2026 Indie Author Alley

Lynn Almengor │ Philadelphia, PA
Bones of the Voyager
Lynn Almengor writes funny character-driven stories about creating personal meaning from chaos. She is the author of the graphic novel “Bones of the Voyager” and the novel “Now That We’re Adults.” She loves playing JRPG’s, watching “bad” movies, and goofing off with her husband, ferrets, and jack chi.

Lynn’s latest book, “Bones of the Voyager” is a 164-page, full-color adult graphic novel that follows indie director Nina as she scrambles to finish a bizarre film about telepathic alien bones, before her depression—embodied by a sarcastic skeleton named Vincenzo—shuts the whole thing down.

Brett Armstrong │ Saint Albans, WV
The Unending Light
Brett Armstrong’s books are robust, sweeping stories with relatable characters, and intricate world-building that stay with a reader long after turning the last page. His tales traverse ancient eras to far flung and fantasy worlds.

Delphia Baisden │ Plain City, OH
Fire & Rain: Sweetshade Book 2
Delphia Baisden is a proud independent author who decided in 2016 to pursue her passion for writing by sharing the love stories that resonate with her heart. Her works of LGBTQ romance include both standalone titles such as Credence and the ongoing Sweetshade series for readers to explore.

Zariah L. Banks │ Streetsboro, OH
Beauty Betrothed: A Beauty is Her Name
Zariah L. Banks crafts award-winning contemporary romance that goes beyond the typical love story. Each story invites readers into emotionally rich journeys where connection isn’t just physical; it’s grounded in vulnerability, healing, and mutual respect. Her work covers emotional burnout, self-worth, and boundaries wrapped in steamy, swoon-worthy moments romance lovers crave.

Holly Bargo │ Springfield, OH
Four Play: Triune Alliance Brides Series Book 4
An avid reader with eclectic tastes, Holly Bargo’s favorite genres are romance, fantasy, and westerns—so that’s what she writes. Holly works as a full-time freelance writer and editor and lives with her husband on a hobby farm in southwestern Ohio. Find her full catalog of books at hollybargobooks.com.

Kimberly Beckett │ Centerville, OH
Winning Hailey’s Heart
Ever since she can remember, Kimberly Beckett has loved horses. It wasn’t until she got her first job however, that could afford to buy her first horse, and she hasn’t been without at least one ever since. Kimberly has now found a way to combine her love of horses with her love of romance by writing her own version of equine-facilitated happily ever afters. She truly believes that Horses Heal Hearts.

J.D. Blackrose │ Shaker Heights, OH
Angel Flash
J.D. Blackrose writes The Summoner’s Mark series, a combination of urban fantasy and romance. She has published The Soul Wars, The Devil’s Been Busy, and the Zombie Cosmetologist novellas through Falstaff Books.

Eliza Browning │ Stoutsville, OH
The Court of Serpents and Wings
E.R.Browning is an Ohio based author specializing in dark fantasy books. She currently is working on her main series, The Crown of Thorns, with four books so far. Her best selling book is her debut novel, The Queen of Thorns and Gold.

Vivian Catfield │ Cincinnati, OH
Keys in the Dust
Vivian Catfield is an author who writes emotionally charged, richly layered novels that blend the supernatural, historical, and mysterious with unforgettable female leads. Her speculative fiction, fantasy, and mystery stories explore grief, justice, identity, and power, with twists of “magick,” mythology, and Midwestern to Southern Appalachian flavor.

Carly Coleman │ Olmsted Falls, OH
Into the Void
Carly Coleman writes stories that take readers off to fantastic and sometimes terrifying sci-fi worlds. Her books explore the fine line between humanity and monstrosity. Back in reality, Coleman travels across the beautiful backcountry of America, letting the experience bleed into the settings of her worlds.

B. Robert Conklin │ Gahanna, OH
Ursula Major
B. Robert Conklin’s work has been featured in various publications. He is a finalist in the suspense category of the National Indie Excellence® Awards for his first two novels. As an educator, he co-authored a composition textbook for college writers. He is a passionate advocate for trans rights, eating disorder recovery, and autism awareness. Originally from Youngstown, he now resides in Columbus with his spouse, three Gen-Z kids, and four cats.

Bob Corby │ Dublin, OH
Oh, Comics! #34 “Secrets”
Bob Corby is a retired structural engineer who has been publishing comics and graphic novels since 1984. He publishes an annual anthology, Oh, Comics! but also has produced much of his own work including two graphic novels about a rabbit detective and two collections of his shorter works that run the gambit of genres.

Michael H. David │ Corydon, IN
Lie Ever So Quietly
Michael H. David is the author of mystery and thriller titles like The Gouge, The Blue Hole, and Lie Ever So Quietly. David’s writing is influenced by his own experiences growing up—some of which are exaggerated, and some which are far too close to the truth.

David Allen Edmonds │ Medina, OH
Unveiled Love
David Allen Edmonds spent most of his working life as a teacher. His mysteries, Personal Pronouns and Indirect Objects, are set in a suburban Cleveland high school. Now offering Unveiled Love, his second Benton Center Romance, he asks, “What’s more romantic than falling in love and solving today’s problems?”.

Ray Eichenberger │ Groveport, OH
The Blood of the Bones
Ray Eichenberger is a retired attorney and author of over 30 books of Christian fiction and non-fiction. His novels include The Blood of the Bones and Red Foot Jesse. Non-fiction titles often involve themes of the Bible and innovative topics such as the Christian themes of Harry Potter. He won a 2024 honorable mention at the Santa Barbara International Screenplay Awards for the screenplay adaptation of his novel, The Blood of Temple Mount.

Elaine Evans │ Girard, OH
The Storm We Breathe
Elaine Evans rediscovered her love of writing while in middle-age. She loves to craft heartfelt closed-door romances and women’s fiction stories. Living in Northeast Ohio with her family, she draws inspiration from everyday life, second chances, and the love that endures everything life throws our way.

Hellie Heat │ Toledo, OH
No Justice for the Damned
Hellie Heat is an LGBTQ romance author and Ohio native who loves to see queer representation in books, and is just writing what she wants to read. While her stories deal with some dark and heavy themes, a happy ending is always guaranteed!

Larry Hinkle │ Rockville, MD
An Hour Before Dark: More Tales of the Eris Ridge Trail
Scary Larry Hinkle is a copywriter living with his wife and two doggos in Maryland. When he’s not writing horror stories that scare people into peeing their pants, he writes ads that scare people into buying adult diapers, so they’re not caught peeing their pants. His stories have appeared in The Rack: Stories Inspired by Vintage Horror Paperbacks; October Screams: A Halloween Anthology; and multiple times on The NoSleep Podcast.

Jes Honard and Marie Parks │ Kalamazoo, MI / Albuquerque, NM
Undeniable
Jes Honard and Marie Parks are co-authors of The Grigori Cycle supernatural thriller series, which won the New Mexico Book Awards for Best LGBTQ Title. Jes is also featured in the Lesbians in Space short story anthology, and Marie is author of Flightless, a fantasy heist.

Karla Huebner │ Dayton, OH
To Spy or Not to Spy
Karla Huebner’s novels include themes about the arts, women’s experience, the individual’s relationship to history, the surreal or fantastical, and non-ordinary realities. Huebner’s books range from a scholarly biography to literary and mainstream novels to humorous mystery, with a Middle Grade title forthcoming in 2026.

Amena Jamali │ Irving, TX
The Gifted Reverence: Complement to The Reverence Chosen
Amena Jamali writes epic noblebright fantasy that is intended to offer hope in dark times. Her heroes are kind, gentle, and noble in a world that is cruel, cold, and vicious — and amid that viciousness, her heroes offer a warm place to readers and give them a space to belong. Faith, feminism, and world-anchoring magic are major hallmarks of her work, and each piece gives an opportunity for profound thought and engagement with the meaning of virtue.

Elm Jed │ Middletown, OH
My Dear Leo
Elm Jed is an award winning author, who mainly writes mafia, paranormal, and suspense romance. They are a disabled, queer, Marine Corps veteran with a degree in Theatre. Their books focus on mental health awareness and giving readers a space to feel seen in different ways from disabilities to understanding their queerness.

E.M. Jones │ Dayton, OH
The Reader’s Resort
E.M. Jones writes supernatural thrillers set in the Midwest. His latest book, The Reader’s Resort, explores themes of death, redemption, and trauma. When he’s not thinking about ghosts, he’s playing football with his sons or wandering bookstores with his wife.

Lauren Kiser │ Lorain, OH
Mended Fences (Sable Point #4)
Lauren Kiser is a Midwest millennial mom who writes emotionally reckless, open-door romance that’ll make you laugh, cry, and swoon—sometimes in the same chapter. Her books are short and spicy, full of smart-mouthed heroines, complicated men, and banter that bites. When she’s not writing, wrangling her kids, or plotting new ways to emotionally wreck her characters (and readers), she’s curled up with someone else’s love story from her endless TBR and a box of White Cheddar Cheez-Its. Her debut series, The Price of Love, launched in 2024. In 2025, she introduced the Sable Point series—raw, romantic small-town stories where the chemistry’s hot and the feelings hit harder.

Dwain Lee │ Louisville, KY
Sinner’s Prayer
Dwain Lee has worn many hats in his life – architect, minister, and now author. A longtime Columbus resident, he and his husband now live in Louisville, KY. Sinner’s Prayer is the second in his series of mysteries featuring gay minister Dan Randolph and his husband, Asian-Canadian violin maker Greg Zhu.

Leah Lore │ New Carlise, OH
Falling Through Fire
Leah Lore is a fantasy and science fiction author who is constantly daydreaming stories to escape reality. Leah writes character-driven adventures with an emphasis on mental health and self-worth. Her biology degree and love of nature have been pivotal elements of creating beautiful yet realistic worlds brimming with magic.

Sarah Mason │ Licking, MO
Caught in the Crossfire
Sarah K. Mason writes romance for readers who like their love stories emotional, deeply human, and a little feral. Her books blend found family, strong heroines, heart, heat, and grit. She’s friendly, chatty, and always happy to talk tropes and the scenes that live rent-free in your head.

Darin Miller │ Grove City, OH
Delusion: Dwayne Morrow Mystery #8
Darin Miller is the BookFest award-winning author of the Ohio-based Dwayne Morrow Mystery series, an unrelated anthology, Broken Bits and Bobs, and a standalone psychological thriller, Equilibrium. Blending action, humor, suspense and mystery, Dwayne Morrow features characters you’re sure to love—or loathe.

Tonya Mitchell │ Cincinnati, OH
Needle and Bone
Tonya Mitchell is the author of 19th century gothic historical fiction about strong women and their dark stories. Whether it’s a woman reporter going undercover in an insane asylum, a wife on trial accused of poisoning her husband to death, or a young girl being chased by a ghost of the woman she saw murdered, her books drop readers into the world of foggy streets, danger, and brave heroines who must find a way to rescue themselves before it’s too late.

J.C. Moore │ East Aurora, NY
Behind All The Dark Roads
J.C. Moore writes suspense driven thrillers focused on character, consequence, and the cost of buried secrets. Moore’s stories center on ordinary people facing extraordinary pressure. A Mystery Writers of America member, J.C. Moore is the author of the Shadow Bay thriller series and the Frank Mallory novels.

Michael S. Moore │ Newark, OH
Jazz Trash: A Novel About Making Art and Making Noise
Michael S. Moore is a visual artist, musician, and writer. His first book, Crumpled Paper, is about an artist who leaves an unintentional defect in a drawing causing the piece to soar in popularity and value. His second novel, Jazz Trash, is about an eccentric musician trying to overcome the odds. Smart and funny.

Marla K. Morris │ Columbus, OH
Her Dream, His Nightmare
Marla Morris is an emerging author writing true crime fiction based on tragedies that occurred in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio.  She doesn’t subscribe to gore, but rather the thriller aspect of seemingly mundane menaces doing the unthinkable. Themes of second chances, redemption and dreams are prevalent in her books.

Tatiana Obey │ Dallas, TX
Return of the Sistah Samurai: A Champloo Novel
Tatiana Obey is a fantasy author who writes badass black women slaying dragons. She is the author of A Forging of Age duology and The Champloo Mixes series, and have short stories featured in FIYAH Literary Magazine and Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy 2025.

Petra Palerno │ Cincinnati, OH
All I Wanted Was to Read Books But I Became a Space Pirate Instead (Bubble Babes #4)
Petra Palerno writes books once described as “like the weirdly funny sci-fi softcore VHS you’d find in your rich aunt’s basement.” Expect adventure, big laughs, surprising heart, and toe-curling smut—all wrapped up in perfectly bite-sized novels.

Grant Piercy │ Gahanna, OH
Mordred
Grant Piercy is the author of science fiction and surrealist works such as The Erased Saga, I Am Mercury, and Galahad. These books explore identity, parallel realities, and transcendence. He has a fondness for asking fundamental questions of self in terrifying and complex ways.

Jane Plattinum │ Centerville, OH
Born of Devotion
Jane Platinum is a self published science fiction author focusing on the themes of trauma and found family, her books are sure to pull at your heartstrings, but always have a through-line of hope, and enough bright spots to keep you reading.

Jaye Pool │ Cincinnati, OH
To Die Is Gain
Jaye Pool writes intersectional contemporary fiction exploring religious trauma, mental health, relationships, and redemption. The Losantiverse Duology — Make Me Free and To Die Is Gain — follows intertwined characters rebuilding after spiritual and personal upheaval. A longtime resident of Cincinnati, she performs with Cincy Sketchprov, an improv and sketch comedy troupe.

Courtney Grace Powers │ Sabina, OH
The Moment Thief
Α musician, dungeon master, and well-rounded nerd, Courtney Grace Powers writes the niche corners of whimsical worlds: the places where rock music propels spaceships, ancient dynasties control time travel, and talking foxes are just another Tuesday.

Matthew Salinas │ Aurora, IL
Real Television
Matthew Salinas is an author from Illinois who writes short horror stories and novels, a dabbler in micro-fiction, and a member of the Chicago Writers Association and Horror Writers Association. He had the honor of being a member of the first-ever American Library Association Reader’s Advisory Panel on Horror Fiction.

Torryn Santana │ Columbus, OH
Keep Forgetting: We’re Not in Love
Torryn Santana writes about couples who love hard but have learned that real romance doesn’t follow a straight line, because real love stories aren’t perfect. She’s known for her mature characters who love boldly and for telling relatable stories that will make you blush, laugh, and leave you wanting more.

C.D. Tavenor │ Columbus, OH
Revolution: Shadows of Endari
C.D. Tavenor is a Columbus, Ohio-based author who has been writing, editing, and self-publishing science fiction and fantasy for seven years. They are excited to tell stories that engage readers beyond a desire for entertainment, whether through philosophical inspiration or social inquiry. When not writing, they enjoy the more than occasional board game, their favorite being Eclipse.

KN Tristan │ Akron, OH
Glassborn
KN Tristan writes near-future dystopian fiction that explores the cracks in controlled systems and the people bold enough to push back, with a touch of romance and a healthy dose of snark. When she’s not writing, she curates book recommendations at BestDystopianBooks, a blog for fans of character-driven rebellion.

Calan Vance │ Corry, PA
My Obsessive Nightmare
Calan Vance is an indie horror author. Their first book, My Next-Door Obsession was published in 2022 and is about a teenage duo set off on a journey of incredible bounds, terrifying encounters, and obsessive behaviors.

Josh Vidmar │ Columbus, OH
Striker V: The Bleeding Blue Sky
Josh Vidmar is the author of the COMPLETE Striker V superhero dramedy series. These chuggable stories hit hard on humor while also leaning into very real emotional moments. Vidmar’s relatable superhero characters present human stories that showcase all of life’s joys and irritations both on and off the battlefield.

JJ Winston │ Lyndhurst, OH
The Revelation
JJ Winston has created a distinctive space for herself in the literary world, blending compelling storytelling with heartfelt advocacy to bring pressing societal challenges into focus. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, attorney, and family court magistrate, her professional and personal experiences inform every page of her novels, which tackle important issues such as mental health, human trafficking, and sickle cell disease. With her award-winning debut novel, The Anniversary, and her most recent release, The Revelation, Winston aims to spark meaningful conversations while empowering readers with knowledge and compassion.

KJB Alan │ Saint Paris, OH
Welcome Aboard: A Beginner’s Guide to Cruising
KJB Alan captivates readers through imagination and exploration. The Bridge and the Mist immerses fantasy lovers in a vivid world of destiny and the unknown, while Welcome Aboard: A Beginner’s Guide to Cruising educates first-time cruise-goers with his thirty-plus years of experience with insider tips, planning guidance, and real-world advice to ensure unforgettable, stress-free adventures at sea.

Eileen Colette │ Medina, OH
Why Plants Die and Other Happy Thoughts
Eileen Colette is a registered nurse, caregiver, writer, and founder of RootsOMG (Of My Garden), a brand dedicated to helping people grow inside and out through gardening events, community storytelling, and reflective writing. She integrates humor, faith, and creativity to build connection and hope. She writes nonfiction that examines what it means to be human through the metaphor of plant life by being rooted, through change, seasons, pruning, and flourishing. Why Plants Die and Other Happy Thoughts invites readers to look inward with curiosity and compassion, and to consider how growth often emerges from unlikely soil.

Nicholas Daulton │ Wilmington, OH
You Can’t Kill the Monster
Nicholas Daulton is a graphic novelist from Wilmington, Ohio. His first work is a 223-page graphic novel made completely by hand called ‘You Can’t Kill the Monster’. The book is an emotionally gripping story full of action and surprises using all the tropes in both manga and comics to portray emotional growth and overcoming trauma.

Andrew Drasen │ Franklin, WI
A Vision of Hope: A Story of Redemption and Purpose
Andrew Drasen is a Wisconsin author whose A Vision of Hope series blends memoir, social commentary, and recovery-focused insight. Drawing from lived experience, his books explore addiction, incarceration, identity, and systemic reform, offering a raw, practical path towards personal responsibility, healing, and long-term change.

Angela J. Herrington │ Marion, IN
Embracing the Old Witch in the Woods: Liberating Feminine Wisdom from Christian Patriarchy
Angela J. Herrington is a two-time author, trauma-informed coach, and seminary graduate. Her book explores reclaiming feminine wisdom, intuition, and embodiment. It offers grounded insight for those questioning the daily impact of internalized misogyny.

David Lewis │ Columbus, OH
The Ride of My Life
David Lewis’s memoir uses his lifelong love of cars to explore childhood in turbulent NYC, codependency, trauma, humor, heartbreak, and redemption. It’s less about vehicles and more about what drives a life—from divorced parents to fatherhood in Ohio. You may not learn cars, but you’ll love the ride.

Delores L. McCollum │CLEVELAND, OH
Do You Know?  A Survey of the Black Experience in America
Delores McCollum’s book takes the reader on an intriguing journey, discovering the experiences of one of America’s oldest communities.  Its unique format and cross-generational appeal can generate questions and discussions that will deepen and widen the story threads within this book. Delores is retired Cleveland secondary Social Studies teacher with a passion for excellent education for students and a passion for reading and creative, articulate writing.

Rustin Moore │ Dublin, OH
Unlocking the Bond: The Power and Paradox of Human-Animal Interactions
Rustin Moore is a veterinarian, academic leader, and storyteller whose work centers on the human–animal bond as a force shaping health, resilience, ethics, and community life. His books invite readers to see animals not as background figures in human life, but as essential partners whose bonds with people carry both profound benefits and ethical responsibility.

Jim Reuther │ Worthington, OH
Gunky’s Adventures in the Land of Must Believe
Jim Reuther professes three passions: Scientist, Soccer, and Storyteller. As a scientist with a PhD in Chemical-Physics from Penn State, he dedicated 40 years to demilitarizing explosive weapons of mass destruction worldwide. In his soccer career, he spent 25 years as a professional referee and later served as a referee liaison. As a storyteller for the past decade, he has shared his experiences to inspire readers’ hearts, minds, and souls.

Anthony W. Scott, Esq. │ Parma, OH
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: You Belong at the Table!
Tony Scott, Esq. is a Marine Corps veteran, attorney, author, and public speaker whose books explore empowerment, authenticity, and self-discovery. Through titles like Unlocking Potential and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, he helps readers transform doubt into purpose. He is currently developing additional non-fiction works and an erotic horror series.

Christopher Sunami │ Columbus, OH
Free Your Mind: New Philosophy
Christopher Sunami is a philosopher, musician and author. His books include the critically acclaimed picture book “How the Fisherman Tricked the Genie,” socially progressive devotional “Hero For Christ,” philosophical survey “The Partially Examined Life” and original philosophical work “Three Ways of Being Human,” and “Free Your Mind.”

Cliff Treyens │ Columbus, OH
There’s a Rock on Martin Avenue
Cliff Treyens’ 50 years of writing spans three careers and nine jobs. Credits including his news reporting on the team winning the 1983 Pulitzer Prize for Distinguished Public Service. He will be exhibiting a fascinating collection of vignettes and poems; two adult children spotlight their fathers’ weekly breakfast outings. Exposed as riotous affairs, the gatherers become legends and the ordinary become extraordinary.

Daquian Williams │ Columbus, OH
Royal Blood Never Fades
Daquian “GrindTime DQ” Williams is a Columbus author, filmmaker, community activist, father, coach, businessman and mental-health advocate whose work blends empowerment, urban drama, and emotional healing. His books and creative projects inspire readers to overcome adversity, embrace self-growth, and build stronger communities.

Dani Diaz │ Wilmington, DE
Dreamover
Dani Diaz is a transfeminine Filipino-Argentinian American comic artist born and raised in Washington, D.C. Dani’s debut graphic novel, Dreamover, is a wholesome, slice-of-life, magical-realist romance with broad appeal (ages 10+). It is a coming of age story about first loves, the transition from middle school to high school, and the messiness and awkwardness of changing social relationships therein. Dreamover received starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and BookPage (312 pages, full color, young adult/middle grade).

Etta Grace │ Edgewood, KY
Runaways
In her YA debut, Runaways, Etta Grace weaves a story about identity, sisterhood, and redemption. Secrets lurk in the woods and Cecelia’s gone missing. To rescue her younger sister, Hannah must venture into Faerieland on Halloween and learn the truth about the threat that stalks their family.

R.S. Hamilton │ Martin, OH
The Stories of Evergreen Book III: The Battle for Greystone
R.S. Hamilton has been writing short stories and novels for thirty years. He has an Associate of Arts degree from Cuyahoga Community College and studied Creative Writing and Literature at Bowling Green State University. He lives in Ohio with his wife and three dogs.

E.A. Hendryx │ Columbus, IN
Rising From the Galaxy
E.A. Hendryx is an award-winning author, graphic designer, photographer, and podcaster living in Indiana with her husband, two dogs, and a cat named Pages. She writes fiction in multiple genres and spends more time on Instagram than she probably should. She grew up on a steady diet of Star Trek and Nancy Drew and believes that every idea is better in space.

Hannah Hounshell │ Arcanum, OH
Brightfeather
Hannah Hounshell is an artist-turned-author living in the wilds of rural Ohio, where coyotes sing and the odd faerie ring of mushrooms may appear in your yard overnight. Her debut, Brightfeather, is a modern day beauty-and-the-beast retelling with a fae twist featuring romance, bargains, and the power of faerie tales.

Brett James │ Columbus, OH
The Way Back to Us
Launch into the world of Wild Sky, where the horizon is filled with spectacular skyships, swashbuckling pirates hide among the clouds, and ancient mysteries await in moss-covered temples. Author Brett James is your enthusiastic guide to this new sci-fi universe discovered across several interconnected books.

Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone │ GROVE CITY, OH
Cemetery Ridge 
Instead of turning to leisure activities after retiring from thirty years as an educator, Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone developed her passion for writing with her debut novel, Cemetery Ridge. Cemetery Ridge has received outstanding praise and reviews from middle-grade and adult readers alike, as well as a Readers’ Favorite® 5-star award. Her other titles include her humorous children’s picture book Mootsie and the Invasion of the Robot Vacuum.

K.R. S. McEntire │ Indianapolis, IN
That Girl Who Ran Off and Kissed A Vampire: A Portal Fantasy Adventure
K.R. S. McEntire is an independently-published author of YA and NA fantasy. Holding a BS in Journalism from Ball State University and a minor in Creative Writing, she began her career as an arts journalist and now serves as the Public Relations Manager for her city’s library system. McEntire is passionate about crafting stories for young readers reflecting the rich diversity of our world.

Scott Bachmann │ Yellow Springs, OH
Anthony Fox Is Not Afraid of Ghosts
Weaving humor and humanity into everything he writes, Scott Bachmann likes to play in a variety of styles. Super hero moms, unicorns that cross universes, chocolate bunnies that come to life, and foxes that outwit ghosts, Scott finds a way to make them all relatable in a grounded and moving way.

Jessica Bennett │ Reynoldsburg, OH
More Than Meets the Eye
Jessica Vera-Bennett is an author and educator whose children’s books promote inclusion, identity, and understanding. Drawing inspiration from her work in special education and her family, Jessica writes heartfelt stories that encourage children to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate differences while fostering kindness, empathy, and confidence in every reader.

Mesha Griffith │ Hilliard, OH
The Bedtime Mantra
Mesha is a children’s author local to Columbus. Her debut book is all about helping children who struggle with bedtime and making sure they know they are loved and safe. Being a parent to a five-year-old, she has gone through the trials and tribulations of bedtime!

Kara Hope │ Proctorville, OH
Logan Digs the Caves
Ohio author Kara Hope turns camping adventures into fun filled stories. Her mission is to help kids find a healthy outlet in life. When she’s not with her sons, she’s hiking to waterfalls or behind her camera. Fun fact: every one of her Adventures with Logan books includes someone taking a picture.

Paula Johnson Neal │ Columbus, OH
Gabby Meets Kindness
Paula Johnson Neal is all about big feelings, bright smiles, and bold hearts! Her books—I’m Gonna Have A Good Day, Breathe, Gabby, Breathe, and Gabby Meets Kindness—turn social emotional learning into everyday magic. Perfect for back-to-school and beyond, her stories help kids shine with confidence, calm, and kindness all year long!

Bonnie Kostan │ Lakewood, OH
Count to 20 With the Silly Dinosaurs
Bonnie Kostan is a children’s book author who writes stories that help kids grow kind hearts and curious minds. Her books teach values, friendship, and confidence through fun characters and real-life lessons. She also shares tips for parents and supports fellow self-published authors through Quill Town Books.

Nicole Loy │ Piqua, OH
Saving Sir Stud Muffin
Ohio author Nicole Loy writes playful, interactive picture books where young readers become the heroes. Warm, funny, and full of heart, her stories celebrate friendship, courage, and compassion – with plenty of giggles, chaos, and heroic high-fives along the way.

Tradara McLaurine │ Westfield, IN
MVP’S Playbook
Tradara writes uplifting books for young readers, including MVP’s Playbook, which encourages confidence, character, and everyday success. Her work supports families and educators in nurturing leadership skills and helping children see themselves as capable MVPs in life and learning.

Courtney Morstatter │ Liberty, MO
Puff and Spotzie Adventures Statue of Liberty
Courtney is a former preschool teacher who loves making history fun. Come join Puff and Spotzie as they use their imaginations to travel back in time to learn about history. These two cats love to learn about the world around them and with the help of local guides, they learn about Ancient Egypt, the Oregon Trail, the Ancient Olympics and now The Statue of Liberty!

Rocio Oubre │ Spring, TX
Jazmin the Mystery of the Strawberry Cake
Rocío Oubre is a children’s book author who creates heartwarming stories for young readers. Her books focus on kindness, imagination, emotional growth, and everyday adventures that children can easily relate to. Through engaging characters and gentle messages, Rocío’s stories encourage empathy, confidence, and a love of reading in early childhood. Her work is inspired by family, and the belief that books can shape caring, curious little humans.

Robert Pence │ Gahanna, OH
Silly Daughter
What happens when a Silly Daughter has some not-so-silly emotions? With playful illustrations and heartwarming parenting, this rhyming book is perfect for children ages 2 to 5 and their parents, helping explore the unique emotions of childhood through unconditional love.

Robert Pence is a mental health therapist and a dad determined to write write children’s books that blend his training and personal experience to provide accessible and helpful books for children and parents, exploring the complexities of emotional development in children.

Debbie Peterson │ Dublin, OH
Max and Cheese
Debbie Peterson always knew she wanted to write a book. This is her first book and it is about her dog, Max. Max is a dachshund with a problem: he loves cheese! Max and his best friend, a gray squirrel named Sid, come up with a list of 10 crazy ideas to help Max get the cheese he wants. In the end, does Max get the cheese?

Jane Smith │ Wilmington, NC
It’s Christmas, Chloe Zoe!
Jane Smith is a celebrated author-illustrator of thirteen picture books, including the popular Chloe Zoe series, Miss Meow and more. An Ohio native, Jane earned her BFA in Illustration at CCAD before beginning her publishing career as an art director of children’s novelty books.

Christina Taylor-Florence │ Worthington, OH
Days Pass: A Year Through the Eyes of a Squirrel
Christina Taylor-Florence, a resident of Worthington, Ohio, holds a master’s degree in reading and children’s literature from The Ohio State University. She has a background in elementary education and primarily taught kindergarten.

DG Thomas │ Louisville, KY
Carnations, Catfights, and Conspiracies: A Thorne Sister Sleuths Cozy Mystery
DG Thomas is an author, storyteller, and independent publisher who writes engaging books for readers of all ages. From cozy mysteries full of small-town secrets to inspiring children’s picture and chapter books, her stories blend warmth, humor, and unforgettable characters. Stop by her booth to discover your next great read!

Matt Vojacek │ Gahanna, OH
Creative Little Monsters
As a creative kid turned adult himself, Matt is the Founder and Creative Director of award winning motion design studio, Made By Things. With three young kids of his own, he wanted to create something they could be inspired by to never stop making messes.

Andria Williams │ Logan, OH
The Hocking Hills Bigfoot
Andria is a children’s book author passionate about helping diverse families navigate difficult conversations. A native of Logan, Ohio, Andria began writing five years ago to fill a gap in children’s literature she noticed while searching for resources to address sensitive family dynamic topics for those in kinship care, foster care, and adoption. Alongside these stories of empathy and resilience, Andria also delights in capturing the magic of family travel, creating playful adventures based on real journeys with her children in the great Hocking Hills area. Her heartfelt books aim to foster understanding, connection, and a shared sense of wonder.

Tanisha Burke-Wormley │ Columbus, OH
Medical Moms of NICU Activity Book
As a NICU mom herself, Tanisha is passionate about bringing awareness to what she calls “medical moms”. TKO CKD: My Fight to Live (Round 1) is a children’s book to encourage NICU families to celebrate their miracle’s medical milestones with chronic illness. This book also raises awareness for Chronic Kidney Disease and celebrates the medical intervention of Cincinnati Children’s hospital.

Sade Harvison │ Columbus, OH
When A Teacher See’s A Spark
Sade Harvison’s chaotic childhood inspired her to write a children’s book series. Sade hopes that the Lo’Tuz series will help young children who struggle with their home life, and that kids learn that some of the most beautiful things come alive in the dark.

Katie Merkle │ Plain City, OH
Here in Ohio
Katie Merkle is the founder of Piccolo Press, an independent publisher of books and activities for kids. A Columbus native, she is the author of the board book Here in Ohio. With a background in education, Katie is passionate about designing materials that encourage joyful learning, creativity, and family connection.

Trae Venerable │ Grandview, MO
Grandpa I Just Wanna Be A Cowboy
Trae Venerable (Trae Q. L. Venerable) is an American author, educator, and fourth-generation cowboy from the Kansas City area, known for his children’s book series that highlights the history and legacy of Black cowboys.

Lauren Fischer │ Chicago, IL
Orphanland
Lauren Bomberger Fischer was born and raised in Indiana, graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and lives in Chicago with her family and rescue cats. She edited many articles about the opioid epidemic while working as a science editor at The JAMA Network. She advocates for LGBTQ and disability representation in children’s fiction.

Erin Hayden │ Fort Wayne, IN
Five Minute Major
Erin Hayden writes stories for readers who crave connection. From cozy mysteries to middle grade adventures and YA fiction, her books blend heartfelt storytelling with authentic representation. Drawing from her experience as an educator, mother of four, and caregiver to a child with Type 1 Diabetes and celiac disease, Erin creates inclusive, engaging stories where readers can truly see themselves in the characters she writes.

Michelle Herman │ Columbus, OH
All the Time in the World
Michelle Herman is a novelist, essayist, and Slate advice columnist whose most recent books are All the Time in the World, a novel about friendship and time-travel for readers age 10-12 (2026); A Kid’s Guide to Life (advice! for young people!) (2026); and Close-Up, a novel for adults (2025). Michelle retired from teaching at The Ohio State University, where she was a founder of the MFA Program in Creative Writing.

Cary Sowers │ Wooster, OH
Harley Wigglestein’s Home Invasion
What do lima beans, strange old ladies, and underwear have in common? The Harley Wigglestein series! Welcome to Millie Stillman’s world, where between Mikey Keegan annoying her, a secret crush on her best friend’s brother, and, most of all, Harley Wigglestein, a girl could lose her mind!