Local Author to Host Fundraiser

of Channahon, began vampire novels in the mid-80s. Years later, she now has four books worth of stories about a girl and her obsession with a vampire.

From 6p.m. to 11 p.m. October 14, Unland will release her first novel, “Bryony,” the story of a teenage girl who makes a seemingly harmless deal with a vampire. The plot centers on their agreement and how it changes the course of this girl’s life and the lives of those close to her.

The official release of the book will take place at 'VampFest,' which is a Bryony-themed festival with vendors and activities featuring characters from the book and an exclusive sneak-peek into the story-line of this unique and fantasy-filled cautionary tale. VampFest will take place at the Harwood Post, 705 S. Larkin Ave., in Joliet. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children under 12, and free for children under 6. The ticket price includes food and live entertainment, and guests are encouraged to attend in costume.

Unland is a features reporter who has written for several area newspapers for nearly 20 years.  Her strong ties to the community have taken her book in many interesting directions, turning it into a multi-faceted project that now includes a CD of original classical music and a companion cookbook. Both complement the Bryony storyline.

“Through collaborating with many artists I’ve watched my story take form beyond even my most vivid imagination,” Unland said. “Watching the creative processes of other artists unfold and develop has been a great experience.”

 Because of Unland’s unique partnership within the non-profit arena and her commitment to giving back to her community, proceeds from the cookbook and VampFest Event will go to

“Because Bryony's main character, Melissa Marchellis, spends part of her childhood in a single parent home, the group was a good match for the cookbook,” Unland said.

Unland is the former writing teacher for a homeschool cooperative, charter member of St. John Kronstadt Mission Church and, with husband Ron, co-founder of the Higher Ark youth ministry. Denise has six homeschooled children, three step-children, six god-children, six grandchildren, and several cats that behave like children. She is also a founding member of the Heavenly Sinner’s Writer’s Guild and blogs regularly at bryonyseries.blogspot.com/

Bryony will be available at www.amazon.com and several area retailers.

A full list of retailers, as well as the Bryony Book Trailer and Music Video are available on the Web site.