Vanishing Horizons

Deborah Martinez Martinez, Ph.D. is a writer of Southwestern fiction and nonfiction whose work highlights history, culture, and community. A graduate of Walsenburg High School (Class of 1972), Deborah later served as a historical interpreter at El Pueblo History Museum, where she guided visitors through immersive 1840s frontier experiences. Her writing career began in 2010 after hearing from teachers that resources on the El Pueblo Trading Post were scarce. This led to her first book, Trade on the Taos Mountain Trail (illustrated by Robert W. Pacheco), which explored Native American and European trade routes and goods, earning recognition as a finalist in the 2010 Colorado Book Awards. Her second book, Chicana Activists of Colorado, was also a finalist in the 2021 Colorado Book Awards, further cementing her reputation as an important voice in regional history and culture.

Robert W. Pacheco brings over 14 years of experience as a graphic designer for Estes Rockets, an international toy company. In addition, he has taught commercial art and drawing at the university level. Working from his studio in Pueblo, Colorado, Robert creates graphic design, illustrations, and paintings that reflect and celebrate his New Mexico roots.