TUCSON, Ariz. - s4story -- Publisher's Weekly's BookLife Editors invited author Natalie Wright to showcase her new title, Season of the Dragon, as one of thirty books to represent the best in American independent publishing at the 19^th Thessaloniki Book Fair (TBF). TBF is an international book show, held annually in Thessaloniki, Greece. This year, TBF (May 4-7) will pay tribute to US literature and showcase contemporary literary voices in US literature.

Wright, a seasoned independent publisher, hadn't released a new title in over five years. She states the invitation email from BookLife shocked her. Wright said:

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"This isn't something you apply for or a contest you enter. To be recognized by industry editors for the work is unexpected, and an honor to represent American publishing at this event."

Of Wright's new title, Season of the Dragon, BookLife editors said:

"This dazzling fantasy seizes attention from the start… The stakes are high, the prose crisp, and the adventure thrilling as Wright rewards and upends reader expectations."

Wright spent seven years developing and writing the book. Rather than pursue the lengthy and unpredictable process of seeking a contract with a large publishing house, Wright opted to publish independently.

"Indie publishing affords me creative freedom and significantly more control over the publishing process. I choose when—and how—my books are published, and I choose the editorial and artistic team."

But Wright notes, with artistic control, comes risk. "The independent author shoulders all the financial burden."

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Of being tapped as an exemplar of independent publishing, Wright said:

"BookLife editors recognized my hard work, dedication to writing craft, and also that I gathered a great team of editors, artists, and designers."

Wright paused only briefly to toast the Thessaloniki news before returning to work on the next in the Dragos Primeri series. A companion novella to Season of the Dragon will release later this year.

Wright will next appear at the Mesa Book Crawl, after which she will be at the LA Times Festival of Books. Readers can follow Wright's work at her website, www.NatalieWrightAuthor.com.

About: Natalie Wright has previously published six novels. Her first novel, Emily's House, a young adult fantasy, has been read over 2.1 million times on Wattpad. Wright is also a podcaster and a judge for the international short story writing competition, NYC Midnight. Season of the Dragon is Wright's first epic fantasy title for adults.