BIOS FOR CONFIRMED ARTISTS

Nikki Brooke – Author & Project Lead
Nikki Brooke is an Australian author of young adult speculative fiction whose work centres diverse and inclusive storytelling, particularly within queer and culturally rich narratives. She has independently published two novels, Plagued Lands and The Huxian Fox, with the second due for release in 2026, and received accolades including an Aurealis Award shortlist for Plagued Lands and other industry recognition. With a background in community engagement and a growing presence across literary platforms and social media, Nikki combines narrative craft with professional practice, aiming to broaden access to speculative fiction through both print and audio formats.

https://nikkibrooke.com/

Justin Ho – Developmental Editor & Sensitivity Reader
Justin Ho is a developmental editor and sensitivity reader specialising in speculative fiction and culturally informed storytelling. Based in Hawaii, he holds a bachelor’s degree focused on cultural awareness in storytelling and has formal training in advanced developmental editing from the Editorial Freelancers Association. Justin works with authors to refine structure, characterisation, and inclusive representation, particularly across cultural and LGBTQ+ contexts, helping to ensure narratives are both authentic and resonant.

https://fictiondipity.com/

Matt Ivy Richardson – Line Editor
Matt Ivy Richardson is a Melbourne-based speculative fiction author and editor whose work focuses on science fiction and fantasy, with particular sensitivity to queer and marginalised voices. They served as editor on AUSTRAL 2025, a speculative fiction anthology that won the 2025 Aurealis Award for Best Anthology, highlighting their editorial excellence and deep engagement with the Australian genre scene. Their professional editing work includes line editing to strengthen clarity, pacing and stylistic consistency.

https://mattivyrichardson.com/

Sarah Lemcke – Proofreader
Sarah Lemcke is a professional proofreader and editor with All in the Edit, a service dedicated to helping authors refine and publish polished manuscripts. With qualifications including an Advanced Certificate in Professional Writing and Editing and extensive experience across genres, she brings meticulous attention to detail to ensure text accuracy and consistency before publication. Her services also support broader author development, covering proofreading, copy editing and interior book preparation.

https://allintheedit.com/

Matthew Lin – Cover Designer & Artist
Matthew Lin is a graphic designer, illustrator and visual artist with over 25 years of professional experience in publishing, design and illustration. His career spans roles in book and magazine design at Scholastic Publishing, senior design positions at Creata Promotion, art direction at Horwitz Publications and creative direction in media, before moving to freelance practice in 2004. Since then he has illustrated and designed more than 60 books for Australian and international publishers, worked on concept illustration for major brands, and completed public art projects including commissioned murals and workshop programs. Matthew has also led drawing workshops and creative sessions in libraries, schools and community events, sharing his expertise widely. His design work is grounded in a love of storytelling and visual narrative.

https://www.matthewlin.com.au/