Live! June 11, 2026

A Night of North Carolina Fiction

Six Authors. Two Hosts. One Stage. Unforgettable Storytelling.

Join us on June 11, 2026 in downtown Raleigh for a multi-genre reading series featuring some of North Carolina’s legends of the page, experienced as literature should be: accompanied by booze and good company.

📅 The Details

When: Thursday, June 11th, 2026 at 8:00 PM
Where: The Berkeley Cafe | 428 S Dawson St., Raleigh, NC
Admission: Free
Family Rating: Readings will range from PG to R in terms of content; recommended for ages 16 and up.

📚 About the Event

North Carolina has always been a crucible for incredible storytelling. On June 11th, we are bringing together six of the state’s most distinct voices for a special literary showcase at Raleigh’s iconic Berkeley Cafe. From gripping mysteries and rich contemporary prose to expansive speculative worlds, First In Fiction offers a vibrant cross-section of the stories shaping our region’s celebrated literary landscape. Whether you are a die-hard fiction reader, an aspiring writer, or just looking for a fantastic night out surrounded by great company, this is the room you want to be in. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the event.

Grab a drink, find a seat, and settle in for a night of dynamic live readings hosted by North Carolina authors Robert Creekmore and Richard Dansky.

✍️ Featured Authors

John Kessel

John Kessel is a master of speculative and science fiction, renowned for his rich world-building, and sharp, human-centered narratives. His stories have twice received the Nebula Award, given by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. His numerous other honors include the Shirley Jackson award, the Theodore Sturgeon Memorial Award, the Paul Green Playwright’s Prize, and more.

Mur Lafferty

Mur Lafferty is an award-winning sci-fi author and podcaster, known for her thrilling, inventive storytelling. She has won a Hugo and the Astounding Award, as well as two Manly Wade Wellman Awards among other honors. She was also an inaugural member of the Podcast Academy Hall of Fame.

Natania Barron

Natania Barron writes lush, historical fantasy and speculative fiction, weaving intricate tales of myth, magic, and forgotten histories. She is a Manly Wade Wellman award winner and was nominated for a Hugo.

Katy Munger

Katy Munger is a NC-based mystery writer who served as North Carolina’s 2015 Piedmont Laureate. She is also the co-editor of the neo-noir journal Dark Yonder and numerous short story anthologies, and served as a book reviewer for the Washington Post. Her award winning work includes the iconic Casey Jones mystery series, the Hubbert & Lil cozy series, and the Dead Detective series.

Isaac Hughes Green

Isaac Hughes Green is the author of fiction that explores deep, contemporary themes with a unique stylistic flair and evocative narrative drive. He is an adjunct instructor of composition at North Carolina Central University. He won the 2021 PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers and the 2021 Jacobs/Jones African-American Literary Prize.

Danae Windsor

Danae Windsor is a Wilson, NC-based author who brings vibrant, sharp prose to the stage, capturing complex characters and modern perspectives that resonate long after the final page.

📍 Venue & Parking Information

The Berkeley Cafe

428 S Dawson St.

Raleigh, NC 27601

The Berkeley Cafe is located in the heart of downtown Raleigh and offers a full menu of food and beverages. Street parking is available along S. Dawson Street and surrounding blocks, and nearby public parking decks are accessible within a short walk.

Help Us Spread the Word!

Support North Carolina literature. Tag us on social media using the hashtag #FirstInFiction and invite your favorite fellow book lovers.

Questions about the event? Contact the First In Fiction team host at robertcreekmoreauthor@gmail.com.