As we gear up for this amazing event, we invite you to:
Join the EyeCU Literary Experience Facebook Event page! This is a great way to stay connected, share updates, and interact with other attendees.
Take a look at this line-up. We're excited!
A native of Nome, Texas and a student at Hardin Jefferson High School, has always been an avid reader. With encouragement to take her passion further, she decided to try her hand at writing. As a small kid, she had a desire to write and wrote a couple of short stories. However, her talent has developed, and she has stepped out on a limb to write her debut novella, Guilty Remains, at just fourteen years old.
The dynamic founder and president of EyeCU Reading & Social Network and EyeCU Reading & Chatting, known for her creative leadership and passion for building community. A proud Detroit native, Ebony is celebrated for her innovative ideas that uplift both emerging and established voices in the literary world. In 2022, she made her author debut with the gripping novel Dead to Me, adding “published author” to her list of creative accomplishments. A devoted reader, reviewer, and self-proclaimed book nerd, Ebony approaches every project with energy, heart, and purpose. Beyond books, Ebony is a loving wife and mother who enjoys cooking, dancing, karaoke, and making memories with family and friends. Married to her soulmate Michael since 2000, they share their lives with their fur baby, Lacy, and their vibrant daughter, Essence. Ebony remains a passionate advocate for storytelling, literacy, and surrounding yourself with a strong, supportive tribe.
Author A.A. Lewis is a promising rising star in the Urban Literature world. Her “SophistaRatchet” writing style allows her to pen characters and stories that resonates with readers. Her ability to deliver the unexpected has erned her a best selling title several times on Amazon. With realistic stories of urban life, it’s no wonder why A. A. Lewis is becoming a favorite among readers. As the creator of the Black Readers Appreciation Event (BRAE), AA is building a platform that assists authors' and readers by creating a safe space for Black creativeness to be valued, seen and celebrated. As a social media literary hostess, she uses lives interviews and consistent content creation to nurture the relationships among readers, authors, publishers, promotors, patrons, owners in the urban book business and the global Black book community with timely relevant information. When AA is not writing, she can be found cooking up a culinary feast for her growing family. The grandmother of two, enjoys spending quality time with her adult children and her husband. With both AA and her husband, D. Lewis The Narrator actively engaged in the urban literary scene, you can catch both of them at book expos and fairs across the country.
A multi-genre author, screenwriter, and creative visionary with a passion for telling stories that blend real-life experiences with imagination, grit, and heart. Known for her bold voice and emotionally rich narratives, Kaylynn writes fiction that spans romance, suspense, and drama—always centering complex characters and powerful themes. She is the founder of Skylar Publications LLC, an independent publishing company dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and creating generational wealth through storytelling. With a background as an electrician, Kaylynn brings the same dedication and precision to her creative work, often drawing inspiration from the everyday strength of women and the resilience of the human spirit. In addition to her books, Kaylynn is adapting several of her works into screenplays, including The Killing Path, and is actively building a production pipeline to bring these stories to life on screen.
As a child, I realized that my entertainment choices leaned more toward ghosts and goblins than princesses and fairy godmothers. My favorite authors were Stephen King and Jack Ketchum, as I wasn't aware of any bIack women - or black men - who wrote horror, so I began writing short-form horror in my teens. I didn’t release my first book until many decades later, thanks to the advances of self-publishing. Although I may occasionally drop a work of romance, my real passion is weaving stories about monsters – both the kind that come from the pits of hell or the kind that may live right next door.
An independent author of over 150 books. She’s been crafting crazy, spine tingling, heart racing books that’ll have you on the edge of your seat since November of 2015. Her books span over multiple genres like urban, street lit, paranormal and even psychological suspense all geared to stir up every emotion possible. Linette takes pride in leaving readers stressed out all while wanting more.
More than an author, she's a storyteller who gives readers fast-paced, non-stop drama with the perfect love twists. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Danielle uses her inborn senses to motivate her sexy crime-filled novels. Danielle’s work has been featured in the likes of Rolling Out magazine, while her independently produced book-to-film hits Plug Love and Confessions currently stream on TUBI and Amazon Prime Video. Danielle has also mentored and helped publish other up-and-coming authors, creating a name for herself in the literary world.
Most of my time is spent reading all forms of romance genre, paranormal werewolf shifters being my favorite even though dragon, fae, and witches are not far behind. I’m a big lover of animals, from horses, cats, and dogs, but currently my Maine Coon kitten has captured my heart and is taking up anytime left after reading and writing. My husband is my biggest fan and motivator, he believes I can do anything I put my mind to and continues to push me to pursue all my passions. Growing up my grandmother had a library full of historical romance novels which introduced me to this genre and helped me escape into all forms of romance that I've expounded on over the years. My love for those books sparked my love of reading, imagining, writing, and dreaming, that one day I would see my imaginings on the pages of my own novel. I’m excited the day is finally here, I finally had the courage to pursue being a published author, and hope the readers enjoy reading as much as I have enjoyed writing. Always let your perseverance and determination guide you to your safe spot!
Known to readers as Brown Sugaa, is an unapologetic voice in urban fiction who blends real emotion with raw street energy. Her stories hit hard, diving deep into love, loyalty, betrayal, and survival from a woman's point of view. Born in Chicago and raised in the Midwest, she writes with the authenticity of someone who's lived, learned, and leveled up. Through her company Brown Sugaa Presents, she's built a platform for bold storytelling and creative expression. When she's not writing, Hydiea is designing visuals, mentoring indie authors, and raising her two sons-King and RJ—who inspire her every move.
An urban fiction author straight out of Orlando, Florida, who writes raw, unapologetic stories about survival, love, betrayal, and the hood’s unforgiving realities. Known for her gritty style and unfiltered voice, she brings complex female characters to life—women who are flawed, resilient, and unforgettable. With published works like Rumor Has It, Selfish, and her explosive new series The Slums, KuTura B has built a lane of her own, blending street drama with emotional depth. Her stories are designed for readers who crave authenticity. Beyond the pages, KuTura B is a dedicated teacher with over a decade in the classroom, pouring her heart into shaping young minds while chasing her own literary dreams. Her mission is simple: to give a voice to the girls who made it out.
Queen Pen of The Ink Pen, is a Philadelphia native born and raised. Anna writes under multiple genres, having over twenty years in the literary industry under her belt, and has written and published over thirty works of fiction. Her debut novel, My Woman His Wife, opened the door for many amazing stories to follow. Anna's current literary journal has taken her down the thriller and suspense path where she is creating her own lane. Her debut erotic thriller, The Hunt, will take you on a ride you will never forget. Anna is currently at work on her next edge of your seat story.
Elaine Jenkins is a multi-genre author that resides in North Carolina. She has a passion for storytelling that transcends boundaries, Elaine brings solace to the page—offering readers a glimpse into worlds they’ve yet to explore and emotions they’ve yet to feel. Through her writing and publishing work, she empowers voices and stories that deserve to be heard. Whether you're diving into one of her captivating books or discovering new authors through her publishing house, Elaine’s mission is clear: to inspire, uplift, and transform through the written word. You can find her work on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BookFunnel, Kobo, Apple Books, and all major literary platforms. Visit her online home at www.elainesbookpalace.com to explore her latest releases and publishing services.
Bre Coleman is a thriller author originally from Alabama who moved to Virginia in 2018 while serving in the military. After transitioning out in 2021, she leaned into her lifelong love of storytelling and went on to publish two thrillers Deception and The Sixth Couple. Her work blends character-driven tension with page-turning suspense, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.
Detroit native, India Williams is the best-selling author of hood classics such as The Real Hoodwives of Detroit and the Gangstress series. In 2010, she released her debut novel, Dope, Death, and Deception. It instantly became a hit within the urban community. In 2011, India created Grade A Publications, an indie publishing company where nothing but 5-star books were produced. India also worked as a creative writer for T. Styles', Mean Girl Magazine in 2014. Since then, she has penned fifteen novels, two novellas, and has been featured in five anthologies. In 2023, India’s novella Dishonorable was adapted to film. In 2024, India started The Williams, a film production company with her husband and has since produced and directed two features films: We Still Family and No Strings. Aside from writing, India has a Master’s degree in Social Work and is a board-licensed mental health professional.
Jen Turner is a rising literary voice hailing from Houston, Texas. She is a self-published author with a bold and unapologetic style! Jen made a powerful entrance into the literary world with her debut novel, To Steal, Kill, & Destroy In This Game Called Love: A gripping urban fiction story that landed multiple times on Amazon’s Best Sellers list. Following the success of her debut, Jen released her highly anticipated second novel, My Ex Is Now My Stepson. But her creativity doesn’t stop at novels. She has published unique coloring and activity books that celebrate black culture and history. Her Black Western Pioneers Coloring Book has earned Amazon Best Seller recognition twice, further proving her range as a creator. A storyteller at heart, Jen has been writing since childhood. With each page she pens, she brings characters to life and crafts narratives that speak to the soul. Her mission is simple: to share her gift with the world, one unforgettable book at a time
Tanisha Stewart is a best-selling and award-winning author of page-turning thrillers with pulse-pounding twists. She is also one of the co-founders of the Black Women Who Read Thriller/Horror/Suspense Books group on Facebook. Find out more about Tanisha at tanishastewartauthor.com.
UBAWA Top 100 Author (2023/24) Toni Larue’ delivers gripping thriller and horror stories that dive deep into the darker sides of human nature. Recognized with a 2025 AAMBC Mystery/Thriller Author of the Year nomination alongside icons like Walter Mosley, Wanda Morris, and Brandon Massey, she’s celebrated for her unforgettable characters, heart-pounding tension, and twists that keep readers holding their breath until the final page. When she's not crafting her next thriller, Toni actively engages with her loyal readers in the vibrant "Black Women Who Read Thriller, Horror, and Suspense" Facebook community, where she shares her passion for dark fiction and connects with fellow enthusiasts of the genre.
Monique’s writing is fueled by legacy, family, faith, and the belief that storytelling can heal, transform, and elevate. She writes with purpose—to honor her loved ones, to represent Black stories with truth and depth, and to inspire others who dream of turning pain into power. With an expanding roster of authors under her brand and multiple high-impact releases scheduled each year, Monique Love is not just an author—she’s a movement. She is building a publishing dynasty rooted in creativity, community, and Black excellence. Follow her journey on all platforms as she continues to break barriers, build empires, and deliver the heat readers love.
T. Ashley writes what she feels—and feels what she writes. A storyteller at heart, she blends heart-pounding thrillers, steamy romance, and just a dash of hood magic. Her characters are messy, magnetic, and Black on purpose. Whether you’re flipping pages at 2AM or clutching your chest after a twist you didn’t see coming—welcome to the world of T. Ashley. Born in Connecticut and raised on imagination, she’s the author of When Lies Forget, Miss Agnes is Missing, Sight Undone, Capturing Celeste, and more. When she’s not writing, she’s manifesting dream homes, raising her beautiful kids, and side-eyeing the world with a pen in hand and a story on her tongue. She believes in second chances, flawed characters, and stories that speak truth—even when they lie.
A proud Miami native, captivates readers with contemporary romance and women’s fiction that resonates deeply with both women and men. Following her divorce. Lory discovered a passion for storytelling. Self-publishing her debut novel in 2018. Growing up in the 80’s, she was an avid reader, finding inspiration in classics like the Baby-Sitter’s Club and Sweet Valley High books that planted the seeds of a lifelong love for writing. Today, Lory channels that early spark into crafting stories that explore life, love and resilience in all its forms.
Shani Denise writes soulful, spicy urban romances that celebrate Black love in all its beauty, power, and magic. A proud Detroit native, she infuses every story with the city’s signature blend of grit and warmth. Penned the poetic lover girl, Shani brings a lyrical boldness to her storytelling—her voice raw, heartfelt, and unapologetically real. Through richly drawn characters and emotional, heat-filled narratives, she delivers love, healing, and intensity on every page, crafting unforgettable stories that linger long after the last chapter.
I have a passion for urban fiction. I love the raw and realness that it contains. I write my books about where I'm from which is the city of Detroit, MI. While my profession is in healthcare but my passion is in my writing. While my writing journey only began in 2024 I continue to grow within my writing and continue to create the stories that people love.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, with roots in Trinidad and Tobago, Casandra Charles blends culture, passion, and raw storytelling into every page she writes. A proud graduate of Morris Brown College with a B.A. in Mass Media Arts, and later a master’s in Adult Education, Casandra always had a love for books, but it was passion and curiosity that pushed her to finally write her own. After a decade of hesitation, she self-published her debut novel, Jamie Reynolds Chronicles: Lust and Lies, in 2015, and hasn’t slowed down since. Today, Casandra is the author of 10 books, 5 self-care journals, and her own line of erotica novelty items for the culture, building a catalog that’s as bold and unapologetic as the worlds she creates. Her work invites readers to surrender to temptation, explore hidden desires, and lose themselves in stories where pleasure and twist meet.
Detroit native, E Raye Turonek resides with her family in Michigan. Since releasing her debut literary work, Compelled To Murder, in 2016 the author hasn't skipped a beat. She's gone on to release five addition full length novels, Compelled To Murder – Full Length and Compelled To Murder II – Steven's Lineage, under her company Mental Chatter Musings, as well as traditionally published novels under Urban Books and Kensington Publishing. This hybrid author, and screenwriter also releases a monthly newsletter highlighting all things literary, including author spotlights and astrology updates. She is a multifaceted author, screenwriter, ghostwriter and astrologer looking to fulfill the reader's need for a sensational experience that won't be forgotten.
An acclaimed paranormal romance author whose stories blend supernatural world-building with heart-pounding emotion and fierce, unforgettable characters. Best known for her Fated Mates series and other dark paranormal tales — including Taming Kane and Healing Hazel — Tessa writes richly textured romances that bring together shapeshifters, witches, fated bonds, and relentless passion in worlds where love defies the unknown. Her books are beloved by readers for their fast pacing, intense chemistry, and immersive supernatural settings. With dozens of titles available on Amazon and other major platforms, Tessa has built a dedicated following who eagerly await each new Wintermoon installment and paranormal adventure.
Geletta Shavers writes books that feature strong women, complex relationships, intense psychological conflicts, and shocking plot twists. She aims to captivate readers from the start, crafting stories that are both engaging and explosive. Beyond her writing, Geletta is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping others. She believes in the power of stories to heal, inspire, and keep readers engrossed until the very end.
Award-winning Detroit author and founder of Motown Writers, Sylvia Hubbard, has independently published over 65 dark romance and intriguing suspense stories over the 20+ years she's been in the literary business. As an avid blogger, podcaster, social media manager, and digital strategist, Sylvia has received literary recognition for her literacy work and has had nine #1 Bestsellers. She is also a speaker, literary encouragement doula, and busy mompreneur expert.
MarZé Scott is an independent author with four titles to her name with more to come. Marzé has also been a ghostwriter to other independent authors as well as a writing coach to aspiring authors. MarZé started her writing journey as a child and has been published since 2018 and loves to pen second chance journeys. She is known for pulling her readers "in the room" with intimate details that send them on emotional rollercoasters. MarZé writes contemporary fiction and romantic suspense. When she isn't writing stories, she's writing recipes for her sumptuous baked goods.
Born and raised in the true grit of New Orleans, Louisiana, Dash Riley made her debut as Urban Lit author D’Ashanta under Mesha Mesh with a three book series titled A Thug Story, Not a Live Story. Her lifelong dream had become a reality and have since penned roughly 30 titles, continuously captivating the minds and hearts of readers with gritty narratives, authentic names and voices, and hopefully memorable characters that reflect real life struggles and triumphs. After years of learning from one of the best, she decided to take a leap of faith and go indie, rebranding herself as Author Dash Riley. With previous stories being rewritten and many new stories to come, she hopes to gain a greater audience filled with the support of a ride or die audience.
Lesanda Moore is a hopeless romantic from Virginia who pens stories about independent women stumbling into love and children learning valuable lessons in a fun way. Before embarking on her writing career, she spent five years in higher education, earning an AAS in Social Sciences from Tidewater Community College and a BA in Psychology/Elementary Education from Norfolk State University. When she’s not busy creating fictional towns and swoon-worthy heroes, she can be found watching old movies, walking in nature, wandering the globe, or fussing with teenagers.
Ka'-Dee Allen is a published romance author with a passion for storytelling that stirs the heart and sparks emotion. In addition to her captivating novels, she has created an empowering journal and a self-love-inspired coloring book, blending creativity with wellness. As she continues to grow her brand, Ka'-Dee is dedicated to taking her writing and entrepreneurial skills to the next level—one heartfelt project at a time.
Elle Wright is an award-winning author of edgy contemporary romance loaded with heat, humor, and scandal. Her novels feature strong, intelligent, courageous, beautiful, yet flawed, heroes and heroines of color. There was never a time when Elle wasn't about to start a book, wasn't already deep in a book--or had just finished one. She grew up believing in the power of reading to transform, to heal, and to enhance life and love. She became a lover of all things romance after her mother convinced her to take a chance and read something new. She resides in Michigan with her husband and children.
Chelly P is an author of 7 published books. A lover of books, she published her debut novel in 2021. She is Penning books about beautiful plus size women and the men that adore them. Giving you hood love stories, romance, and even small town recs. Her books will make you laugh, your eyes may water, claiming a book bae, and may make you a little angry. But you will definitely enjoy.
Starr Lyte is an indie author who is signed to Masterpiece Presents. She released her first novel, Titan of My Heart, in July 2025 and has been publishing books and novellas ever since. At the age of sixteen, Starr picked up a pen and decided to turn her love of reading into crafting the type of stories she would like to read. Starr’s books span urban romance, mafia romance, and erotica. Her stories are filled with love, humor, and strong female characters who are flawed but not broken. Starr takes pride in bringing her imagination to life through her books, making readers feel like they are in the room where all the drama and love unfold.
Known as the Lover of Love, author Crystal Davis began her literary journey alongside a community of talented writers. Before picking up the pen herself, she first made her name as an editor and promoter for several authors who quickly became cherished friends. One author, in particular, recognized her potential and encouraged her to co-author with him—an opportunity that inspired her to finally get her own pen wet. Crystal penned her first published work in 2023, collaborating on the novel Blindsided By A Miami Boss's Love, a project that remains one of her personal favorites. Since then, her storytelling has flourished across Romance, Erotic Romance, and Holiday genres. Readers praise her for crafting romance scenes that bring the heat—inside the bedroom and out. Writing under the banner of Winter Romances, Crystal also explores Christian-Holiday fiction, a genre that challenged her to step outside her comfort zone. Although these books carry less steam than her signature romances, they shine with joy, warmth, and heartfelt emotion. Many have described her holiday stories as rivaling the beloved charm of Black Hallmark. Crystal Davis continues to evolve as an author, with exciting new projects on the horizon. She plans to expand her repertoire into additional genres and experiment with unexpected mashups. For Crystal, the journey is just beginning—and the excitement only continues to grow.
A. Denise is an urban contemporary fiction author known for her emotionally charged storytelling and unforgettable characters. Her work explores the intersections of love, loyalty, trauma, and survival, often set against the backdrop of urban life and complex relationships. Her breakout novel, State of Betrayal: Tunnel Vision, introduces readers to her signature style—raw, intimate, and unapologetically real. With vivid dialogue and deeply layered characters, A. Denise crafts stories that linger long after the final page. She also penned Lucky Girl, a compelling exploration of resilience and identity. A. Denise writes for readers who crave layered narratives, flawed protagonists, and stories that reflect the complexities of modern relationships. Her work resonates with the spirit of resilience found in communities everywhere.
MzSassytheAuthor writes bold, emotionally layered Black romance featuring powerhouse heroines, billionaire bosses, and love stories that leave a lasting mark. Her books are known for their heart-racing chemistry, high-stakes drama, and unapologetic focus on representation. Whether you’re here for the boardroom tension, the undeniable chemistry, or the deep emotional connection, MzSassy delivers it all with style, heart, and just the right amount of sass.
To fully understand me and what I do, you first must read my autobiographies in order starting with Behind Every Smile and ending with Recklessness. In other words, I'm a self-published author who uses my books to help motivate others. I first begin with my autobiography which gives my readers a better understanding where I'm coming from. By using my historical past, that allows my readers to become inspired due to my many trials and tribulations that started as early as 5 months old. To be able to live to tell my story is a blessing within a blessing. As the years went by, I learned how to express through writing by using my heart to flow through my pen. My heart wants to live its life by helping others in any way that I can. The best way I know how is by writing phenomenal, entertaining stories from fiction, urban, suspense, and non-fiction that has messages through each story. The goal is to learn from the stories and apply it to my readers daily lifestyles. Leading by example is my job.
USA Today Bestselling Author Sherelle Green is known for her addictive, high-stakes mafia romances and the dark, gritty empire she's built through her books. A place where ruthless antiheroes and complex heroines navigate twisted loyalties, betrayal, and forbidden passion. With a deep fascination for the forbidden corners of love, she dives into themes of power, lust, vulnerability, and redemption, blending suspense and sensuality to keep readers on the edge of their seats. From intricate family sagas and compelling love affairs, to thought-provoking fiction and romantic crime thrillers, her novels touch on how experiences & environment impact the way her beautifully flawed and relatable protagonists view life and love.
Monica Cox is an Ohio-based author who writes grown, emotionally rich romance and thoughtful nonfiction. Her stories center brilliant women and complex, swoon-worthy men navigating love, loss, faith, and second chances, blending sensuality with soul. Drawing on over twenty years as a professor and leader, she writes with an honest, intersectional lens that speaks to anyone who has ever felt unseen or silenced, offering narratives rooted in healing and restoration. Born in rural southeast Alabama and raised by educators, Monica infuses every page with her Southern roots, her belief in resilience, and her commitment to imagining new ways of loving and living.
.png)
An award winning author, who was born on the South Side of Chicago. At the age of nine, writing became the creative form through which she expressed her feelings, thoughts, and emotions. That love affair with written words has continued throughout the years. Her novels help her to demonstrate and showcase her ability to bring romantic stories to life. Tracy writes about black love that is often soft and celebrates healthy relationships. After releasing ten novels as an independent author, Tracy joined the ranks of B. Love Publications in August 2023. She has released fourteen novels under the BLP banner. Tracy enjoys travel, shopping, spending time with her family, reading and of course . . . writing. She is currently working on upcoming novels.