After eight years away from the book event scene, I dove back in. And what better way than a day packed with books, candles, fantasy costumes, and dancing until my feet gave out? The Dark Flame Society: Fantasy Book Market & Fantasy Ball was pure magic, and today I’m sharing all the wins and lessons I learned along the way.

First, the Book Market:

I went into this event being 100% honest with myself: my books have a bit of vintage indie charm. Minutes Before Sunset was published in 2013. That means my covers aren’t trendy, and even my trim size is smaller than today’s standard. I also figured most readers would be looking for what’s hot on BookTok — adult romantasy packed with spice — while my books are young adult fantasy filled with sweet, angsty teen romances (absolutely zero spice included).

But honestly? I didn’t care about any of that.

I just wanted to have fun, reconnect with readers and writers, and rediscover what it felt like to be part of the indie author community again.

First lesson learned? Getting back into the swing of things was half the adventure!

After my husband heroically helped me dig through our basement to find my old inventory, x-banner, and all my bookish supplies, I still had a few technical hurdles once we arrived. Huge shoutout to my fellow indie author and friend Tee Harlowe for helping me wrestle my x-banner into place. It turns out, a little teamwork makes everything more fun.

In fact, instead of going to the book market solo, I teamed up with my bookish bestie who owns Burn Candle Co. We shared a booth, selling books, candles, and exclusive book-candle bundles themed after my stories. We had Shadow Daddy candles for the Timely Death trilogy and I Love You, But It’s Killing Me Candles for the Bad Bloods series. And let me tell you: combining our small businesses was the best decision ever. Not only was it my favorite part of the day, I still can’t believe we sold out of our Timely Death trilogy + Shadow Daddy Candle bundles!

Did I make a ton of sales beyond that? Not really. But that wasn’t the point. 

​​For me, it was about reconnecting with readers, practicing my elevator pitches, and soaking in the creativity all around me. 

Next Stop: the Fantasy Ball

Glittering gowns, a millennial hits DJ, and the thrill of aerial performers spinning above the crowd? What more could you want? The Fantasy Ball was pure enchantment. It wasn’t just a night about books; it was a celebration of creativity, community, and unapologetic joy. Everyone was dressed to the nines. There were professional cosplayers, singers, and burlesque dancers. 

I had imagined a slightly more fantasy-book themed ball based on what I’d seen online, but honestly? What we got was even better. I haven’t danced that hard in a decade! (No regrets. Just sore feet.)

One of my favorite moments of the entire day came at the ball: A reader from the book market spotted me, brought over her friends, and excitedly told me they had been talking about my “unique” books. My pitches had stood out to them and stayed with them. They gave me so much encouragement. It was absolutely electric. The kind of moment that fills your creative well.

Final Thoughts: 

I had an absolute blast. Sure, it was a long day (up at 5 AM, home by 10:30 PM…and the ball itself went until midnight!), and yes, I may have whacked my head on my book carrier crate harder than I’d like to admit. But honestly? Every second was worth it.

Would I do it again?

I think so…though, with a few more sparkly upgrades and extra caffeine. Especially if I ever decided to publish new indie books. (Regardless, I definitely need a new x-banner.) Whether you’re selling books or just soaking in the magic, there’s something unforgettable about spending a day surrounded by readers, writers, and pure imagination.

Have you ever sold books at a book market? Attended a fantasy ball? I’d love to hear about your adventures and lessons!

~SAT