{"id":1197,"date":"2025-07-24T03:43:45","date_gmt":"2025-07-24T03:43:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/?page_id=1197"},"modified":"2026-04-16T19:09:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T19:09:08","slug":"southern-new-mexico-book-festival","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/southern-new-mexico-book-festival\/","title":{"rendered":"2025 Southern New Mexico Book Festival"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Las Cruces Writers invites published authors and the public to join in the Inaugural Southern New Mexico Book Festival, a free event debuting on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The event will be held at the Dona Ana Community College, East Mesa Campus, 2800 Sonoma Ranch Blvd. in the DASR Building. Authors from Southern New Mexico and beyond will host writing workshops, author readings, book sales and signings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As an extra treat, the Book Festival will include an area for kids\u2019 book readings, giveaways and activities, as well as food trucks with delicious local offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The goal of the SNM Book Festival is to connect writers, readers, publishers, editors, and the public, all in one place. According to the SNM Book Festival Director, Frank Lopez, \u201cThe writing and publishing talent in southern New Mexico and beyond is amazing. We live in one of the most prolific areas for authors in the Southwest. Our Las Cruces Writers group is thrilled to offer this first-time Book Festival, and we are very much looking forward to meeting in person great New Mexico authors and people from the surrounding communities.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Attendees from out of town can take advantage of group rates at the following hotels.
TownePlace Suites<\/a> for $139 with free breakfast
Holiday Inn Express North<\/a> for $129 with free breakfast <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Follow us on Facebook at https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/snmbookfestival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Listen to an interview about the Southern New Mexico Book Festival on KTAL at https:\/\/www.lccommunityradio.org\/archives\/cafe-con-leche-inaugural-southern-new-mexico-book-festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sponsors<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Schedule<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Author Readings<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Author Vendors<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Other Vendors<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Workshops<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children’s Activities<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Reception<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sponsors<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Schedule<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Author Readings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Charmayne Samuelson<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Mata Ortiz Poetry of the Clay: Pottery, Poems, Artists<\/em>, is a bilingual photo book featuring the pottery of 24 contemporary Mata Ortiz potters paired with original poetry by the author.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Charmayne Samuelson is an Award-Winning Author and a member of the prestigious Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She writes in the genres of fiction, non-fiction, biography, children’s books, photography and self-help, and has published 11 titles. Find out more about Charmayne’s books at https:\/\/woodduckpublishers.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steve Mclary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tales of the Killala Clan<\/em> consists of four novellas about people with special abilities. One of them sees the ghosts of dead dogs. The book features four dead dogs and one live one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steve Mclary is a mostly retired attorney, who lives in Las Cruces with his wife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eva Nevarez St. John<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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When Tough Cookies Crumble: A True Story of Friendship, Murder, and Healing<\/em> is about Eva Nevarez St. John\u2019s friendship with a fellow soldier in the late 1970s and early 1980s. When her friend Janice Starr disappeared in the fall of 1981, Eva initiated an investigation with a female detective. Together they fought for justice for Janice. Forty years after Janice\u2019s death, they reconnected to tell her story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eva Nevarez St. John was an Army brat, soldier, lawyer, and nonprofit manager. She continues to be a nonprofit consultant, social activist, writer, genealogist, mother and grandmother. This is her first memoir. Learn more about Eva and memoirs at https:\/\/enchantedspiritjourneys.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frank L\u00f3pez<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colores, Sabores y<\/em> Dichos<\/em> presents art, culture and love by using colorful photographs, delicious recipes and fun dichos<\/em> in English and Spanish. It is a heartfelt collection of over 50 colorful photographs that invite the reader to imagine 50 different stories. The essays by Rosa Guerrero and Frank Rene L\u00f3pez take the reader into the experiential world of culture and art. The book serves as a gentle reminder that love can be found in small and meaningful gestures in any given day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frank Rene L\u00f3pez is a leadership coach, capacity builder, writer and artist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rosemary Matos<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Promises from Cuba<\/em> is the true story of one family trying to keep order and love in their lives amid difficult circumstances during the quickly changing period of the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s and 1960s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Speedie Pedie<\/em> is an adventurous bunny who loves to run. He gets into tight spots but with wit and speed he escapes. You can read the story, then color each page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Porter Family\u2019s Very BIG ADVENTURE<\/em> is about a family of ducklings who gets lost in the city. A rescue is on the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rosemary Matos writes poetry, non-fiction, children\u2019s stories and memoirs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shelley Armitage<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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From a Sandstone Ledge<\/em> is a book of poetry that takes the reader from the backyard to the boderlands, the living room rockers to the 32,000 acre Llano Estacado, reminding us that we are part of, not separate from, the natural world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shelley Armitage is an award-winning author of ten books. She received her PhD in American Studies from the University of New Mexico. She has taught at the University of Texas at El Paso, the University of Warsaw, and in Portugal and Finland. She manages the family grasslands near Vega, Texas. To learn more about Shelley and her other books, go to https:\/\/shelleyarmitage.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jan Thomas<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In Princess the Duck Killer<\/em>, Princess and her puppy friend, Moxie, have been taken to an animal shelter after a duck attacked them. Moxie fought back, and the duck died. Having been the farmer’s prize duck, they were banished to the shelter where they are afraid they will be euthanized. Princess is adopted by a lovely couple who take her on some incredible journeys. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jan Thomas is a retired prison warden, artist and writer who volunteers in prison ministry. He is a native New Mexican who has lived most of his life in southern and southwestern New Mexico.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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George Pintar<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Suppose Trees Could Talk<\/em> by George Pintar and Jan Thomas is an exploration of the quiet wisdom and enduring strength of older people through the metaphor of trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

George Pintar is a prolific writer who has published thirty-one fictional short stories and four nonfiction books. He is best known for his fictional character Chile Charlie. You can see Jan Thomas\u2019 bio above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abbey Carpenter<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In The Tortilla Star<\/em>, Bette finds love with Marco, an undocumented immigrant who introduces her to a new culture, customs, fiestas, family, poverty and racism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abbey Carpenter has worked, taught and volunteered in the areas of social justice and environmental sustainability. She is co-author of Dora: A Daughter of Unforgiving Terrain<\/em> with Dora Rodriguez, which was released in July 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carlos Melendrez<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I Know Where the Bodies Are Buried: There Are Stories to Tell, Questions to Ask, True Exciting Tales of The Founding Family of Las Cruces<\/em> describes the good, the bad and the ugly of southern New Mexico.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carlos Melendrez is the great, great grandson of Pablo Melendres, who founded Las Cruces in 1849. He is a life-long civil rights advocate and author of America Don\u2019t You Know Me, I\u2019m Your Native Son Geronimo: The Controversial Campaign To Repatriate The Remains of America\u2019s Most Famous Warrior to His Homeland<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tanya Dawson<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Andersen Light: A Meta-Normal<\/em> Novel<\/em> is a young adult coming-of-age, superhero, fantasy, and science fiction adventure. A bullying incident catapults Georgie Jones\u2019 life into a fantastical new world. Her life changes forever when she learns from Luther Andersen, a family friend, mystic and professor, that she is meta-normal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tanya Dawson finds writing bright, beyond-normal fiction for YA readers is \u201cway more fun\u201d than her previous work writing cybersecurity policies and documentation. She is currently working on a book tentatively titled Winter Soulstice: A Meta-Normal Novel<\/em>. For more information, go to https:\/\/tanyaddawson.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carlota Caulfield<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Aligraf\u00edas\/Wingraphies<\/em> is a bilingual poetry book about twenty-one New Mexican birds, with illustrations. The poems communicate the personalities of each bird, letting the reader get to know each of them and what they want to tell us. Read Carlota’s interview in Latino Books Review at https:\/\/www.latinobookreview.com\/carlota-caulfield-wingraphies-and-the-poetics-of-birds–latino-book-review.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carlota Caulfield is a poet, translator, scholar and literary critic. She is the author of several other books and has received numerous awards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amy Bennett<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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No Lifeguard on Duty<\/em> is A Black Horse Cozy Mystery. Corrie Black, owner of the Black Horse Campground in Bonney County, New Mexico, finds the body of a young woman in her campground pool. She is determined to find who murdered her and is using the campground as a base for illegal activities, despite resistance from Bonney County Sheriff Rick Sutton and former police lieutenant J.D. Wilder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amy Bennett is the author of the Black Horse Cozy Mystery series. She has written a total of nine books and is working on her tenth. She is also a vino slinger at Noisy Water Winery in Ruidoso, New Mexico and lives in Bent, New Mexico with her husband and son. Learn more about Amy and her books at https:\/\/www.amymbennettbooks.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bailey Herrington<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Bailey Herrington is the author of the David Elliott Mystery Series<\/em>. All of his books are based on real crimes, including the 1950 Brinks robbery, the co-opting of Nazi rocket scientists to work at White Sands after World War II, and the killing of CIA biochemist Frank Olson. He will be reading from The Girl in the Orange Maillot<\/em>. For more information about Bailey’s books, go to https:\/\/www.baileyherrington.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eide Nevets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Eide Nevets has published eight books on science fiction, alternate history and time travel. The Knot in Time Travel<\/em> is the first of her three book time travel series set in the old west, which also includes A Handle in Time Travel<\/em> and The Elevator of Time Travel<\/em>. You can learn more about Eide’s books at https:\/\/www.nevetsbooks.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eide holds a Master’s degree from California coast University. The Knot in Time Travel<\/em> has been recognized by American Book Fest and International Impact Book Awards. Eide and her husband reside in Roswell, New Mexico.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Desiree Bustamantes<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tell Me All About You<\/em> is the first in a series of books for children that follows a charming little girl named Rosie along a journey of emotion recognition and identifying the root cause associated with the feelings she is experiencing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Desiree Bustamantes is a school psychologist who serves students from Pre-K to 12th<\/sup> grade. She grew up in the quaint little town of Mesilla.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sandra Aguirre-Maga\u00f1a<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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X\u00f3chitl y Papalotl <\/em>is an early middle grade picture book about 10-year-old X\u00f3chitl\u2019s adventure through the Forbidden Forest. Remembering the legend that helping a butterfly grants a wish from the goddess Xochitlqu\u00e9tzal, she helps a monarch butterfly to its sanctuary in Michoac\u00e1n, Mexico. On her journey, she faces El Cucuy, a tricky boogeyman. Can she outsmart him and return home safely?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sandra Aguirre-Maga\u00f1a is an international bilingual storyteller, educator, and author. Her stories stem from a proud Tepehuan storytelling culture and tradition inspired by her grandmothers. Recently, her short story, Dancing with the Devil<\/em>, was selected to represent the State of Texas in the Anthology The Haunted States of America<\/em>. Find more information about Sandra and her books at https:\/\/yocuentocuentoz.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fenton Kay<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In Dear Jennifer: The Jenny Princess Letters<\/em>, Jennifer\u2019s dad writers her letters about how she became Jenny Princess. Other letters talk about her teddy bear Bear, her talking dog Scruffy and a parakeet named Clarence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fenton Kay is a biologist and author. He has published novels in the O\u2019Flaithearta Biological Consultants Mystery Series, young adult stories and poetry. Find out more about Fenton at https:\/\/www.borderlandsmedia.com\/fenton-r-kay<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kathy Armstrong Pudil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Serengeti Pals on the Serengeti Plain <\/em> is a children\u2019s book about three animal friends who learn to play nicely with one another. The book introduces plants, animals and locations on the Serengeti Plain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kathy Armstrong Pudil is a teacher who wrote this book when she was teaching Geography to middle schoolers as an example of a research project that could serve a purpose. The students read these learning stories to Kindergarteners. Kathy has been writing stories for a long time and has published two other children\u2019s books.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Juanita Qui\u00f1ones G\u00e1ndara<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Magical Journey of Little Raquel \u201cLa Churros\u201d<\/em> is the story of a child moving from Juarez, Mexico to the U.S. With the love and encouragement of her family, she overcomes the struggle to fit in, while embracing her heritage. It is a story of resilience, family, and the beauty of diversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Juanita Qui\u00f1ones G\u00e1ndara was born in Juarez, Mexico and raised in El Paso, Texas. She is a retired bilingual teacher\/school counselor, educational consultant, founder of the Social Emotional Learning System, author, storyteller, and migrant advocate. Learn about Juanita and her books at https:\/\/www.zoilathezebra.com\/index.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Susan Valencia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Mama: My Favorite Person in the Whole World Has Something Called Dementia<\/em> is a children’s picture book inspired by the author’s mother. It is a heartfelt story about the impact of dementia on a daughter and her mother. As the disease progresses, she learns ways to comfort her mother. The book helps children and adults process difficult feelings, nurture empathy, patience, and the love that endures. Check out Susan’s her Instagram at https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/susanvalencia_author\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Evelyne Perez<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Brown<\/em> y Brillante<\/em> is a Spanglish picture book celebrating Mexican-American pride, familia<\/em>, and frontera<\/em> life, reminding every child: your roots are your superpower, and you were made to shine.  Evelyne P\u00e9rez is a Mexican-American children\u2019s author from the El Paso\u2013Las Cruces borderland. Her books include the award-winning Autism series in English and Spanish. Learn more about Evelyne and her books at https:\/\/www.evelynetheauthor.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Author Vendors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

All authors who are doing readings will be selling and signing their books throughout the Festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The following authors are not doing readings. They will be selling and signing their books throughout the Festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Donnell Bell<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Donnell Bell is the author of award-winning romantic suspense novels, including The Past Came Hunting<\/em>, Deadly Recall<\/em>, Betrayed<\/em>, Buried Agendas<\/em>, Black Pearl<\/em>,<\/strong> and Until Dead<\/em>. You can learn more about Donnell’s books at https:\/\/donnellannbell.net\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Sara Hernandez<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Sara Hernandez is the author of several books. Anna <\/em>is about an intelligent independent young woman who goes to college far away and finds herself caught up in a world of drugs, alcohol, sex, gangs and an unplanned pregnancy. Her children’s books include two books about Jacob and His Big Adventures<\/em> and his loving grandfather, and Bling Bling and Dinosaurs<\/em> <\/strong>about a little girl with a big imagination who loves jewelry.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Lauren Teffeau<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Lauren Teffeau is an award winning author of science fiction fantasy novels. The protagonist in Implanted <\/em>carries data in her blood that can save a city on the brink or destroy it. Her latest book, A Hunger With No Name<\/em>, is a powerful story of personal, ecological, and cultural survival in the presence of overwhelming technological power.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Jared “Max” Edman<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Jared “Max” Edman is the author of three books on spiritual healing: The Sonic Sanctuary<\/em>, The Interconnected Path<\/em>, and AI-Enhanced Journaling for Mental Well-being<\/em>. He also has two poetry books: At Xibalba’s Gaping Maw<\/em> and 52 X 52<\/em>. For more details about these books, go to his author page on Amazon<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Amy Briggs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Amy Briggs is the author of contemporary and romantic suspense mysteries, including the Cedarwood Hollow Mystery<\/em> series. Amy also offers Sugar and Spice Journals<\/em> that include writing prompts. You can learn more about Amy’s books at https:\/\/www.amybriggsauthor.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Kay Leyda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Kay Leyda writes young adult fantasies. Kay\u2019s inspiration came from her time working at Walt Disney World in Orlando, where her love for fairytales, princesses and stories of true love grew. Working on the Little Mermad ride was a dream come true. Find out more about Kay’s books at https:\/\/kayleydaauthor.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Diego Salazar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Diego Salazar is the author of Bellmaker, <\/em>a fairy tale that aims to enchant readers young and old. A moon jealous of a princess\u2019 beauty. A moon slave controlled by his master. A trained hero defending what he loves. A war-weary bellmaker looking for peace. Adventure calls those who least desire it in Bellmaker<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dita Dow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Dita Dow is an award-winning author, artist, and songwriter who writes powerful stories filled with mystery, emotion, and a touch of the supernatural. In addition to her books Sins in Black<\/em>, 27 Elmwood Drive <\/em>and Winter Horrorland Anthology<\/em>, she will be selling notecards and 5 x 7 prints of her artwork. For more information about Dita and her books, go to https:\/\/www.ditadow.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Kelly Ward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Kelly Ward is the author of Dirk Necessary, A Man’s Man’s Journey<\/em>, a novella length tale of a teenage boy’s self-driven coming of age pursuit to become a real man. He is accompanied by his imagination an unwavering optimism, a fascination with Latin phrases and ancient Greek philosophers, and his sagely horse, Balthazar. Check out his website at https:\/\/www.kellysward.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Rebekah Potter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Rebekah Potter’s Dark Night of the Soul Tarot Deck<\/em> and guidebook are for people venturing through their own Dark ight of the Soul. The guidebook offers a means of using the Rider Waite tarot through the journey along with the Dark Night of the Soul Tarot Deck<\/em>. The Tarot Deck and guidebook are a beacon of light for anyone going through a time of transformation, darkness or confusion. To learn more about Rebekah go to her website at https:\/\/www.dapoppop.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Troy E. Scoughton, Sr.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Troy E. Scoughton, Sr. is a Florida native who joined the Army on a whim and ended up in southern New Mexico. His autobiography Do It (Then Talk About It)<\/em> is about his ups and downs in life, inspiring all of us to keep pushing ahead, no matter what the obstacles. He has a master’s degree in electrical engineering, designs antennas, is a PGA producer and builds hot rods in his free time. Check Troy out at https:\/\/www.borderlandsmedia.com\/troy-scoughton-sr<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Heather Lutz<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Heather Lutz is the author of One World United<\/em>, a political thriller that takes place after the third world war. When governments have full control, what could go wrong? Heather’s The Creative Compass: Navigating Thoughts and Tasks with Purpose<\/em> is a full color planner\/journal that will keep your life in order. It includes blank calendars to use at any time of year and full color pictures taken in southern New Mexico. Find out more about Heather and her books at https:\/\/www.borderlandsmedia.com\/heather-lutz<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Virginia Maria Romero<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Virginia Maria Romero is a visionary artist with works in public and museum permanent collections, as well as private collections. Shalanitawu: A Tribute to Keith Wilson<\/em> is an art and poetry book that challenges you to look deeper. It is a tribute to her late professional partner. It is a hardcover book with full length paintings by Virginia and poetry by Keith and Virginia. Learn more about Virginia at https:\/\/www.borderlandsmedia.com\/virginia-maria-romero<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Guillermo “Billy” Gee<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Billy’s first book is In the Mist of Money Woes<\/em>, a collection of poems, songs, and written raps from 2008 to 2014 that reads like a journal. After a bad break up and flunking out of college, a group of friends reignite his interest in writing, open mics and music. His second book, New Era of Strife<\/em>, is a collection of poems that reflect on his writing. He rediscovers what was thought to be lost work and speaks on how finding it brought him back to writing poetry. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Susan Elaine Pfeiffer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Susan Elaine Pfeiffer is the author of six novels. Saving the Arizona <\/em>is a time travel military romance; Never Let Go <\/em>is time travel military suspense; The Dusty Attic<\/em> and its sequel Trouble on the Horizon<\/em> are time travel adventure romances; Her Own Worst Enemy<\/em> is a psychological thriller and romance; and Hunted in Hells Canyon<\/em> is a suspense thriller romance. You can find Susan’s books on Amazon<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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George Matthews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Billy the Kid: The Life Behind the Legend<\/em> is a detailed and thoroughly researched account that sheds new light on the legendary outlaw\u2019s life. The book explores previously overlooked facets of his story, including his Irish mother\u2019s immigration journey to Indiana, his education in Indianapolis and the McCarty family\u2019s relocations to Wichita and Santa Fe. What sets this work apart is its depth and originality, drawing on a wealth of newly accessible archival material.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Other Vendors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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The New Mexico Book Association will be selling its members’ books and offering its popular NMBA Online Catalog at the Festival.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n
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New Mexico Writers<\/a>, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and connecting the state\u2019s literary community, will be selling books by the 2025 New Mexico Book Awards finalists and providing information about NMW programs, including writing grants, an annual writers dinner, and Rising Writers.<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Dona Ana Community College Library will have a table at the Festival highlighting Banned Books as part of its Banned Book Week activities.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Colorful Chapters Bookstore empowers communities by offering a vibrant selection of books that celebrate diverse cultures and experiences. Whether you\u2019re a lifelong reader or just discovering the joy of books, we aim to spark curiosity, promote cultural exchange, and build a welcoming space for all. Colorful Chapters Bookstore celebrates diverse voices and stories from around the world. For more information, go to their website at https:\/\/colorfulchaptersbooks.com\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Workshops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Rising Writers: Building a Cadre of Critique Readers While Writing Your Book<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by: James McGrath Morris and New Mexico Writers<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Join James McGrath Morris, award winning and New York Times bestselling biographer, for a discussion and Q&A on the importance of finding critique partners (other than family and friends) who can provide feedback during your draft\/revision writing process.<\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Crescit Eundo and Friendship: Growing a Community through Writing Workshops<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by: Mark Esperanza<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>Open to all ages and experiences. Why are community writing workshops important? How to start a local program. How to create engaging lessons and presentations to keep guests learning and growing in their personal literary pursuits. Mark will be sharing the methods, tips, and lessons he’s learned hosting workshops for the Rio Grande Valley.

Mark is the Publisher of Esperanza Publishing, a nonprofit company that accepts strong young adult fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. See https:\/\/esperanzapublishing.com\/esperanza-books<\/a>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Author Reading and Q&A with
Dita Dow, Melissa Velasco, Ramona Emerson, and Saleema Ishq<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by: New Mexico Writers<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
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Come hear author readings by NM Entertainment Awards 2025 finalists Dita Dow, Melissa Velasco, Ramona Emerson (pending confirmation), and Saleema Ishq. There will be time for Q&A. An author signing in the main area will follow.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Social Media Marketing for Authors (Who Would Rather Be Writing)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Saleema Ishq<\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Social media marketing is an invaluable (and free!) tool for connecting with readers, but I understand it can feel overwhelming for those who might not know where to begin. This presentation is designed for authors of all levels with the intention of making social media marketing as sustainable and stress-free as possible.

Saleema has published short stories and a novel that captivates readers with a blend of imaginative storytelling, suspense, and psychological tension. Check out her website at https:\/\/www.fearlessphrases.com\/<\/a>.<\/td>		\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Social The Middleground Method, a practical way to help students  write free verse<\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Benjamin Green<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>Introduction to the Middleground Method, a question and answer guidance. What is a poem? How does one get written? A group poem will demonstrate the method. All writers interested in poetry can benefit (including children and elders).

Benjamin Green is the author of eleven books including The Sound of Fish Dreaming<\/em>. Check out his books and journals at https:\/\/www.plantsandpoetry.org\/benjamin-green<\/a>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Curious Details Of A Time We Never Knew: <\/strong><\/strong>
Researching the Historical Novel<\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Mary L. Grow<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
How does a writer capture a vivid past while moving the story forward? This workshop will explore research methods, queries, and inspiration that inform literary fiction and memoir. Mary L. Grow, author of NIGHT TRAIN TO ODESSA (Studio17 Press, 2023), will discuss how she turned the pages of history into an award-winning novel. Learn more at https:\/\/www.marylgrow.com\/<\/a>.

This workshop is intended for writers of fiction and memoir. Readers who wish to understand the creative writing process may also be intrigued.<\/td>		\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Navigating Trauma in Writing<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Lynn Schmidt<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>This generative session will be lead by Lynne Schmidt, a mental health professional who has a focus in trauma informed care and emotion focused therapy. Memoirists, creative nonfiction writers, and poets will develop skills around grounding when faced with traumatic memories, and how to write through it. Three to four prompts will be offered, as well as space for sharing small segments as comfortable.

You can find Lynn’s poetry chapbook The Unaccounted for Circles of Hell<\/em> at https:\/\/www.stanchionzine.com\/product-page\/the-unaccounted-for-cicles-of-hell<\/a>. <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
WRITERS ARE NEVER LONELY! HOW THE CREATIVE PROCESS
CAN BE YOUR BEST FRIEND FOREVER<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Charmayne Samuelson<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Jump right into this workshop as we let our creative imaginations run wild! Come prepared to write, laugh, and have fun! Charmayne shares how to harness your creative process to write anything you want to! She demystifies the myth that \u201cwriters are lonely.\u201d

Charmayne is an Award-Winning and Best-Selling Author of 11 Books in 6 genres, including art, poetry, biography, mystery novel, hypnotherapy, meditation, photography, and all-age coloring books. Find Charmayne’s books at https:\/\/woodduckpublishers.com\/<\/a>.<\/td>		\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Build Your Own Mini Bookcase<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Phoebe Guskey, Las Cruces Libraries<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>We will use Altoid tins as our base and create miniature books, corkboards, and papers, as well as plants, bookshelves, and colored pencils to fill our tiny libraries!

All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own Altoid tin or miniature items that you would like to incorporate into your tiny library. Since this is a short session, you\u2019ll get to take home some items to finish on your own.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Book Charms Bookmarks<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Sarah from Margin Notes Bookbar<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Add a personal touch to your reading adventures with this hands-on craft workshop! Participants will design and create unique book-themed charms and bookmarks\u2014perfect for marking your place in style or gifting to a fellow book lover. No prior crafting experience needed\u2014just bring your creativity, and we\u2019ll provide the supplies. Come ready to make something as memorable as the stories you love! Learn more about Margin Notes Bookbar at https:\/\/www.marginnotesbookbar.com\/<\/a>.<\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Using Library Resources to Add Authenticity to Your Writing : Going Beyond Google<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Suzanne Stauffer<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>Intended for beginning and experienced writers in all genres, this presentation will identify a variety of library reference resources and explain how to use them to create authentic backgrounds, setting, characters, plots, and themes. These include atlases and other geographic resources, biographical dictionaries and encyclopedias, and statistical resources, as well as local newspapers and city directories. Learn more about Suzanne at https:\/\/www.southwestwriters.com\/suzanne-stauffer\/<\/a>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Book Club in a Box<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Liz Vega<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Ever wanted to start a book club but weren\u2019t sure where to begin? This fun, interactive workshop will give you all the tools you need to bring readers together and spark meaningful conversations. From choosing the right books and setting a schedule to keeping discussions lively and inclusive, you\u2019ll walk away with practical tips, sample discussion questions, and creative ideas to make your book club a success. Whether you\u2019re gathering a few friends, coworkers, or members of your community, Book Club in a Box<\/em> will help you build a group that loves reading\u2014and talking\u2014together.<\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Create Your Own Book Journal<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Presented by Liz Vega<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\"\"<\/td>Turn your reading life into a keepsake! In this creative workshop, you\u2019ll design a personalized reading journal to track your books, jot down favorite quotes, and reflect on your reading journey. We\u2019ll provide a variety of templates and pages\u2014ranging from book trackers to discussion prompts\u2014that you can mix, match, and customize to fit your style. By the end, you\u2019ll have a one-of-a-kind journal that makes every book you read even more meaningful.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Children’s Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Book Readings<\/strong> – Books will be read by trained volunteers in the children’s reading room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Book giveaway<\/strong> – Children’s books will be given away. Every child should receive a book based on their reading level and interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Branded Giveaway Items<\/strong> – Stickers, pencils, bookmarks and other items will be given away at the CRA table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Activities<\/strong> – There will be activity tables with a variety of activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raffle <\/strong>– games, puzzles, etc. will be raffled off.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Vamos Ni\u00f1os is a mobile children’s museum for preschoolers aged three to five. Exhibits include Jack’s Workshop, The Garage and The Treehouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reception<\/h2>\n\n\n
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We will close the Inaugural Southern New Mexico Book Festival with a reception from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. There will be a presentation from the New Mexico Writers, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and connecting the state\u2019s literary community, to talk about the New Mexico Book Awards. <\/p>\n\n\n

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That will be followed by a discussion by local literary legend, Denise Ch\u00e1vez, who will recount her time spearheading the Border Book Festival and also talk about her immense body of work. There will be Q&A to follow. Light refreshments will be available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Las Cruces Writers invites published authors and the public to join in the Inaugural Southern New Mexico Book Festival, a free event debuting on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The event will be held at the Dona Ana Community College, East Mesa Campus, 2800 Sonoma…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1197","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/PdvZx1-jj","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1197","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1197"}],"version-history":[{"count":186,"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1197\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1891,"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1197\/revisions\/1891"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lascruceswritersgroup.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1197"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}