Marla loves to write transformational and life-changing content from a non-judgment perspective. She is the owner and founder of the TuthSpeaksGroup LLC, a multi-media coaching company that creates strategies and solutions for work-life integration/harmony (WLI/H).
D. Tina Batten (Sister Batten) is an award-winning playwright, author, filmmaker, and gospel storyteller. As the founder of Sister Batten Productions, she uses life experiences to create impactful stories that inspire change. Known for discovering talent, she continues to uplift and encourage through her plays, films, and books, all while staying true to her Christian values.
Dr. BEE is honored to be an International Amazon #1 Bestselling author in numerous anthologies and, as of June 2024, she has published nearly two dozen books, anthologies and magazines.
CS Bennett, a decorated US Navy veteran and author from Philadelphia, has written 30 books, with 26 published to date. A Magna Cum Laude graduate, Bennett served aboard the USS Nimitz and USS Saratoga, and penned 16 novels while earning degrees in Social Science, Criminal Justice, and Political Science.
Nancy Blanton is an award-winning historical fiction author specializing in 17th-century Irish history. Her novels explore Ireland’s resilience and strife during this transformative era. Blanton’s work, inspired by her Irish heritage and travels, vividly brings to life the country’s clans, rebellions, and traditions. She resides in Florida, crafting stories of enduring relevance
Dawn Caldwell is the author of the ‘Tales Retold’ series, which follows Layla, a mouse living in an antique store, as she relives historical events. Her works aim to present history with accuracy while weaving engaging narratives for young readers.
Robert V. Carabina, M.Ed., MBA, CPA, is an educator, lecturer, author, and advocate for better schools. He led a pioneering legal and political battle to remove asbestos from his school’s building, setting a precedent for others. His efforts contributed to the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule. He has addressed Florida’s Moms for Liberty and legislative bodies on educational issues. As a taxpayer representative, his seminar “How to Beat the IRS at Its Own Game” was instrumental in reducing IRS harassment of taxpayers.
Debut author, Robert T. Carney is a former businessman turned recovery advocate, with 32 years of sobriety. After overcoming a difficult past in New York and prison, he now helps others achieve personal transformation. Living in Florida with his wife, he enjoys golf, yoga, writing, and volunteering in support groups.
A.N. Cook is a passionate author and illustrator dedicated to crafting imaginative stories that transport readers to new realms. Her works include “The Pharian Chronicles,” “Little-Miss-Not-So-Perfect,” and “Bunny’s First Easter.” A.N. believes reading is an essential tool for life, offering an inexpensive passport to unknown destinations
Bernadette Y. Connor, a trailblazing African American author, began her journey as a poet, reflecting on the African American experience. A former communications technician, she turned to writing after personal tragedies reignited her passion. Renowned for her genre-crossing works, including Damaged!, Bernadette has penned 13 novels and 7 screenplays.
Growing up in Missouri, author Benjamin Coward discovered world-building through RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons and reading The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini. In his debut YA fantasy novel, he creates relatable characters overcoming evil through teamwork. With a degree in environmental science, Benjamin’s love for nature and history enriches his storytelling.
Rev. Rebecca J. Craig, an ELCA pastor since 2009, transitioned from journalism at Disney to ministry. She’s the author of “Once Upon a Nightmare” and the upcoming “Through Her Eyes” (2025). Plus, she illustrated the delightful children’s book “Monty: A Tale of No Tail.” Stories are her superpower!
W.C. Filmore, a Daytona Beach-based author, crafts gripping horror and supernatural fiction. Known for his “Dark Urban Mythos” series, Filmore blends horror, fantasy, and mystery into tales set in everyday neighborhoods. His works, including Dark Paradise of the Dead and Maxwell’s Traveling Gypsy Circus, explore chilling urban legends and supernatural lore.
I am a writer and artist living in Jacksonville, Florida. Originally from the deep hills of West Virginia, I carry the rugged landscapes and folklore of Appalachia into my work. Since the age of 21, I’ve called Florida home and am now settled in the northern part of the state with my wife and our 7-pound Chihuahua, who has claimed a permanent spot on my lap.
My creative influences come from my love for noir-style storytelling, drawing inspiration from the works of Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe. I often explore themes of mystery, history, and the supernatural in both my writing and artwork. When I’m not immersed in crafting stories, you can find me enjoying the Florida sun or planning my next artistic project.
Lauren Gilbert, a literature and art history graduate, has a passion for English novels, especially historical fiction. She’s a member of the Jane Austen Society and an active presenter. Her novels, “HEYERWOOD” and “A RATIONAL ATTACHMENT,” explore Regency England, while her essays appear in “CASTLES, CUSTOMS AND KINGS.”
David Grant Jr. is a passionate children’s author focused on inspiring young minds through education, character building, and the love of Jesus. As a homeschool parent and aspiring creative writer, he crafts stories that foster self-love and growth. When not writing, he enjoys family time and coaching his son in sports.
Donna M. Gray-Banks is the dynamic founder of the F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival, one of Florida’s largest celebrations of minority and indie authors. A passionate advocate for literature, jazz, and community empowerment, she also serves as CEO of the Midtown Community Development Corporation and hosts radio and YouTube shows that spotlight authors, entrepreneurs, and artists. Donna is a published author of the suspenseful Ila’s Diamonds series, a columnist, and a book broker. Her work nurtures young talent and honors jazz legends, blending creativity with purpose. She lives in Palm Coast, Florida, and is the proud mother of Gregory Taylor Banks.
Nicole Heath, also known as Nikki Tyara, is a contemporary romance novelist from Altamonte Springs, Florida. Her “day job” is in the healthcare field. She explores themes of self-love and resilience. Her works include “A Heart Reclaimed to Heal,” dedicated to abuse survivors, and the children’s book “Mia’s Adventures at Grandma’s House.” Nicole believes in the power of storytelling to inspire hope.
Mrs T. And is it devoted wife married 32 years. Together, she and her husband raised two wonderful children. Mrs. Jackson hold several degrees including a master’s in theology and marriage and family therapy. Driven by her passion, she has shared her story and authored books across multiple genres.
C.I. Jerez is a proud Latina author from Miami, Florida, blending her Irish, Puerto Rican, and Cuban roots into vibrant stories featuring Latino and Latina characters. A U.S. Army veteran and business professional, she holds a doctorate in International Business. She resides in St. Cloud, FL, with her family.
Nadine Joseph is the author and illustrator of Imani’s Crown, a story that empowers young girls to embrace their self-worth and the magic within their hair. With a focus on confidence, courage, and self-love, Nadine’s work encourages children to believe in their abilities and the power of their uniqueness.
In addition to crafting romance stories and mysteries, Mindy Killgrove has devoted decades to creating classroom resources that can be used in grades K-12
Danny Lampkin, a retired U.S. Army veteran with 22+ years of service, is an author and motivator living in Enterprise, Alabama, with his wife and nine children. His writing blends entertainment, inspiration, and humor, inviting readers to explore truths and insights while sharing his passion for storytelling and family values.
Dr. Rhonda Lowe, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is an accomplished author and Certified NLP Life and Leadership Coach. She has written several books, including “The Last Song: Red Addition” and “The Therapeutic Power of Music & ART: Through the Eyes of Philosophy.” Dr. Lowe offers coaching services through her platform, A Balanced Life For You.
Loryn Moore is a fantasy and paranormal romance author based in North Florida, where she lives with her husband and two young sons. A DIY enthusiast and beach lover, Loryn draws inspiration from her family. She crafts magical, romantic tales that transport readers to secret worlds filled with wonder and mystery.
F.J. Sánchez, a U.S. Navy veteran and engineer from Puerto Rico, crafts epic tales inspired by his love for fantasy. Living in Florida with his wife, sons, and pets, he enjoys freshwater fishing, creating music, and immersing in fantastic worlds. His debut trilogy invites readers into wondrous, otherworldly adventures.
Katherine Scott, M.Ed/Ed.S, is a Marriage and Family Therapist and Assistant Clinical Director at Puzzle Peace Counseling in NE Florida. With a passion for supporting children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum, she blends experiential therapy with her love for the outdoors, writing, and advocacy.
Linda R. Sexton is an open adoption, speaker, author, blogger and adoptive mom. She is on the advisory board of Amelia Island Writers. The Branches We Cherish: An Open Adoption Memoir was awarded a gold medal in the prestigious Royal Palm Literary Awards.
Steven Simmons Shelton, an LGBTQIA+ author and advocate, shares his journey with dissociative identity disorder in his debut memoir, “Memoir of a Mangled Mind.” He hosts “The Mangled Mind Podcast” and leads a memoir writing group. A summa cum laude law graduate, he resides in Florida with his husband and cats.
Cynthia B. Smalls, a former Labor Relations Specialist, is a passionate advocate for workers’ rights. After surviving breast cancer, she created Melanin and Pink Ribbons, a blog dedicated to supporting Black women facing breast cancer. Cynthia is also on the Board of PINK “ME” and a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority.
Sherna Spearman-Lott is a twenty-five year veteran elementary teacher in her hometown of Jesup, GA. Ms. Spearman-Lott works as a reading intervention teacher while simultaneously sharing the gift of reading with her students. She is a mother to two adult children – daughter, Anyzia, and son, Elijah. My Teacher Sees Me is her first written work. Teaching is her lifelong passion, and she desires for others to have a glimpse of what makes the work that educators do so meaningful!
Corey Minor Smith is an attorney, author, and transformational speaker who turned life’s challenges into triumphs. In her inspiring memoir she shares her powerful story of overcoming a turbulent childhood, heartbreak, and personal adversity with the support of loved ones and unwavering determination. From navigating a broken home and mental health struggles to achieving her dream of becoming a lawyer, Corey’s journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and purpose. Today, she empowers others to push past obstacles and pursue their dreams with confidence. Corey’s voice is bold, uplifting, and a reminder that we drive our own destiny.
Tiffany Flowers Towns is an author, educator, and avid reader. Her works include novels, children’s books, and devotional collections. A graduate of the University of North Florida, she is passionate about inspiring others through education. Tiffany resides in Jacksonville, FL, with her husband and two daughters.
Joan T. Warren is a retired occupational therapist and former addictions minister who channels her passion for healing into writing. Her works span historical fiction, children’s literature, guided journals, and nonfiction, all aimed at fostering personal growth and authentic connections. Drawing from her rich professional background, Joan crafts stories that delve into themes of recovery, family dynamics, and resilience. Her novel The Bent Tree Path explores intergenerational trauma and healing. Additionally, her children’s handwriting activity book, Learn Upper Case Letters with Dino T and Seedling, combines educational content with creative storytelling. Through her diverse publications, Joan invites readers of all ages to embark on transformative journeys, emphasizing the power of storytelling in personal and communal healing.
