Are you looking for some books to buy for Christmas? Looking for awesome Wisconsin-based authors? I’ve got you covered in myriad genres.

These are authors who are friends and/or a part of the Red Oak Writing group. This is obviously not a definitive list as I know somebody may have slipped through the cracks.

SciFi/Fantasy

T.M. Ledvina

Ledvina offers a queer-norm world full of mystery and danger. Originally developed as a DnD campaign, this story has evolved into a complex series investigating love, power, and what makes people tick. The cast of characters is diverse and the world-building is intense.

The series follows Kellan, an indentured political assassin, and Cassian, a man desperate for a more interesting life. The two join forces to investigate a string of murders that neither of them are responsible for. These two who aren’t even in control of their own fates are trying to change that of their city.

This story has the sci-fi twist you’re looking for with the fantasy elements of demons, magic, and political intrigue. Give it a try!

Fiction

Mary Wimmer

Mary always inspires me with how wonderful her writing is and how masterfully she weaves a story. In our critique groups, she’s the one who brings us drafts that are just better and better and better. Her most recently published novel, “The Art of the Break,” was how I first met her. The story, set in Wisconsin, follows a strong-willed woman determined to make a stable life for her daughter. Not only does it have some fascinating insights into cheese-making, but it also delves into the tough issues of single mothers, sexism in business, and past traumas. I love this story. Mary has a talent for creating characters that resonate in situations that feel all too familiar. I’m so excited for her next book to be released so I can sing it’s praises as well.

Short Stories

Kim Suhr

The fearless leader of Red Oak Writing and the roundtable critique groups I frequent. Suhr specializes in short stories with a bit of a darker twist. These character-driven stories explore identity, community, and the human experience. There is a strong focus on the Midwest and the effects that the setting may have on a person. Short fiction with a Midwestern flavor.

Cozy Mystery

Donna Rewolinski

A long-time member of Red Oak Writing, Donna writes cozy mysteries. Her current series, Novice Mystery, follows Dan and Karen Novice on their travels. Dan is a retired police detective who can’t quite give up his “cop-y senses.” As they travel through Ireland, Mexico, and France, the couple ends up on the hunt for killers while just trying to enjoy their vacations. I adore Donna’s writing for the descriptive settings and playful banter. Do not read these books while hungry as Donna has a talent for making local food shine. She always leaves me guessing until the last possible minute about who the true killer might be. Mexico has probably been my favorite, mostly because of Ernesto the Goat.

Romance

Audrey Lynden

Writer of sweet romances with emotional plots. I was so honored to be in a Red Oak Critique Group with her as she wrote “To Sense a Passion.” Audrey has a way of weaving tense conflicts with sweet romances. I highly suggest her series for those who want a romance with a Wisconsin twist to it. I mean, who wouldn’t love a series about some charming brothers with even more charming accents.

Nonfiction

Yolanda Deloach

I had the absolute joy of being in the same Red Oak Critique Group as Yolanda as she worked on her fabulous memoir. Squatter follows Yolanda’s journey hiking the Ice Age Trail through Wisconsin while she grapples with complex emotions and traumas. Yolanda’s writing puts you on the trail with her physically and emotionally. I have not been able to get her journey out of my head since I first heard her read those first few chapters she brought along.