Events 2020 to 2023


ORW previous events

2034 – 2023202220212020

See  2010-15, 2016-19 or current year events.

 


2024 Events


Creating Social Media Content for Wizards Sun, Jan 7, 2024 2:00 PM EST
Creating Social Media Content for Wizards Sun, Jan 7, 2024 2:00 PM EST

Creating Social Media Content for Wizards

Sun, Jan 7th, 2024 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST

This workshop will cover the ins and outs of what Mona Storm has personally found to be effective.

Does the word hashtag strike terror in your bones? If so, come along, young wizard, and I will guide you through the jungle of creating compelling social media content. I will illuminate the path through the dark forest of TikTok to the Iceland of Instagram.

This workshop will cover the ins and outs of what I have personally found to be effective. I will also give you a behind-the-scenes look at my personal author accounts.

About the Presenter: Mona Storm is a proud romantasy author who enjoys learning the many complexities of social media marketing on a non-existent budget. She started off on TikTok, growing her following to 1600+ since January 2023. With the fate of TikTok in jeopardy, she branched over to Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube as well. Mona is a Nebula Scholarship winner and an active member of Apex Writers Group, ORWA, and SFWA

 


Publishing in 2023 08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023
08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

Q&A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

KT Literary agent Sara Megibow will chat about profit strategy, trends, successes, and pitfalls specific to romance publishing in this new year. The conversation will include a Q&A and lots of data analysis sprinkled with jokes and hope. Our romance readers are voracious for your stories – let’s talk about what’s working to go get ‘em!

About Sara:

Sara has worked in publishing since 2006 and represents New York Times bestsellers authors including Margaret Rogerson, Roni Loren, Jason M. Hough and Jaleigh Johnson. She specializes in launching debut authors and working on long-term career development and profit strategy with them.

Sara wants clients to love the books they write, and make money writing them. Crafting that kind of balance between artistic and commercial success takes communication, teamwork, and a focus on “Art. Patience. Strategy.” She represents authors who write middle grade novels (all sub-genres), young adult novels (all sub-genres), romance novels (all sub-genres) and science fiction/fantasy for the adult market.

For more information about Sarah Megibow visit:

https://ktliterary.com/about/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/SaraMegibow/

 

 


 

2022 Events

 


 

ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022
ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022 at 2PM EST. Writing Genre Fiction & Marketing: Turning your writing dream into a writing career Marketing after a year without writing much

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turning

Sun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event poster
Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turningSun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!
Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!

Love Languages with Jennifer Carole Lewis

Feb 6th 2022:

70 to 93 percent of all communication is non-verbal, which means that body language is the ultimate love language!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jennifer Carole Lewis will go in-depth about how body language can show how a character is feeling.  Join ORW to learn about:

  •           The different types of hugs
  •           The different types of kisses
  •           Signs of flirting, infatuation, and true love!!

 


 

2021 Events

 


 

Saturday, Oct 2 - Mini Fall Virtual Retreat
Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Fall Virtual Mini-Retreat

Oct 2021 – Mini Fall Virtual Retreat

Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Q&A with Literary Agent Paige Wheeler, Creative Media Agency

 

 


 

2020

 


 

 


 

Publishing in 2023 08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023
08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

Q&A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

KT Literary agent Sara Megibow will chat about profit strategy, trends, successes, and pitfalls specific to romance publishing in this new year. The conversation will include a Q&A and lots of data analysis sprinkled with jokes and hope. Our romance readers are voracious for your stories – let’s talk about what’s working to go get ‘em!

About Sara:

Sara has worked in publishing since 2006 and represents New York Times bestsellers authors including Margaret Rogerson, Roni Loren, Jason M. Hough and Jaleigh Johnson. She specializes in launching debut authors and working on long-term career development and profit strategy with them.

Sara wants clients to love the books they write, and make money writing them. Crafting that kind of balance between artistic and commercial success takes communication, teamwork, and a focus on “Art. Patience. Strategy.” She represents authors who write middle grade novels (all sub-genres), young adult novels (all sub-genres), romance novels (all sub-genres) and science fiction/fantasy for the adult market.

For more information about Sarah Megibow visit:

https://ktliterary.com/about/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/SaraMegibow/

 

 


 

2022 Events

 


 

ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022
ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022 at 2PM EST. Writing Genre Fiction & Marketing: Turning your writing dream into a writing career Marketing after a year without writing much

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turning

Sun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event poster
Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turningSun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!
Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!

Love Languages with Jennifer Carole Lewis

Feb 6th 2022:

70 to 93 percent of all communication is non-verbal, which means that body language is the ultimate love language!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jennifer Carole Lewis will go in-depth about how body language can show how a character is feeling.  Join ORW to learn about:

  •           The different types of hugs
  •           The different types of kisses
  •           Signs of flirting, infatuation, and true love!!

 


 

2021 Events

 


 

Saturday, Oct 2 - Mini Fall Virtual Retreat
Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Fall Virtual Mini-Retreat

Oct 2021 – Mini Fall Virtual Retreat

Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Q&A with Literary Agent Paige Wheeler, Creative Media Agency

 

 


 

2020

 


 

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

This presentation is an important exploration of the need for representation in literature. I’ve presented this at conferences and as one of the keynote speakers at the Library of Michigan’s Conference, the Wine Country Writer’s Festival, and more. The workshop will include some generative writing practice as well as a Q&A session.

About Finn Burnett (they/them):

I am a professor, a writer, and a lifelong learner. I recently completed my doctor of English pedagogy from Murray State University and I teach college English, creative writing, and early British Literature. I’ve run the Golden Crown Literary Society’s Writing Academy since 2015 and served as the Director of Education for several years.

Under my former name, I published several novels with Sapphire Books Publishing, including two rainbow award winners. My recent novella-in-flash, The Clothes Make the Man was released through Ad Hoc Fiction. I have two forthcoming flash fiction collections through Off Topic Publishing. I’m currently working on another flash collection and a dark speculative queer Hamlet retelling.

I’ve also published a how-to book for beginning novelists, along with several YouTube videos on the topic in a collaborative effort with my friend and colleague, Kimberly Cooper Griffin. We’re currently working on a flash fiction how-to book and a fantasy novel.

I’m a U.S. transplant to Canada, living in British Columbia with my wife and our cat, Lord Gordo.

https://finnburnett.com/ 


 

Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023
Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023

Character Development Q&A, June 4th 2023

Learn how to make your characters come to life with Sharon Short (aka Jess Montgomery)

Creating believable characters is the engine that drives stories, novels, essays and memoirs. It’s also one of the most challenging writing craft tools to master. In this session, award-winning author Sharon Short (a.k.a. Jess Montgomery) and Writer’s Digest columnist and instructor will share three key techniques to help you as you begin–or revise–your writing project.

About Sharon:

I write novels, personal essays, and the occasional short story. I am also a regular contributor to Writers’ Digest magazine with my “Level Up Your Writing (Life)” column debuting in the March/April issue of 2021.

As Jess Montgomery, I write historical mysteries published by Minotaur Books. The Kinship Historical Mystery series is set in 1920s Appalachia and is inspired by Ohio’s true first female sheriff.

As Sharon Short, my book-length work ranges from a coming-of-age novel set in the 1950s (My One Square Inch of Alaska) as well as two mystery series: the comedic-with-a-twist-of-social-satire Josie Toadfern mysteries, and the electronic-gumshoe Patricia Delaney series, written in the early 1990s on the cusp of the digital age.

http://www.sharonshort.com/

 

 


 

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST
Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices, motivational tools, and practical tips.

I just want to spend my days writing. Who among us hasn’t said something along those lines? But, for many of us, this dream may never be a reality. Not because we lack the drive or talent to be successful, but because life is messy and complicated. But balancing a day job with a thriving writing career isn’t impossible.

In Even Superman Has a Day Job, I will explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices (journaling, morning pages, sprints, group writing, and dictation), motivational tools (word counts, small bites, scene-by-scene, the beauty of leftovers), and practical tips on working revisions, edits, and marketing into the equation.

In this interactive discussion, we will talk about time management techniques, setting boundaries and priorities, and share ideas for refilling the creative well. Special focus will be placed on tapping energy reserves, finding ways to de-stress and refresh, and using writing challenges and your author support networks as both a safety net and a springboard to success.

ABOUT MAGGIE WELLS:

By day Maggie Wells is buried in spreadsheets. At night she pens tales of people tangling up the sheets. This author of feminist, sex-positive romance is the product of a charming rogue and a shameless flirt. You only have to scratch the surface of this mild-mannered married lady to find a naughty streak a mile wide.

 


 

Publishing in 2023 08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023
08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

Q&A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

KT Literary agent Sara Megibow will chat about profit strategy, trends, successes, and pitfalls specific to romance publishing in this new year. The conversation will include a Q&A and lots of data analysis sprinkled with jokes and hope. Our romance readers are voracious for your stories – let’s talk about what’s working to go get ‘em!

About Sara:

Sara has worked in publishing since 2006 and represents New York Times bestsellers authors including Margaret Rogerson, Roni Loren, Jason M. Hough and Jaleigh Johnson. She specializes in launching debut authors and working on long-term career development and profit strategy with them.

Sara wants clients to love the books they write, and make money writing them. Crafting that kind of balance between artistic and commercial success takes communication, teamwork, and a focus on “Art. Patience. Strategy.” She represents authors who write middle grade novels (all sub-genres), young adult novels (all sub-genres), romance novels (all sub-genres) and science fiction/fantasy for the adult market.

For more information about Sarah Megibow visit:

https://ktliterary.com/about/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/SaraMegibow/

 

 


 

2022 Events

 


 

ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022
ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022 at 2PM EST. Writing Genre Fiction & Marketing: Turning your writing dream into a writing career Marketing after a year without writing much

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turning

Sun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event poster
Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turningSun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!
Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!

Love Languages with Jennifer Carole Lewis

Feb 6th 2022:

70 to 93 percent of all communication is non-verbal, which means that body language is the ultimate love language!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jennifer Carole Lewis will go in-depth about how body language can show how a character is feeling.  Join ORW to learn about:

  •           The different types of hugs
  •           The different types of kisses
  •           Signs of flirting, infatuation, and true love!!

 


 

2021 Events

 


 

Saturday, Oct 2 - Mini Fall Virtual Retreat
Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Fall Virtual Mini-Retreat

Oct 2021 – Mini Fall Virtual Retreat

Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Q&A with Literary Agent Paige Wheeler, Creative Media Agency

 

 


 

2020

 


 

 

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

This presentation is an important exploration of the need for representation in literature. I’ve presented this at conferences and as one of the keynote speakers at the Library of Michigan’s Conference, the Wine Country Writer’s Festival, and more. The workshop will include some generative writing practice as well as a Q&A session.

About Finn Burnett (they/them):

I am a professor, a writer, and a lifelong learner. I recently completed my doctor of English pedagogy from Murray State University and I teach college English, creative writing, and early British Literature. I’ve run the Golden Crown Literary Society’s Writing Academy since 2015 and served as the Director of Education for several years.

Under my former name, I published several novels with Sapphire Books Publishing, including two rainbow award winners. My recent novella-in-flash, The Clothes Make the Man was released through Ad Hoc Fiction. I have two forthcoming flash fiction collections through Off Topic Publishing. I’m currently working on another flash collection and a dark speculative queer Hamlet retelling.

I’ve also published a how-to book for beginning novelists, along with several YouTube videos on the topic in a collaborative effort with my friend and colleague, Kimberly Cooper Griffin. We’re currently working on a flash fiction how-to book and a fantasy novel.

I’m a U.S. transplant to Canada, living in British Columbia with my wife and our cat, Lord Gordo.

https://finnburnett.com/ 


 

Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023
Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023

Character Development Q&A, June 4th 2023

Learn how to make your characters come to life with Sharon Short (aka Jess Montgomery)

Creating believable characters is the engine that drives stories, novels, essays and memoirs. It’s also one of the most challenging writing craft tools to master. In this session, award-winning author Sharon Short (a.k.a. Jess Montgomery) and Writer’s Digest columnist and instructor will share three key techniques to help you as you begin–or revise–your writing project.

About Sharon:

I write novels, personal essays, and the occasional short story. I am also a regular contributor to Writers’ Digest magazine with my “Level Up Your Writing (Life)” column debuting in the March/April issue of 2021.

As Jess Montgomery, I write historical mysteries published by Minotaur Books. The Kinship Historical Mystery series is set in 1920s Appalachia and is inspired by Ohio’s true first female sheriff.

As Sharon Short, my book-length work ranges from a coming-of-age novel set in the 1950s (My One Square Inch of Alaska) as well as two mystery series: the comedic-with-a-twist-of-social-satire Josie Toadfern mysteries, and the electronic-gumshoe Patricia Delaney series, written in the early 1990s on the cusp of the digital age.

http://www.sharonshort.com/

 

 


 

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST
Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices, motivational tools, and practical tips.

I just want to spend my days writing. Who among us hasn’t said something along those lines? But, for many of us, this dream may never be a reality. Not because we lack the drive or talent to be successful, but because life is messy and complicated. But balancing a day job with a thriving writing career isn’t impossible.

In Even Superman Has a Day Job, I will explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices (journaling, morning pages, sprints, group writing, and dictation), motivational tools (word counts, small bites, scene-by-scene, the beauty of leftovers), and practical tips on working revisions, edits, and marketing into the equation.

In this interactive discussion, we will talk about time management techniques, setting boundaries and priorities, and share ideas for refilling the creative well. Special focus will be placed on tapping energy reserves, finding ways to de-stress and refresh, and using writing challenges and your author support networks as both a safety net and a springboard to success.

ABOUT MAGGIE WELLS:

By day Maggie Wells is buried in spreadsheets. At night she pens tales of people tangling up the sheets. This author of feminist, sex-positive romance is the product of a charming rogue and a shameless flirt. You only have to scratch the surface of this mild-mannered married lady to find a naughty streak a mile wide.

 


 

Publishing in 2023 08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023
08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

Q&A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

KT Literary agent Sara Megibow will chat about profit strategy, trends, successes, and pitfalls specific to romance publishing in this new year. The conversation will include a Q&A and lots of data analysis sprinkled with jokes and hope. Our romance readers are voracious for your stories – let’s talk about what’s working to go get ‘em!

About Sara:

Sara has worked in publishing since 2006 and represents New York Times bestsellers authors including Margaret Rogerson, Roni Loren, Jason M. Hough and Jaleigh Johnson. She specializes in launching debut authors and working on long-term career development and profit strategy with them.

Sara wants clients to love the books they write, and make money writing them. Crafting that kind of balance between artistic and commercial success takes communication, teamwork, and a focus on “Art. Patience. Strategy.” She represents authors who write middle grade novels (all sub-genres), young adult novels (all sub-genres), romance novels (all sub-genres) and science fiction/fantasy for the adult market.

For more information about Sarah Megibow visit:

https://ktliterary.com/about/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/SaraMegibow/

 

 


 

2022 Events

 


 

ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022
ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022 at 2PM EST. Writing Genre Fiction & Marketing: Turning your writing dream into a writing career Marketing after a year without writing much

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turning

Sun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event poster
Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turningSun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!
Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!

Love Languages with Jennifer Carole Lewis

Feb 6th 2022:

70 to 93 percent of all communication is non-verbal, which means that body language is the ultimate love language!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jennifer Carole Lewis will go in-depth about how body language can show how a character is feeling.  Join ORW to learn about:

  •           The different types of hugs
  •           The different types of kisses
  •           Signs of flirting, infatuation, and true love!!

 


 

2021 Events

 


 

Saturday, Oct 2 - Mini Fall Virtual Retreat
Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Fall Virtual Mini-Retreat

Oct 2021 – Mini Fall Virtual Retreat

Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Q&A with Literary Agent Paige Wheeler, Creative Media Agency

 

 


 

2020

 


 

 

 

2023 Events


Universal Fantasy with Theodora Taylor, Sun, Nov 5, 2023 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST

Universal Fantasy is why some authors get gobs of gushing reviews and some authors who write “way better” get crickets. Sun, Nov 5, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST

Universal Fantasy is why my sales tripled when I “accidentally” wrote three books that landed in the Amazon Top 100. Universal Fantasy is why some authors get gobs of gushing reviews and some authors who write “way better” get crickets. Universal Fantasy is the answer to many of the questions you might have thought were unanswerable or simply up to luck, like…
  • Will this sell?
  • Why is that selling?
  • Why didn’t this sell?
  • Will readers like what I am writing?
  • Why do I love the TV shows/books/entertainments I do?
  • Why did I buy that thing I bought when I didn’t intend to buy it?

About Theodora Taylor:

Heyo! My name is Theodora Taylor. I’m a bestselling author, and I’m obsessed with writing stories that enthrall, delight, and entertain readers. I’ve given my popular presentation on Universal Fantasy to grateful crowds at the NINC (Novelists Inc.) Conference, RAM (Romance Author Mastermind), the Orange County Chapter RWA’s California Dreamin’ conference, and for various online and local groups. I’m also a popular podcast guest. Six Figure Authors, #AmWriting, Wish I’d Known Then, and SPA Girls are just a few of the popular writing podcasts I’ve had the pleasure of visiting as a guest. https://theodorataylor.com/about-theodora/
 


 

Book Brush: Upgrade Your Author Marketing with Kathleen Sweeney; Sun, Oct 1, 2023 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM EDT
Book Brush: Upgrade Your Author Marketing with Kathleen Sweeney; Sun, Oct 1, 2023 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Book Brush: Upgrade Your Author Marketing with Kathleen Sweeney

Sun, Oct 1, 2023 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Upgrade your author marketing: Maximize profits with Book Brush at your fingertips!

This one-hour workshop is designed for authors who want to take their book marketing to the next level. Participants will learn how to leverage the power of a virtual design team to create high-quality, eye-catching book ads, social media graphics, and other marketing materials that will help them stand out in a crowded market. By using Book Brush’s virtual design team, authors can save time and money while boosting their profits and achieving their goals as successful authors. Whether using our new “We do it for you” service called Hourly Concepts or our “DIY” software, this workshop will provide actionable tips and strategies to help authors maximize their marketing efforts and achieve their publishing dreams.

Speaker bio: Kathleen Sweeney is the Manager of Operations and Marketing Director at Book Brush. She has over 20 years of client service and business assurance experience and has presented Book Brush sessions to over 250 author groups! She thoroughly enjoys working with authors and helping them create eye-catching images. She lives in central Illinois with her husband, three busy boys and the two most handsome cats on the planet. Her hobbies include reading and turning socks right side out.

https://bookbrush.com/about-us/

 


 

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

Diversity and Inclusion in Literature with Finn Burnett, Sun, Sep 10, 2023 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

This presentation is an important exploration of the need for representation in literature. I’ve presented this at conferences and as one of the keynote speakers at the Library of Michigan’s Conference, the Wine Country Writer’s Festival, and more. The workshop will include some generative writing practice as well as a Q&A session.

About Finn Burnett (they/them):

I am a professor, a writer, and a lifelong learner. I recently completed my doctor of English pedagogy from Murray State University and I teach college English, creative writing, and early British Literature. I’ve run the Golden Crown Literary Society’s Writing Academy since 2015 and served as the Director of Education for several years.

Under my former name, I published several novels with Sapphire Books Publishing, including two rainbow award winners. My recent novella-in-flash, The Clothes Make the Man was released through Ad Hoc Fiction. I have two forthcoming flash fiction collections through Off Topic Publishing. I’m currently working on another flash collection and a dark speculative queer Hamlet retelling.

I’ve also published a how-to book for beginning novelists, along with several YouTube videos on the topic in a collaborative effort with my friend and colleague, Kimberly Cooper Griffin. We’re currently working on a flash fiction how-to book and a fantasy novel.

I’m a U.S. transplant to Canada, living in British Columbia with my wife and our cat, Lord Gordo.

https://finnburnett.com/ 


 

Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023
Character Development Q&A June 4th 2023

Character Development Q&A, June 4th 2023

Learn how to make your characters come to life with Sharon Short (aka Jess Montgomery)

Creating believable characters is the engine that drives stories, novels, essays and memoirs. It’s also one of the most challenging writing craft tools to master. In this session, award-winning author Sharon Short (a.k.a. Jess Montgomery) and Writer’s Digest columnist and instructor will share three key techniques to help you as you begin–or revise–your writing project.

About Sharon:

I write novels, personal essays, and the occasional short story. I am also a regular contributor to Writers’ Digest magazine with my “Level Up Your Writing (Life)” column debuting in the March/April issue of 2021.

As Jess Montgomery, I write historical mysteries published by Minotaur Books. The Kinship Historical Mystery series is set in 1920s Appalachia and is inspired by Ohio’s true first female sheriff.

As Sharon Short, my book-length work ranges from a coming-of-age novel set in the 1950s (My One Square Inch of Alaska) as well as two mystery series: the comedic-with-a-twist-of-social-satire Josie Toadfern mysteries, and the electronic-gumshoe Patricia Delaney series, written in the early 1990s on the cusp of the digital age.

http://www.sharonshort.com/

 

 


 

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST
Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Even Superman Has A Day Job with Maggie Wells, may 7th 2023 14:00EST

Explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices, motivational tools, and practical tips.

I just want to spend my days writing. Who among us hasn’t said something along those lines? But, for many of us, this dream may never be a reality. Not because we lack the drive or talent to be successful, but because life is messy and complicated. But balancing a day job with a thriving writing career isn’t impossible.

In Even Superman Has a Day Job, I will explore various methods of dealing with uncertainty, defining success, writing practices (journaling, morning pages, sprints, group writing, and dictation), motivational tools (word counts, small bites, scene-by-scene, the beauty of leftovers), and practical tips on working revisions, edits, and marketing into the equation.

In this interactive discussion, we will talk about time management techniques, setting boundaries and priorities, and share ideas for refilling the creative well. Special focus will be placed on tapping energy reserves, finding ways to de-stress and refresh, and using writing challenges and your author support networks as both a safety net and a springboard to success.

ABOUT MAGGIE WELLS:

By day Maggie Wells is buried in spreadsheets. At night she pens tales of people tangling up the sheets. This author of feminist, sex-positive romance is the product of a charming rogue and a shameless flirt. You only have to scratch the surface of this mild-mannered married lady to find a naughty streak a mile wide.

 


 

Publishing in 2023 08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023
08A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

Q&A with KT Literary agent Sara Megibow, April 2nd 2023

KT Literary agent Sara Megibow will chat about profit strategy, trends, successes, and pitfalls specific to romance publishing in this new year. The conversation will include a Q&A and lots of data analysis sprinkled with jokes and hope. Our romance readers are voracious for your stories – let’s talk about what’s working to go get ‘em!

About Sara:

Sara has worked in publishing since 2006 and represents New York Times bestsellers authors including Margaret Rogerson, Roni Loren, Jason M. Hough and Jaleigh Johnson. She specializes in launching debut authors and working on long-term career development and profit strategy with them.

Sara wants clients to love the books they write, and make money writing them. Crafting that kind of balance between artistic and commercial success takes communication, teamwork, and a focus on “Art. Patience. Strategy.” She represents authors who write middle grade novels (all sub-genres), young adult novels (all sub-genres), romance novels (all sub-genres) and science fiction/fantasy for the adult market.

For more information about Sarah Megibow visit:

https://ktliterary.com/about/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/SaraMegibow/

 

 


 

2022 Events

 


 

ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022
ORW-ZoeYorkworkshop 05 June 2022 at 2PM EST. Writing Genre Fiction & Marketing: Turning your writing dream into a writing career Marketing after a year without writing much

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turning

Sun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event poster
Goal Motivation Conflict creating stories that keep the pages turning apr 03 at 1400 EST event

Goal, Motivation, Conflict: creating stories that keep the pages turningSun, April 3, 2022; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Maureen Fisher shares the secrets of creating a compelling story through each character’s goals, motivation, and conflict.

About this event

The key to an engaging story has always been the characters and how they interact. A writer should know each character’s goal (what they want), motivation (why they want it), and conflict (why they can’t have it). Maureen Fisher will guide attendees through the nuances of crafting and identifying goal, motivation, and conflict to ensure your readers keep on turning pages late into the night.

 


 

Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!
Sunday, February 6th at 2 pm – a virtual ORW workshop!

Love Languages with Jennifer Carole Lewis

Feb 6th 2022:

70 to 93 percent of all communication is non-verbal, which means that body language is the ultimate love language!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jennifer Carole Lewis will go in-depth about how body language can show how a character is feeling.  Join ORW to learn about:

  •           The different types of hugs
  •           The different types of kisses
  •           Signs of flirting, infatuation, and true love!!

 


 

2021 Events

 


 

Saturday, Oct 2 - Mini Fall Virtual Retreat
Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Fall Virtual Mini-Retreat

Oct 2021 – Mini Fall Virtual Retreat

Using Character Emotion to Wow Readers: Becca Pugilsi, co-author, The Emotion Thesaurus

Q&A with Literary Agent Paige Wheeler, Creative Media Agency

 

 


 

2020