Epic Fantasy and Historical Romance Author -- Summer Hanford

• How to Market Your Already Published Work 

  • You've written a book (congratulations!), submitted your book, and either had it picked up by a publisher or decided to self-publish. You were (rightfully) full of excitement and pride, and everyone you know bought your book. Some of them even reviewed it, because they're good friends. So...what happens now? How do you market your book now that it's out in the world? This class will go over some simple tips, with an eye to not 'breaking the bank.'

• Self-Publishing: Launching Your Book

  • This course will focus on three keys to a successful book: how to avoid publishing scams and pitfalls, how to create a professional quality manuscript, and how to 'launch' your new book into the world. This is a self-publishing course, but much of the manuscript-prep information is also applicable to those submitting to agents or publishers, and every prospective author should know how to avoid publishing scams. Additionally, many of the 'launch' techniques will be useful to traditionally published authors as well.

• What's Hot in Fantasy!

  • Wondering what's hot in fantasy writing right now, and if you're writing it, or want to? You've seen these books in stores, at airports, even on other people's bookshelves, and you've thought, could I do that? In this course, we will take an in-depth look at Romantacy, Cozy Fantasy, and LitRPG. You will learn what they are, what defines them, and what books you should read to prepare you to write in these top-selling genres.

Literary Fiction Author, Appalachian Writer & Researcher -- Melissa Newman

• Writing Your Memoir

  • Everyone has a story worth telling. In this interactive and inspiring session, participants will explore the art of memoir writing—transforming personal experiences into powerful narratives that capture the essence of their unique journey. Through guided exercises, practical advice, and thoughtful discussion, you'll discover how to structure your story, find your authentic voice, and convey your life’s most meaningful moments with clarity and impact. Whether you’re just beginning to consider writing your memoir or are well into the process, this session will offer valuable tools and insights to help you share your story with the world.

Literary Agent Focused Artists -- Jackie Kruzie

• Lunch and Learn Session: An Honest Discussion on Should I Get an Agent. The Faculty Consultant will engage with conference attendees with one agented panelist, unagented panelist, and a self-published panelist. This panel will help writers explore the intricacies of various routes to becoming a published author. 

• Perfecting Your Pitch - An immersive workshop on perfecting the 10-minute agent/editor pitch session. We will discuss how to perfect the “elevator” pitch, what catches an agent/editor’s attention, and follow-up questions they may ask during the pitch session. The workshop will include an opportunity to share your pitch and revise based on feedback received. 

• The Dreaded Synopsis - A comprehensive guide to writing a one-page synopsis. We will discuss proper format, what to include, why agents and editors ask for them, and how authors can utilize a synopsis in planning and plotting their book. 

Cole, Cole, Anderson & Newman, PSC -- Frank Newman, Attorney at Law

• Writing and the Law: Protecting Your Creative Rights: In this engaging workshop, participants will learn from a skilled attorney about the critical legal aspects of writing and publishing. From understanding copyrights and intellectual property protection to navigating publishing contracts, the session covers all essential areas where writers might encounter legal challenges. Attendees will also learn about safeguarding their brand, ethically writing about real-life subjects, and avoiding plagiarism. This workshop empowers writers to protect their creative works and approach publishing negotiations with confidence.

Award Winning Crime, Thriller, and Suspense Author --  Trace Conger

• Unravel the secrets of compelling mystery and thriller writing. Learn how to craft gripping suspense, develop complex characters, and structure your story for maximum tension. From research techniques to plotting twists that keep readers on edge, this session will equip you with the tools to craft your page-turner. 

 

TBA faculty sessions

• Mark Daniels, Noted International Screenwriter

• Susan Furlong, Crime and Suspense Author, with a New York Times Best Crime Novel
• Gery Deer, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist
• Sherry Robinson, Award Winning Novelist

 

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