Welcome.
Award-winning author, screenwriter, producer, and director Steph West creates mixed genre stories from action-adventure and fantasy to sports and romance. The through-line in all her creations is a dedication to featuring three-dimensional characters of all shapes, sizes, and professions. West is a former Gannett/USA Today and Fox Sports Ohio journalist, and a current indie publisher at Red Fern Press, and indie writer-producer at 11/1 Productions. She hopes you find a story you love here.
Reviews
Revenge Inc., Crime Drama Film Short
“West delivers a provocative short about an agency in the not-too-distant future that administers revenge to perpetrators from vindictive victims. Suddenly, a woman who’s made a life out of revenge must deal with her personal consequences from a curious client. Written by and starring Dianna Craig. Directed and produced by Steph West. From 11/1 Productions.”
— Best Shorts Competition Review
The Third Period, Drama/Sports Action Novel
“What stood out most for me is how Steph West captures emotion so clearly. The characters feel layered and real, making their victories and challenges both believable and moving. By the end, I felt like I had been on their journey with them, and I was left reflecting on some of my own experiences. This is the kind of book that stays with you after you finish — not just because of the story itself, but because of the honesty it carries. A well-crafted and meaningful read, highly recommended.”
— Evelyn M., Amazon Review
Newcross, Action/Adventure, Female Sleuth, Fantasy Novel
“The mythology is cool without being overdone, and the action keeps me locked in, but what really surprised me was how relatable it felt. I liked that the book doesn’t pretend to tie everything up neatly. There’s pain, awkward reconnections, and some real emotional moments that don’t feel cheesy. It’s got a lot of heart for a book that also involves chasing down killers and magical daggers. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this as much as I did.”
Omid K., Amazon Review
“If you’ve ever played a sport, had a dream, lost something you loved, or stood at a crossroads wondering what the hell comes next — (Steph West’s The Third Period ) is for you. Because hockey, like life, is simple at its core: You only lose when you quit. Steph, thank you for writing this book and reminding us that the best comebacks aren’t always on the scoreboard. Sometimes, they’re in finding your way back to yourself.”
— Sean Pronger, Foreword for The Third Period
Former NHL player and Author of Journeyman
(Photo by Jen Brown)
In the Media
Framelines TV
Framelines TV explored the making of the Emmy-nominated (regional) short film Olsky, now a book and feature-length 2024 WIFVNE Sports Screenplay winner titled The Third Period.
Shoutout Ohio
Read about West’s desire for change here
Shoutout Ohio sat down with Steph West to discuss her Midwest businesses and the social impact West is working to make through publishing and producing.
Voyage Ohio
Read about West’s creative journey here
Voyage Ohio took a minute to chat with Steph West about her creative journey, where it started, and how it’s evolved. They also discuss the associated challenges and next steps.
Learn more about West’s indie films
Learn more about West’s indie press
West’s The Third Period wins gold
COLUMBUS — Author and screenwriter Steph West’s novel The Third Period was chosen as a gold medal winner Dec. 5 by the North American Book Awards in the Sports Fiction category. Books were selected across several categories for “…exceptional craft, originality, and excellence in writing, editing, and design…”.
You can read the full press release by clicking below.
“THIS IS REDEMPTION, SURVIVAL, AND PERSEVERANCE. WEST EFFORTLESSLY CREATES A PAGE-TURNING CRESCENDO, RELAYING A GRIPPING STORY OF TRIUMPH — BOTH IN HOCKEY AND IN LIFE.”
—Aaron Portzline, THE ATHLETIC
In this gritty novel, Mike Olsky is an aging hockey star on the cusp of retirement with one last shot to win the ultimate prize in pro sports. But on a fateful November night, he suffers a knee injury that sends his life into a tailspin. As he battles his way back from injury, his family, teammates, and fans stand helplessly on the sidelines watching the once beloved hero skid out of control. Will he be able to win big in the third period of his life? Or will his demons cost him everything—including his life?
West spent five seasons covering the Columbus Blue Jackets and the National Hockey League. She is a lifelong sports fan who played sports, coached sports, and covered sports. She’s also bled a few times on the ball fields after her brother’s pitches missed her catcher’s mitt. She believes there’s nothing better than third period comebacks and die-hard fans who believe in miracles.
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