Featuring Louisiana authors and creatives
From business owners to doctors, actresses to graphic artists, horse trainers to karate experts and lawyers, this crew of intelligent and phenomenal individuals has a wealth of knowledge to share with our community.
A million words and counting…
Words possess immense power, yet they can be comprised of various combinations of letters or even a single letter alone. Whether it’s a string of words, a phrase, a sentence, or a paragraph—a poem, a script, a verse—they can incite, command, or praise, ultimately changing lives. The saying “sticks and stones may break bones, but words can never hurt me” has never been less true. The fact is that words wield incredible power, and we are blessed to have a remarkable number of word artists with the uncanny knack of putting them together in books that instruct, empower, transport us to new places, and showcase the limitless power of imagination.
In this issue, we feature over two dozen locally published authors, collectively contributing over one million words to paper. As we listened to this tremendous gathering of authors sharing their passions, genres, and skills, we were captivated. This group has produced well over 100 books in the last few years, driving hundreds or even thousands of dollars into the economy. From business owners to doctors, actresses to graphic artists, horse trainers to karate experts and lawyers, this crew of intelligent and phenomenal individuals has a wealth of knowledge to share with our community.
We are proud to salute them in this issue, celebrating the millions of words they have written and will continue to write, changing lives. They inspire others to embrace differences, encourage a brighter life through daily devotionals, and take readers on journeys through romance, thriller, and memoirs. This gathering of talented writers humbly shared their passion and hope for a brighter future for all.
Word artistry is a supreme talent—taking letters on a page and crafting them into thoughts of inspiration, instruction, escape, and imagination is sheer beauty and spirit. Shreveport has many secrets and hidden gems, but these authors are sparkling diamonds of incredible wonder to be explored and embraced. As we stacked the books on the shelves, knowing this was just a sampling of each author’s works, our imaginations soared, eager to devour, learn, and be delighted and inspired.
Reading is a journey we encourage everyone to explore—an incredible exchange between words on a page penned by a word artist and the reader who immerses themselves in that world for a glimpse, never leaving the same. Join us in celebrating our local authors, get your book copies signed, listen to them read their own words, and dive into the stories. Learn about parenting through technology, overcoming cancer, caring for horses properly, exploring scripture, and embracing adventure in young adult books, romance novels, thrillers, and children’s explorations of Shreveport’s offerings.
Challenge yourself with Reading Bingo #chillandread, presented by LearningRx Shreveport and sponsored with prizes from local businesses. It’s never too late to pick up a book and read, or even put your thoughts on paper and join the artistry of these word crafters. The possibilities are endless.
As George R.R. Martin said, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies… The man who never reads lives only one.” Dr. Seuss reminds us, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Napoléon Bonaparte believes, “Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.” Garrison Keillor emphasizes, “A book is a gift you can open again and again.” Kofi Annan states, “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope,” while Frederick Douglass asserts, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” Victor Hugo beautifully concludes, “To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.”
Jane Allison
Jane Allisonjmallison02@gmail.com
Jane Allison is a native of Mississippi who moved to Shreveport in 1982 to work at The Shreveport Times and then spent time as a freelance writer and training coordinator for the Louisiana Small Business Development Center. She has loved children’s literature since her days of listening to Captain Kangaroo read books like “Caps for Sale” and “Make Way for Ducklings.” She and her husband David met at the Singles Department at Broadmoor Baptist Church and were married in 1985.
Michelle Allums
swatts@tdx-energy.com (Susan Watts)
author/michelleallums
author/show/17313559.Michelle_Allums
Michelleallums.com
Michelle Allums has been writing stories since she can remember. Her favorite thing as a child was to open a blank notebook and begin writing a new adventure. She always liked reading but enjoyed creating her own stories even more. She also loves martial arts and has been training in various styles for over 40 years. She has won numerous World and National titles and holds black belts in Tae Kwon Do and Okinawa Kenpo. She owns her own karate school where she teaches martial arts and life skills. She adores teaching the younger students and watching them grow and mature into young adults. Michelle tries to encompass much of what she has learned in the martial arts in her writing. An avid triathlete, she also keeps in shape by running, biking, and swimming. She lives in the country with her husband where they raise animals and enjoy being outdoors. Michelle also has three grown children and numerous grandchildren.
William Baten & Katie Baten
shatterkast@gmail.com
beararmsmckenzie.com
Will Baten is a Shreveport, Louisiana native. He provides all of the art work, graphic design and layout for each book, in addition to authoring HandCatchem. Will is a life-long artist with limitless creative capabilities. Outside of art, he enjoys drumming in multiple projects. Will is the creative director at Brandgineers and enjoys helping others translate their visions into reality.
Katie Baten is a Floridian transported to Shreveport in 2004. She enjoys coastal culture and cuisine. Katie has been writing since she was five and enjoys reading and daydreaming of new worlds. Katie began working with local entrepreneurs in 2016 and currently consults start-ups and business ventures through Lunisolar Creative Productions. She has a background in biological science, legal, business and oil and gas.
We created the Beararms McKenize series to bring families together through the creativity we have in each of us. The characters contained in the books are thoughtful creations, each with a unique message and story of their own, much like us humans! Some are artists, some are scientists, all are creators of some kind. We want to provide your family with a fun, educational series that delves into the psychology of everyday life and our relationships as we grow together.
We hope to continue to expand the universe of the Kingdom in the Sky for many years to come!
Scotty Comegys
scotty.comegys@gmail.com
scottycomegys.wordpress.com
scotty_comegys
Scotty Comegys grew up in Shreveport, with close connections to the East Texas area featured in Cassie’s Comet. She draws depictions of Europe from her adventures abroad during her 20s, complete with backpacks and bicycles, a VW bus, and colorful characters who inspired her novel. Scotty graduated from LSU in Baton Rouge and taught high school English in Shreveport and Bossier City before moving to the Midwest, where she earned a master’s in journalism at Indiana University. Inspired by her work at Associated Press in Chicago, she switched gears to pursue a law career. In 1985 she returned home to practice business law while jumping into her role as mother, and dabbling in fiction writing. Her flair for capturing Southern characters and conflicts in her short stories earned awards among local and small press publications. An attorney for a federal agency, her narrative voice bears little resemblance to her published legal work.
STORY LINE of Cassie’s Comet
Summarized from a press release by Nina P. Flournoy
1979. Twenty-two year old Cassie Tate, an East Texas cashier, jets off to visit her Army boyfriend stationed in Germany, only to realize she’s been duped. The former Marshall High football hunk is now an AWOL gun trafficker, bent on using her in a Green Card scheme. Hardly a situation covered in her Seventeen magazines. Hopscotching with him around Europe, entangled in his efforts to dodge terrorists and police, Cassie finally catches on. Desperate and on the run, she plans a risky escape.
Phylis Caskey
phyliscaskey@me.com
bit.ly/426z1GT
bit.ly/3SjsR2i
bit.ly/42whbyh
stores/Phylis%20Caskey/author/B00THD2TXW
Originally from Texas but raised in Louisiana and Mississippi, Phylis found her creative calling in Shreveport after pursuing her education at Northwestern State University. Her writing journey began in earnest once her youngest child started high school, allowing her the time to follow her passion for storytelling.
In 2015, Phylis made her literary debut with the release of her first book, Skinny Dipping in Cane River. Rooted in her Southern upbringing and inspired by the mystical tales passed down by her grandfather, this work set the stage for her writing career.
One of Phylis’s most noteworthy accomplishments is her captivating historical adventure novel, The Wind Has a Voice. Drawing inspiration from the ancient discoveries of Jeannine Davis Kimball in the 1990s, who uncovered a woman encased in permafrost in the mountains of Mongolia, Phylis weaves a mesmerizing fictional account of this courageous nomad’s life. In her hands, the story unfolds into an epic narrative of a woman who rises to become a revered warrior.
Originally conceived as an episodic tale for Vella and titled Windrush, this extraordinary work quickly gained acclaim and soared to the top of historical adventure charts on Amazon, where it remained for weeks. Phylis’s gift for storytelling shines through in her ability to transport readers to distant times and places, immersing them in the rich tapestry of history.
Connect with Phylis on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to keep up with her latest literary adventures and to engage with a writer who values her readers’ voices and stories as much as she does her own.
Andy Coats
professoracoats@gmail.com
ridgelinepublishing.com
Andy Coats is an artist, adventurer, entrepreneur, speaker, and an award-winning author. He loves all things storytelling. His educational background includes a bachelors in business, a masters in leadership, and an almost completed doctorate in business administration. Andy and his wife, Cristi, enjoy mountain climbing, real estate investing, and spending time with friends. His new podcast, The Uncommon Success Podcast, launches in January 2024 and will explore success stories of leaders from all walks of life. Andy is a dynamic speaker from school author visits to leadership trainings. He loves helping and inspiring others reach their full potential.
Raegan Comeaux
DblRainboF@yahoo.com
EMES Academy – EMES Academy
Doublerainbowfarm.org
Raegan Comeaux, a USHJA Certified Instructor, owns Double Rainbow Farm with her husband, Stephen Comeaux. She has been showing in the hunter/jumper discipline since the age of 8. Raegan and Sig, her mother, have built Double Rainbow farm from the ground up starting with 30 acres of woods and a dream. Raegan specializes in partnering riders and horse lovers with the ideal mounts or pets. She then molds the partnership through one on one instruction to be the best that each can be. Raegan’s students have been competitive on a national level for the past 19 years and have travelled to compete in prestigious horse shows like the Capital Challenge, Devon, Pony Finals, Junior Hunter Finals, the Pennsylvania National Horse Show and the Washington International Horse Show. Raegan graduated from Louisiana Tech with a degree in Animal Sciences with a specialty in Equine Science and a minor in Business and English. The farm remains a family business with her husband Stephen, her daughter Baylee, her step-daughter Kenzie Comeaux, her son Ryker, and her step-son Hayden Comeaux, working together to make the business a success. Her family travels to competitions all across the country with her helping the Double Rainbow riders achieve their local, regional and national competition goals.
Ashley Elston
contact Rebecca Marsh at rmarsh@penguinrandomhouse.com
ashleyelston.com
Ashley Elston is the author of several novels, including THE RULES FOR DISAPPEARING (a finalist in the Best Young Adult Novel category of the International Thriller Awards) and 10 BLIND DATES. Her work has been translated into 23 languages. She graduated with a Liberal Arts degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. Ashley worked for many years as a wedding photographer before turning her hand to writing. Ashley lives in Louisiana with her husband and three sons.
Clint Davis
clintdaviscounseling@gmail.com
TEDx Talk k5bxxen5cAo
clintdaviscounseling
channel/UCspNkrmUF_J-PrEUdzp4ylA
clintdaviscounseling.com
buildingbetterbridgesbook.com
a.co/d/bbkF1FL
barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1143927412?ean=9798988703709
Clint Davis is an Army Veteran who has a bachelor’s in Psychology from Louisiana Tech University and Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is an ordained minister and Licensed Professional Counselor trained in trauma and certified in sexual addiction recovery.
Clint owns Clint Davis Counseling and Integrative Wellness where he has a team of Professionals who help people recover from trauma to the mind, body, and spirit.
Clint is a Tedx speaker, author, and host of the “Asking Why with Clint Davis” podcast
He is married to his wife Jacie and has 2 sons. Clint loves coffee with friends, good books, Jiu-Jitsu and Jesus.
Morgan Matthews Fauber
morganmatthewsauthor@yahoo.com
morganmatthewsauthor.net
Author, Morgan Matthews, is a Louisiana native. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with family. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, as well as a Master’s degree in Counseling from Louisiana Tech University.
She published her debut novel with Lagniappe Press entitled The Child Wore Pearls (Suspense/ Thriller) in 2020, followed by Firefly Lies (Suspense/ Thriller) in 2022, and The Alternate (Suspense/Romance) in 2023–all of which are available on Amazon (Kindle and paperback).
Morgan also published a children’s book in 2021 entitled My Eyes Don’t Work Like Yours (Seeing Ourselves The Way God Does), which is available on Amazon.
Shelia Goss
sheliagoss@aol.com
sheliagoss.com
Shelia M. Goss is a Shreveport, Louisiana native. She is a graduate of Caddo Parish Magnet High School and Southern University and A&M College in Baton, Rouge, LA. Although Shelia has a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, she’s always had a passion for writing. She is a screenwriter and national bestselling author of over twenty-one novels, including the Essence Magazine bestselling novel, My Invisible Husband and critically acclaimed novels The Joneses and Delilah. Her young adult series, The Lip Gloss Chronicles was a hit with librarians across the country. Shelia has written several screenplays and is one of the writers, producers and directors of the short film, Black Butterfly. She has received many accolades and awards over the years for her writing. USA Today says, “Goss has an easy, flowing style with her prose…”
Betsy St. Amant Haddox
betsystamant@yahoo.com
betsystamant.com
Betsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of over twenty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two daughters, an impressive stash of coffee mugs, and one furry Schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a B.A. in Communications and a deep-rooted passion for seeing women restored to truth. When she’s not composing her next book or baby-talking her dog, Betsy can be found somewhere in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for iBelieve, a devotional site for women, and offers author coaching and editing services through Storyside LLC.
I’ve written ten Love Inspired Novels, done a few indie sets with groups, and have a current release with Barbour books called “A Louisiana Christmas to Remember”. It’s a three-in-one continuity with fellow Louisiana native authors, Lenora Worth & debut author Morgan Tarpley Smith. We’d love to have it mentioned since it’s Louisiana! 🙂 I attached the cover.
My trade length novels include titles All’s Fair in Love and Cupcakes, and Love Arrives in Pieces (both published with Zondervan) and then from Revell Books, The Key to Love and Tacos for Two. My first nonfiction book releases in January via Kregel Publishers titled “Once Upon a Divorce: Walking with God After ‘The End’.”
Ronya Henderson
ronyahenderson@gmail.com stores/Ronya-Henderson/author
Ronya Henderson is a God-fearing and gifted woman whose purpose is to inspire those in need of deliverance, encouragement, healing and strength. She is a graduate of Caddo Parish Magnet High School; earned a bachelor degree in Computer Science from Grambling State University; and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy State University–European Region.
She is an Air Force Veteran who was stationed in England, Japan, South Korea, Guam, and finally California where she separated after a distinctive career in the military. Ronya having proudly served her country, eventually sought out new adventures and authored her first novel in 2012, entitled, Distant Dreams But Closer Realities. Her book was the winner in the Religion Fiction Category of the 2013 Beverly Hills Book Awards.
She relocated back to Shreveport in 2013. She continues to serve the community as an active member of the Women Veterans of the ArkLaTex; the National Association of University Women (NAUW); and Bells for Youth non-profit organization where she records audio books to boost early learning and literacy skills (BELLS) for youth Pre-K through 5th grade.
Ronya Henderson enjoys life; spending time with family and friends; traveling; and learning from the diverse and rich cultures of various races and ethnicities.
Jonell Hart
jonellhart@hughes.net
Jonell-Hart
Hello! My name is Jonell Hart and I have been a resident of Shreveport for over forty years!
I am a mom of two (grown-up) boys, and a grandmother of four beautiful grandchildren. I love to garden and sew. I›m pretty much a homebody. I’ve always loved making up little rhymes, so I thought it would be fun to write a little rhyme for my grandchildren to enjoy.
I was born and raised in Texas, but I’ve lived in Louisiana for over 40 years, so it’s my home, even though I’ll always have a lot of ‘Texan’ in me!
I decided to pursue the self-publishing process to get my little rhyme illustrated and printed, because who doesn’t like a new challenge? It’s been quite a learning experience, but I’m so proud of A Zat? What’s That?
After my first book was published and printed, I’ve felt more confident to finish my second rhyming book. Grandma’s Leprechaun was released in August, 2021!
I hope you’ll enjoy sharing these stories with your little ones!
You can order A Zat? What’s That? and Grandma’s Leprechaun from Amazon, or directly from my website wholehartbooks.com
Any books ordered through my website will be signed & shipped by me!
Thank you for supporting your local artists, authors, and entrepreneurs!
William Joyce
contact malachi@williamjoyce.com
simonandschuster.com/authors/William-Joyce/81797654
William Joyce
heybilljoyce
William Edward Joyce (born December 11, 1957 American) has achieved worldwide recognition as an author, illustrator and pioneer in the digital and animation industry.
He has written and illustrated over 50 bestselling children’s books and novels which have been translated into over 40 languages.
He began his film career on Toy Story and has since been a producer/director/screenwriter/production designer in both animation and live action.
Among his many awards, Bill has won 6 Emmys, 3 Annies and an Academy award for his short film The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore (2011).
Bill was named by Newsweek magazine as “one of the 100 people to watch in the new millennium.
His feature films, all based on his books, include Epic, Rise of the Guardians, Robots and Meet the Robinsons. His television series include the groundbreaking Rolie Polie Olie for which he was creator and showrunner.
His new company, Howdybot Studios, is focused on Bill’s stories in a variety of mediums and media.
He’s just released his newest short film Mr. Spam Gets a New Hat which has so far won awards at a number of festivals. He is also in pre-production on an animated version of the Great Gatsby. Both projects are in collaboration with DNEG studios and Epic games.
His novel “Ollie’s Odyssey” aired as a live action/CG limited series on Netflix in August of 2022 which has since received ecstatic reviews. Bill hopes to someday serve as the first “Secretary of Cheerful Endeavors” for the United Nations.
Adam K Ogden
adamkogden@yahoo.com
Adam K. Ogden is an independent author of fiction novels, completing his four book series, The Resilient, in 2023. Raised in Winnsboro, LA, Adam has been a part of the north Louisiana community his whole life. When his time isn’t spent reading and writing, he’s an active member in his church’s praise team as pianist and guitarist and serves on the board of directors for his local theater. His love for the arts is integrated into his storytelling, creating intricate plots and rich world-building that keeps his readers engaged.
Cathey Nickell
Cathey Nickell is a Shreveport native and the author of two successful picture books: Arthur Zarr’s Amazing Art Car and Yazzy’s Amazing Yarn. This has offered her the opportunity to present about writing, inspiration, and creativity at well over 120 elementary schools, bookstores, and children’s museums in Texas, Louisiana, and other states. She currently lives in Houston but regularly travels back to Shreveport/Bossier to bring her colorful presentations—along with a real art car!—to elementary schools and libraries. Cathey is a 1981 graduate of C.E. Byrd High School, has a journalism degree from Baylor University, and a Master of Arts from LSUS. She is now writing middle grade novels that she hopes to someday see on bookshelves, and she is represented by Keely Boeving of WordServe Literary.
Karen Pendleton
drkarenmliss@gmail.com
Dr. Karen Pendleton Spouse. Friend. Athlete. Physician. Businesswoman. Author. If you were to sum up Dr. Karen Pendleton in 5 words, those would be the five to use…And in exactly this order.
Dr. Karen Pendleton enjoys her professional life , but it takes a back seat to spending valuable time with her spouse, family and friends. Her priority is to build a medical practice around her life, not her life around business. Essentially practicing Purposeful Longevity.
Dr. Karen Pendleton is a physician-leader in heart health and longevity. She has over 40 years of experience with patient care since receiving her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in 1984. The first 2 decades were devoted to the practice of ophthalmology after completion of an ophthalmology residency and fellowship in cornea and refractive surgery, both at the LSU Eye Center.
Currently. Dr. Karen, as she is affectionately known, is the lead physician of the Bopp Optimal Health Program, focusing on the BaleDoneen Methodology for heart attack, stroke and dementia prevention. As an innovator in optimal health and longevity, she has established herself as a leader in promoting alternatives to the conventional medical model of sick care (MEDICINE 2.0). Dr. Karen continues to study innovative, patient-focus approaches to help people match an optimal healthspan to their lifespan (MEDICINE 3.0). Dr. Karen Pendleton is a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, a practitioner of the BaleDoneen Methodology, and a selected member of the Core Academy of the BaleDoneen Methodology.
She shares a Lifestyle Medicine practice with her partner Dr. Jack Ward, and nurtures her vivacious mother, Mrs. Barbara Chocolate Pendleton, who is rapidly approaching becoming a centenarian.
Haley Reggio Pederson
hreggio@thesocialmedialady.biz
thesocialmedialady.com
social.media.lady
Ped Trek, pedtrek, pedtrek.com
amzn.to/3R9geb5
Lady Haley Reggio Pederson is a wife, mother, sister, friend, survivor, and, most recently, author.
She received a cancer diagnosis and began her fight in January 2019. She has bravely endured four separate regimes of chemotherapy, two stem cell transplants, and three occasions to regrow her hair. Technically, nothing has worked, but she is still alive to brawl four years later. Her health saga is ongoing.
She has written a book about her journey with cancer: “The Spiraling Road: A Biography of Cancer Diagnosis, Failed Treatments, and Finding Peace.” She has also created treatment journals/calendars, T-shirts, cups, mugs, and a coloring book. You can support her, her journey, and the cause with your purchases of her merchandise available on Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Facebook.
Haley Reggio Pederson is the founder and owner of The Social Media Lady, a digital marketing agency, as well as the creator of a series of merchandise she imagined during her four treatment plans. She is a wife, mother, and cancer survivor.
Her management degree from LSU in Shreveport provided her with a great base knowledge of business and people. She also spent a decade in outside sales, marketing, and management prior to building, The Social Media Lady, a digital marketing agency, The company will be 10 years old on June 1, 2024.
Gretchen Gillyard Petterway
drg@drgretchenpetterway.com
stores/Gretchen-Petterway-MD-FAAP/author
Dr. Gretchen Gillyard Petterway has forged an illustrious career in healthcare, driven by an enduring childhood ambition to become a physician. Her path was carefully charted during her studies at Grambling State University, where she immersed herself in biology and pre-medicine, setting the stage for her extraordinary journey.
Her premedical tenure as a clinical research associate at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport marked a pivotal phase, deeply influenced by the guidance of Bishop Fred Caldwell at Greenwood Acres Full Gospel Baptist Church. Here, she learned the power of visionary pursuits, translating her aspirations into a written vision rooted in faith and purpose.
Bearing witness to the manifestation of her dreams, Dr. Petterway attained her Doctor of Medicine Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport in 2006, followed by an outstanding pediatric residency at LSU Children’s Hospital. Her residency was adorned with prestigious awards, including Intern of the Year and recognition for her exceptional service and leadership.
Her academic journey soared to greater heights with her graduation from Harvard Medical School in 2020, where she delved into Pediatric Leadership and relished the enriching experience of studying abroad in London, England.
Additionally, in 2023, Dr. Petterway expanded her expertise by completing an advanced program through Harvard Medical School Executive Education. She received a certification in Health and Wellness: Designing a Sustainable Nutrition Plan, further enriching her knowledge and commitment to holistic healthcare. This certification has equipped her with the tools to seamlessly incorporate Lifestyle Medicine principles into her practice, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle factors in preventing and treating diseases.
For over a decade, Dr. Petterway has been a steadfast pillar in pediatric care in Shreveport, LA, contributing significantly at Christus Pediatric Associates and as a guiding force at four Christus Health School-Based Health Clinics. Her recent transition to Mid City Pediatrics marks a fresh chapter in her pursuit of delivering compassionate and comprehensive healthcare.
Beyond her medical vocation, she is a dedicated wife and mom, a published author, a dynamic professional speaker, and a tireless advocate for empowering children and teenagers to embrace their inner strength.
Recognized for her exceptional contributions, she is a distinguished member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., honored with prestigious awards such as the African American Local Achievement Award and the KSLA Black History Month Trailblazer Recognition.
Rooted in unwavering faith and gratitude, Dr. Petterway attributes her journey and accomplishments to divine guidance and remains dedicated to serving her patients, embodying the healing ministry of Jesus Christ through her medical practice.
Her life is a testament to the transformative power of faith, perseverance, unwavering dedication, ongoing education, and a commitment to integrating Lifestyle Medicine into her practice, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with determination and compassion.
Danielle Williamson Richard
danielle@richard-creative.com
system-redesign.org
Become a System Redesigner!
If you’ve ever been frustrated by the systems that govern our lives, then you’ve picked up the right book. Join Danielle as she takes on public education, democratic government, the justice system and even daily traffic to determine how we as a human community can take action together to stop supporting harmful systems and start ushering in the Humane Era.
Danielle Richard is a mother, small business owner and engaged American citizen whose research into why we do things the way we do led her to the conclusion that many of our broken systems can and should be reimagined into systems that directly and effectively benefit the health and well-being of the people they serve. Born and raised in Winnsboro, Louisiana, Danielle settled in the nearby, medium-sized city of Shreveport with her husband and Shreveport native, James. Together they own and operate Richard Creative, a graphic design and marketing agency serving organizations in the area for over 15 years. Never content to settle for conventional wisdom, Danielle has spent a lifetime studying humans, how they behave, and imagining how we could change things to work better for everyone.
Danielle is also the art director for Lola Magazine, and has been involved with designing Lola’s print magazine and website since our very first issue back in 2016.
Liz Talley
liztalley@att.net
liztalleybooks
liztalleybooks.com
Liz Talley is the USA Today best-selling author of over thirty heartwarming stories. A finalist in both Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart and Rita Awards, Liz has published with Harlequin, Hallmark, and Montlake where she reached number one in kindle romance and was named to Publisher’s Weekly mass market bestseller list. Her stories are set in the South where the tea is sweet, the summers are hot, and the porches are wide.
Liz makes her home in Louisiana where she likes to read, volunteer, and avoid housework. She is married to her childhood sweetheart, and together they have two handsome children, and two pups. She is a former English teacher, serves on the First United Methodist Shreveport’s ministry team, and recently joined the Dogwood Garden Club.
Her newest release The Wedding War is an emotion journey between two frenemies who must unite for their children’s wedding. In 2023, she also added screenwriter to her accomplishments, co-writing an adaptation of The Wedding War, which landed in the Top 20 of Louisiana Film Prize.
You can sign up for her newsletter at www.liztalleybooks.com where you can learn about upcoming books.
Her first book starred a spinster librarian – Vegas Two Step – and debuted in June 2010. Robyn Carr says “laughter and tears spring from the pages” and Kristan Higgins says her stories are “written in a warm, intelligent voice.”
Paul Savage
Paul@savagecreative.solutions Savage Creative Solutions – Shreveport Digital Agency
Chemo-Containment-Paul-Savage/dp/1088059732
Paul Savage, Jr. is a graduate of Centenary College of Louisiana in Shreveport, Louisiana. He owns a full-service, integrated digital ad agency, Savage Creative Solutions. His passion for helping small businesses has afforded him the opportunity to work with clients around the world and across a wide range of industries.
“Diary of A Testicular Cancer Survivor” is his debut book. It’s a compilation of blog posts from an online blog, Fight Like A Savage, he started when he first began his cancer journey in February 2020.
Savage’s most recent work is “Chemo Containment,” an idea he dreamt up while undergoing treatment for Testicular Cancer.
Paul also serves as Executive Editor of Shreveport’s Secrets, a local news site that shares positive news and hidden gems in the Shreveport-Bossier community.
His company, Savage Endeavors, LCC. is developing an app called 31Ate that helps make discovering new places to eat and group restaurant decisions simple. The app is scheduled to launch for both iOS and Android devices in November 2023.
Paul is currently still in remission and will be considered cured in 2025.
Angela Vinet
angelavinet@gmail.com
stores/Angela%20Harrison%20Vinet/author/B0CT3YSVLZ
A Louisiana freelance writer for over 20 years, Angela Vinet calls North Louisiana home. As a nature enthusiast, she enjoys any outdoor adventure in her beloved Louisiana. Wife to Robert for more than half of her life, and mom to three full-of-life boys, Angela stays busy with family outings and baseball practices when she isn’t writing or teaching school. Freelancing for newspapers as a columnist and featured writer, her work has been in many circulations for the local press in addition to the USA Today Network. In her spare time, she enjoys writing children’s books, kayaking, and adventuring with her family. An eternal optimist, Angela lives life to the fullest finding the silver linings life offers. Angela lives her life with the attitude that kindness matters, toward all things.
Donesa Walker
booksbydonesa1234@gmail.com
author/donesawalker
channel/UCYixrdWSU86hb_qG_mJ8kiQ
g.co/kgs/dTC5HRM
in/donesa-walker-4535429
100091324954402
donesawalker
Born and raised in Texas. Married a Louisiana boy and birthed two wonderful young men! Loves reading, gardening, and growing minds! Donesa taught for over 20 years in the public school systems of Texas and Louisiana at all grade levels from PreK through college. She is a Board Certified Cognitive Specialist in the State of Louisiana, as well as a Reading and Dyslexia Specialist. Donesa is a pastor’s daughter and vividly demonstrates her love for Christ in all that she does. Donesa spreads contagious joy to all those around her with her smile and gift of love for everyone. She opened the LearningRx centers of Shreveport-Bossier in 2008 and prides herself in being one of the best brain training centers in the world! Her infectious joy and love of learning is certainly contagious! Through her books and devotionals, Donesa shares real life experiences through the lens of God’s love.
Books:
Reflections of God Moments series:
Oceans of God’s Love
Rainbow of the Soul
Puddles of Diamonds from Heaven
Treasures of Words
The Collective: Articles by Donesa Walker
The Brain House
Neuro-Diversed
Heart Twinkle
Katie Walker
Katieb_walker
katieandphilipa.com
name/nm4588069/?ref_=fn_al_nm_2
author/katiewalker
Katie is a firebrand and has a passion to awaken others to the fiery love of Jesus and burn with His love. She is an ordained minister, teaches, preaches, writes, and works with Philipa Booyens to transform culture for God’s kingdom through stories that inspire and commission people to be who God called them to be. Katie grew up acting in plays and finally pursued film acting as an adult. She is the Co-lead of the feature film 8 DAYS, which was made to fight human trafficking in the USA and has been featured on numerous radio and television shows and has supported over 70 anti-trafficking organizations. She is currently writing on and producing a feature film on repentance and atonement as well as leading bible studies with the Passion Translation. Katie also hosts a show and writes books with Philipa Booyens to further encourage women to rise up into who God called them to be (check out katieandphilipa.com to learn more). She is married to retired MLB player and ESPN baseball analyst Todd Walker and lives in Shreveport, LA with their four kids.
Special thanks to Selfiesteem Selfie Sudio for providing the perfect location for our author photo shoot. Learn more about this cool new do-it-yourself photography studio at selfiesteemstudio.com
Join us for a Lola Magazine Featured Authors
BOOK SIGNING
Friday, April 12
5:30-7:30
Bossier Arts Council
630 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City
Over a dozen local authors will be gathered to meet and greet readers with signed copies of their books available for purchase