2023 Book Fair Participants

The Book Fair will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 from 4:30 TO 6:30 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn, Hamilton, NJ.

The Book Fair is open to the general public in addition to all conference attendees.


2023 Book Fair Participants

NameBio
Samantha AnnBorn, raised, and still living in New Jersey, Samantha Ann started writing in the fifth grade out of boredom. At first, it was your run-of-the-mill journal entries but soon became stories of things she wished she had said or done, and soon simply stories about other characters and creatures. Samantha thanks her mother forever for the creative writing gene as her mother is a New York Times Best-Selling author. Samantha is half Cuban (mother) and half Italian (father) but speaks more Korean than either of the languages her parents desperately tried to teach her growing up. Samantha created the Korean From Context website and the Seoul Searching novel that were featured on the Forbes magazine blog as being a fun new way to learn Korean. Samantha has amassed over 20k TikTok followers in just over a year using fun creative ways to promote herself and her book Seoul Searching. When not writing, editing, photographing, creating Tiktoks, Instagram posts, and Tweets, Samantha is an EDI Specialist for a kids clothing company. You can find Samantha at www.koreanfromcontext.com.
Carol Binkowski (writing as Caryl Janis)Caryl Janis has been a fan of mysteries since childhood and now writes her own. To Sketch a Killer is her first published mystery novel, and Research Can Be Murder is coming soon. She is a freelance musician and nonfiction author who enjoys theater, museums, and spending time with family and friends.
Michael BlatherwickMichael Blatherwick was born and raised in New Jersey and has spent many years traveling the US as well as work assignments in the United Kingdom and India. After leaving a career in finance and technical writing, he worked at a yearbook company, learning the printing process, and currently works at a non-profit that provides job and housing assistance for individuals with disabilities. A graduate of Villanova University, he resides in Bordentown, New Jersey, with his wife, dog, and their loyal army of cats. Michael is a fan of a wide array of authors and genres, citing his main influences as Michael Lewis, T.C. Boyle, Michael Chabon, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Terry Moore, and Margaret Atwood. He believes that the best fiction has firm roots in "believability" but pushes the imagination to the fringe between truth and fantasy. His action adventure book series, The Photograph Chronicles, is the ongoing story of Dana Jefferson, a young woman in pursuit of her family's secret history with the help of her military-grade roller skates, Laverne and Shirley. Book One, Photograph and the Atomic Juggernaut, and Book Two, Photograph and the Daughters of Invention, are available at most major online retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Books-A-Million. Book Three, Photograph: New Wheeled Order, is scheduled for release in summer of 2024.
Christine BushChristine Bush is an award winning author of mystery, romance and suspense.
Paula Chaffee ScardamaliaPaula Chaffee Scardamalia is a book coach, dream and tarot intuitive and the author of "Enchanting Creativity: How Fairy Tales, Dreams, Rituals & Journaling Can Awaken Your Creative Self". She wrote the award-winning "Weaving a Woman’s Life: Spiritual Lessons from the Loom", as well as "Tarot for the Fiction Writer", and her novel, "In the Land of the Vultures". For 20 years, Paula's presented workshops across the country for national and regional Romance Writers of America events; the International Women's Writing Guild; and online for Savvy Authors. She's served as mentor for winners of the First Pages Prize for the last two years and again this year. Paula publishes Divine Muse-ings, a weekly e-newsletter (since 2009) on writing, creativity, dreams, and tarot, and an author newsletter.
Marina CramerMarina Antropow Cramer is the child of post-WWII Russian refugees from the Soviet Union. Her work has appeared in Blackbird, Istanbul Literary Review, Wilderness House Literary Review, Bloom Literary Magazine, Comstock Review, and the other side of hope literary journal. She has participated in the Hobart Festival of Women Writers (2022-23), where she served as a workshop instructor. She is the author of the novels Roads (Chicago Review Press), Anna Eva Mimi Adam (RunAmok Books), and Marfa’s River (Apprentice House Press), and lives in New York’s Hudson Valley.
Dawn Cutler-TranDawn Cutler-Tran is an avid board gamer and rock climber who lives on the East Coast of the United States but loves to travel to places near and far as often as she can. Dawn has always identified as queer, but during the pandemic she came out to family and friends. This book was part of that process, and she has loved exploring different genderqueer identities like her own through her writing, reading, research, and countless hours watching reels and videos on social media. Her biggest hope in writing queer fiction is to provide at least one other person out there with characters and story lines that they can recognize themselves, or their friends and loved ones in.
Michael DaigleMichael Stephen Daigle lives in N.J. with his family. He was an award-winning journalist for more than foiur decades, including 25 years in New Jersey. After graduation from Binghamton University, he wrote his first novel at 22, and a second at 24. The second one years later became the first book of his multi-award winning Frank Nagler Mystery series: “The Swamps of Jersey” (2014); “A Game Called Dead” (2016); and “The Weight of Living” (2017), “The Red Hand” (2019) and “Dragony Rising,” (2022). Kirkus Reviews called Nagler, “One of modern fiction’s expertly drawn detectives.”
Ted DelgrossoAuthor or TedsTales and TedsTales Two; collections of fiction and sci-fi short stories.
Anna DenischAnna Denisch is a proud indie author of niche genres publishing under Our Corner Publishing. She aims to provide readers with the books they love, even if they aren't highly marketable or profitable. She has her MFA in creative and professional writing, and spends her days as an SEO blog writer.
K.M. FawcettWhether her romances are set in a charmingly quirky small town or on a dangerous alien planet, award-winning author K.M. Fawcett writes emotional stories featuring underdogs and fish-out-of-water characters who find their place in the universe. She believes in happy endings, that humor is food for the soul, and that if true love can’t conquer it, then it probably deserves a good throat punch. K.M. and her husband—the inspiration for all her heroes (and some of her villains)—own a dojo in NJ, where they teach Okinawan karate and weapons. Incorporating two decades of martial arts experience into her stories, she forges resilient, timeless characters who aren’t afraid to fight for the life and love they deserve. Become a member of K.M.’s lively reader community by signing up for her monthly newsletter and joining her Facebook Readers Group.
Mickey FlaggAlways an avid reader, the realm of paranormal fiction is the perfect landing point for Mickey Flagg. After a successful career as a music teacher and an urban school administrator, she continues to spin stories of passion, love and redemption. She’s been a contributor in a book on urban music education and has also authored an article for Still Standing, a web-magazine about loss and healing. Named a Distinguished Music Educator at the 2010 Yale Music Symposium, Mickey is a life-long New Jersey resident, a member of Liberty States Fiction Writers, and a Professor in Residence with a local university. Author Website: http://www.mflagg-author.com
Teel James GlennTeel James Glenn has killed hundreds and been killed more times--on stage and screen, as he has traveled the world for forty-plus years as a stuntman, swordmaster, storyteller, bodyguard, actor, and haunted house barker. He has published dozens of novels and his poetry and stories have been printed in over two hundred magazines including Weird Tales, Mystery, Pulp Adventures, Space & Time, Mad, Cirsova, Silverblade, Heroic Fantasy, Blazing Adventures and Sherlock Holmes Mystery. His novel A Cowboy in Carpathia: A Bob Howard Adventure won best novel 2021 in the Pulp Factory Award. He is also the winner of the 2012 Pulp Ark Award for Best Author. And he was a finalist for the Derringer short mystery award in 2022. His website is: TheUrbanSwashbuckler.com
Teel GlennTeel James Glenn has killed hundreds and been killed more times--on stage and screen, as he has traveled the world for forty-plus years as a stuntman, swordmaster, storyteller, bodyguard, actor, and haunted house barker. He is proud to have studied sword under Errol Flynn’s last Stunt double and been beaten up by Hawk on Spenser for Hire TV show. He did over two hundred episodic appearances on Soap operas, 70 feature films and 60 renaissance festivals all over the country. He has published dozens of novels and his poetry and stories have been printed in over two hundred magazines including Weird Tales, Mystery, Pulp Adventures, Space & Time, Mad, Cirsova, Silverblade, Heroic Fantasy, Blazing Adventures and Sherlock Holmes Mystery. His novel A Cowboy in Carpathia: A Bob Howard Adventure won best novel 2021 in the Pulp Factory Award. He is also the winner of the 2012 Pulp Ark Award for Best Author. And he was a finalist for the Derringer short mystery award in 2022. His website is TheUrbanSwashbuckler.com
Catherine GreenfederWhen I grew up on Staten Island, New York, my favorite past times were visiting the public library and reading books. I read a lot of different books from mysteries, biographies, historical fiction, to the classics. I studied literature and creative writing in college, and I graduated with a B.A. in English from St. John’s University. For awhile I worked in advertising and public relations, stayed home with my son while he was young, and returned to college to obtain an M.A. in Teaching from Montclair State University, in New Jersey. While working as a full-time teacher, I continued to pursue my dream of getting my work published. To date, I have had five novels including a western historical, two adult paranormal novels, and two young adult paranormal novels published. Now dedicating more time to my writing, I anticipate publishing a few short stories and more young adult novels, a women’s
Monica HoopesMonica Hoopes is an author, attorney, and mother of three. When she's not writing, she loves mud runs and appreciates a good cocktail! Her romcom/mystery mashup series, Seriously, Murder?, is inspired by her own experiences practicing law in small-town Flemington, New Jersey.
Elizabeth JohnElizabeth John creates tender romances with a touch of intrigue. She writes at sunrise before her busy day as an elementary school teacher. Admittedly, she’s a TV and movie junkie and has noble intentions to practice yoga daily. In her spare time, she can be found walking her two rescue dogs, researching her family’s ancestry, gardening, or relaxing at the beach with her nose in a good book. She is a member of New Jersey Romance Writers, Romance Writers of America, Liberty States Fiction Writers, and Sisters in Crime.
JJ LairAuthor of several fiction books about corruption and hypocrisy in several genres. He posts regularly to his website: jjlairauthor.net or blog mixtapeshistory.blogspot.com He is a member of many writing groups and book clubs.
Roz LeeUSA Today's best-selling author Roz Lee has penned over thirty (she’s lost count) romances and one very unromantic thriller. A native of Texas, Roz lives in New Jersey with her husband of over four decades and Bud, a very spoiled Labrador Retriever. Roz loves playing with her three grandkids and knows a good tourist trap when she sees one.
Ellis MaeEllis Mae is a lifelong reader and writer who delights in bringing stories to life. They enjoy drinking tea, eating Colombian buñuelos, and buying too many books every time they enter a bookstore. They value writing about queer and trans rights, stories about the human condition, and tales that evoke emotion. Ellis is Colombian American and now resides in the Carolinas where they live surrounded by family.
shari NieschmidtAward-Winning author Shari Nichols loves creating flawed characters, and throwing in as many crazy antics as possible to torture them. She lives in New Jersey with her husband. When she’s not writing, she’s traveling to exotic locations, reading, doing yoga, or having a glass of wine with family and friends. Her book HAUNTED, a standalone paranormal romance, and her Urban Fantasy Series, Raven’s Hollow Coven, are chock full of magick and mystery. Shari holds a Masters in Creative Writing from Wilkes University. She’s a member of New Jersey Romance Writers. Awards: New York Book Festival Honorable Mention, Reviewers Choice Award for Best Book, Reviewers Choice Award for Best Series, The Beverley Award, Golden Leaf Finalist For Best Book, Golden Leaf Finalist For Best Book by a New Jersey Author, HOLT Medallion Finalist, Literary Titan Silver Medal Winner.
Jodi PayneJodi Payne takes herself way too seriously and has been known to randomly break out in song. Her queer MCs are imperfect but genuine, stubborn but likable, often kinky, and frequently their own worst enemies. They are characters you can’t help but fall in love with while they stumble along the path to their happily ever after. For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, cabernet, and tequila any way you pour it.
Caridad PineiroCaridad Pineiro is a transplanted Long Island girl who has fallen in love with the Jersey Shore. When Caridad isn’t taking long strolls along the boardwalk, she’s also a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author with over a million romance novels sold worldwide. Caridad is passionate about writing and helping others explore and develop their skills as writers. She is a founding member of the Liberty States Fiction Writers and has presented workshops at the RT Book Club Convention, Romance Writers of America National Conference as well as various writing organizations throughout the country. You can connect with Caridad at www.caridad.com.
Emily RuhlEmily Ruhl was born and raised in the heart of New Jersey. A history buff at heart, she loves any opportunity that allows her to learn more about the past. In her spare time, she also enjoys studying different languages and cultures, exploring the great outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends. As a culmination of her fondness for folklore and all things Italian, "The Bonds Between Us" was published in 2022 as Emily's debut novel. The novel is a work of fiction that is full of magic and Italian legends brought to life. Within the pages of this enthralling tale, readers experience the power of destiny, the strength of love in overcoming all odds, and the realization that we are defined, not by who we are meant to be, but rather by who we choose to be.
Brianna R. ShafferyA New Jersey native, Brianna R. Shaffery has always had a love of literature, especially fantasy novels. For as long as she can remember, stories have been a part of her and Brianna is thrilled to share her now completed young adult fantasy trilogy, the Heirs of Tenebris with readers. Aside from her love of literature, Brianna enjoys music and can often be found engaged in some kind of craft or whipping up one of her favorite desserts.
Suzanne TrauthSuzanne Trauth is the author of the Dodie O’Dell mystery series—Show Time, Time Out, Running out of Time, Just in Time, No More Time, and Killing Time—and What Remains of Love, a World War II historical romance, as well as plays and non-fiction books. In her previous career, she spent many years as a university professor of theatre. She lives in Woodland Park, New Jersey. Visit her website: www.suzannetrauth.com or connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneTrauth
Yvonne VentrescaYvonne Ventresca’s YA debut, Pandemic (winner of an SCBWI Crystal Kite), continues to be a timely read about surviving a widespread deadly virus. Her other published works include Black Flowers, White Lies and several short stories for middle grade, teen, and adult readers. Yvonne holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @YvonneVentresca, or visit her website, YvonneVentresca.com, where she features resources for teen writers (that adults just might find helpful, too) and blogs about writing productivity.
Lydia WeltmannLydia has been creating wild stories her entire life. As she grew older, she started writing them down. She was heavily inspired by Christopher Paolini when she discovered he first published Eragon at only seventeen, and hoped she could be published before then. While she didn’t reach that goal, she worked on perfecting her craft. She studied creative writing at Roanoke College and self-published a trilogy of novellas with the help of her professors. Since she finds herself unable to stop writing, Lydia has continued to craft novels since college and, every now and then, decides one is good enough for others to read.
Stacey WilkBest-selling and award-winning author, Stacey Wilk, writes romance that hooks you heart and soul. She published her first novel in 2013. Since then, she’s published another twenty-four so women everywhere can fall in love and find an escape of their own. When she isn’t writing, she takes long walks or curls up with a cup of tea and a good book by a favorite author. To see what she writes next, follow her Facebook group for her amazing readers – Stacey’s Novel Family https://bit.ly/2FK8Lae Or join her newsletter - https://bit.ly/2A0jEFk Or visit her website – www.staceywilk.com
J.J WintersJ.J is a writer of fantasy, romance, and all things magical. She loves writing soft and cozy stories about characters finding themselves and those who understand them, but also loves some good, brutal power structures and court politics that those characters have to fight against. She has been known to speak about her characters as though they’re real people. Find her at jjwintersbooks.com!
Tina Moss Yelena CasaleTINA MOSS, co-founder of City Owl Press, is USA Today Bestselling Author and business professional with over a decade and a half of experience in the publishing industry. Starting in 2006, she began her career penning narrative fiction shorts for women’s magazines. Since then, she’s written several novels in urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and sci-fi romance. Earning a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from Brooklyn College, she shared her love of books for seventeen years in academia and teaching the next generation of literati. Now, she works exclusively for City Owl Press. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Clinical Psychology. With extensive design, business acumen, and editing expertise, she brings a critical eye to all aspects of book production. As a social media savant (and admitted TikTok addict), she emphasizes the importance of strong marketing and advertising for every City Owl Press book. YELENA CASALE, co-founder of City Owl Press, is a USA Today Bestselling Author and editor, who highly prizes quality and professionalism. She earned a Master of Science in Publishing from New York University and has always been interested in everything literature and publishing. Over the past decade, she has edited numerous fiction and non-fiction works, including novels, short stories, articles and business documentation for a variety of organizations, charities, and presses. She’s a highly experienced social media strategist and marketing expert. She is keen to share a wealth of knowledge with authors, bringing her editorial skills, expertise, and great enthusiasm to the mix. She loves strong urban fantasy and paranormal romance, as well as medieval, Renaissance and Native American historical romance. She’s currently also open to contemporary romantic suspense and sci-fi romance.

Additional Book Fair Participants Coming Soon!

A Multi-Genre Fiction Writers Organization