DeSoto Parish Educator publishes debut fantasy novel, inspires students beyond the classroom

A familiar face in the halls of Logansport High School is now making his mark in an entirely new arena—literature.

Assistant Principal Patrick “Coach” Lindsey, a longtime educator and mentor within DeSoto Parish Schools, has officially become a published author with the release of his debut novel, The Horn of Winter: The Hunt for the White Stag. The book marks the beginning of a planned four-part epic fantasy series rooted in themes of courage, leadership, and purpose.

Known locally for his steady leadership and dedication to students, Lindsey’s journey to authorship is deeply tied to a lifetime of service. Originally from Los Angeles, he moved to Louisiana in 1990 after graduating from Grambling State University. He began his career in law enforcement with the Minden Police Department, where he developed a passion for mentoring youth.

“I was noticing a trend,” Lindsey recalled. “Many of the young people getting into trouble just didn’t have positive role models.”

That realization led him into coaching and education, where he found his calling. From coaching basketball to serving as Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Minden, Lindsey has spent decades working to uplift and guide young people. Today, he continues that mission as assistant principal in DeSoto Parish.

While his professional life centered on service, Lindsey quietly nurtured a lifelong dream of writing. That dream became reality with The Horn of Winter, a story set in a mythical forest filled with ancient legends, sacred guardians, and the mysterious White Stag—a symbol tied to the fate of the land.

The novel, which Lindsey self-published, is now available through major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million.

For Lindsey, the achievement is more than professional—it’s personal. He dedicated the book to his grandson, hoping to leave behind something meaningful for future generations.

“I wanted something with my last name on it that could last for him,” Lindsey said.

The story is already resonating with students, some of whom have expressed excitement about reading their assistant principal’s work. Lindsey says that response is especially rewarding, as it reinforces his goal of inspiring young people both inside and outside the classroom.

The first book is just the beginning. Lindsey has already outlined the remaining titles in the series, with the second installment currently in the editing phase.

Community members will soon have a chance to meet Lindsey in person at the upcoming Children’s Book Festival on May 2, 2026, hosted by the Shreve Memorial Library at the Louisiana State University Shreveport campus in Shreveport.

As Lindsey balances his roles as educator and author, his mission remains the same—to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact.

Leaders within DeSoto Parish say his story reflects the heart of the district: a place where educators are encouraged to pursue their passions while shaping the lives of students.

It’s a story of purpose, perseverance, and possibility—one that continues to unfold both in the classroom and on the page.