Dana Haynes is the author of 14 mystery and thriller novels from such publishers as Minotaur Books, St. Martin’s Press, MacMillan Publishing, Blackstone Publishing and Bantam Publishing. Under the pen name James Byrne, he has written four thrillers featuring Dez Limerick for Minotaur Books, including 2026’s STORM WARNING and CHAIN REACTION, nominated for best series novel of 2026 by the International Thriller Writers. Haynes enjoyed a long career in Oregon newspaper journalism and is a proud resident of Portland.
Category: WilWrite26 F1030BAB
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Melissa Hart
Melissa Hart is the author of several nonfiction books and novels; her latest is Find Your Nature: 40 Ways to Deepen the Connection to Your Flora, Fauna & Community. Her short-form writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Smithsonian, CNN, The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Nat Geo Kids, Orion, and numerous other publications. Melissa teaches for the Online MFA in Creative Writing program at Southern New Hampshire University.
Find out more at www.melissahart.com.
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LeFoster Williams
LeFoster Williams is a Portland-based author, actor, and transformational speaker whose work blends raw storytelling, personal truth, and practical strategy. He is the author of The Magical Escape (2023) and Bloodlines & Shadows (2025), with his upcoming self‑development book arriving in 2026. As a speaker, LeFoster teaches creatives and entrepreneurs how to own their story, build confidence, and turn lived experience into power on the page. With a background in theatre, film, and community work, his workshops bring high energy, honesty, and actionable tools that help writers break through fear and execute with intention.
Find out more at https://www.instagram.com/authoractorlefoster.
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Brian W. Parker
Brian grew up in Alaska, then Mississippi, and has always been in love with storytelling in every medium. He earned a BFA in graphic design & illustration and an MA in writing & publishing. He’s an adjunct professor of children’s publishing at Portland State University. He is the co-owner and creative director of Believe In Wonder Publishing, has written and illustrated 20+ books, and spends his days working with the family creating new and amazing stories.
Find out more at www.believeinwonder.com.