramas. Jane Austen became a long-time inspiration for K.M. Bishop immediately after reading Pride and Prejudice in high school. She continues to reread Pride and Prejudice every year. K.M. Bishop is a talented, witty, approachable professional always willing to read a good book, pet a nice dog, exchange ghosts stories, or share a sangria at sunset. Get to know her further by reading her debut novel, The Nameless from Shellville Press, or by following her on Instagram @author.k.m.bishop and Goodreads!
K.R. Raye
K. R. Raye is the author of the award-winning, Amazon bestselling Colors Trilogy: The Colors of Friendship, The Colors of Love, and True Colors. In addition to writing novels, K. R. Raye writes screenplays, and shares marketing and publishing tips with other authors. Currently, she is in the process of publishing a new Young Adult Fantasy novel that she wrote with her youngest son. Throughout her diverse career working as a mechanical engineer, adjunct professor, and in sales, she continues to weave her love of marketing, computer information systems, and operations together with her passion for writing. K. R. Raye lives in Maryland with her husband and two sons.
K. R. Raye is the author of the award-winning, Amazon bestselling Colors Trilogy: The Colors of Friendship, The Colors of Love, and True Colors. In addition to writing novels, K. R. Raye writes screenplays, and shares marketing and publishing tips with other authors. Currently, she is in the process of publishing a new Young Adult Fantasy novel that she wrote with her youngest son. Throughout her diverse career working as a mechanical engineer, adjunct professor, and in sales, she continues to weave her love of marketing, computer information systems, and operations together with her passion for writing. K. R. Raye lives in Maryland with her husband and two sons.
Khadijah Butler
Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, Khadijah Butler is an Around-the-Way girl with a thirst for knowledge and a hunger for education equality amongst minorities. She is the founder and president of the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation, with a B.S. in Kinesiology from Temple University and an M.S. in Management from Rosemont College. Strong, Brave, Fierce, Full of Fire & Vigor, she looks every challenge dead in the eye and gives them a wink. When she is not writing or managing the foundation, she is amplifying her voice to remove economic hurdles for college bound students in Philadelphia.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, Khadijah Butler is an Around-the-Way girl with a thirst for knowledge and a hunger for education equality amongst minorities. She is the founder and president of the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation, with a B.S. in Kinesiology from Temple University and an M.S. in Management from Rosemont College. Strong, Brave, Fierce, Full of Fire & Vigor, she looks every challenge dead in the eye and gives them a wink. When she is not writing or managing the foundation, she is amplifying her voice to remove economic hurdles for college bound students in Philadelphia.
Karen B. Janowsky
Karen Janowsky has been writing fiction and poetry since she was six, and earned her MA in creative writing from Florida State University in 1995. In 2020, she adopted a kitten named Catsanova, and took up a jewelry making hobby. Catsanova is her co-creator (he chases down the beads Karen drops on the floor). As a lifelong superhero fan, Karen originally sought a career as Wonder Woman. Since "saving" people around town in a swimsuit and cape is frowned up on by society and flying an invisible jet isn't a viable job option, she teaches writing at the College of Southern Maryland and the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Karen Janowsky has been writing fiction and poetry since she was six, and earned her MA in creative writing from Florida State University in 1995. In 2020, she adopted a kitten named Catsanova, and took up a jewelry making hobby. Catsanova is her co-creator (he chases down the beads Karen drops on the floor). As a lifelong superhero fan, Karen originally sought a career as Wonder Woman. Since "saving" people around town in a swimsuit and cape is frowned up on by society and flying an invisible jet isn't a viable job option, she teaches writing at the College of Southern Maryland and the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Kat Caldwell
Kat Caldwell believes that everyone has a story worth telling and she is passionate about helping those who want to write their story get the tools and support they need. After almost 10 years of pursuing the writing industry, Kat knows it takes more than just typing out a book to be successful. To help all writers, whether indie or traditionally published, Kat started her podcast Pencils&Lipstick in 2019, as well as the Creative Writing Community and the Creative Writing Sprints Membership in 2021.
Kat Caldwell believes that everyone has a story worth telling and she is passionate about helping those who want to write their story get the tools and support they need. After almost 10 years of pursuing the writing industry, Kat knows it takes more than just typing out a book to be successful. To help all writers, whether indie or traditionally published, Kat started her podcast Pencils&Lipstick in 2019, as well as the Creative Writing Community and the Creative Writing Sprints Membership in 2021.
Kathy Kasunich
Kathy Kasunich, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, traded her snow boots and parkas for sunglasses and sweaters a few years ago. She now resides in another historical town, Williamsburg, Virginia, and is debuting her first novel, Always Remembering. In addition to writing, she is an avid photographer, focusing her lens on nature, architecture, and her adorable grandchildren. She has contributed as a writer and a photojournalist to local newspapers, which gave her the confidence to write her first novel. However, her love of photography, family, and history was the impetus for writing Always Remembering. As a shutterbug, freezing moments in time, she wanted to preserve the memories of the ordinary heroes of World War II. They were the individuals who never made the front page but instead left a lasting impression in the forefront of our minds. Memories sustain us during difficult times. They resurrect people and forgotten places and allow us to embrace scenes that heal our hearts and make us laugh.
Kathy Kasunich, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, traded her snow boots and parkas for sunglasses and sweaters a few years ago. She now resides in another historical town, Williamsburg, Virginia, and is debuting her first novel, Always Remembering. In addition to writing, she is an avid photographer, focusing her lens on nature, architecture, and her adorable grandchildren. She has contributed as a writer and a photojournalist to local newspapers, which gave her the confidence to write her first novel. However, her love of photography, family, and history was the impetus for writing Always Remembering. As a shutterbug, freezing moments in time, she wanted to preserve the memories of the ordinary heroes of World War II. They were the individuals who never made the front page but instead left a lasting impression in the forefront of our minds. Memories sustain us during difficult times. They resurrect people and forgotten places and allow us to embrace scenes that heal our hearts and make us laugh.
Katherine Rhodes
Katherine is a very confusing person with her 3 alter egos, but rest assured-- all of them enjoy writing. Katherine is the author of 65 spicy-to-you-need-a-burn-ward heat level books. S.A. Sommers enjoys writing adult LGBTQ+ stories, and asks you to suspend disbelief, even in contemporary. And J. Rose Alexander writes what she want--but closes the door to the bedroom. Writing since she was a wee babe, there is nothing she enjoys more than creating worlds for characters to make trouble in. One thing she believes in is the Happily Ever After. It might be a rough road to get there, but you’ll get there. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two and had an Instagram full of food, travel and books. Also, she's a bit a nerd. Be warned.
Katherine is a very confusing person with her 3 alter egos, but rest assured-- all of them enjoy writing. Katherine is the author of 65 spicy-to-you-need-a-burn-ward heat level books. S.A. Sommers enjoys writing adult LGBTQ+ stories, and asks you to suspend disbelief, even in contemporary. And J. Rose Alexander writes what she want--but closes the door to the bedroom. Writing since she was a wee babe, there is nothing she enjoys more than creating worlds for characters to make trouble in. One thing she believes in is the Happily Ever After. It might be a rough road to get there, but you’ll get there. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two and had an Instagram full of food, travel and books. Also, she's a bit a nerd. Be warned.
Kim C. Lee
The Write Women Book Fest Social Media Assistant Volunteer
Kim C. Lee is a children's book author and literacy advocate. As a mother, she can attest to the importance of diverse representation in literature and the impacts that its absence and presence can have on children. Inspired to bring African American children's distinct perspectives and experiences to books, Kim released The Night Owl and Meet Frankie Jordan. In December 2021, Kim published GRAND JOY, a co-authored feel-good book that reminds us all to find joy in small things.
The Write Women Book Fest Social Media Assistant Volunteer
Kim C. Lee is a children's book author and literacy advocate. As a mother, she can attest to the importance of diverse representation in literature and the impacts that its absence and presence can have on children. Inspired to bring African American children's distinct perspectives and experiences to books, Kim released The Night Owl and Meet Frankie Jordan. In December 2021, Kim published GRAND JOY, a co-authored feel-good book that reminds us all to find joy in small things.
L.C. Son
Known for her Amazon Best Selling Short Story, With Hearts Like Fire and the series starter, Beautiful Nightmare (Book One), L.C. Son is happy wife of more than twenty years and loving mom of three. Lover of paranormal romance and all things sci-fi! When she’s not writing, L.C. can be found either snuggled up with a book or binge watching a comedy or Sci-fi thriller. Presently, she’s working on the next installment in the Beautiful Nightmare series.
Known for her Amazon Best Selling Short Story, With Hearts Like Fire and the series starter, Beautiful Nightmare (Book One), L.C. Son is happy wife of more than twenty years and loving mom of three. Lover of paranormal romance and all things sci-fi! When she’s not writing, L.C. can be found either snuggled up with a book or binge watching a comedy or Sci-fi thriller. Presently, she’s working on the next installment in the Beautiful Nightmare series.
Mae Harden
Mae Harden is an author, pastry chef, and lover of all things dirty. She writes contemporary romance with a penchant for dirty talk and a healthy dose of humor. She prides herself on her over-the-top meet-cutes and solid banter. Mae lives in Virginia with her husband, two kids, a chunky cat named Cat, and two puppies. For more on Mae Harden and her books, visit her website: www.MaeHarden.com
Mae Harden is an author, pastry chef, and lover of all things dirty. She writes contemporary romance with a penchant for dirty talk and a healthy dose of humor. She prides herself on her over-the-top meet-cutes and solid banter. Mae lives in Virginia with her husband, two kids, a chunky cat named Cat, and two puppies. For more on Mae Harden and her books, visit her website: www.MaeHarden.com
Marissa D'Angelo
Marissa D'Angelo is an author of fictional tales of the mystical and spiritual worlds. Her Tales of Charles Island series are based on the island’s curses throughout history. She grew up in Connecticut and was walking distance from the pathway that led directly onto its shores. Each tale takes place in a different era as the characters find themselves wrapped up in forbidden love, unexplained occurrences and the paranormal. In Summer 2022, she promoted her books at several local festivals and attended Killer Nashville in Tennessee. She now lives in Maryland and teaches second grade. She works each day to help her student's love for writing grow so that it too can provide them with adventure and enjoyment. In high school, she served as the newspaper editor and studied English Literature throughout college.10% of the proceeds from her series go towards the reforestation of the island as well as the local Paugussett Tribe.
Marissa D'Angelo is an author of fictional tales of the mystical and spiritual worlds. Her Tales of Charles Island series are based on the island’s curses throughout history. She grew up in Connecticut and was walking distance from the pathway that led directly onto its shores. Each tale takes place in a different era as the characters find themselves wrapped up in forbidden love, unexplained occurrences and the paranormal. In Summer 2022, she promoted her books at several local festivals and attended Killer Nashville in Tennessee. She now lives in Maryland and teaches second grade. She works each day to help her student's love for writing grow so that it too can provide them with adventure and enjoyment. In high school, she served as the newspaper editor and studied English Literature throughout college.10% of the proceeds from her series go towards the reforestation of the island as well as the local Paugussett Tribe.
Mary B. Patterson
Mary B. Patterson was born in Bisacquino, Sicily, and was brought to America when she was three years old in 1947. She spent her childhood in Enfield, Connecticut, during the 1950s. It was difficult for a young woman raised in an ethnic Sicilian family and fitting into America's young society. Mary found creative ways to fit into her small-town life. She was never inspired to study or be educated in writing. Her love of reading fiction brought her to a point in her life when she decided to write her own novel. From art to writing, she discovered her creativity and voice. Mary combines her two distinct cultural life experiences into her work. She lives in Maryland and is the mother of three grown sons.
Mary B. Patterson was born in Bisacquino, Sicily, and was brought to America when she was three years old in 1947. She spent her childhood in Enfield, Connecticut, during the 1950s. It was difficult for a young woman raised in an ethnic Sicilian family and fitting into America's young society. Mary found creative ways to fit into her small-town life. She was never inspired to study or be educated in writing. Her love of reading fiction brought her to a point in her life when she decided to write her own novel. From art to writing, she discovered her creativity and voice. Mary combines her two distinct cultural life experiences into her work. She lives in Maryland and is the mother of three grown sons.
Morenike Euba Oyenusi
Morenike Euba Oyenusi is a Nigerian-American lawyer, author, minister of the gospel, and graduate ofthe University of London and Jesus College, Cambridge. A writer of children's fiction, poetry, and inspirational non-fiction, Ms. Oyenusi has published two books, “Chasing Butterflies in the Sunlight” and “Isaiah and the Orchestra of Sounds”. “Chasing Butterflies”, an illustrated chapter book of stories for children ages five to twelve, was a finalist in the 2021 Next Generation Indie Books Awards, the largest international awards program for indie authors and publishers. “Isaiah and the Orchestra of Sounds”, a graphic story targeted at pre-teens, teenagers and young adults, has won two 2022 finalist Jerry Pinkney Children’s Book Awards (educational and motivational), named for the world famous African-American illustrator who died in 2021 (the award winners in both categories will be announced in October.) Both books were published by Paradise Restored Publishing, an independent publishing entity set up by Ms. Oyenusi. Ms. Oyenusi enjoys reading, listening to music, eating out, gathering with family and good friends, traveling, theatre and movie outings, and taking extraordinarily long walks, rain, shine, or snow. Ms. Oyenusi enjoys reading, listening to music, eating out, gathering with family and good friends, traveling, theatre and movie outings, and taking extraordinarily long walks, rain, shine, or snow. You can find Ms. Oyenusi online at www.paradiserestoredpublishing.com.
Morenike Euba Oyenusi is a Nigerian-American lawyer, author, minister of the gospel, and graduate ofthe University of London and Jesus College, Cambridge. A writer of children's fiction, poetry, and inspirational non-fiction, Ms. Oyenusi has published two books, “Chasing Butterflies in the Sunlight” and “Isaiah and the Orchestra of Sounds”. “Chasing Butterflies”, an illustrated chapter book of stories for children ages five to twelve, was a finalist in the 2021 Next Generation Indie Books Awards, the largest international awards program for indie authors and publishers. “Isaiah and the Orchestra of Sounds”, a graphic story targeted at pre-teens, teenagers and young adults, has won two 2022 finalist Jerry Pinkney Children’s Book Awards (educational and motivational), named for the world famous African-American illustrator who died in 2021 (the award winners in both categories will be announced in October.) Both books were published by Paradise Restored Publishing, an independent publishing entity set up by Ms. Oyenusi. Ms. Oyenusi enjoys reading, listening to music, eating out, gathering with family and good friends, traveling, theatre and movie outings, and taking extraordinarily long walks, rain, shine, or snow. Ms. Oyenusi enjoys reading, listening to music, eating out, gathering with family and good friends, traveling, theatre and movie outings, and taking extraordinarily long walks, rain, shine, or snow. You can find Ms. Oyenusi online at www.paradiserestoredpublishing.com.
My Sis’ta LLC - Dr. Tammy McCotter
Since 2000, my mission has been to help and empower my clients to overcome their most challenging obstacles and start living happier and healthier lifestyles. My extensive experience in dealing with the incarcerated population, sexually abused, domestic violence survivors as well as the homeless means that I'm fully equipped to guide, support and assist you in building the life you clearly deserve because I fully understand the mindset of hopelessness and how to guide you to Hope. As a certified Life Coach and Mental Wellness Consultant, I aim to create a life balance that prioritizes your well-being and celebrates all aspects of your true self. It’s time to start nurturing your body and soul again—embrace the health!
Since 2000, my mission has been to help and empower my clients to overcome their most challenging obstacles and start living happier and healthier lifestyles. My extensive experience in dealing with the incarcerated population, sexually abused, domestic violence survivors as well as the homeless means that I'm fully equipped to guide, support and assist you in building the life you clearly deserve because I fully understand the mindset of hopelessness and how to guide you to Hope. As a certified Life Coach and Mental Wellness Consultant, I aim to create a life balance that prioritizes your well-being and celebrates all aspects of your true self. It’s time to start nurturing your body and soul again—embrace the health!
Natalina Reis
Natalina Reis is an international bestseller who wrote her first romance at the age of thirteen. Since then she has published many romances that defy the boundaries of her genre. She enjoys writing all kinds of rebels and outcasts into her stories and she always roots for the underdog. Natalina doesn’t believe you can have too many books or too much coffee. Art and dance make her happy and she is pretty sure she could survive on lobster and bananas alone. When she is not writing or stressing over lesson plans, she shares her life with her husband and two adult sons.
Natalina Reis is an international bestseller who wrote her first romance at the age of thirteen. Since then she has published many romances that defy the boundaries of her genre. She enjoys writing all kinds of rebels and outcasts into her stories and she always roots for the underdog. Natalina doesn’t believe you can have too many books or too much coffee. Art and dance make her happy and she is pretty sure she could survive on lobster and bananas alone. When she is not writing or stressing over lesson plans, she shares her life with her husband and two adult sons.
Patricia Crews
Patricia A. Crews is an author, poet and playwright. She resides in Prince George's County Maryland and is a member of several writing organizations. She grew up in the small village of Inkster, Michigan. Her plays have been performed throughout the mid-west, Washington D.C and Houston, Texas. She is also the founder of the nonprofit organization "The write Synergy for Creative cure," www.thewritesynergyrocks.com. A writing outlet for women facing medical challenges who wants a say in how she heals.
Patricia A. Crews is an author, poet and playwright. She resides in Prince George's County Maryland and is a member of several writing organizations. She grew up in the small village of Inkster, Michigan. Her plays have been performed throughout the mid-west, Washington D.C and Houston, Texas. She is also the founder of the nonprofit organization "The write Synergy for Creative cure," www.thewritesynergyrocks.com. A writing outlet for women facing medical challenges who wants a say in how she heals.
Paula Murrain
Paula’s love of nature is the inspiration for children’s books designed to spark interest in the environment. Her books will hopefully answer questions about nature and the environment for curious children.
Paula’s love of nature is the inspiration for children’s books designed to spark interest in the environment. Her books will hopefully answer questions about nature and the environment for curious children.
Quill & Co.
Quill & Co. offers premier writing and publishing services from a novice to the more advanced writer. We believe that everyone has a story to tell. Our ghostwriting, writing coaching, editing, illustrations and publishing services, etc. will help you share that story with the world!
Quill & Co. offers premier writing and publishing services from a novice to the more advanced writer. We believe that everyone has a story to tell. Our ghostwriting, writing coaching, editing, illustrations and publishing services, etc. will help you share that story with the world!
Rachelle Jones Smith
Rachelle Jones Smith is a prolific writer and award winning children's book author. Under the Keepin' Up Wit Press imprint, she has published more than 20 picture books featuring diverse and often underrepresented characters. Her books are empowering, educational, and entertaining. Rachelle's "One Good Hit" was the IndiesToday 2021 Children's Book of the Year.
Rachelle Jones Smith is a prolific writer and award winning children's book author. Under the Keepin' Up Wit Press imprint, she has published more than 20 picture books featuring diverse and often underrepresented characters. Her books are empowering, educational, and entertaining. Rachelle's "One Good Hit" was the IndiesToday 2021 Children's Book of the Year.
S Courtney
S Courtney is new to the published writing community but has been a lifelong writer and began creatively writing in junior high. She is the author of the paranormal romance, the Bound Series, which includes Bound to You, Bound by Destiny, and Unapologetically Nessa which are available on paperback and kindle. She is also the author of her contemporary romance, the Black Aces MC, a motorcycle club romance and the Sandman, a dark, slow burn paranormal romance. She was honored to take part of the Merciless Few MC Anthology where all proceeds go to B.A.C.A (Bikers Against Child Abuse) and recently released anthology, the Illusive Lovers Series where she was the first book in the year long release.
S Courtney is new to the published writing community but has been a lifelong writer and began creatively writing in junior high. She is the author of the paranormal romance, the Bound Series, which includes Bound to You, Bound by Destiny, and Unapologetically Nessa which are available on paperback and kindle. She is also the author of her contemporary romance, the Black Aces MC, a motorcycle club romance and the Sandman, a dark, slow burn paranormal romance. She was honored to take part of the Merciless Few MC Anthology where all proceeds go to B.A.C.A (Bikers Against Child Abuse) and recently released anthology, the Illusive Lovers Series where she was the first book in the year long release.
Sarah Riggle Editing Services
Full-length screenplay? On it. 30-page How-To manual? You got it. Epic YA series? Yes, please! Sarah has been editing professionally for 4 years, teaching and mentoring for 15, and correcting grammar for 30. She holds a Master’s degree in English and a Bachelor’s in Social Studies Education. She specializes in working with authors to understand their audiences and to write for them in effective ways, even when that means a preposition is left hanging every now and then. Working together can make a message work better at any point of the writing process. Plot and character work is just as hard as constructing an engaging textbook, and every word and sentence you write tells a reader how you feel about your topic (and often, how you feel about them). All writing is fair game for editing! Recent published edits include Dr. Gale’s Page, a blend of narrative and non-fiction designed for adolescent girls, “Failure to Adapt,” an only-slightly-snarky post-Afghanistan screenplay by Sage Lawrence, and Chapter 9 of U.S. History & Constitutional Foundations Annotated Teacher Edition, a Perfection Learning textbook. A project plan can be constructed for any amount of feedback a writer requires. As professionals know, a revision edit (idea-level adjustments) takes more time and creative energy than a proofreading edit (sentence-level corrections). Sarah prefers a mix of scheduled live-document review sessions and phone/zoom consultation with her clients, but is open to any tried-and-true collaboration methods! When not wielding an impressive collection of red pens, Sarah sings for churches, barbershop groups, and musical theatre, and teaches adult learners the basics of music theory. She sews and embroiders historical clothing and hand-mixes perfume. She also makes time for science fiction geekery and an embarrassment of books. Her dog Charlie is impressed by nothing (unless you come bearing all of Winter and treats).
Full-length screenplay? On it. 30-page How-To manual? You got it. Epic YA series? Yes, please! Sarah has been editing professionally for 4 years, teaching and mentoring for 15, and correcting grammar for 30. She holds a Master’s degree in English and a Bachelor’s in Social Studies Education. She specializes in working with authors to understand their audiences and to write for them in effective ways, even when that means a preposition is left hanging every now and then. Working together can make a message work better at any point of the writing process. Plot and character work is just as hard as constructing an engaging textbook, and every word and sentence you write tells a reader how you feel about your topic (and often, how you feel about them). All writing is fair game for editing! Recent published edits include Dr. Gale’s Page, a blend of narrative and non-fiction designed for adolescent girls, “Failure to Adapt,” an only-slightly-snarky post-Afghanistan screenplay by Sage Lawrence, and Chapter 9 of U.S. History & Constitutional Foundations Annotated Teacher Edition, a Perfection Learning textbook. A project plan can be constructed for any amount of feedback a writer requires. As professionals know, a revision edit (idea-level adjustments) takes more time and creative energy than a proofreading edit (sentence-level corrections). Sarah prefers a mix of scheduled live-document review sessions and phone/zoom consultation with her clients, but is open to any tried-and-true collaboration methods! When not wielding an impressive collection of red pens, Sarah sings for churches, barbershop groups, and musical theatre, and teaches adult learners the basics of music theory. She sews and embroiders historical clothing and hand-mixes perfume. She also makes time for science fiction geekery and an embarrassment of books. Her dog Charlie is impressed by nothing (unless you come bearing all of Winter and treats).
Shameka Erby
Shameka Erby is a fiction writer, blogger, essayist and part-time editor. She has been writing since middle school, and loves story about women, love, and passion. Her work has been featured in Brown Sugar Literary Magazine, Stuck in Notes Magazine, and on websites such as Permission to Write, Oyster River Pages, and Raising Mothers. Besides her fiction works, she also publishes nonfiction essays on Medium and has a newsletter, Just A Girl and Her Laptop. She currently resides in Baltimore.
Shameka Erby is a fiction writer, blogger, essayist and part-time editor. She has been writing since middle school, and loves story about women, love, and passion. Her work has been featured in Brown Sugar Literary Magazine, Stuck in Notes Magazine, and on websites such as Permission to Write, Oyster River Pages, and Raising Mothers. Besides her fiction works, she also publishes nonfiction essays on Medium and has a newsletter, Just A Girl and Her Laptop. She currently resides in Baltimore.
Shanequa Waison-Rattray
Shanequa Waison-Rattray is a wife, a mother of two, and Graduated of Coppin State University in Baltimore, MD. Since a little girl, she has always loved reading books. While in middle school, her love of reading increased as she was able to read books and see the theater plays associated with them. Since then, she has wanted to write books of her own. Having children, Shanequa loves watching them read and the excitement that they get from it. By that, she wants to share my passion of reading to not only her children but others also.
Shanequa Waison-Rattray is a wife, a mother of two, and Graduated of Coppin State University in Baltimore, MD. Since a little girl, she has always loved reading books. While in middle school, her love of reading increased as she was able to read books and see the theater plays associated with them. Since then, she has wanted to write books of her own. Having children, Shanequa loves watching them read and the excitement that they get from it. By that, she wants to share my passion of reading to not only her children but others also.
Sharon Rae North
Sharon Rae North is an author, publisher, journalist, Billboard charting vocalist and so much more. She worked simultaneously on her latest book, “FRANtastically Frances: The Sayings and Snarks of My Mama, the Senior” and her latest album, “Silhouette”. It took about four years to complete the book and about two to finish the album. While she’s had a few music projects, this is only her second book. She self-published her first title, a children’s book called “My Brand New Leg”, in 2003. In her spare time…oh, she never has any. Between writing, performing, and her many endeavors, there’s never a dull moment and very little spare time. But, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Sharon Rae North is an author, publisher, journalist, Billboard charting vocalist and so much more. She worked simultaneously on her latest book, “FRANtastically Frances: The Sayings and Snarks of My Mama, the Senior” and her latest album, “Silhouette”. It took about four years to complete the book and about two to finish the album. While she’s had a few music projects, this is only her second book. She self-published her first title, a children’s book called “My Brand New Leg”, in 2003. In her spare time…oh, she never has any. Between writing, performing, and her many endeavors, there’s never a dull moment and very little spare time. But, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Shellville Press - Shelly Connor
Shelly Connor is the owner of Shellville Press, a hybrid publishing company advocating for authors without agents, based in Chesapeake Beach, MD. She has always harbored a love of reading, writing, and graphic design. Melding the three, she started a small business publishing her favorite author friend (and plans to add more authors in 2021)! Her focus so far is on fiction with strong female characters, and she’s always looking for more captivating stories. When she isn't publishing books or working on graphic design, she enjoys time with her family and friends outdoors, and lots of coffee and wine—though not mixed together! Let's lift each other up in these times and help get others' stories heard.
Shelly Connor is the owner of Shellville Press, a hybrid publishing company advocating for authors without agents, based in Chesapeake Beach, MD. She has always harbored a love of reading, writing, and graphic design. Melding the three, she started a small business publishing her favorite author friend (and plans to add more authors in 2021)! Her focus so far is on fiction with strong female characters, and she’s always looking for more captivating stories. When she isn't publishing books or working on graphic design, she enjoys time with her family and friends outdoors, and lots of coffee and wine—though not mixed together! Let's lift each other up in these times and help get others' stories heard.
Stacie Seidl
Stacie Seidl is a writer, poet, author and creative entrepreneur. Her work touches on a variety of topics including mental health and the journey to self-love. Born with a love of words, Stacie has been a proud member of the international English honor society Sigma Tau Delta since 2019. She offers different writing workshops for healing on topics like shadow work and self love which incorporate techniques for calming the mind and nervous system. Stacie writes in the hope that her words will reach those in pain and they will find solace in knowing they are not alone.
Stacie Seidl is a writer, poet, author and creative entrepreneur. Her work touches on a variety of topics including mental health and the journey to self-love. Born with a love of words, Stacie has been a proud member of the international English honor society Sigma Tau Delta since 2019. She offers different writing workshops for healing on topics like shadow work and self love which incorporate techniques for calming the mind and nervous system. Stacie writes in the hope that her words will reach those in pain and they will find solace in knowing they are not alone.
Sula Sullivan
Sula Sullivan is a native Marylander who is passionate about hot tea and slow living. The youngest of a large family, Sula grew up surrounded by avid readers, art enthusiasts and lots of shenanigans. When not writing historical fantasy she's either sewing, watching true crime documentaries or trying to wrangle her toddler.
Sula Sullivan is a native Marylander who is passionate about hot tea and slow living. The youngest of a large family, Sula grew up surrounded by avid readers, art enthusiasts and lots of shenanigans. When not writing historical fantasy she's either sewing, watching true crime documentaries or trying to wrangle her toddler.
T.L. Ford
T.L. Ford is a programmer, writer, and artist. Most of her professional career was spent supporting the Patuxent River Naval Air Station as a local contractor in southern Maryland. She began publishing in 2012. She describes her first two fantasy novels as lightweight adventures, easily read within a weekend. Her very short, interactive iBook, Math for Artists, explains math concepts with pictures and no words. She's also published a two-volume set of 500 of her hand-drawn art/doodle cards. Her fiction/science-fiction novel, Colony One, is set in the modern day as our current world transforms into a society of the future. It includes line art illustrations and has very nerdy programmatically created binary clock graphics with full accessibility descriptions in the ebook. Her newest book is hot off the presses: Maz, Origin. Maz is our ambassador to the intergalactic aliens. She's a criminal raised in a violent prison with a history of endangering others, lying, and deceiving those closest to her. She was not humanity's choice.
T.L. Ford is a programmer, writer, and artist. Most of her professional career was spent supporting the Patuxent River Naval Air Station as a local contractor in southern Maryland. She began publishing in 2012. She describes her first two fantasy novels as lightweight adventures, easily read within a weekend. Her very short, interactive iBook, Math for Artists, explains math concepts with pictures and no words. She's also published a two-volume set of 500 of her hand-drawn art/doodle cards. Her fiction/science-fiction novel, Colony One, is set in the modern day as our current world transforms into a society of the future. It includes line art illustrations and has very nerdy programmatically created binary clock graphics with full accessibility descriptions in the ebook. Her newest book is hot off the presses: Maz, Origin. Maz is our ambassador to the intergalactic aliens. She's a criminal raised in a violent prison with a history of endangering others, lying, and deceiving those closest to her. She was not humanity's choice.
Tanerra Willis
Tanerra is a married mother of one 10 yo boy, a certified pediatric registered nurse and CPR instructor by trade. She is also an entrepreneur in the business of online retail where she offers inspirational and motivation products focused on lifestyle changes that lead people to transform their lives by accomplishing amazing goals one day at a time. In addition she has published 5 books and a three time contributing writer in Woman of More Magazine. Tanerra has a passion for coaching and mentoring and she volunteers as a coach to women at her church and mentoring teens enrolled in the non-profit organization Journey Unveiled where she also serves as a board member. Tanerra uses her social media platforms The Amazing Corner to offer daily inspiration and words of motivation with an aim to grow each person she engages with. Through her memoir, Memoirs of Almost Barren Women: Our Journey to Motherhood, Tanerra seeks to connect with the 1:8 women struggling with infertility by offering information, resources, and a message of hope through her transparency and support.
Tanerra is a married mother of one 10 yo boy, a certified pediatric registered nurse and CPR instructor by trade. She is also an entrepreneur in the business of online retail where she offers inspirational and motivation products focused on lifestyle changes that lead people to transform their lives by accomplishing amazing goals one day at a time. In addition she has published 5 books and a three time contributing writer in Woman of More Magazine. Tanerra has a passion for coaching and mentoring and she volunteers as a coach to women at her church and mentoring teens enrolled in the non-profit organization Journey Unveiled where she also serves as a board member. Tanerra uses her social media platforms The Amazing Corner to offer daily inspiration and words of motivation with an aim to grow each person she engages with. Through her memoir, Memoirs of Almost Barren Women: Our Journey to Motherhood, Tanerra seeks to connect with the 1:8 women struggling with infertility by offering information, resources, and a message of hope through her transparency and support.
The GiftUnveiled, LLC - Suzanne Williams
The GiftUnveiled, LLC is a healing network to equip The Body to be fully well physically, mentally, spiritually, and financially. It’s time to get off of life support and on to supporting lives! Suzanne Williams is a Well-Being coach, an author, a speaker, a poet and a former IT Analyst lead at a Fortune 500 company. She is all for team homeschool and mother of the Wright Brothers – Mikail and Kyle. She is answering the call to be a midwife by sharing her testimony and assisting others in unveiling their gift(s). She has led a children’s church ministry, art workshops, Bible Studies and Prayer Calls. She helps The Body to hear the Voice of God and use the Word of God to heal mentally, physically, spiritually and financially through prayer and prophecy so they are empowered to use their gifts and talents for The Kingdom and the world. She resides in a suburb of Washington, D.C.’s metropolitan area.
The GiftUnveiled, LLC is a healing network to equip The Body to be fully well physically, mentally, spiritually, and financially. It’s time to get off of life support and on to supporting lives! Suzanne Williams is a Well-Being coach, an author, a speaker, a poet and a former IT Analyst lead at a Fortune 500 company. She is all for team homeschool and mother of the Wright Brothers – Mikail and Kyle. She is answering the call to be a midwife by sharing her testimony and assisting others in unveiling their gift(s). She has led a children’s church ministry, art workshops, Bible Studies and Prayer Calls. She helps The Body to hear the Voice of God and use the Word of God to heal mentally, physically, spiritually and financially through prayer and prophecy so they are empowered to use their gifts and talents for The Kingdom and the world. She resides in a suburb of Washington, D.C.’s metropolitan area.
Tracee Garner
With 17 books and counting, Tracee is a prolific author in the writing and publishing business for more than 20 years, continuing to pen her own works while finding time for a day job, passionate community service and advocacy, plus helping other aspiring writers, write, publish and market their books. Before Tracee ever entertained the idea of writing full-length novels, she was a poet contributor to alma mater’s literary magazine and has contributed to many online and print publications.
With 17 books and counting, Tracee is a prolific author in the writing and publishing business for more than 20 years, continuing to pen her own works while finding time for a day job, passionate community service and advocacy, plus helping other aspiring writers, write, publish and market their books. Before Tracee ever entertained the idea of writing full-length novels, she was a poet contributor to alma mater’s literary magazine and has contributed to many online and print publications.
Valencia Thomas
Valencia Thomas is an Author and Mother, as well as a multifaceted entrepreneur certified as a Theta healer, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) healer, a Senior consultant and Spiritual coach. As a teenager in her home state of North Carolina, Valencia discovered her love for poetry. She loved that poetry gave her an edge to creatively express her thoughts and reflect the emotions of herself and several others. Valencia’s poetry is a culmination of listening to where people are in their minds and hearts, and those feelings are shown through creative writing. Poetry became very intriguing, easy and charismatic way of expression. Through years of those expressions, Valencia created several poetry pieces, one of which was published in the “The Peace to Come”, a collection of poems from poets around the world. This inspired her to publish her own book that came to life in 2015. CN2MYI’s was created from a moment of stillness and reflection. This book speaks of ‘Amazing words of Luv, Hurt and Overcoming Obstacles’ that touches your heart and soul. This poetry brings forth feelings that may not be spoken aloud, but reflect the inner being. It is a book that offers awareness that there are others that have the same feelings and reminds us that we are not alone. It has passionate moments that reflect the Love of God, the Joy of self, pain of relationships and the Hope of the future. To learn more about Valencia, please follow her on Facebook at CN2MYIs and email at [email protected]. #CN2MYIs #Love One Another #Peace and Blessings
Valencia Thomas is an Author and Mother, as well as a multifaceted entrepreneur certified as a Theta healer, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) healer, a Senior consultant and Spiritual coach. As a teenager in her home state of North Carolina, Valencia discovered her love for poetry. She loved that poetry gave her an edge to creatively express her thoughts and reflect the emotions of herself and several others. Valencia’s poetry is a culmination of listening to where people are in their minds and hearts, and those feelings are shown through creative writing. Poetry became very intriguing, easy and charismatic way of expression. Through years of those expressions, Valencia created several poetry pieces, one of which was published in the “The Peace to Come”, a collection of poems from poets around the world. This inspired her to publish her own book that came to life in 2015. CN2MYI’s was created from a moment of stillness and reflection. This book speaks of ‘Amazing words of Luv, Hurt and Overcoming Obstacles’ that touches your heart and soul. This poetry brings forth feelings that may not be spoken aloud, but reflect the inner being. It is a book that offers awareness that there are others that have the same feelings and reminds us that we are not alone. It has passionate moments that reflect the Love of God, the Joy of self, pain of relationships and the Hope of the future. To learn more about Valencia, please follow her on Facebook at CN2MYIs and email at [email protected]. #CN2MYIs #Love One Another #Peace and Blessings
Vianlix-Christine
After graduating from High School in 2020 Vianlix-Christine's goals were to start a career in Broadway. After years of training her voice, the pandemic hit and like most of the world, she became stuck at home wondering what would happen with her dreams and career. Her first book Seaside Magic took her out of the world for a few hours a day. Bringing with it joy and blessings as a new career started. Vianlix-Christine lives in Virginia with her supporting family, along with her two dogs, Hershey and Oreo.
After graduating from High School in 2020 Vianlix-Christine's goals were to start a career in Broadway. After years of training her voice, the pandemic hit and like most of the world, she became stuck at home wondering what would happen with her dreams and career. Her first book Seaside Magic took her out of the world for a few hours a day. Bringing with it joy and blessings as a new career started. Vianlix-Christine lives in Virginia with her supporting family, along with her two dogs, Hershey and Oreo.
Yellow Arrow Publishing
Yellow Arrow Publishing supports and inspires writers identifying as women through publication and access to the literary arts. Women’s voices have historically been underrepresented in literature, and we aim to elevate those voices and stories through our programs and publications. Every writer has a story to tell and every story is worth telling.
Yellow Arrow Publishing supports and inspires writers identifying as women through publication and access to the literary arts. Women’s voices have historically been underrepresented in literature, and we aim to elevate those voices and stories through our programs and publications. Every writer has a story to tell and every story is worth telling.
MARYLAND ROMANCE WRITERS - AUTHORS IN ATTENDANCE
Alyssa Roberts
Alyssa Roberts writes historical fiction and historical romance. Her historical romances are set in Regency England and Wales or in Vermont leading up to the American Revolutionary War. Though historical times fascinate her, she is grateful for modern advances and people- including her family, friends, and readers. Alyssa grew up in a family that loved to read and to stories, so her love of storytelling developed early. If she can make you laugh, so much the better. She was born in Vermont and grew up in New England. She now lives in Maryland, continuing her lucky streak of living in beautiful places.
Alyssa Roberts writes historical fiction and historical romance. Her historical romances are set in Regency England and Wales or in Vermont leading up to the American Revolutionary War. Though historical times fascinate her, she is grateful for modern advances and people- including her family, friends, and readers. Alyssa grew up in a family that loved to read and to stories, so her love of storytelling developed early. If she can make you laugh, so much the better. She was born in Vermont and grew up in New England. She now lives in Maryland, continuing her lucky streak of living in beautiful places.
Aria Wyatt
Aria Wyatt is a romance author who spends the inhumane predawn hours with a cup of coffee and her laptop, gleefully indulging in her passion. A lover of love, Aria’s novels range in heat from steamy to scorching. Aria resides with her husband and two children in New York’s picturesque Hudson Valley, near the Catskills and iconic Woodstock. The avid reader balances marriage, motherhood, her pharmacist career, and her dream. When not writing, she dabbles in photography, using the natural beauty of the region to her advantage. The cat-lover cannot live without coffee, chocolate, music & books. Author of True North and the Compass Series, she has a soft spot for those who are searching, yearning, and ultimately, finding. Whether on a mission to find themselves, find love, find forgiveness or solace, she believes the answer is out there somewhere. "Journey to Love"
Aria Wyatt is a romance author who spends the inhumane predawn hours with a cup of coffee and her laptop, gleefully indulging in her passion. A lover of love, Aria’s novels range in heat from steamy to scorching. Aria resides with her husband and two children in New York’s picturesque Hudson Valley, near the Catskills and iconic Woodstock. The avid reader balances marriage, motherhood, her pharmacist career, and her dream. When not writing, she dabbles in photography, using the natural beauty of the region to her advantage. The cat-lover cannot live without coffee, chocolate, music & books. Author of True North and the Compass Series, she has a soft spot for those who are searching, yearning, and ultimately, finding. Whether on a mission to find themselves, find love, find forgiveness or solace, she believes the answer is out there somewhere. "Journey to Love"
Christi Barth
USA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately, she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series. Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
USA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately, she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series. Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Elizabeth E. Watson
Barnes and Noble #1 ebook and Amazon top 100 bestselling author E. Elizabeth Watson is convinced life is better with good coffee, chocolate, and a pair of hiking boots. A recovering archaeologist and biomed research coordinator, Elizabeth spends her days penning heroes ranging from Scottish and Medieval warriors to Texas cowboys crowned with Stetsons. Let Elizabeth sweep you away to the Highlands during Christmastide in her bestselling novel, Twelfth Knight's Bride, or fall in love with her cowboy brothers in her Dixons of Legacy Ranch series. Whether in kilts or pearl snaps, her heroes wear plaid!
Barnes and Noble #1 ebook and Amazon top 100 bestselling author E. Elizabeth Watson is convinced life is better with good coffee, chocolate, and a pair of hiking boots. A recovering archaeologist and biomed research coordinator, Elizabeth spends her days penning heroes ranging from Scottish and Medieval warriors to Texas cowboys crowned with Stetsons. Let Elizabeth sweep you away to the Highlands during Christmastide in her bestselling novel, Twelfth Knight's Bride, or fall in love with her cowboy brothers in her Dixons of Legacy Ranch series. Whether in kilts or pearl snaps, her heroes wear plaid!
Lang Johnson
Lang Johnson is a full-time author who specializes in dark romance. She graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing and worked in IT for 10 years. It had always been her greatest desire to write books. This was where her true vocation lay. Starting with whatever free time she had, Lang would scribble down story ideas and freelance for blog sites. Since leaving her corporate job 6 years ago to pursue a writing career, she has never looked back. Concentrating on crafting tales with strong female leads, great action scenes, and a diverse cast, Lang’s books are filled with suspense and steam that readers can imagine themselves indulging in. In her free time, Lang enjoys the more adventurous side of life and loves diving, snowboarding, back-country camping, and roller skating. She has no plans to ever stop writing. It is what makes her tick and gives her the most satisfaction. She hopes to continue entertaining readers for years to come, and provide them with an escape into another life.
Lang Johnson is a full-time author who specializes in dark romance. She graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing and worked in IT for 10 years. It had always been her greatest desire to write books. This was where her true vocation lay. Starting with whatever free time she had, Lang would scribble down story ideas and freelance for blog sites. Since leaving her corporate job 6 years ago to pursue a writing career, she has never looked back. Concentrating on crafting tales with strong female leads, great action scenes, and a diverse cast, Lang’s books are filled with suspense and steam that readers can imagine themselves indulging in. In her free time, Lang enjoys the more adventurous side of life and loves diving, snowboarding, back-country camping, and roller skating. She has no plans to ever stop writing. It is what makes her tick and gives her the most satisfaction. She hopes to continue entertaining readers for years to come, and provide them with an escape into another life.
Leslye Penelope
Leslye Penelope has been writing since she could hold a pen and loves getting lost in the worlds in her head. She is an award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal romance. Her debut novel Song of Blood & Stone was chosen as one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time. Her latest release is The Monsters We Defy, a 1925 fantasy hesit taking place in Washington, DC. Leslye started a web development studio in 2003 and is also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML. Her podcast, My Imaginary Friends, is a weekly journal of her publishing life, perfect for readers and writers alike. She lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Visit her website to learn more: www.lpenelope.com
Leslye Penelope has been writing since she could hold a pen and loves getting lost in the worlds in her head. She is an award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal romance. Her debut novel Song of Blood & Stone was chosen as one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time. Her latest release is The Monsters We Defy, a 1925 fantasy hesit taking place in Washington, DC. Leslye started a web development studio in 2003 and is also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML. Her podcast, My Imaginary Friends, is a weekly journal of her publishing life, perfect for readers and writers alike. She lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Visit her website to learn more: www.lpenelope.com
M.C. Vaughan
M.C. Vaughan is a Baltimore-based author of contemporary romance riddled with humor and local flavor. So, if you want to giggle throughout your sexy stories, welcome! You’ll root for her characters as they fall for their perfect people...and simultaneously want to throttle them for being big dummies about love. She grew up in a house crowded with family, friends, books, music, and the occasional ghost. After graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in English literature (and an unofficial major in student-run theatre), she worked in sports marketing, higher education, toy production, and software development. Currently, she lives in Maryland with her husband and three delightful kids.
M.C. Vaughan is a Baltimore-based author of contemporary romance riddled with humor and local flavor. So, if you want to giggle throughout your sexy stories, welcome! You’ll root for her characters as they fall for their perfect people...and simultaneously want to throttle them for being big dummies about love. She grew up in a house crowded with family, friends, books, music, and the occasional ghost. After graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in English literature (and an unofficial major in student-run theatre), she worked in sports marketing, higher education, toy production, and software development. Currently, she lives in Maryland with her husband and three delightful kids.
MK Hale
M. K. Hale writes steamy romance novels starring dirty-talking heroes and the witty women who leave them tongue-tied. She specializes in romantic comedies and has dabbled in comedy for years, including standup, improv, and sketch comedy. She believes laughter is the best medicine, except for, you know, actual medicine. She obtained her English degree from the University of Maryland. “Hating Him” was her first new adult romantic comedy. “Timeshare Boyfriend” is her newest summer romance novel which begins when the characters are teenagers and shows how their on and off again love develops every summer at their Myrtle Beach timeshare. Her favorite writers include Tessa Bailey and Kresley Cole.
M. K. Hale writes steamy romance novels starring dirty-talking heroes and the witty women who leave them tongue-tied. She specializes in romantic comedies and has dabbled in comedy for years, including standup, improv, and sketch comedy. She believes laughter is the best medicine, except for, you know, actual medicine. She obtained her English degree from the University of Maryland. “Hating Him” was her first new adult romantic comedy. “Timeshare Boyfriend” is her newest summer romance novel which begins when the characters are teenagers and shows how their on and off again love develops every summer at their Myrtle Beach timeshare. Her favorite writers include Tessa Bailey and Kresley Cole.
Mary K. Tilghman
Mary K. Tilghman, an award-winning journalist and travel writer, writes historical novels and sweet love stories. Her home state of Maryland figures prominently in her work. She first considered the move from non-fiction to novels while she was touring historic sites for Frommer’s travel guides. In 2017, she put her press credentials aside—at least temporarily—to write her first novel, Divided Loyalties, the story of an immigrant Irish teenager who serves as a Civil War battlefield nurse. It was cited in CBSBaltimore’s “Five Baltimore Authors To Put On Your Summer Reading List.” Her newest book, FEARLESS SUMMER, RETURN TO CHINCOTEAGUE, was released in August but only as an ebook. Look for the paperback in time for next summer's beach reading. When she’s not wearing out yet another computer keyboard, Mary likes to hang out on her sailboat or play her hammered dulcimer. She still freelances and loves to encourage other authors. She and her husband Ray are lucky to have their three grown children living nearby.
Mary K. Tilghman, an award-winning journalist and travel writer, writes historical novels and sweet love stories. Her home state of Maryland figures prominently in her work. She first considered the move from non-fiction to novels while she was touring historic sites for Frommer’s travel guides. In 2017, she put her press credentials aside—at least temporarily—to write her first novel, Divided Loyalties, the story of an immigrant Irish teenager who serves as a Civil War battlefield nurse. It was cited in CBSBaltimore’s “Five Baltimore Authors To Put On Your Summer Reading List.” Her newest book, FEARLESS SUMMER, RETURN TO CHINCOTEAGUE, was released in August but only as an ebook. Look for the paperback in time for next summer's beach reading. When she’s not wearing out yet another computer keyboard, Mary likes to hang out on her sailboat or play her hammered dulcimer. She still freelances and loves to encourage other authors. She and her husband Ray are lucky to have their three grown children living nearby.
Nancy Yeager
Nancy Yeager spent her early years longing to be an English countryside vet thanks to James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small series, and dreaming of being an adventurist-archaeologist thanks to George Lucas’s Indiana Jones character. After studying veterinary pre-med and earning an anthropology degree, she realized her true passion is story in all its forms. Now she writes about smart women, sexy men, and romantic adventures across the ages in her historical romances; explores the bonds of friendship and family in her book-club fiction books; and writes action-packed romantic suspense under the pen name Harper Cross. When she’s not writing, reading, or binge-watching stories, she’s often pursuing a physical challenge like training for a sprint triathlon or aspiring to achieve the perfect crow pose. She also spends her time drinking too much coffee, not enough red wine, and just the right amount of bourbon. She lives in Maryland with her fabulous family, which includes some very spoiled rescue cats.
Nancy Yeager spent her early years longing to be an English countryside vet thanks to James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small series, and dreaming of being an adventurist-archaeologist thanks to George Lucas’s Indiana Jones character. After studying veterinary pre-med and earning an anthropology degree, she realized her true passion is story in all its forms. Now she writes about smart women, sexy men, and romantic adventures across the ages in her historical romances; explores the bonds of friendship and family in her book-club fiction books; and writes action-packed romantic suspense under the pen name Harper Cross. When she’s not writing, reading, or binge-watching stories, she’s often pursuing a physical challenge like training for a sprint triathlon or aspiring to achieve the perfect crow pose. She also spends her time drinking too much coffee, not enough red wine, and just the right amount of bourbon. She lives in Maryland with her fabulous family, which includes some very spoiled rescue cats.
Nancy Weeks
Award-winning author, Nancy C. Weeks loves life, the best part, her family. The rest of her day is spent creating riveting romantic suspense novels that sometimes have a touch of the supernatural. Her characters stalk her dreams until she curls up with her laptop and creates their lasting love. The best way to see who is keeping her awake at night is to join her newsletter on her website and her Facebook group called Nancy's Corner. Nancy would love to drop by your book club for a book signing and short talk about her books - the honest how/why she does what she does. Please email her at [email protected] to set up a virtual visit on Zoom or in person in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware. Please enter BOOK CLUB in the subject line.
Award-winning author, Nancy C. Weeks loves life, the best part, her family. The rest of her day is spent creating riveting romantic suspense novels that sometimes have a touch of the supernatural. Her characters stalk her dreams until she curls up with her laptop and creates their lasting love. The best way to see who is keeping her awake at night is to join her newsletter on her website and her Facebook group called Nancy's Corner. Nancy would love to drop by your book club for a book signing and short talk about her books - the honest how/why she does what she does. Please email her at [email protected] to set up a virtual visit on Zoom or in person in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware. Please enter BOOK CLUB in the subject line.
E.C. POETRY AND PROSE - POETS IN ATTENDANCE
E.C. Poetry and Prose is a Participating Partner of The Write Women Book Fest 2022
Angela Dale
Angela H. Dale writes picture books for children and for the grownups who read to them, and also writes poems (which sometimes become picture books). Angela worked for a literary agent in Washington, DC, and a book publisher in New York City before moving around the world with her family when her husband was in the Navy. Some of the places Angela has lived include Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Florida and Japan, and she has lots of stories she hopes to tell from those times. But her debut picture book was inspired by a bus stop just down the street from her home in Maryland; all 26 of the characters in BUS STOP are named after her children’s friends and classmates. BUS STOP, illustrated by Lala Watkins, is Angela’s debut picture book. Kirkus Reviews calls BUS STOP “Simple, snowy fun with a vocabulary-building boost…. Young fans of Ezra Jack Keats’ The Snowy Day (1962) will find this an enjoyable companion book, and this title will likely see heavy rotation in libraries during the colder months of the year.” Angela is honored to be a part of the 2022 Fallen Tree Press collection Portraits of Life: An Ekphrastic Anthology.
Angela H. Dale writes picture books for children and for the grownups who read to them, and also writes poems (which sometimes become picture books). Angela worked for a literary agent in Washington, DC, and a book publisher in New York City before moving around the world with her family when her husband was in the Navy. Some of the places Angela has lived include Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Florida and Japan, and she has lots of stories she hopes to tell from those times. But her debut picture book was inspired by a bus stop just down the street from her home in Maryland; all 26 of the characters in BUS STOP are named after her children’s friends and classmates. BUS STOP, illustrated by Lala Watkins, is Angela’s debut picture book. Kirkus Reviews calls BUS STOP “Simple, snowy fun with a vocabulary-building boost…. Young fans of Ezra Jack Keats’ The Snowy Day (1962) will find this an enjoyable companion book, and this title will likely see heavy rotation in libraries during the colder months of the year.” Angela is honored to be a part of the 2022 Fallen Tree Press collection Portraits of Life: An Ekphrastic Anthology.
Diane Wilbon Parks
Diane Wilbon Parks is an accomplished poet, visual artist, author, and literary advocate. She has written two poetry collections and a Children’s Book. Diane was brought in as an Expert Consultant to the National Trust for Historic Preservation through a National Endowment for the Arts Grant and.is the founder of The Write Blend, a culturally diverse poetry circle. She has been recognized as Prince George’s County Poet of Excellence and Literary Leader. She celebrated the permanent installation of one of her poems and artwork as a permanent sign at the North Patuxent Research Refuge. Diane’s poetry has been featured and highlighted nationally and internationally in newsletters, online magazines, and included in the Maryland Bards Poetry Review Anthology; International Anthology, “Singing in the Dark,”; International Magazines, Wexford Women, and Beyond Words Literary Magazine. Her interviews are included in the 43rd and 44th Anniversary of Grace Cavalieri’s the Poet and the Poem at the Library of Congress. Diane is a USAF Veteran and Sr. IT Program Manager. She resides in Maryland.
Diane Wilbon Parks is an accomplished poet, visual artist, author, and literary advocate. She has written two poetry collections and a Children’s Book. Diane was brought in as an Expert Consultant to the National Trust for Historic Preservation through a National Endowment for the Arts Grant and.is the founder of The Write Blend, a culturally diverse poetry circle. She has been recognized as Prince George’s County Poet of Excellence and Literary Leader. She celebrated the permanent installation of one of her poems and artwork as a permanent sign at the North Patuxent Research Refuge. Diane’s poetry has been featured and highlighted nationally and internationally in newsletters, online magazines, and included in the Maryland Bards Poetry Review Anthology; International Anthology, “Singing in the Dark,”; International Magazines, Wexford Women, and Beyond Words Literary Magazine. Her interviews are included in the 43rd and 44th Anniversary of Grace Cavalieri’s the Poet and the Poem at the Library of Congress. Diane is a USAF Veteran and Sr. IT Program Manager. She resides in Maryland.
Janet Walenta
Now retired, Janet Walenta worked in eldercare recreation for over twenty-five years. She especially enjoyed engaging clients in cognitive activities, including writing exercises. A member of the Ellicott City Poetry & Prose Collective, she is active in the local poetry open mic scene in suburban Washington, DC. Her novel, "Selections from the Jasp Bancroft Songbook" tells, from various points of view, a story of jealousy, neediness, gratitude, and benevolence. It explores the odd configurations that may constitute family, and how the unearthed secrets of the twentieth century guide the lives of the present-day people to whom they have been entrusted.
Now retired, Janet Walenta worked in eldercare recreation for over twenty-five years. She especially enjoyed engaging clients in cognitive activities, including writing exercises. A member of the Ellicott City Poetry & Prose Collective, she is active in the local poetry open mic scene in suburban Washington, DC. Her novel, "Selections from the Jasp Bancroft Songbook" tells, from various points of view, a story of jealousy, neediness, gratitude, and benevolence. It explores the odd configurations that may constitute family, and how the unearthed secrets of the twentieth century guide the lives of the present-day people to whom they have been entrusted.
Kari Martindale
Kari Martindale is a poet and spoken word artist living in Frederick County. She has been published in Pen in Hand and Maryland Poetry Review 2022, and featured in Berks Bardfest 2021. She sits on the Board of Maryland Writers’ Association as the President of the Frederick Chapter and was recently appointed CO-editor of the literary journal Pen in Hand. Kari is a managing partner in EC Poetry & Prose and has participated in ekphrastic events at Baltimore County Arts Guild and the Montpelier Arts Center and will soon host one at the Delaplaine Arts Center. She also served as a panelist for the Maryland State Arts Council Independent Artist Awards 2022. Kari has a Master's in Linguistics from George Mason, is a veteran of the Air Force, and has visited all 50 States and nearly 40 countries. kariannmartindale.com
Kari Martindale is a poet and spoken word artist living in Frederick County. She has been published in Pen in Hand and Maryland Poetry Review 2022, and featured in Berks Bardfest 2021. She sits on the Board of Maryland Writers’ Association as the President of the Frederick Chapter and was recently appointed CO-editor of the literary journal Pen in Hand. Kari is a managing partner in EC Poetry & Prose and has participated in ekphrastic events at Baltimore County Arts Guild and the Montpelier Arts Center and will soon host one at the Delaplaine Arts Center. She also served as a panelist for the Maryland State Arts Council Independent Artist Awards 2022. Kari has a Master's in Linguistics from George Mason, is a veteran of the Air Force, and has visited all 50 States and nearly 40 countries. kariannmartindale.com
Patrice Smith
Patrice Smith is a life-long resident of the Washington DC area, long term educator and astute observer of the human condition has melded her experiences to become both a poet and a spoken word performer. Patrice is the ultimate educator, having worked every level from kindergarten through college and taught both English and non-English speaking students. As a mentor teacher, she has used her vast experience to train the next generation of teachers. After years of professional achievements, Patrice is fortunate to have transformed her profession into her passion.
Patrice Smith is a life-long resident of the Washington DC area, long term educator and astute observer of the human condition has melded her experiences to become both a poet and a spoken word performer. Patrice is the ultimate educator, having worked every level from kindergarten through college and taught both English and non-English speaking students. As a mentor teacher, she has used her vast experience to train the next generation of teachers. After years of professional achievements, Patrice is fortunate to have transformed her profession into her passion.
Patti "little pi" Ross
Patti (Spady) Ross graduated from Washington, DC’s Duke Ellington School for the Performing Arts. As a lifetime learner her most recent certificate is in Writing for Social Justice from the University of California, Berkeley. After high-school, she performed with several local theater companies in the Washington region. In addition to her performance career, she used her college degree in print media to freelance several of her journalist pieces gaining publication in the Washington Times and the Rural America newspapers. A few years ago, Patti rediscovered her love of writing and is sharing her voice as the spoken word artist “little pi.” Her debut chapbook, St. Paul Street Provocations, was released in 2021 by Yellow Arrow Publishing; she was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for her poem “Indemnity”. She is a former board member for the Maryland Writers Association. Patti is the first Poet in Residence for the AA Food Bank in partnership with PoetryXHunger. Follow her blog at: https://littlepisuniverse.com Amazon author page:
https://www.amazon.com/author/pattirossakalittlepi
Patti (Spady) Ross graduated from Washington, DC’s Duke Ellington School for the Performing Arts. As a lifetime learner her most recent certificate is in Writing for Social Justice from the University of California, Berkeley. After high-school, she performed with several local theater companies in the Washington region. In addition to her performance career, she used her college degree in print media to freelance several of her journalist pieces gaining publication in the Washington Times and the Rural America newspapers. A few years ago, Patti rediscovered her love of writing and is sharing her voice as the spoken word artist “little pi.” Her debut chapbook, St. Paul Street Provocations, was released in 2021 by Yellow Arrow Publishing; she was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for her poem “Indemnity”. She is a former board member for the Maryland Writers Association. Patti is the first Poet in Residence for the AA Food Bank in partnership with PoetryXHunger. Follow her blog at: https://littlepisuniverse.com Amazon author page:
https://www.amazon.com/author/pattirossakalittlepi
Terri Simon
Terri Simon’s poetry chapbook, Ghosts of My Own Choosing, was published by Flutter Press in 2017. Her second chapbook, Ringing the Bell, was published by Clare Songbirds Publishing House in 2021. Her work has appeared in The Avenue, Third Wednesday, Poetry Quarterly, Ariel Chart, Bay to Ocean 2019, and other print and online journals and anthologies. She’s been a featured reader at several poetry reading series in central Maryland. In 2022, she founded Fallen Tree Press, a small publishing company dedicated to spreading poetry. She grew up in Mount Vernon, NY, studied writing at Sarah Lawrence College, and lives in Laurel, Maryland. Website: http://www.terricsimon.com Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B07WC32VVB Ringing the Bell at Clare Songbirds Publishing House (https:// www.claresongbirdspub.com/featured-authors/terri-simon/) https://www.fallentreepress.com
Terri Simon’s poetry chapbook, Ghosts of My Own Choosing, was published by Flutter Press in 2017. Her second chapbook, Ringing the Bell, was published by Clare Songbirds Publishing House in 2021. Her work has appeared in The Avenue, Third Wednesday, Poetry Quarterly, Ariel Chart, Bay to Ocean 2019, and other print and online journals and anthologies. She’s been a featured reader at several poetry reading series in central Maryland. In 2022, she founded Fallen Tree Press, a small publishing company dedicated to spreading poetry. She grew up in Mount Vernon, NY, studied writing at Sarah Lawrence College, and lives in Laurel, Maryland. Website: http://www.terricsimon.com Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B07WC32VVB Ringing the Bell at Clare Songbirds Publishing House (https:// www.claresongbirdspub.com/featured-authors/terri-simon/) https://www.fallentreepress.com
Zorina Exie Frey
Zorina Exie Frey is an essayist, screenwriter, spoken word poet, content writer and digital designer. She is an English Instructor at Converse University and a writing instructor for Writing Class Radio. She’s the Editor-in-Chief for 45 Magazine Journal and seasonal blog editor for South 85 Journal.
Zorina Exie Frey is an essayist, screenwriter, spoken word poet, content writer and digital designer. She is an English Instructor at Converse University and a writing instructor for Writing Class Radio. She’s the Editor-in-Chief for 45 Magazine Journal and seasonal blog editor for South 85 Journal.
AUTHORS & VENDORS - VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION
Erin Wright
Keynote Speaker for The Write Women Book Fest 2022
USA Today Bestselling author Erin Wright has worked every job under the sun, including library director, barista, teacher, website designer, and ranch hand helping brand cattle, before settling into the career she’s always dreamed about: Author. She still loves coffee, doesn’t love the smell of cow flesh burning, and is currently living out her own love story in a tiny town in rural Idaho.
Keynote Speaker for The Write Women Book Fest 2022
USA Today Bestselling author Erin Wright has worked every job under the sun, including library director, barista, teacher, website designer, and ranch hand helping brand cattle, before settling into the career she’s always dreamed about: Author. She still loves coffee, doesn’t love the smell of cow flesh burning, and is currently living out her own love story in a tiny town in rural Idaho.
Alexis C. Maness
Alexis C. Maness is an adult fantasy author with a special place in her heart for dark stories. In her books, you can look forward to reading about plus-size and morally grey main characters who’ll make you swoon and maybe even root for them against your better judgment. When she isn’t glued to the keyboard weaving words into something worth reading, you’ll most likely find her with a glass of sparkling wine in hand, falling in love with the villain of her latest dark romance read. She lives in San Diego with her bossy yet adorable cat, Satine, whose dedication to sitting in one spot for a long time is the main reason these stories exist. Keep up with Alexis’s latest releases on her socials!
Alexis C. Maness is an adult fantasy author with a special place in her heart for dark stories. In her books, you can look forward to reading about plus-size and morally grey main characters who’ll make you swoon and maybe even root for them against your better judgment. When she isn’t glued to the keyboard weaving words into something worth reading, you’ll most likely find her with a glass of sparkling wine in hand, falling in love with the villain of her latest dark romance read. She lives in San Diego with her bossy yet adorable cat, Satine, whose dedication to sitting in one spot for a long time is the main reason these stories exist. Keep up with Alexis’s latest releases on her socials!
Aline P. Mora
Aline P. Mora is a passionate writer of the same strong and witty female leads that keep her hitched to a new book. Growing up, she found some of her best friends and lived some of her best adventures inside the pages of a book. And, in time, she found solace in her own written word. Now, after a decade of getting to know the most diverse type of people through her career in Marketing, Aline decided to follow her soul’s desire and dedicate herself to writing, wishing she can provide the same hope and joy that she found within her favourite books to all those that are brave enough to search for it.
Aline P. Mora is a passionate writer of the same strong and witty female leads that keep her hitched to a new book. Growing up, she found some of her best friends and lived some of her best adventures inside the pages of a book. And, in time, she found solace in her own written word. Now, after a decade of getting to know the most diverse type of people through her career in Marketing, Aline decided to follow her soul’s desire and dedicate herself to writing, wishing she can provide the same hope and joy that she found within her favourite books to all those that are brave enough to search for it.
Book and Wine Lovers Marketing - Stephanie Rabell
My name is Stephanie Rabell and I love supporting authors and that is what led me to providing Book Tours for Authors. My experiences with running a book club, connecting with authors, publishers, podcasters, and bloggers have helped me shape my business for what it is today. I received my Bachelor's in Human Relations, have worked as a Customer Service Manager/Sales Trainer for two Catalog companies for over 13 years. I love books and wine, is there really anything else?
My name is Stephanie Rabell and I love supporting authors and that is what led me to providing Book Tours for Authors. My experiences with running a book club, connecting with authors, publishers, podcasters, and bloggers have helped me shape my business for what it is today. I received my Bachelor's in Human Relations, have worked as a Customer Service Manager/Sales Trainer for two Catalog companies for over 13 years. I love books and wine, is there really anything else?
Christyn West
Christyn is a professional Beta Reader. A firm believer that everyone has a story worth telling and being heard, Christyn has found a deep passion for helping writers make their work the best version of itself it can possibly be. Her love of stories is so strong that she graduated college with a degree in Creative Writing, which flamed her love for critical reading and helped her grow an appreciation for stories in all stages whether it be the first unpolished draft or published with a dust jacket. Outside of books, Christyn finds great pleasure in musicals, traveling, calligraphy, and TV shows.
Christyn is a professional Beta Reader. A firm believer that everyone has a story worth telling and being heard, Christyn has found a deep passion for helping writers make their work the best version of itself it can possibly be. Her love of stories is so strong that she graduated college with a degree in Creative Writing, which flamed her love for critical reading and helped her grow an appreciation for stories in all stages whether it be the first unpolished draft or published with a dust jacket. Outside of books, Christyn finds great pleasure in musicals, traveling, calligraphy, and TV shows.
Danielle M. Orsino
Danielle M. Orsino is a fantasy novelist whose lifelong vision is to create whimsical realms that her readers can escape to. Her compelling word-weaving pays homage to a multitude of personal muses, from Chris Claremont and George Pérez (both famous comic book writers), to Anne Rice and Wonder Woman. The creative spark of storytelling has been with Danielle ever since she was a child, but martial arts and her nursing career took center stage into adulthood. Then, it was reignited during the most unexpected of moments: while treating one of her patients. Seeing that they longed for a distraction during their arduous treatments, the floodgates of inspiration soon burst forth. So, Danielle took it upon herself to tell them a story; a fantastical narrative that would leave the confines of that IV room’s walls and land upon a page. Before she knew it, what started as an imaginative tale to pass the time, turned into The Birth of Fae. This awe-inspiring series is published by 4 Horsemen Publications, Inc. And with an unwavering passion for cosplay and comics, it was a unanimous decision to place her on the cover of the books in all her Fae glory.
Danielle M. Orsino is a fantasy novelist whose lifelong vision is to create whimsical realms that her readers can escape to. Her compelling word-weaving pays homage to a multitude of personal muses, from Chris Claremont and George Pérez (both famous comic book writers), to Anne Rice and Wonder Woman. The creative spark of storytelling has been with Danielle ever since she was a child, but martial arts and her nursing career took center stage into adulthood. Then, it was reignited during the most unexpected of moments: while treating one of her patients. Seeing that they longed for a distraction during their arduous treatments, the floodgates of inspiration soon burst forth. So, Danielle took it upon herself to tell them a story; a fantastical narrative that would leave the confines of that IV room’s walls and land upon a page. Before she knew it, what started as an imaginative tale to pass the time, turned into The Birth of Fae. This awe-inspiring series is published by 4 Horsemen Publications, Inc. And with an unwavering passion for cosplay and comics, it was a unanimous decision to place her on the cover of the books in all her Fae glory.
Claudine Marcin
Claudine Marcin is a Maryland-based author and poet, a member of the Maryland Writers Association and the Harford County Writer's Group. Influenced by the works of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, she is currently known for the "The Glory Box" series. She is also a spirited football fan, amateur photographer, and artist. For more information about her books and to join Claudine’s mailing list, visit her website at www.claudinemarcin.com.
Claudine Marcin is a Maryland-based author and poet, a member of the Maryland Writers Association and the Harford County Writer's Group. Influenced by the works of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, she is currently known for the "The Glory Box" series. She is also a spirited football fan, amateur photographer, and artist. For more information about her books and to join Claudine’s mailing list, visit her website at www.claudinemarcin.com.
Emmy Lou Hayes
Emmy Lou Hayes is a married mother of three. Originally from Ohio, she has lived the majority of her life in Maryland. While attending college she worked at a local sandwich shop, where she met her husband. When not working or at home in Southern Maryland, they enjoy spending time traveling the country in their RV with their children and two dogs. Emmy Lou works full time in the Medical field, but her passion is writing and sharing that writing with others. With an affinity for erotica and BDSM, Emmy Lou hopes to keep her readers coming back for more again and again.
Emmy Lou Hayes is a married mother of three. Originally from Ohio, she has lived the majority of her life in Maryland. While attending college she worked at a local sandwich shop, where she met her husband. When not working or at home in Southern Maryland, they enjoy spending time traveling the country in their RV with their children and two dogs. Emmy Lou works full time in the Medical field, but her passion is writing and sharing that writing with others. With an affinity for erotica and BDSM, Emmy Lou hopes to keep her readers coming back for more again and again.
In Retrospect Writing
As a PR coach and publicist, Lilian is dedicated to empowering creative entrepreneurs, authors, startups, and small businesses to gain the confidence to learn how to build successful PR campaigns to achieve their goals and position themselves as the global industry leaders they’re meant to be. As a presenter and educational speaker, she’s spoken to audiences of dozens of entrepreneurs and authors to rave reviews from both attendees and organizers. She’s provided actionable tips to help brands and individuals push past limiting beliefs, build healthy and strong PR mindsets and start thinking about how they can launch successful PR campaigns to make their goals, demystified PR myths and provided strategies on how to expand PR campaigns. Lilian has given workshop presentations for entrepreneurship networks such as Hervana and Rising Tide Vancouver + Vancouver Island and industry associations like The Independent Romance Authors Association and Women in Publishing. Through her strategic coaching intensive sessions, program, PR course, and campaign services, she empowers brands, entrepreneurs, and authors with the confidence to launch their own successful PR campaigns, using the right tools, platforms, and knowledge. With personalized guidance and support, she help clients bust past limiting beliefs, and gain the clarity and perspective they need to build successful PR campaigns to achieve their goals.
As a PR coach and publicist, Lilian is dedicated to empowering creative entrepreneurs, authors, startups, and small businesses to gain the confidence to learn how to build successful PR campaigns to achieve their goals and position themselves as the global industry leaders they’re meant to be. As a presenter and educational speaker, she’s spoken to audiences of dozens of entrepreneurs and authors to rave reviews from both attendees and organizers. She’s provided actionable tips to help brands and individuals push past limiting beliefs, build healthy and strong PR mindsets and start thinking about how they can launch successful PR campaigns to make their goals, demystified PR myths and provided strategies on how to expand PR campaigns. Lilian has given workshop presentations for entrepreneurship networks such as Hervana and Rising Tide Vancouver + Vancouver Island and industry associations like The Independent Romance Authors Association and Women in Publishing. Through her strategic coaching intensive sessions, program, PR course, and campaign services, she empowers brands, entrepreneurs, and authors with the confidence to launch their own successful PR campaigns, using the right tools, platforms, and knowledge. With personalized guidance and support, she help clients bust past limiting beliefs, and gain the clarity and perspective they need to build successful PR campaigns to achieve their goals.
Ivy Penn
Ivy is a free-spirit who loves life and hates looking back. Every experience in our life is there to help us grow - she grew up with her grandparents as an only child, and always dreamed of having siblings. Being an only child sucked as there was never anyone to play games with so she would make up different characters to play against and amuse herself. From there she began writing short stories and poems. It took a long time for her to figure out who she was inside, but now that she knows, there's no stopping her. Her goal is to bring normal, everyday people to life and show the magic that can happen while you're going along doing your thing. Second chances are needed. Love happens when you least expect it. And never be with someone whose kisses don't rock your world.
Ivy is a free-spirit who loves life and hates looking back. Every experience in our life is there to help us grow - she grew up with her grandparents as an only child, and always dreamed of having siblings. Being an only child sucked as there was never anyone to play games with so she would make up different characters to play against and amuse herself. From there she began writing short stories and poems. It took a long time for her to figure out who she was inside, but now that she knows, there's no stopping her. Her goal is to bring normal, everyday people to life and show the magic that can happen while you're going along doing your thing. Second chances are needed. Love happens when you least expect it. And never be with someone whose kisses don't rock your world.
Jacqueline Hilton
Who knew that a young girl growing up raised by her grandmother, who barely cooked in the kitchen, and ate out most of the time, would grow up with a passion and love for cooking. Once married, Jacqueline realized one monumental thing…she now had to feed her husband and four sons that were soon to come. After many trial and error meals Jacqueline hit the jackpot with her now sought after lasagna. In 1991, Jacqueline graduated from New York Food and Hotel Management and immediately following graduation started working as a personal chef for special occasions and private events. Jacqueline new found love and skills soon landed a contract at a well-known music hall where she had the opportunity to cook for those in the music industry. Chef Hilton's excited to be releasing her cookbook next year.
Who knew that a young girl growing up raised by her grandmother, who barely cooked in the kitchen, and ate out most of the time, would grow up with a passion and love for cooking. Once married, Jacqueline realized one monumental thing…she now had to feed her husband and four sons that were soon to come. After many trial and error meals Jacqueline hit the jackpot with her now sought after lasagna. In 1991, Jacqueline graduated from New York Food and Hotel Management and immediately following graduation started working as a personal chef for special occasions and private events. Jacqueline new found love and skills soon landed a contract at a well-known music hall where she had the opportunity to cook for those in the music industry. Chef Hilton's excited to be releasing her cookbook next year.
Jade & Wilnona - The And We Thought Ladies
https://andithoughtladies.com
Jade & Wilnona are the cofounders of the Inspirational Women in Literature Media and journalism and the 25 hottest authors magazine.
https://andithoughtladies.com
Jade & Wilnona are the cofounders of the Inspirational Women in Literature Media and journalism and the 25 hottest authors magazine.
K. McCoy
K. McCoy is the author of the Women’s Fiction novel, A Dove’s Cry. Through her indie author webinars, she helps authors write drama filled, heart gripping, and authentic stories. In her 6 years in publishing, she has traveled around the world, crafting stories based on real world experiences, combined with hopeful possibilities, and taken part in several anthologies. Learn more about K. McCoy at authorkmccoy.com
K. McCoy is the author of the Women’s Fiction novel, A Dove’s Cry. Through her indie author webinars, she helps authors write drama filled, heart gripping, and authentic stories. In her 6 years in publishing, she has traveled around the world, crafting stories based on real world experiences, combined with hopeful possibilities, and taken part in several anthologies. Learn more about K. McCoy at authorkmccoy.com
Kat Winters
Born and raised in California, Kat Winters now lives in Missouri! Always looking for a way to reach people, she writes to give people an escape and help them feel seen. She hopes to change the world with her writing and eventually become a foster parent and teacher so she can help even more people, all while finding beauty in life through other hobbies like baking, photography, and reading.
Born and raised in California, Kat Winters now lives in Missouri! Always looking for a way to reach people, she writes to give people an escape and help them feel seen. She hopes to change the world with her writing and eventually become a foster parent and teacher so she can help even more people, all while finding beauty in life through other hobbies like baking, photography, and reading.
Keianna Johnson - Coming of Age Book
Keianna Johnson is most recognized in her community as an award-winning children's textured hair care professional and owner of Chi Chi Sophistication Kids Natural Hair Studio, specializing in chemical-free, quality hair braiding services. Keianna host Healthy Hair & Style Workshops for Teens in the Washington D.C. Area. To support the youth by providing guidance and understanding of how to maintain their textured hair properly on their own, Keianna wrote a book entitled Coming of Age: The Easy Guide to Healthy Hair Care for Teens. When not hairstyling, Keianna writes about unapologetic living and encourages people to take back their power to be themselves on her blog www.keiannajohnson.com. Her passion for hair care has allowed her to travel, meet new people, and support her beloved family.
Keianna Johnson is most recognized in her community as an award-winning children's textured hair care professional and owner of Chi Chi Sophistication Kids Natural Hair Studio, specializing in chemical-free, quality hair braiding services. Keianna host Healthy Hair & Style Workshops for Teens in the Washington D.C. Area. To support the youth by providing guidance and understanding of how to maintain their textured hair properly on their own, Keianna wrote a book entitled Coming of Age: The Easy Guide to Healthy Hair Care for Teens. When not hairstyling, Keianna writes about unapologetic living and encourages people to take back their power to be themselves on her blog www.keiannajohnson.com. Her passion for hair care has allowed her to travel, meet new people, and support her beloved family.
Kobo Writing Life
Kobo embodies everything you love about your favorite local bookshop, perfected for your modern life. Their mission is to bring the power of reading to your world — because they’re booklovers, just like you. Their catalogue has endless choices, and it’s always growing. You’ll find every type of eBook imaginable, from yesterday’s classics to today’s bestsellers, as well as their expertly curated collection of audiobooks. Kobo Writing Life will be presenting virtual workshop content. Check out the event page for more details.
Kobo embodies everything you love about your favorite local bookshop, perfected for your modern life. Their mission is to bring the power of reading to your world — because they’re booklovers, just like you. Their catalogue has endless choices, and it’s always growing. You’ll find every type of eBook imaginable, from yesterday’s classics to today’s bestsellers, as well as their expertly curated collection of audiobooks. Kobo Writing Life will be presenting virtual workshop content. Check out the event page for more details.
Miko Marsh
Miko Marsh is an author, speaker, instructor, and motivator. She has a degree in social services, college certification in Early Childhood Care Education, has worked directly with individuals in behavioral facilities, and has owned her own daycare. Her author credits include books related to caregiving, an educational workbook for introduction to childcare, and personal transformation. Miko’s main writing areas include Bible-based topics, caregiving, personal growth, and interpersonal communications. However, she will sometimes write things to amuse herself because she loves to laugh. In addition to homeschooling her children for a few years, she has given instruction in piano, reading music, mathematics, and other areas in which she could assistant. She enjoys supporting others, helping them to find areas in which they can shine, and seeing people of all ages and abilities reach their individual goals.
Miko Marsh is an author, speaker, instructor, and motivator. She has a degree in social services, college certification in Early Childhood Care Education, has worked directly with individuals in behavioral facilities, and has owned her own daycare. Her author credits include books related to caregiving, an educational workbook for introduction to childcare, and personal transformation. Miko’s main writing areas include Bible-based topics, caregiving, personal growth, and interpersonal communications. However, she will sometimes write things to amuse herself because she loves to laugh. In addition to homeschooling her children for a few years, she has given instruction in piano, reading music, mathematics, and other areas in which she could assistant. She enjoys supporting others, helping them to find areas in which they can shine, and seeing people of all ages and abilities reach their individual goals.
Modern Design Paper Co.
Modern Design Paper Co. was founded with one goal in mind, to design notebooks that are stylishly designed, with luxury paper. Our beautiful notebooks and journals might look and feel too lovely to scribble in, but that is what they are for! Mess them up, make mistakes, and use different colored pens. They are made with thick, luxury paper to be used and used again. They are perfect for writing down your newest inspirations, while the thick pages make it easy to draw diagrams and take notes. With a rich, cleverly designed cover, these notebooks will look great on any shelf.
Modern Design Paper Co. was founded with one goal in mind, to design notebooks that are stylishly designed, with luxury paper. Our beautiful notebooks and journals might look and feel too lovely to scribble in, but that is what they are for! Mess them up, make mistakes, and use different colored pens. They are made with thick, luxury paper to be used and used again. They are perfect for writing down your newest inspirations, while the thick pages make it easy to draw diagrams and take notes. With a rich, cleverly designed cover, these notebooks will look great on any shelf.
Scribente Maternum - Writing Retreats for Moms
We are a community of writers who identify as mothers. We have our own stories and struggles, but we come together because of our love of writing and our love of our children. This space is for the writing process, not the final product. Scribente Maternum is a play on "writer mom." But that's where the fanciness ends. This community is down-to-earth and real. The one thing we are serious about is how central motherhood is to our human experience. Our goal is to embrace the tension that exists between motherhood and writing. Our children are our greatest distraction, but also our greatest inspiration. We are exhausted from being the on-call parent, but we find something new to write about every time we look at them. We are here to support each other. We are here to understand each other. We are here to tap into each other's creative energy to create new, glorious things.
We are a community of writers who identify as mothers. We have our own stories and struggles, but we come together because of our love of writing and our love of our children. This space is for the writing process, not the final product. Scribente Maternum is a play on "writer mom." But that's where the fanciness ends. This community is down-to-earth and real. The one thing we are serious about is how central motherhood is to our human experience. Our goal is to embrace the tension that exists between motherhood and writing. Our children are our greatest distraction, but also our greatest inspiration. We are exhausted from being the on-call parent, but we find something new to write about every time we look at them. We are here to support each other. We are here to understand each other. We are here to tap into each other's creative energy to create new, glorious things.
Re'Shae N. Green
Re’Shae N. Green grew up in beautiful Prince George’s County, Maryland. Faith, family, and friends are the important life pillars that govern Re’Shae’s life. When she isn’t spending time with her friends and family, she wears the hat of a girl boss as the co-founder of two service-based organizations. Re’Shae leads Stay Blessed LLC, a public relations company, and It’s a Girl’s Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to women’s empowerment through programs that focus on uplifting youth and spreading wisdom through mentorship. Re’Shae is also an English language arts teacher in Washington, DC. In her educational role, she teaches middle schoolers. Emmel Zealous: Hip-Hop Dreams is Re’Shae’s first children’s book. She was inspired to start this series "Emmel Zealous Hip-Hop Dreams" after struggling with anxiety disorder as both a child and an adult. She hopes to help today’s youth face, manages, and overcome their struggles with anxiety, just as she did.
Re’Shae N. Green grew up in beautiful Prince George’s County, Maryland. Faith, family, and friends are the important life pillars that govern Re’Shae’s life. When she isn’t spending time with her friends and family, she wears the hat of a girl boss as the co-founder of two service-based organizations. Re’Shae leads Stay Blessed LLC, a public relations company, and It’s a Girl’s Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to women’s empowerment through programs that focus on uplifting youth and spreading wisdom through mentorship. Re’Shae is also an English language arts teacher in Washington, DC. In her educational role, she teaches middle schoolers. Emmel Zealous: Hip-Hop Dreams is Re’Shae’s first children’s book. She was inspired to start this series "Emmel Zealous Hip-Hop Dreams" after struggling with anxiety disorder as both a child and an adult. She hopes to help today’s youth face, manages, and overcome their struggles with anxiety, just as she did.
Sincerely, Nancy
Nancy was named after former First Lady, Nancy Reagan, as a symbol of democracy after her parents resettled in the United States as Hmong refugees from Laos. Growing up, she drove her mother through crazy adventures and was known as "siab coob" or many hearts/ having many interests. She's a dreamer at heart with goals after another. By day, Nancy is an economic and community development leader supporting start-ups and small businesses with a local non-profit. By night, she’s a writer, creative artist and reiki energy healing practitioner. Nancy is a new Minnesotan. Prior to Minnesota, Nancy lived in the east coast and worked in higher education where she plans programs and events, advises and fearlessly teaches young folks on issues of social justice, women and gender issues and healthy relationships. Nancy has incorporated storytelling using different mediums which has been a healing tool in her classes and workshops as well as her community work. Additionally, Nancy has extensive experience in the field of gender-based violence as an educator, advocate and research for the last 10 years at the local, national and international level. One common thread that she has found in her work is that in any kind of traumatic experience, a person’s mental health, well-being and healing process is an on-going journey. Through her own healing journey, she has discovered arts, crafts, writing and storytelling to be powerful tools to move beyond the pain to live an authentic and well-being life. At the Write Women Book Fest, Nancy will be debuting her very first handmade, hand sewn poetry chapbook written in her native language: Hmong and English. She will have her beautiful handmade journal and stationary available for purchase.
Nancy was named after former First Lady, Nancy Reagan, as a symbol of democracy after her parents resettled in the United States as Hmong refugees from Laos. Growing up, she drove her mother through crazy adventures and was known as "siab coob" or many hearts/ having many interests. She's a dreamer at heart with goals after another. By day, Nancy is an economic and community development leader supporting start-ups and small businesses with a local non-profit. By night, she’s a writer, creative artist and reiki energy healing practitioner. Nancy is a new Minnesotan. Prior to Minnesota, Nancy lived in the east coast and worked in higher education where she plans programs and events, advises and fearlessly teaches young folks on issues of social justice, women and gender issues and healthy relationships. Nancy has incorporated storytelling using different mediums which has been a healing tool in her classes and workshops as well as her community work. Additionally, Nancy has extensive experience in the field of gender-based violence as an educator, advocate and research for the last 10 years at the local, national and international level. One common thread that she has found in her work is that in any kind of traumatic experience, a person’s mental health, well-being and healing process is an on-going journey. Through her own healing journey, she has discovered arts, crafts, writing and storytelling to be powerful tools to move beyond the pain to live an authentic and well-being life. At the Write Women Book Fest, Nancy will be debuting her very first handmade, hand sewn poetry chapbook written in her native language: Hmong and English. She will have her beautiful handmade journal and stationary available for purchase.
The Write Services Social Media Management - Audrey Hughey
Audrey Hughey is the founder of the Author Transformation Alliance, a community dedicated to uplifting and empowering authors at all stages to reach their vision of success with a powerful network of support to guide them. When she's not caring for her family or working on her health, Audrey divides her time between her many WIPs and helping her fellow authors organize, plan, and grow.
Audrey Hughey is the founder of the Author Transformation Alliance, a community dedicated to uplifting and empowering authors at all stages to reach their vision of success with a powerful network of support to guide them. When she's not caring for her family or working on her health, Audrey divides her time between her many WIPs and helping her fellow authors organize, plan, and grow.
Wicked Words
Indulge in a wickedly good romance read with Wicked Words! Our shop provides a highly curated selection of romance titles each month, including everything from rom-coms and historical romance, to romantasy and dark romance, and of course everything in between. Our shop and online community is designed to be a safe space for romance readers of all kinds to come together, celebrate, and discuss the books that bring them joy. With a new selection of books coming in each month, you’re sure to find something that is just right for you. We place an emphasis on carrying titles by women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled, neurodivergent, and indie authors and also carry a selection of bookish self-care products, teas, and reading accessories that are supplied by fellow woman-owned small businesses. Come grab your perfect romance read, build your dream book box, pick up our book club pick and join us for a chat, or let us set you up with a fun surprise with our mystery boxes or bargain blind date books!
Indulge in a wickedly good romance read with Wicked Words! Our shop provides a highly curated selection of romance titles each month, including everything from rom-coms and historical romance, to romantasy and dark romance, and of course everything in between. Our shop and online community is designed to be a safe space for romance readers of all kinds to come together, celebrate, and discuss the books that bring them joy. With a new selection of books coming in each month, you’re sure to find something that is just right for you. We place an emphasis on carrying titles by women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled, neurodivergent, and indie authors and also carry a selection of bookish self-care products, teas, and reading accessories that are supplied by fellow woman-owned small businesses. Come grab your perfect romance read, build your dream book box, pick up our book club pick and join us for a chat, or let us set you up with a fun surprise with our mystery boxes or bargain blind date books!
OTHER VENDORS & ORGANIZATIONS IN ATTENDANCE IN-PERSON
Cover to Cover Book Club
Have you ever read a book so good you had to read it Cover to Cover? Well, Cover to Cover Book Club is the perfect group for you! It's an online book club designed for those who love reading and participating in live and fun book discussions!
Have you ever read a book so good you had to read it Cover to Cover? Well, Cover to Cover Book Club is the perfect group for you! It's an online book club designed for those who love reading and participating in live and fun book discussions!
Draft2Digital - Mark Leslie Lefebvre
Draft2Digital is a Supporting Partner of The Write Women Book Fest 2022
Draft2Digital is all about self-publishing with support. They build tools and services that let you focus on writing while they take care of layout, publishing, distribution, print-on-demand paperbacks, and more.
It is free to make an account with Draft2Digital. All you need to sign up is a name and an email address that you can check regularly. There is no upfront cost to using Draft2Digital. Mark Leslie Lefebvre will be giving a mini-workshop presentation at the fest. Mark is a writer, an editor, a professional speaker, and a book nerd with a passion for craft beer. Check the events page for information about his workshop.
Draft2Digital is a Supporting Partner of The Write Women Book Fest 2022
Draft2Digital is all about self-publishing with support. They build tools and services that let you focus on writing while they take care of layout, publishing, distribution, print-on-demand paperbacks, and more.
It is free to make an account with Draft2Digital. All you need to sign up is a name and an email address that you can check regularly. There is no upfront cost to using Draft2Digital. Mark Leslie Lefebvre will be giving a mini-workshop presentation at the fest. Mark is a writer, an editor, a professional speaker, and a book nerd with a passion for craft beer. Check the events page for information about his workshop.
Earth Born Beauty
Earth Born Beauty handcrafts all-natural plant-based skincare products catered to those with sensitive and dry skin and eczema. We believe in plant power and its ability to care for and heal the skin. Our products are made with skin-loving oils and butters, botanical infusions and essential oils. We make sugar scrubs, double-whipped body butters, cleansing soaps, lip butters and more.
Earth Born Beauty handcrafts all-natural plant-based skincare products catered to those with sensitive and dry skin and eczema. We believe in plant power and its ability to care for and heal the skin. Our products are made with skin-loving oils and butters, botanical infusions and essential oils. We make sugar scrubs, double-whipped body butters, cleansing soaps, lip butters and more.
Fable Grounds Coffee
Fable Grounds Coffee is a woman owned, book and literature themed small business. Our coffee is roasted right here in Maryland. We offer coffee that is fresh roasted in small batches to provide optimal flavor. We have been proudly roasting blends based around your favorite books since 2019!
Fable Grounds Coffee is a woman owned, book and literature themed small business. Our coffee is roasted right here in Maryland. We offer coffee that is fresh roasted in small batches to provide optimal flavor. We have been proudly roasting blends based around your favorite books since 2019!
Girl Scouts Troop 81265
When you’re a Girl Scout, you call the shots. Every Girl Scout has their own curiosity, dreams, and talents—so when they come together to decide which of the thousands of Girl Scout activities to try, the sky’s the limit. Whether visiting an animal shelter, camping, hosting a dance-off, or filming a movie—they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good. The secret sauce holding it all together? Joy. Forever friendship is a powerful thing. It’s what gives Girl Scouts the confidence to be themselves, unapologetically. It’s what makes them feel safe enough to try new things and cheer each other on in tough times. It’s the support that can get them up on tough mornings, help them raise their hand in class, and even climb to the top of a mountain.
When you’re a Girl Scout, you call the shots. Every Girl Scout has their own curiosity, dreams, and talents—so when they come together to decide which of the thousands of Girl Scout activities to try, the sky’s the limit. Whether visiting an animal shelter, camping, hosting a dance-off, or filming a movie—they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good. The secret sauce holding it all together? Joy. Forever friendship is a powerful thing. It’s what gives Girl Scouts the confidence to be themselves, unapologetically. It’s what makes them feel safe enough to try new things and cheer each other on in tough times. It’s the support that can get them up on tough mornings, help them raise their hand in class, and even climb to the top of a mountain.
I Support The Girls
I Support the Girls collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products, allowing women and folx experiencing homelessness, impoverishment, or distress to stand tall with dignity.
I Support the Girls collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products, allowing women and folx experiencing homelessness, impoverishment, or distress to stand tall with dignity.
Maryland Writers' Association
MWA's diverse membership ranges from professional freelancers and published authors, to writers aspiring to be published and those who write as a creative outlet. Members produce both nonfiction and fiction, including novels, short stories, poetry, plays, scripts, speeches, feature articles, and essays. Some work in specific genres such as romance, science fiction, thriller, fantasy, children's literature, travel writing, or biography.
MWA's diverse membership ranges from professional freelancers and published authors, to writers aspiring to be published and those who write as a creative outlet. Members produce both nonfiction and fiction, including novels, short stories, poetry, plays, scripts, speeches, feature articles, and essays. Some work in specific genres such as romance, science fiction, thriller, fantasy, children's literature, travel writing, or biography.
Melting Prose
Melting Prose - Wax for Book Nerds As voracious readers and die hard story nerds, we understand the power of make believe. Whether its a book, a tv show or movie, or even a game, nothing transports us quite like fiction. Except maybe fragrance. All of our custom fragrances are inspired by the iconic figures, places, objects, and moments that make up our favorite stories. Disclaimer: Although we personally feel that it adds to the experience, you don't have to be a nerd to buy from our shop. We don't judge.
Melting Prose - Wax for Book Nerds As voracious readers and die hard story nerds, we understand the power of make believe. Whether its a book, a tv show or movie, or even a game, nothing transports us quite like fiction. Except maybe fragrance. All of our custom fragrances are inspired by the iconic figures, places, objects, and moments that make up our favorite stories. Disclaimer: Although we personally feel that it adds to the experience, you don't have to be a nerd to buy from our shop. We don't judge.
Prince George's County Memorial Library System
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. The Library serves the 967,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, and pop-up services throughout the community. PGCMLS is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization. Programs, services, and outreach activities serve booklovers, immigrants and refugees, job seekers, children, young professionals, seniors, and families alike. PGCMLS’ robust online offerings include curated content collections for kids, teens, educators, Spanish speakers, and more. Virtual events and outreach provide access to the Library from the comfort of home or on the go. Special programs include the D.R.E.A.M. Lab, STEM Pals, and 3D printing, which offer teens and lifelong learners with opportunities to learn cutting-edge technology and STEM skills for job readiness or personal enrichment. The Library also provides drive-up WiFi access at all branches and mobile hotspot devices. The Library’s Laurel Branch Library received the 2018 AIA/ALA Library Building Award and was designated the best new public building in Maryland. As a strong community partner, the Library regularly collaborates with local government agencies and non-profit organizations to provide access to essential community services and programs. Partners include the Prince George’s County Human Relations Commission, Employ Prince George’s, Prince George’s County Public Schools, and Prince George’s Community College. Learn more at pgcmls.info or by visiting the Largo-Kettering Branch at 9601 Capital Lane, Largo, MD 20774.
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. The Library serves the 967,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, and pop-up services throughout the community. PGCMLS is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization. Programs, services, and outreach activities serve booklovers, immigrants and refugees, job seekers, children, young professionals, seniors, and families alike. PGCMLS’ robust online offerings include curated content collections for kids, teens, educators, Spanish speakers, and more. Virtual events and outreach provide access to the Library from the comfort of home or on the go. Special programs include the D.R.E.A.M. Lab, STEM Pals, and 3D printing, which offer teens and lifelong learners with opportunities to learn cutting-edge technology and STEM skills for job readiness or personal enrichment. The Library also provides drive-up WiFi access at all branches and mobile hotspot devices. The Library’s Laurel Branch Library received the 2018 AIA/ALA Library Building Award and was designated the best new public building in Maryland. As a strong community partner, the Library regularly collaborates with local government agencies and non-profit organizations to provide access to essential community services and programs. Partners include the Prince George’s County Human Relations Commission, Employ Prince George’s, Prince George’s County Public Schools, and Prince George’s Community College. Learn more at pgcmls.info or by visiting the Largo-Kettering Branch at 9601 Capital Lane, Largo, MD 20774.
Joyful Bath Co.
Bath bombs, shower steamers, face & body soaps, bath salts, bubble scoops, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels, gift sets and more. Handmade with natural healing ingredients. Vegan & cruelty-free. Woman-owned small business located in North Bethesda, Maryland.
Bath bombs, shower steamers, face & body soaps, bath salts, bubble scoops, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels, gift sets and more. Handmade with natural healing ingredients. Vegan & cruelty-free. Woman-owned small business located in North Bethesda, Maryland.
Madeluv
Hello I'm Ashley and welcome to Madeluv. Madeluv was created from something I didn't even know I liked but came to luv. It all started when I took a class on making spa products in 2017. After I took the class I was obsessed, I wanted to know any and everything about making bath & body products. So I did my research and started experimenting right away! From bath bombs to cold process soap I was hooked. I figured why not share the products that I luv and make with the world. So here I am today and Madeluv was created in 2018 !! Madeluv is based in Aberdeen, Maryland. I hope you enjoy my products as much as I do and thank you so much for allowing me to sprinkle some luv in your day today!
Hello I'm Ashley and welcome to Madeluv. Madeluv was created from something I didn't even know I liked but came to luv. It all started when I took a class on making spa products in 2017. After I took the class I was obsessed, I wanted to know any and everything about making bath & body products. So I did my research and started experimenting right away! From bath bombs to cold process soap I was hooked. I figured why not share the products that I luv and make with the world. So here I am today and Madeluv was created in 2018 !! Madeluv is based in Aberdeen, Maryland. I hope you enjoy my products as much as I do and thank you so much for allowing me to sprinkle some luv in your day today!
Rosa Bakes
Rosa Bakes provides 100% plant-based baked goods like cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and donuts! While they don’t have a storefront, they operate out of a commercial kitchen in Chantilly, VA and orders must be placed 1-2 days in advance on their website: www.rosabakes.com.
Rosa Bakes provides 100% plant-based baked goods like cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and donuts! While they don’t have a storefront, they operate out of a commercial kitchen in Chantilly, VA and orders must be placed 1-2 days in advance on their website: www.rosabakes.com.
Silver Quill Studio
Silver Quill Studio's Noel-Marie Delaney is an avid reader and former technical writer. She now creates jewelry using several varied techniques. Her work primarily focuses on two skills: paper quilling and chainmaille. While those may seem an unlikely pairing, both involve delicate and precise work to create finished items. Traditionally, a quilled piece is glued to a flat sheet of paper and displayed as a wall hanging. In her work, Noel-Marie has taken away the static nature and turned the pieces into wearable art. Chainmaille is also a long-standing craft form, but again, Noel-Marie has decided to move from the traditional (heavy suits of armor) to smaller, more easily and widely enjoyed jewelry and decorative items. In addition to these, Noel-Marie makes miniature blank book jewelry (with useable pages!) and recycled glass pieces.
Silver Quill Studio's Noel-Marie Delaney is an avid reader and former technical writer. She now creates jewelry using several varied techniques. Her work primarily focuses on two skills: paper quilling and chainmaille. While those may seem an unlikely pairing, both involve delicate and precise work to create finished items. Traditionally, a quilled piece is glued to a flat sheet of paper and displayed as a wall hanging. In her work, Noel-Marie has taken away the static nature and turned the pieces into wearable art. Chainmaille is also a long-standing craft form, but again, Noel-Marie has decided to move from the traditional (heavy suits of armor) to smaller, more easily and widely enjoyed jewelry and decorative items. In addition to these, Noel-Marie makes miniature blank book jewelry (with useable pages!) and recycled glass pieces.
The Folkhaus - Mary DeMarco-Logue
Mary is a creative human, a wife, & a mama of 3, crafting a meaningful life in Southern Maryland. She believes in doing the things that bring you joy, so she can be found making art, playing music, writing stories, taking photos, making films, & reading fiction in fairly regular rotation. She is also a firm believer in self-guided & lifelong learning, & spends part of every day homeschooling her children as well as perusing personal educational goals (currently: learning 3 languages, concepts in shaping lighting for portraiture & film, & classical figure drawing). A hobbyist writer, Mary also set a personal goal to “win” NaNoWriMo this year & finally write out the whole narrative arch for the story she intends to translate into a full comic mini-Zine series under the working title “House of Dreams”; the characters from which are currently being rendered into a Tarot project called the “Insomnia Deck”. She shares her life, art, & homeschooling musings online at her website (www.TheFolkhaus.com) & social media (@thefolkhaus).
Mary is a creative human, a wife, & a mama of 3, crafting a meaningful life in Southern Maryland. She believes in doing the things that bring you joy, so she can be found making art, playing music, writing stories, taking photos, making films, & reading fiction in fairly regular rotation. She is also a firm believer in self-guided & lifelong learning, & spends part of every day homeschooling her children as well as perusing personal educational goals (currently: learning 3 languages, concepts in shaping lighting for portraiture & film, & classical figure drawing). A hobbyist writer, Mary also set a personal goal to “win” NaNoWriMo this year & finally write out the whole narrative arch for the story she intends to translate into a full comic mini-Zine series under the working title “House of Dreams”; the characters from which are currently being rendered into a Tarot project called the “Insomnia Deck”. She shares her life, art, & homeschooling musings online at her website (www.TheFolkhaus.com) & social media (@thefolkhaus).
The Writer's Center
Writing classes and free events for writers since 1976! In person and online, for all experience levels.
Writing classes and free events for writers since 1976! In person and online, for all experience levels.
