I was overjoyed to be a featured local author for Utah Authors Day in Salt Lake City. Utah Authors Day is a community-focused event that highlights writers and artists from across the state, creating opportunities for readers to meet local creators, learn about their work, and support independent publishing.
Hosted inside The Legendarium, a bookstore that centers genre fiction and storytelling, the event brought together authors, artists, and readers in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Utah Authors Day emphasizes access and connection, encouraging conversation, which makes space for a wide range of creative voices.
Being featured as a local artist allowed me to participate in that exchange by sharing my published work, connecting with readers, and engaging with the broader Utah literary and arts community.
Sharing My Work as an Author
I have been published in a variety of anthologies featuring short stories, visual art, and poetry, with much of my writing rooted in feminist dark fiction. Utah Authors Day gave me the chance to share that work directly with readers and talk openly about my creative process.
During the event, I promoted several anthologies published through Collective Tales Publishing, The CWC and Carlisle Legacy Books. I used the opportunity to connect my writing to broader conversations about genre, representation, and storytelling. Events like this allow for meaningful, face to face engagement that complements some of my more behind-the-scenes creative efforts.
Community Connection
One of the strongest aspects of the event was the sense of community. Conversations with readers, fellow authors, and artists ranged from craft and publishing to shared local experiences. The Legendarium provided a welcoming environment that encouraged curiosity and connection in a safe space.
These kinds of interactions are an important part of my professional work. They inform how I think about audience engagement, storytelling, and accessibility, both as a creator and as a marketing professional.
Why Events Like This Matter
Utah Authors Day highlighted the value of local creative events in sustaining artistic communities. Being present, sharing work, and supporting fellow creators builds momentum that extends beyond a single day.
For me, events like these represent the intersection of writing, art, and community engagement that defines my creative practice. It was a meaningful opportunity to share my work, support local, and connect with readers in a thoughtful, grounded way.
Hope to see you at the next event!
xoxo,
Michaela Rae
