The results are in, and we’re honored to celebrate an incredible weekend at the 2026 Florida Authors & Publishers Association (FAPA) President’s Book Awards!
Richter Publishing is proud to announce that five of our published titles were recognized for excellence, earning two Gold Medals, one Silver Medal, and two Bronze Medals across multiple categories.
Every award-winning book represents an author’s unique journey, countless hours of dedication, and the courage to share a story with the world. We are incredibly grateful to have been part of that journey.
🥇 Gold Medal Winners
Lamenting Sam
Author: Kelly Jo Terry
A heartfelt and beautifully written collection that resonated with readers and judges alike, Lamenting Sam earned the Gold Medal, recognizing its outstanding literary achievement. Lamenting Sam is a raw, luminous collection of poetry born from a mother’s deepest heartbreak—the sudden loss of her 25-year-old son.
Work & Live Anywhere: Peru Unplugged
Author: Tara Richter-Hatzilias
Taking readers on an unforgettable journey through Peru while exploring the realities of working remotely abroad, Work & Live Anywhere: Peru Unplugged was awarded the Gold Medal for its inspiring blend of travel, culture, and practical insight.
🥈 Silver Medal Winner
Fouled Anchor Chronicles
Author: George L. Trowbridge
This compelling and memorable work received the Silver Medal, honoring its engaging storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship. George Trowbridge unknowingly charts a life course that leads him through powerful, unique episodes—much like a harsh tide caught between the planet’s strongest forces: land and sea.
🥉 Bronze Medal Winners
Still His Mama
Author: Terrell Hatzilias
An emotional and deeply personal story, Still His Mama earned the Bronze Medal for its powerful message and meaningful impact on readers about stillbirth.
The Man from Rock Bottom
Author: Stephen Eric Johnson
Recognized with the Bronze Medal, The Man from Rock Bottom inspires readers with a remarkable story of resilience, perseverance, and hope. In a post-apocalyptic world where humanity’s last survivors live under alien protection, one unlikely hero must stop a deadly uprising before Earth is destroyed forever.
Celebrating Our Authors
Awards like these are about more than medals—they celebrate the passion, perseverance, and determination it takes to write a book and share it with the world. Each of these authors trusted Richter Publishing to help bring their vision to life, and we couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished.
To Kelly Jo Terry, Terrell Hatzilias, George L. Trowbridge, and Stephen Eric Johnson—congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Your dedication to your craft continues to inspire us. A special congratulations as well to our President, Tara Richter-Hatzilias for earning a Gold Medal with Work & Live Anywhere: Peru Unplugged.
As we celebrate these five award-winning titles, we’re reminded why we do what we do: helping authors turn their stories into books that make a lasting impact. Here’s to our incredible authors—and to many more stories still waiting to be told. Congratulations to all of our 2026 FAPA President’s Book Award winners!
Richter Publishing 