BTS of the Nebula Awards Conference and... 💖⚙️📚
🎁 Open for fun bookish news and where to find me this summer!
I’ve just returned from the Nebula Awards Conference and while I’m tired, I’m so thankful that I got to attend. I learned so much after attending panels, workshops, and having several conversations with other authors. I also had a wonderful time getting to panel about genre mashups with Nicola Griffith and Ray Naylor. Getting to spend time with such a supportive community is a blessing!
When I wasn’t paneling or meeting author friends, I *finally* had some headshots taken. I’ve been meaning to do this for a few years so that when I have an event or podcast, I’m not left scrambling when I’m asked for headshots. Kaitrin Acuna was amazing to work with and made the whole process very easy!
I wish I would have taken more pictures from the actual conference and Nebula Award Ceremony, but at the same time, I’m really glad I was present in the moment. For me, there’s something magical about getting to be in the room and listen to the speeches live while surrounded by so many fantastic writers. The themes of community and joy were particularly meaningful this year. I absolutely loved Grand Master Nicola Griffith’s speech on world building (it’s not what you think.) You can read the transcript of her full speech here.
After the awards where handed out, next year’s conference and location were announced, along with a reminder about the ongoing auction. The 61st Nebula Conference hosted by SFWA will be in Chicago, IL from June 2-7, 2026. I’m really hoping to attend (the Chicago Steampunk Expo is a week later) because aside from attending panels, I love having the chance to meet other authors and see my long-distance friends in-person. Early registration is already live here!
Whether you are a reader or writer, SFWA's Annual Silent Auction goes to support writer advocacy, outreach, and education. You can bid on books, kaffeeklatsches, and even career sessions. The auction ends June 12 at 7pm PDT!
When I came home, Dog-Eared Books sent a cute sticker with my royalty check. I’m thankful for bookstores and readers that support their local authors!
If you’re local to Central Iowa, you can find my books at:
Johnston Public Library
Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library
Ames Public Library
If your local bookstore or library doesn’t have my books on their shelves, they can order you a copy through Ingram. (You can also check out this guide on how to request libraries carry print books here.)
My next adventure(s)
After living out of my suitcases off and on for just over a month between DemiCon, the Chicago Steampunk Expo, and the Nebula Awards Conference, I’m happy to stay home and spend time with my family while working on revisions and writing for other projects. (And reading my copy of the Nebula Awards Showcase!) However, I will be one of the readers for Strong Women, Strange Worlds on July 17th! Join Pauline Barmby, Joyce Chng, Amanda Nevada DeMel, Karen Eisenbrey, Glori Medina, and me for a fun, free virtual reading by pre-registering here.
My next steampunk event will be TeslaCon in November! Another room block opened at the neighboring hotel that includes breakfast. Will you be attending TeslaCon?
Happy reading!
