A New Beginning

There’s something sacred about the start of a new year. A pause. A moment where we look back at everything that carried us here and forward at everything still waiting to be written.

As we step into 2026, we wanted to take a moment to introduce ourselves properly and share a bit about what we’re building, why it matters to us, and what we’re so excited to bring to life in the year ahead.

For starters, I’m Chelsea Schermerhorn, founder of Bluebonnet Books Publishing. Bluebonnet Books was born from deep love and the desperation of a daughter trying to make her mother’s dream of publishing a book come true before a disease stole the last vestiges of language from a woman who clung to words like an artist to their brushes. From there, in the past year, it has grown into a dream of bringing others’ books into the light and making authors’ dreams a reality.

Alongside me is Erika Puccio—author, creative partner, and the organizational force that helps turn big ideas into real-world magic. Erika and her husband run an event planning business, and when we started talking about the kinds of book events we wished existed, we realized something important: there was space for something new. Something intentional. Something built with community and friendship at its heart.

That conversation is where FABLE—Fantasy and Book Lovers Expo—began.

As we looked ahead to 2026 as author and publisher together, we couldn’t find many events that truly prioritized indie authors, small publishers, and meaningful reader connection. We wanted more than rows of tables and rushed signings. We wanted shared experiences. Conversations that linger. Moments that turn into memories. A place where readers and authors don’t just meet, but connect, much in the way that we had. 

We’re pouring our hearts into making FABLE a weekend that feels immersive, creative, and alive, but without over-promising and under-delivering. From interactive classes and panels to collaborative experiences, story-building spaces, themed events, and more, everything we’re planning is rooted in one simple belief: stories bring people together.

This year for both of us is about growth, creativity, and building something that lasts. It’s about taking risks on big ideas, supporting indie voices, and inviting others to step into a space where imagination is not only welcome, it’s celebrated.

Whether you’re a reader, a writer, a creator, or someone who simply loves stories, we’re so grateful you’re here at the beginning of this journey with us. 2026 holds so much promise, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead.

Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and the stories we’ll write together.

— Chelsea & Erika