This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women authors at Tellwell whose courage, creativity, and dedication inspire us every day. From sharing their stories to lifting others through their words, these authors remind us that strength comes in many forms. Today, we honour their voices, achievements, and unshakable spirit that continue to shape a brighter and more compassionate world.
Odile Rose
Odile Rose has always believed in the power of stories to move and inspire. Born in Paris to Lebanese parents and now living in Ontario, she spent nearly twenty years in finance before answering the call of her true passion—writing. Guided by heart and inspiration, Odile took the leap that allowed her to share heartfelt stories that linger long after the last page.
The One Reason follows seventeen-year-old Elvis Sullivan on a night that changes everything. Thrust into a moment of fear and responsibility, he becomes the girl’s only hope. The memory of that night stays with him, showing that even in the darkest moments, love can ignite courage, shape destiny, and offer the hope needed to keep believing.
In March, our authors continued to make waves in the literary world. From author events and public recognition to new opportunities to share their work, book awards, and glowing reviews, it’s been an exciting month.
Beyond that, authors have been gaining even more visibility, with features and mentions helping their stories reach wider audiences. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from their journey this month.
Awards
Tellwell author Nataly Restokian’s HerMasks & His Truth has won a Gold Award from Literary Titan, earning recognition for its gripping and emotional storytelling. Based on true-life events, the novel follows Anna as an unexpected encounter with a globally recognized influencer turns her world upside down, forcing her to navigate love, loyalty, and life-changing choices.
Nataly, a top life and wellness coach in Quebec with a background in journalism and television, brings depth and insight to her writing. Her Masks & His Truth is the second book in her Masks series and marks another milestone in her journey as an award-winning author.
Her Masks & His Truth is perfect for readers who actively seek Christian fiction, inspirational romance, faith-based contemporary drama, and redemption narratives, especially those who like spiritual mentorship threads and conversion-centered storytelling.
This March we are celebrating great stories and giving readers a chance to discover their next favourite book. From inspiring true stories to thrilling adventures and imaginative journeys, there is something for everyone.
Check out this month’s showcase of exciting reads, and experience stories that can entertain, inspire, and stay with you long after the last page!
A fun adventure that sparks curiosity and imagination.
One alien, new friends, and a journey that will challenge everything you think you know.
Some answers change you forever.
Zog’s Big Question: An interplanetary tale of wonder, belief, and big questions.
Follow Zog, an inquisitive young alien from the planet Luminos—where everything is tested, measured, and understood—as he investigates mysterious reports from a distant blue world called Terra.
With the help of his new friends, Sam and Max, Zog explores a park, a church, a library, and a university — meeting people with many different ideas about life’s biggest questions.
Zog’s Big Question is a thoughtful, gently humorous adventure for readers 8 and up — a celebration of curiosity, imagination, and the many ways people search for truth.
February may be the shortest month of the year, but this one was filled with meaningful milestones. From book awards to public recognition and inspiring author events, our writers have been making waves in the literary world.
There is something powerful about seeing a story move beyond the page and into the spotlight. Each achievement reflects the passion, resilience, and dedication our authors pour into their work. This month, we are taking a moment to celebrate those accomplishments and the journeys behind them.
Awards
Tellwell author Raymond Maher’s suspense novel Trapped At Birth With Only One Way Out has won a 2025 Maincrest Media Book Award, earning international recognition for its gripping and powerful storytelling.
Set in rural Saskatchewan, the novel explores loyalty, betrayal, and survival as dangerous secrets come to light. Drawing on his experience as a pastor and newspaper columnist, Maher brings depth and emotional insight to a tense and unforgettable story.
The Maincrest Media Book Awards celebrate exceptional authors from around the world, making this achievement a meaningful milestone in Maher’s literary journey.
Event
Author Matt Mallinson recently hosted a book signing at Victoria & Albert Guesthouse in the Blue Mountains, celebrating his novel The Writer Upstairs.
Set in the great plains and a secluded mountain cabin, the story follows a reclusive chemist and a mysterious woman as they uncover centuries old secrets in the forest, exploring the power of nature, science, and hope for humanity’s future.
A passionate historian, Mallinson draws inspiration from early trail diaries and historical accounts. His novels intertwine the stories of mountain families with present day descendants, bringing history to life with depth and authenticity.
Publicity
There is magic in the everyday and author Karly Sidman proves it. Recently featured in KidlioMag, Sidman’s journey from chef to children’s author shows how passion and imagination can transform even the simplest moments into stories that inspire and delight.
Her love for her dogs especially Hardy Boy sparked the creation of her heartwarming children’s book Hardy: The Best Boy Ever, celebrating the bond between pets and their humans. From imagining adventures for Hardy in the summer of 2025 to seeing her story published, Karly shares her creativity and encouragement for young dreamers everywhere.
Storytelling can spark curiosity and inspire positive change, and author Aldona Nowak is doing just that. Recently featured in KidlioMag, Nowak’s debut book The Health Adventures of Nurse Priya encourages children to make healthy choices while showing how public health nurses make a difference in their communities.
Aldona’s passion for storytelling began with sharing special moments with her own children. Now she is using that same love for stories to inspire young readers to dream big, believe in themselves, and see the impact they can have in the world around them.
Reviews
Author Josie Smith delivers a powerful memoir, Debris, recently earning a five star review from Reader Views. The book follows Josie’s journey through love, loss, and grief after the Black Summer Bushfires took her husband, showing how courage and hope can help rebuild a life.
Drawing on her personal experience and psychology studies from Swinburne University, Josie shares a story of resilience that resonates with anyone who has loved and lost.
The tragedy of losing a loved one can feel unrelenting—no one can prepare you for the far-reaching effects of grief. But Josie’s story reminds us that piecing our lives back together is possible when we rely on purpose and courage. Readers who love memoirs about overcoming adversity will love ‘Debris.’
-Reader Views Book Review
Over a Glass of Wine by Schultz is a psychological mystery that received a glowing review from Indiereader. The novel follows Claire, an enigmatic woman hiding her past, and Harry, a flawed artist determined to uncover her secrets, leading to unexpected twists and a gripping ending.
Blending humour, suspense, and thoughtful reflections on love, death, and personal identity, Schultz offers a multi-layered story rich with insights into wine, art, and human relationships.
Schultz serves up a deliciously irreverent slice of epicurean excess in OVER A GLASS OF WINE: Wine, Food, Love, Sex, Murder. Propelled by a diverse cast of characters and their provocative situations, this story is a highly addictive, entertaining, and unorthodox read.
-IndieReader Book Review
Helen Lapada’s memoir Fight Like Hel received an amazing review from IndieReader. The book shares her journey through an aggressive cancer diagnosis at thirty during the COVID-19 pandemic, blending humor, heartbreak, and resilience.
With practical principles, candid reflections, and prompts for readers to reflect on their own lives, Fight Like Hel is a powerful reminder that showing up, scars and all, is still a victory.
In its savviness and candor, Lapada’s memoir stands perfectly well on its own merits. Helen Lapada’s FIGHT LIKE HEL: Fourteen Battle-Tested Principles for Resilience is a witty, engaging, and warm-hearted take on the ins and outs of cancer diagnosis and treatment.
February is a great time to curl up with a story, and this month we have a little treat for readers of all ages. One of our featured books brings a heartwarming children’s adventure full of imagination and fun, while the other offers a fictional romance that explores love, connection, and the twists that make relationships memorable.
Whether you’re reading alongside little ones or enjoying a story just for yourself, these February picks are a gentle reminder of the joy and comfort books can bring, no matter the genre.
Stories that spark imagination and emotion
An unexpected encounter, a life turned upside down, and a love that tests every limit. How far would you go for the one you never expected?
Her Masks & His Truth is a novel inspired by true-life events. An unexpected encounter turns Anna’s world upside down.
It begins with a stranger, a globally recognized influencer and celebrity against whom she has long harbored resentment. The story unfolds as Anna’s curiosity drives her to welcome him into her life, undeterred by the potential for intense criticism. Anna’s uninhibited spontaneity, which led her to leave her successful career as a public figure in the Arab world to marry her beloved Joe, continues to be a recurring theme.
Although she has hated the stranger her entire life, she now starts loving him with all her heart, soul, and mind. With unwavering courage, Anna feels compelled to bend her knee before the stranger. Yet now, she finds herself isolated and turning everyone against her, including Joe. Anna makes yet another impulsive move and decides to become a bride for the third time. However, the price of being with the stranger means that she must leave behind her burgeoning lifestyle and thriving career in North America.
It’s a turning point. The burning question lingers: Is the stranger truly worth fighting for?
An inquisitive young alien, mysterious reports from a distant world, and a journey full of curiosity, wonder, and the search for life’s biggest questions!
Some answers change you forever. Zog’s Big Question: An interplanetary tale of wonder, belief, and big questions.
Follow Zog, an inquisitive young alien from the planet Luminos—where everything is tested, measured, and understood—as he investigates mysterious reports from a distant blue world called Terra.
With the help of his new friends, Sam and Max, Zog explores a park, a church, a library, and a university — meeting people with many different ideas about life’s biggest questions.
Zog’s Big Question is a thoughtful, gently humorous adventure for readers 8 and up — a celebration of curiosity, imagination, and the many ways people search for truth.
2025 was a milestone year for Tellwell! ✨ We celebrated our 10th anniversary, earned the BBB Torch Award for Ethics for the second year in a row, and launched our podcast, Demystifying Self-Publishing. Our first Empowered Author Summit brought together hundreds of writers and experts, while our authors’ books reached over 100,000 readers at Word on the Street Toronto. From awards to events, podcasts, and national showcases, 2025 was all about celebrating our community, empowering authors, and sharing the power of storytelling. Here’s to an even bigger 2026! 💙
Podcast Launch
Tellwell has launched a brand-new podcast, Demystifying Self-Publishing, designed to guide authors through every step of the self-publishing journey. Each episode features interviews with industry experts and successful self-published authors, offering practical advice, insider tips, and real stories to help aspiring and experienced authors navigate formatting, marketing, distribution, and more.
Word on the Street Toronto 2025!
Word on the Street Toronto was a standout highlight of last year, placing Tellwell authors in the heart of Canada’s largest celebration of books and storytelling. With over 100,000 readers gathering downtown, our Tellwell booth showcased a diverse lineup of author titles, giving books prime visibility, hands-on promotion, and direct exposure to an engaged literary audience, all without authors needing to be onsite. It was an incredible opportunity to connect stories with readers and celebrate the power of publishing on a national stage.
Tellwell CEO Tim Lindsay Releases The Call To Authorship
Tim Lindsay, founder and CEO of Tellwell Publishing, released his new book, The Call to Authorship, on November 5, 2025, at the Empowered Author Summit. The book guides nonfiction writers through a 10-step process through planning, writing, publishing, and promoting, drawing on Lindsay’s experience helping thousands of authors write with purpose and impact.
The Empowered Author Summit
The first annual Empowered Author Summit was a free, three-day virtual event held November 5–7, 2025, bringing together 864 attendees and 24 expert speakers from around the world. Designed to educate, empower, and elevate writers at every stage, the summit covered planning, publishing, and promoting, leaving attendees with clarity, confidence, practical tools, and renewed motivation.
Back-to-Back BBB Torch Award Win For Tellwell
Tellwell was honoured to receive the BBB Torch Award for Ethics in the Professional Services category for the second year in a row. This marked our fourth consecutive nomination and second win, recognizing our commitment to integrity, transparency, and author-first publishing. The award was celebrated by members of our team at the BBB gala in Victoria, BC, and reflects the trust of our author community and the dedication of our talented publishing professionals.
Tellwell Celebrates 10 Years
This year, Tellwell proudly marked its 10th anniversary, a milestone reflecting a decade of dedication to authors. What began as a simple idea of supporting writers with transparency, guidance, and 100% royalties has grown into a global publishing company serving authors around the world. From our first office in Victoria to a fully remote team and a network of more than 50 publishing professionals in 2025, our journey has been defined by growth, resilience, and an ever-expanding author community. Above all, this anniversary celebrates the thousands of authors who have trusted Tellwell with their stories and helped shape a decade of success.
January is a great time to highlight our Tellwell authors and their work. This month, we’re sharing a collection of author spotlights and book reviews, celebrating the creativity and dedication that goes into each story.
Through these features, readers can discover engaging new books while learning more about the people behind them. It’s a way to celebrate the talent and passion that bring stories to life.
Author Spotlight
Lucas wants a tarantula—not a toy, not a picture, but a real eight-legged friend! The only problem? Mom is terrified of spiders.
In this sweet and funny story, Lucas uses patience, courage, and plenty of fun facts to win her over. Now featured in KidlioMag, K.M.’s book, Lucas Gets a Tarantula is capturing young readers’ hearts and sparking brave conversations at home. Perfect for kids, parents, and anyone learning that courage sometimes comes with eight legs. 💛
The Adventures of Gregg the Fainting Goat by Steve Mo is also featured in KidlioMag! 🐐
Gregg isn’t your ordinary farm goat—he faints whenever he gets too excited or scared. When he dreams of joining the rodeo, his kindhearted friend Sharon helps him take on the goat-tying event. Full of humor, heart, and farmyard fun, this story shows that what makes you different can also be your greatest strength. Perfect for ages 3 to 7, it’s a tale that will leave kids laughing, cheering, and celebrating themselves.
Discover the magic of The Lonely Dragon: The Adventures of Astrid the Viking by Ruth Tobiassen, now featured in KidlioMag! 🐉
When a lonely dragon meets a brave Viking girl, a story of friendship, courage, and kindness unfolds. This beautifully rhyming tale shows that true friendship begins with understanding and heart. Perfect for bedtime or quiet reading, it blends gentle rhythms, memorable characters, and a message young readers will cherish.
Review
Wendy Maclean’s Santa Also Forgets has earned a five-star review from Reader’s Favorite! Based on true events and inspired by Wendy’s family trips to Santa’s village, this heartwarming story captures the magic of the season and the joy of kindness.
Santa Also Forgets by Wendy Maclean is built around humor, warmth, and relatable holiday moments. The writing is gentle, making it easy for young readers to read, while Amelina Jones’s illustrations bring all the pages to life.
-Readers’ Favorite Book Review
Cody Cole’s Auke-wingeke-tawso, or, ‘Defender of His Country’ has received a five-star review from Reader Views! This detailed account of Charles de Langlade’s life highlights the bravery and endurance of the Green Bay forest settler, whose actions in the French & Indian War earned him lasting respect. Rich in historical detail, the book brings to life a fascinating figure often overlooked in history. Cody Cole, a history enthusiast from Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, combines meticulous research with a passion for storytelling to make this remarkable tale accessible to readers today.
Overall, Auke-wingeke-tawso is a solid work of historical scholarship that successfully conveys the history and influence of one of the most important Métis war captains, traders, and diplomats of the colonial era.
The holiday season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a collection of books that sparkle with festive cheer? Santa’s Shelf brings together Tellwell’s favorite Christmas reads, each one a perfect gift for cozy winter nights, family storytime, or a moment of seasonal escape. With stunning cover designs by Von Langoyan, these books don’t just tell a story, they capture the magic of the season before you even turn the first page.
Whether you’re looking for heartwarming tales, playful adventures, or inspiring holiday lessons, Santa’s Shelf has something for every reader. Pull up a chair, grab a cup of cocoa, and explore the pages that make this season truly bright.
The Christmas Quilt Jamboree by Tanya Brown
Through peppermint-striped doors in a house at the top of the world, Mrs. Claus is busy with her favourite tradition: quilting! Each summer she lovingly sews the very first gifts of the season for the nicest of the nice kids on the list. Mrs. Claus brings the heart and Santa brings the magic that make these quilts truly special.
The True Story of Santa’s Sleigh by Christine L. Kotowycz
The True Story of Santa’s Sleigh captures the wonder and magic of Christmas. Set in a snowy countryside, curious children discover a mysterious sleigh and begin receiving letters that reveal a secret connection with Santa. Through these letters, they learn about his northern home, Christmas preparations, and the power of the Christmas Spirit. When Santa gives them a special request, the children discover their own magic, leading to an extraordinary Christmas Eve. With cozy, enchanting illustrations of a Canadian winter, this heartwarming story inspires imagination and festive cheer.
Santa School by Jennifer Andrews
Santa can’t be everywhere all of the time—or can he? For this reason, Santa himself appointed his number 1 elf to teach, tutor, and mentor his best Regional Representatives so that the spirit of giving, happiness, and love could be spread limitlessly throughout the world to kids of all ages. Santa School exists to teach all things Santa to the Santa students for the sole purpose of delivering joy.
Elf Jen, a real life mom, knows what it takes to be a magical and real Santa. In this book, Santa’s head elf shares never before revealed, santa industry, insider information. This book serves as a Santa detection manual for those wanting to know who and where the real Santa is! Elf Jennifer, AKA Dean of Santa School, was asked by Santa to operate this school in his behalf. His best Regional Representatives are trained and immersed in the ways of Santa so that they can fulfill the common goal of spreading Christmas joy to all.
2025 has been a remarkable year for book design, and the covers that graced our shelves didn’t just catch the eye, they told a story before the first page was even turned.
At Tellwell, our talented design team has poured creativity, passion, and careful attention to every detail, crafting covers that are as striking as the stories inside. From bold concepts to subtle nuances, these covers have captured imagination, sparked curiosity, and reminded us of the power of thoughtful design.
We’re excited to showcase our favorite book covers of the year. Each one a testament to creativity, artistry, and the magic of a perfectly designed cover.
The Chasm Between Us by Campbell Anderson
Book Cover Design by Ralph Cavero Sam Cardiff has faced loss before—his grandfather, his ex-girlfriend—but life seems to be settling back on track as he pursues med school. That balance shatters when his cat becomes the victim of a hit-and-run, sending him into a numbing spiral of grief and alcohol. Enter Gracie Goldstone, a down-to-earth surfer whose optimism sparks a connection with Sam. But as their bond deepens, Sam uncovers that Gracie’s past is far from perfect—and confronts truths about himself that push him to the edge of faith. To heal, he must learn what it truly means to love and be loved. Set in Melbourne, Campbell Anderson’s debut novel explores grief, mental health, faith, family, relationships, and the subtle touch of the supernatural.
Echoes of Light: Essays and Reflections by Edwin O. Paña
Book Cover Design by Ralph Cavero
A compelling collection of essays that illuminates the pathways of wisdom, brotherhood, and purpose. Guided by the author’s profound experiences as a member of the Upsilon Sigma Phi and his personal journey of growth, this book offers thoughtful reflections on life, leadership, and the pursuit of meaning.
ENSŌ, A Tree Still Grows by Anette Lan
Book Cover Design by: Ralph Cavero
In Enso, Canadian-Japanese author Anette Lan explores the quiet truths we often overlook in the rush of achievement. Inspired by the image of her grandfather painting the enso circle, she reflects on the tension between constant output and the need for stillness. Lan invites readers to reconnect with the human side of themselves—the part that moves with flow, senses the rhythms of life, and nurtures creativity. Through her “Enso Moments,” she guides us across the four natural seasons of inner growth: rooting, rising, releasing, and renewal. This grounded and spacious guide helps you reclaim presence, lead with calm, and trust the quieter, truer parts of yourself. Enso is not about doing more—it’s about pausing, listening, and finding the courage to embrace who you are beneath the titles and expectations.
This December, we’re featuring a Tellwell author whose work has connected with readers in meaningful ways. With incredible book reviews, public recognition, book and author awards, and book events, this feature shares a closer look at their journey and achievements.
It’s an opportunity to learn more about the author and the care behind their books, and to celebrate the creativity that shapes their work.
Awards
We’re thrilled to share that Zlata Prudyus has been named a Finalist for the 2026 Canadian Choice Award in the Authors Category in Edmonton!
Zlata, a creative sixth grader, first wrote Amy and the Magic Forest as a school assignment. The story follows Amy, who discovers a magical realm filled with purple clouds, blue trees, and red-capped mushrooms. Guided by the fairy Freya, Amy learns lessons about friendship, bravery, and kindness while navigating whimsical adventures and reflecting on her own life.
Filled with imagination, colorful settings, and heartwarming lessons, Zlata’s debut showcases her passion for storytelling and inspires young readers to embrace creativity and courage.
