Hi, I’m Theresa.
I’m a Texas author, a homeschooling mom, and the writer behind Adventures in Oculus. My kids helped inspire the stories, and my Catholic faith is part of my writing.
For interviews, speaking invitations, or review copies, email me. If you’re working toward a deadline, please include it.
In conversation
VoyageHouston
Jackie Garcia-Morales and I have been building The Storytellers Foundation and our podcast. Here, I talk about how that work grew and what we’re creating for children’s book writers.
Bold Journey
A conversation about imposter syndrome and finding my footing as an author and podcast host.
Harness Magazine
How motherhood, teaching, and a love of C.S. Lewis helped shape Adventures in Oculus.
For your article or interview
A short bio you can use
Theresa Maria Villarreal is a Texas author and homeschooling mom who writes the Adventures in Oculus fantasy series for readers ages 8–13. She produces and co-hosts The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast and is a co-founder of Storyrise, a writing platform for authors.
Book One · Ages 8–13
The Spider Witch’s Curse
Dominic follows his dog through a hidden doorway and finds a kingdom under a curse.
Book Two · Ages 8–13
Firedrake
Dominic returns to Oculus to search for his missing friend, Buckle Boots.
For a review copy, send me a link to your publication or channel and the format you’d like. Complimentary copies depend on availability and verification.
The Spider Witch’s Curse, now on audio
Matthew Guldner narrates the audiobook edition of The Spider Witch’s Curse. You can listen to a sample and find the audiobook on Audible.
Read the full press release
Adventures in Oculus: The Spider Witch’s Curse Audiobook Available Now on Audible
Narrated by Matthew Guldner, whose cinematic performance brings this middle grade portal fantasy to life
February 14, 2026 — The audiobook edition of Adventures in Oculus: The Spider Witch’s Curse is available now on Audible, expanding Theresa Maria Villarreal’s middle grade portal fantasy series into an immersive listening experience for families, classrooms, and audiobook lovers.
Narrated by Matthew Guldner, the audiobook delivers vivid character voices, strong pacing, and emotional range that deepens the magic, suspense, humor, and heart of the story. Guldner’s performance creates a cinematic feel that pulls listeners straight into the world of Oculus.
“Matthew Guldner gave this story a true voice,” said Theresa Maria Villarreal, author of Adventures in Oculus. “He did not simply read the book. He performed it. His narration captures the wonder, tension, and warmth of the story in a way that makes the world feel real. I’m genuinely grateful for the talent and care he brought to every chapter.”