About

Explore the Stories of Bonnie Bley

Bonnie Bley is an award-winning author whose work explores the intersections of identity, place, and justice in the American West. A native of Wyoming and raised in the border reservation town of Hardin, Montana, Bley brings a deep personal lens to the stories she tells—often rooted in the overlooked and underrepresented communities of her youth.

Her latest book, Stolen Voices: Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County, offers a powerful and deeply personal account of the missing and murdered Indigenous people in the region where she grew up. Through this work, Bley sheds light on a national crisis while honoring the lives, voices, and resilience of a community too often left in the shadows.

Bonnie Bley is available for interviews, panel discussions, and speaking engagements related to Indigenous issues, true crime, and the role of storytelling in social justice.

About Bonnie Bley

Multi-Award-Winning Independent Author, Philanthropist, And Adventurist

Her educational journey took her through South Dakota and Minnesota, where she honed her skills as both a writer and a researcher. Since the late 1980s, she has made Minnesota her home, yet her creative and emotional connections to Montana and Wyoming continue to deeply influence her work.

Beyond her writing, Bley is passionately dedicated to advocacy and community service. She volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, offering mentorship and guidance to youth; supports The Wildcat Sanctuary by helping care for rescued big cats; and contributes to Feed My Starving Children by actively participating in meal packaging to fight global hunger. Additionally, she writes letters to elderly individuals through Letters Against Isolation, bringing connection and comfort.

Celebrating Excellence in Storytelling

Recognized for powerful narratives and impactful contributions to literature, Bonnie Bley’s awards underscore her dedication and talent.

2025 Chanticleer International Book Award

Nellie Bly Literary Award

1st Place Journalistic Non-Fiction

Honored for outstanding independent publishing and compelling storytelling that resonates with readers.

2024 Royal Dragonfly Book Award

Honored for outstanding independent publishing and compelling storytelling that resonates with readers.

2024 Story Trade Award

Awarded for exceptional research and portrayal of real-life stories in Big Horn County.

2024 Independent Author Award

Awarded for exceptional research and portrayal of real-life stories in Big Horn County.

2025 The Great Northwest Book Festival Award

Awarded for exceptional research and portrayal of real-life stories in Big Horn County.

2024 American Writing Awards

Finalist Nonfiction

Awarded for exceptional research and portrayal of real-life stories in Big Horn County.

Silver Nautilus 2025

Recognizing engaging narratives and authentic voices that connect deeply.

2024 Spring -The Book Fest Award

3rd Place – Non-Fiction True Crime

Acknowledging contributions to raising awareness and inspiring change through storytelling.

2024 Person of the Year (POTY) Book Award

Acknowledging contributions to raising awareness and inspiring change through storytelling.

2024 Regal Summit Book Award

Acknowledging contributions to raising awareness and inspiring change through storytelling.

2025 North Street Book Prize

Finalist Non-Fiction

Acknowledging contributions to raising awareness and inspiring change through storytelling.