JD Barker, International Bestseller, Presenter and Keynote at the Write Stuff Writers Conference™

Tags

Crossing Genres, Indie to Traditional, international bestselling author, JD Barker, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Craft, Writing Development, Writing Thrillers, Writing Workshops

JD Barker, international bestselling author, will be the headliner and Keynote Speaker at the GLVWG Write Stuff Writers Conference™, “2020 Vision”, on March 13 -14 at the Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel & Conference Center.

Friday, March 13, JD will facilitate a Full Day Writing Development Workshop.

On Saturday, he will give sessions with From Indie to Traditional; Every Dirty Little Secret You Need to Know, and Crossing Genres – and Why You Should Do It!

Scroll down for details

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Biography:

J.D.Barker (Jonathan Dylan Barker) is an international bestselling American author whose work has been broadly described as suspense thrillers, often incorporating elements of horror, crime, mystery, science fiction, and the supernatural.

J.D. Barker has successfully crossed over from horror, to paranormal, to thriller, and back again, snatching readers from multiple genres and expanding his audience like a literary Pied Piper. Learn how to avoid the genre box and tell the story you want to tell to the largest possible group.

As a child I was always told the dark could not hurt me, that the shadows creeping in the corners of my room were nothing more than just that, shadows. The sounds nothing more than the settling of our old home, creaking as it found comfort in the earth only to move again when it became restless, if ever so slightly. I would never sleep without closing the closet door, oh no; the door had to be shut tight. The darkness lurking inside needed to be held at bay, the whispers silenced. Rest would only come after I checked under the bed at least twice and quickly wrapped myself in the safety of the sheets (which no monster could penetrate), pulling them tight over my head.

I would never go down to the basement.

Never.

Learn more about JD Barker at jdbarker.com

 

And in case you hadn’t noticed, JD will be speaking on Friday the 13th. 

 

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An Interview with JD Barker

By Conference Chairman – Charles Kiernan

Question: What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from rejections?

JD Barker: I’ve never actually been rejected. When I queried agents, I had 13 offers of representation in less than two weeks. So far, all my books have sold either at auction or via pre-empts. Fingers-crossed that that continues! I think this is largely due to my writing process. I’ll cover this in detail during my talk.

Q: Do you have a disciplined writing routine? If so, what does it include?

JD: Absolutely! Routine is key for any writer. I’m at my desk every day by 8am and I work until 3pm. I don’t turn on the internet until I’ve got at least 2-3k words down on paper.

Q: What advice can you give beginning authors in establishing their brand and media presence?

JD: Get a website and an email address early on. When I say email, I mean NOT a gmail address (like jdbarker_3023543@gmail.com) but a real one (jd@jdbarker.com) – this tells everyone in the industry – from agents, to publishers – that you are serious about creating a brand. So many authors don’t bother and don’t realize how this hurts them behind closed doors when the marketing staff discusses an author.

Q: What projects are coming up next for you?

JD: I’m currently working with James Patterson, co-authoring his first horror novel.

Q: What was your favorite or most memorable story you heard as a child?

JD: GREAT EXPECTATIONS was an early read for me and one I’ve always been fond of. I burned through all the classics shortly after reading that one. LORD OF THE FLIES was another.

 

You can follow JD Barker’s active Q&A forum at Goodreads.com JD Barker Questions.

 

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Friday March 13, 2020

Full Day Writing Development Workshop

Submit your novel in advance to have it critiqued by the number one international bestselling author. Obviously not all submissions can be critiqued, but he will ask for volunteers, and choose a number of works at random if no one is willing.

Works in progress in any genre are welcome.

One of the best ways to improve your writing is to have a mentor read and critique your work. Almost as good, and sometimes even better, is to hear the critique of other folks work and compare it to how you responded to the writing.

This is a rare and not-to-be-missed opportunity to improve your craft by having a world renowned successful author share his expertise with you. JD Barker worked as a “Book Doctor” for over twenty years, refining what works, what pulls the reader in, and what impresses the agents. Do not let this opportunity pass you by.

JD will call for volunteers from the audience, and if no one is willing, he will choose a number of works at random from all submissions and focus on those.

He’ll isolate the problem areas and through brainstorming, work with the audience to correct the issues. Things like passive voice, adverbs, bad dialog tags, unnecessary filler words, showing vs. telling, weak start, etc…

Work will be critiqued anonymously, unless you volunteer, in which case everyone will know who you are.

Submit your work (MS WORD or APPLE PAGES ONLY PLEASE).  The link to submit your work will be in your registration acknowledgement email.

 

 

Saturday March 14, 2020

From Indie to Traditional; Every Dirty Little Secret You Need to Know

J.D. Barker successfully published his debut as an indie and sold enough copies to land on the radar of the traditional publishers in a BIG way including seven-figure advances, two feature films, and a television program.

He’ll open his toolbox and explain exactly what he did to make it happen. His sessions are not to be missed by any aspiring author or seasoned veteran trying to find their place in today’s publishing world.

 

Crossing Genres – and Why You Should Do It!

From the moment you send out your first query letter, your work will be labeled by agents, publishers, and booksellers. Instead of resisting the urge to be labeled, J.D. will teach you why you should consider labels a way to make your books, and your author platform, more marketable.

Learn how to avoid the genre box and tell the story you want to tell to the largest possible group with the help of J.D. Barker who has successfully crossed over from horror, to paranormal, to thriller, and back again.

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In the riveting conclusion of the 4MK trilogy, Barker takes his thriller series to an entirely new level with his latest novel, The Sixth Wicked Child. Don’t miss a single word of the series James Patterson called “ingenious.”

Hear No Evil

For Detective Sam Porter, the words “Father, forgive me” conjure memories long forgotten; a past intentionally buried. For Anson Bishop, these three words connect a childhood to the present as he unleashes a truth concealed for decades.

See No Evil

Found written on cardboard near each body, these words link multiple victims to a single killer—discovered within minutes of each other in both Chicago and South Carolina—clearly connected yet separated by impossible miles.

Speak No Evil

Chicago Metro and the FBI find themselves caught in chaos—a hospital on lockdown, a rogue officer, and corruption at the highest levels. When Anson Bishop, the prime suspect in the notorious 4MK serial murders turns himself in, he reveals a story completely unexpected, one that not only upends the current investigation, but one that will change the lives of all involved.

Do No Evil

With unrelenting tension and pulse-pounding suspense, the past unravels at breakneck speed as the truth behind the Four Monkey Killer’s motive is finally revealed in this masterfully crafted finale.

You can find all of JD Barker’s books on Amazon.

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You can find JD on his website: https://jdbarker.com/ ,

and his social media links:

https://www.facebook.com/therealjdbarker

https://jdbarkerauthor.tumblr.com/

https://twitter.com/jdbarker

https://www.instagram.com/jdbarker_author/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8224327.J_D_Barker 

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Meet Kathryn Craft — Speaker GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ March 23, 2019

Tags

Critical First Pages, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Craft, Writing Effective Dialogue, Writing Workshops

Article by The Write Stuff Conference Chair, Dawn Sooy

 

Kathryn Craft writes stories that seek beauty and meaning at the edge of darkness. Rich with material for further thought or discussion, her novels make a great choice for book clubs.

Her first novel, The Art of Falling (Sourcebooks), grew from her 19 years of experience as a dance critic for The Morning Call newspaper. Set in Philadelphia, every page of the novel is infused with a dancer’s heightened awareness of the human body and its movement.

Her second novel, the IPPY award-winning The Far End of Happy (Sourcebooks), is based on the true events surrounding the 1997 suicide standoff that resulted in her husband’s death. It was these events that launched her interest working through troubling psychosocial issues by writing fiction.

Over the past decades she has served on the boards of the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group and the Philadelphia Writers Conference and worked with the Women’s Fiction Writers Association; she hosts writing retreats for women and often speaks about writing. She is a regular contributor at two of Writer’s Digest’s Top 101 Websites for Writers, Writer Unboxed and Writers in the Storm.

Who is Kathryn Craft?

“I love the sound of snow crunching beneath boots, the taste of butter, and pumpkin pancakes with real maple syrup (What can I say? I was born in Syracuse, NY). Perfume isn’t for me. When I’m swimming in a northern spring-fed lake, and my nose is right down near the water–that’s my favorite scent in the world. The next is baking bread, which reminds me of my grandmother (I’ve spent every summer of my life at the same lakeside cottage, where I can still conjure her spirit).”

Kathryn was a favorite speaker at a past conference and we were delighted when she was available for us in 2019. She will be presenting the following sessions at the Write Stuff Conference, Saturday March 23.

• Those Critical First Pages

An agent’s request for a full manuscript is so exciting for an aspiring author—but how much of your novel will an agent really read? Perhaps only a few paragraphs—about all you would give a book when browsing in the bookstore. We’ll analyze opening pages that refused to let publishing industry pros go.

• Say That and More: Writing Effective Dialogue – Seating Limited to 24

In this two-hour workshop, you will participate in a series of exercises that will challenge you to improve your dialogue writing. Prepare to leave with a whole new respect for this multi-tasking tool—and perhaps the germ of a new story idea, as well.

• To take advantage of Kathryn’s experience and expertise join us at The Write Stuff
  March 21 – 23, 2019

 

Kathryn lives with her husband in Doylestown. She is the proud mother of two sons: an opera singer and a traffic engineer.

To read more on Kathryn, visit:

• Kathryn’s Amazon Central page
• http://www.kathryncraft.com/

You can follow Kathryn on her Facebook Page KathrynCraftAuthor and Twitter @kcraftwriter

Interviews with Kathryn:

• with Debra Pinkerton on Good Day PA ABC27, January 2016 (TV)
• with Will Broaddus in The Salem News (MA), February 2014
• with Jaclyn Fulmer in Shelf Awareness for Readers, January 2014
• with George and Kate Scuffle, WDIY Arts Salon, December 2013 (radio)
• by Gwen Shrift, Bucks County Courier-Times (PA), December 2013
• by Milton D. Carrero, The Morning Call (PA), December 2013 (includes video)

 

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Article by Dawn Sooy, The Write Stuff 2019 Chair.

Dawn is a native of Eastern Pennsylvania, with plenty of experience the four seasons have to offer. Armed with a Computer Science degree, she worked in the tech industry until 2012. As an animal lover, she volunteers at the local animal shelter, sneaking in treats for the four-legged residents.

As a member of the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group, Dawn fulfills the duties of Secretary, Conference Chair for the 2019 GLVWG The Write Stuff Conference™ and is part of the 2019 Anthology team. She has published six short stories, the most recent, “Love Knows No Boundaries,” featured in the 2017 GLVWG anthology, “Write Here – Write Now.” She plans to contribute a story to the 2019 GLVWG anthology “Rewriting the Past.”

“From the Darkness” is her first novel, self-published in March 2018. This is based on a true story about a woman with bipolar depression.

Dawn and her husband Bob reside in Kempton, PA. Between them, they have four children, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

 

 

Meet Dr. Larry Schardt, Presenter at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ March 23, 2019

Tags

Handling Rejection, Role of Positive Self, Success that Rocks, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Success

By Charles Kiernan

 

Resident traditional storyteller and author, Charles Kiernan, offers us a perspective on GLVWG’s Dr. Larry “Rock ‘n’ Roll!!!” Schardt, whose life mission is to “plant seeds of love and happiness wherever he goes.”

 

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Dr. Schardt is dedicated to helping people in any way possible. Through his workshops, he shares ways to help you maximize your joy in life, find your writing muse, and live a life of Success That Rocks . . .

Did you ever wonder:

• How you can find happiness and success with all that’s going on in life?
• Why some people are happy, and others just plod along?
• What it takes for you to enjoy your days?
• What it takes for you to feel successful?

During “Success that Rocks:”

• You will experience ideas on how to enjoy life to the fullest.
• You will learn the 3 Key Habits (Golden Keys) for Happiness and Success.
• You will learn the success formula to change adversity into victory.
• You will learn how to be a victor instead of a victim.
• You will learn wisdom for fixing problems.
• You will learn the many virtues of happiness and success

Put a Positive Spin on Rejection – Propel Your Writing and Yourself into Success that Rocks. 

A writer’s work is always on the line for criticism or rejection or both. When rejected you may be tempted to toss your computer off a cliff, watch your hard work smash into tiny shards on the rocks below, crawl in a cave, and sink into the gloomy dungeon of self-pity.

This workshop will provide you with the tools to help you escape from the dungeon and explore rejection from a different perspective . . . So you can grow, persist, and flourish.

You will learn the secrets of becoming a victor instead of a victim, making happiness a habit, and overcoming the diseases of cynicism, negaholism, and blame. You will also learn the secrets of enjoying a life of “Success That Rocks.”

 

Powerful Tools to Enhance Your Writing Success and Rock Your Life . . .

Suffer from writer’s block, overwhelm, lack of focus, stalled creativity, anxiety . . . ? Yikes! In this workshop, Dr. Larry “Rock ’n’ Roll” Schardt shares ways to blast through these maladies and empower your writing, and your life.

From daily routines, to mindfulness, to programs, to conferences, to potent psychological tools, and beyond, Larry shares secrets to improve your life and enhance your creativity. Supercharge your mindset, and your writing, with tools to help you reach your maximum potential.

 

Dr. Schardt will present at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ March 23, 2019:

 

 

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A seemingly insignificant incident transformed Larry’s life when he was 15. While he was delivering newspapers, he found a copy of a Reader’s Digest sitting on top of a bundle of trash. The headlined condensed story “How to Win Friends and Influence People” caught his eye. He sat on the curb, read the article, and changed his perspective forever.

Ever since that day his passion has been to explore and spread happiness and success. As a trainer and teacher he continues to hone his craft.

Dr. Schardt has a Masters in Education and Communications and earned his PhD in Education and Instructional Systems Design. Larry has toured the country motivating audiences from all 50 states and US Territories, with his presentations on success, leadership, writing, and happiness.

Dr. Schardt has been teaching at Penn State University for the past 25 years. He has also taught at University of Pittsburgh, Dickinson College, and University of the Virgin Islands. Schardt is co-founder and facilitator of the highly successful Mindful Writers Retreats and is presently co-authoring a book on Mindful Writing and Retreats.

He is also a regular speaker at writing conferences (where he receives rave reviews). His talks provide writers with tools and motivation to enhance their craft and Rock Their Worlds! . . .

Larry’s daily Facebook Blog to entertains, encourages, and motivates his readers to live a life of Success That Rocks. You can also follow Larry on his uplifting Twitter link @LarrySchardt. 

He wrote the textbook Natural Resources Conservation and Community Sustainability, published by Penn State Press. He has stories published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Happiness and Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Power of Gratitude.

His teaching philosophy is one of the few included in The Penn State Teacher II. He also authored manuals on grant training, mentoring, leadership, nonprofit management, and other educational trainings.

When he’s not writing, speaking, researching, or teaching you will find Larry involved with small businesses, community activities, and storytelling. He is a music junkie! His other hobbies include walking, skiing, rollercoasters, and people!

During his presentations, you will experience an atmosphere of fun and levity by sharing stories of life and triumph over adversity. Live Success That Rocks!

 

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Article by Charles Kiernan

Charles Kiernan is the proud author of two, entirely unpublished, middle-grade fantasy novels. He is better known as a storyteller—as in, stand up in front of a crowd and tell them a tale. He has also pawned himself off as Mark Twain to the unwary, but with no success to literary agents.

Charles was featured on GLVWG Write Stuff Blog this past September, Charles Kiernan:  Mark Twain impersonator, traditional storyteller, and writer

He is also coordinator for the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, Pennsylvania State Representative for the National Youth Storytelling Showcase, Pennsylvania State Liaison for the National Storytelling Network, recipient of the 2008 Individual Artist Award from the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission, and grand slam winner at the Lehigh Valley Story Slam, November 2017.

He is proudest of his blog on fairy tales, Fairy Tale of the Month, which he has been writing since December 2010.

Be sure to follow him on Facebook, and his exploits as Samuel Clemons on his Lost Dollar site.

 

Meet David Fessenden — Speaker GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ March 23, 2019

Tags

Christian Writers, Editing, Fiction, Indie Publishing, Non-Fiction, Publishing Contract, Writing, Writing Conferences

Article by Write Stuff Conference Chair – Dawn Sooy

 

 

David E. Fessenden has launched out as an independent editorial and publishing consultant after 20 years in editorial management for Christian publishers. Dave has a B.A. in journalism, an M.A. in religion, and over 30 years of experience in writing and editing. In his previous positions, Dave has edited scholarly and popular journals, served on the staff of a Bible Institute, and edited a regional edition of the largest Protestant weekly newspaper in the country.

GLVWG was delighted when Dave agreed to speak at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ on March 23, 2019, the only problem, he has a robust presentation list and choosing between the topics difficult. We decided on these:

• The Publishing Contract

Just when you are rejoicing that your book is going to be published, you receive a thick envelope in the mail — the dreaded publishing contract. This seminar will explain the clauses in a standard book contract, from a layperson’s perspective. [Disclaimer — I’m not a lawyer, and I don’t dispense legal advice!]

• The Writer/Editor Relationship

Writers and editors sometimes have a love/hate relationship — but it doesn’t have to be that way. This workshop covers what an editor looks for in a writer, and how you can be the kind of writer-editors love to publish!

• The Dreaded Outline: What Your English Teacher Never Told You

Do you dread preparing an outline? It’s not surprising if you are doing it the way you were probably taught in grade school. This workshop shows you how to break free of strict and silly rules so that you can use an outline as a writing plan.

• Editing Your Own Material (Muhlenberg)
  It’s a basic fact of human nature — we tend to be blind to our own mistakes. (Otherwise, we wouldn’t make the same ones over and over again!) These tips on self-editing show you how to step out of your skin — to be “objective” in the truest sense of the word — and smooth out the rough spots in your manuscript.

 

Who is David Fessenden?

During my 20 years in Christian publishing, I have learned to wear a lot of hats. Let me tell you about a few of them:

Editorial Coach

I can come alongside you to find ways to bring focus to your manuscript, making it more oriented to a specific audience, more effective and more publishable. I can also help you hone your proposal into a dynamic presentation that will spark the interest of a publisher.

Publishing Consultant

I can assist publishing houses, whether large or small, with editorial services and advice in acquisition, publishing agreements, copyright issues, subsidiary and international rights, production (including printed, e-book and audio formats) and promotion.

Academic Literary Agent

I am available to represent a limited number of authors on a per-project basis at a standard 15% agency rate. I capitalize on two decades in editorial positions with CBA (Christian Booksellers Association) publishers and my seminary training to specialize in the nonfiction Christian book market, with a bent toward authors and manuscripts that are more theological, academic or semi-academic.

Among many of the hats David wears, songwriting is another. He has delighted music lovers with songs that can be heard on http://fromconcepttocontract.com/daves-songs/

Dave’s God: There is one thing I really want you to know about me: my life is not my own. I have put it in the hands of the One who created the universe. To read more on this “God stuff,” select this link: Dave’s God

My wife and I live in southcentral Pennsylvania; we have two adult sons/daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren.

 

To read more on David, visit:

• Nonfiction writing blog:www.FromConceptoContract.com
• Author/publisher website:www.DaveFessenden.com

 

And don’t forget to visit his Amazon Page for books he’s written.

 

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Dawn Sooy, GLVWG’s Conference Chairman, is a native of Eastern Pennsylvania, with plenty of experience the four seasons have to offer. Armed with a Computer Science degree, she worked in the tech industry until 2012. As an animal lover, she volunteers at the local animal shelter, sneaking in treats for the four-legged residents.

Meet Jon Gibbs — Speaker GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ 2019

Tags

Story Characters, Write Stuff, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Craft

Article by GLVWG member Tammy Burke

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As you probably guessed from the wording on his favorite mug, he are a writer. And GLVWG knows, Jon are also an in-demand conference speaker and will be presenting the following topics at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ on March 23, 2019:

Are Your Characters Right for the Part?

When you create a character for a book or story, it’s tempting to stick with the first ‘person’ who turns up to audition, but what if he/she isn’t really right for the part? How can you make sure the ‘actor’ you end up using is the best one for the role? Join New Jersey author, Jon Gibbs, for a fun, informative, workshop on auditioning potential characters. Also, there may be candy.

Please note: This is a hands-on session. Attendees should bring pens and plenty of paper to work with.

The Seven-Sentence Solution.

Can you tell your novel’s story in seven sentences? What about your characters? Can you tell their arc, and how the story has changed them, in seven sentences? Join New Jersey author, Jon Gibbs, to learn how applying the Seven-Sentence Solution to your story (and to the people who take part in it) can make writing your book a lot easier, and reading it a lot more fun. This is a two-hour session. Also, there may be candy.\

A writer of thrillers, fantasy, horror, etc. (most of it for Middle Grade), Jon’s middle-grade fantasy, Fur-Face (Echelon Press), was nominated for a Crystal Kite Award.

Jon was ‘Author in Residence’ at Georgian Court University, in Lakewood, New Jersey, from 2012 – 2017.

In addition to his Fun with Fiction School program, Jon is the founder of The New Jersey Authors’ Network (NJAN). He has appeared with fellow NJAN members at panel/Q&As in libraries around the Garden State. He has also given numerous solo presentations and workshops on writing and blogging, as well as the occasional after-dinner speech. Jon’s 60-minute presentation, GETTING PUBLISHED: 10 Things Every Writer Should Know was broadcast on local cable TV in the Fall of 2012.

Born in England, Jon moved to New Jersey with his wife and children in 2004. He became a US citizen in 2016.

When he’s not running around after his special-needs children, Jon can usually be found in his basement office, staring at the computer – one day he hopes to figure out how to switch it on.

To read more about Jon, visit:

• Website: http://www.acatofninetales.com
• Blog: http://jongibbs.livejournal.com

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Tammy Burke, past GLVWG conference chair and  president, has published over 400 articles in daily newspapers, newsletters and regional magazines. She is shopping her first YA fantasy manuscript, Hazel Lies, and is revising her second book. In addition to writing, she spearheads marketing for a fire and security systems company, raises a brilliant ADHD middle-grader, fences with rapier swords in  the Society of Creative Anachronism (SCA), and considers herself a student of the fantastic and mundane.

Meet Donna Brennan, Speaker GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ 2019

Tags

Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Courses, Writing Craft, Writing Magazine Articles

Article by GLVWG Newsletter Chair – Sandra Almonte

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Donna Brennan will be doing a workshop Saturday morning at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ , March 23, 2019 titled Strengthening Your Writing. In the afternoon, she will be presenting on Getting Started Writing for Magazines and Putting Off Procrastination.

In her spare time, Donna enjoys daydreaming, walking, reading, and trying to catch up on all the Law and Order episodes. She used to enjoy playing FreeCell and Spider Solitaire, but had to give them up since they are addictive.

In 2017, Donna’s husband Jeff bought a restaurant in St. Croix. But their youngest two boys (twins) had two more years of high school and their daughter was commuting to college (still is), so Donna and Jeff now have a long distance marriage. Jeff came home five times last year, and Donna went down to visit him twice—once with the kids and once by herself. They both look forward to when the twins are in college and Donna can visit pretty much whenever she wants, for as long as she wants.

Donna was born and raised in Rahway, New Jersey and went to Rutgers College in New Brunswick to study communications. Twelve years later she went back to Rutgers for her computer science degree. She became a stay-at-home mom after her twins were born (with four kids, day care was cost prohibitive), and finally started to pursue her writing career a few years after that.

In March of 2019, a collection of her short stories will be self-published and available for sale at the conference. She has two novels she hopes to have published in the near future. An agent and two publishers have shown interest, so she’s keeping optimistic.

Since 2010, Donna has been helping out and/or instructing at writer’s conferences. She enjoys sharing what she’s learned and encouraging others.

She’s currently in the process of creating her website, www.DegunkingLife.com, where she plans to give advice on getting the junk and clutter out of your life, living space, and diet. She hopes her website inspires people to be the best they can be and to have a positive effect on the world around them.

Donna lives in eastern Pennsylvania with her three youngest kids (all taller than her) and their cat.

 

Visit her website at www.DegunkingLife.com. She’d love to get feedback on what you think.

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Sandra Almonte is a Certified Fitness Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, and Health and Wellness Coach. Passionate about the wellness and fitness fields, she decided to try freelance Copywriting in 2009. Since then she has helped companies write compelling copy for their products and services both in print and online while still training and coaching clients who are looking for healthier lifestyles.

When she’s not immersed in a good writing course or reading a book; she’s hiking or on a long walk with her dog. Sandra also enjoys spending time with her other pets (cat and bunny), bike riding, and volunteering for good causes.

You can visit her website at TheWellnessCopywriter.com 

 

 

Meet Charis Crowe — Speaker GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ 2019

Tags

Author Voice, Book Marketing, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Craft, YA

 

Charis Crowe is a professional freelance writer with corporate writing, advertising, and ghostwriting experience. With several completed novels and published short stories, Charis is passionate about finding that one thing a character would never do and making them do it.

She loves all things geeky, weird, and downright impossible. Whether it’s dragons soaring to new heights, unexplored distant planets, or monsters that lurk in the dark, Charis is always ready to help new writers explore their worlds and find more chaos.

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Charis (pronounced Ka-reese) Crowe will be at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ beginning Thursday, March 21, 2019. She will be joining her husband, Ben Wolf, in his full-day presentation Thursday, as well as the morning session on Friday.

Friday evening, Charis flies solo in her 7:00 PM presentation: The Pixar Method – Through the magic of engaging characters and heart-tugging plot lines, Pixar has brought us stories that ring true to who we are for over 20 years. Discover their methods, unpack the Pixar secrets for success, and learn how to apply them in your own writing.

On Saturday, March 23, her topics include:

• Marketing Execution for Authors. Covers, blurbs, Facebook release parties, Instagram hashtags, and meme machines. The world of marketing your books can feel like a giant maze. Learn how to create a product that sells and how to get it in front of readers.
• Finding Your Author Voice. Lovable characters and an exciting plot–these are things every story needs to be successful. But if you’re looking for longevity in publishing, you’re going to have to dig deeper. Every writer has a reason “why” they write. Learn what yours is and how to use it to keep readers coming back for more.
• YA is Here to Stay. Young Adult fiction isn’t just for teens. Learn the ins-and-outs of popular YA subcategories and how this super-powered genre can enhance your writing portfolio.

 

My first YA manuscript was a Steampunk/monster mashup. I’ve got about half a dozen YA WIP ideas floating around on my hard drive in one form or another. And the series I’m releasing now—The Lumen Fates Saga—centers around a group of teenagers selected by a secret society that lives alongside dragons.

There are two really common plot threads in YA that I love to read—budding romance (will-they/won’t-they) and the “chosen one” trope.

YA is all about a person at a crucial time in their lives. The main character is naturally on a journey of self-discovery and growth. They’re becoming someone new. I love those heroes

And although a will-they/won’t-they plot will keep me turning pages, I detest writing them! I tend to make those romances more of a side quest rather than the main goal.

Freelancing has been a bit of everything! Writing, editing, social media management, advertising, impersonating a literary agent—I’ve dabbled in a lot!

Freelancing pros: No dress code. Purple hair and comfy pants, no makeup, and an endless supply of coffee. Plus, more time with our kitty Marco, our kids, and more quality time with Ben (who is also a freelancer).

Freelancing cons: I’m a natural couch potato. Left to my devices, I would probably never leave our living room. Staying active is tough, and while I don’t miss the “rat race” that comes with most regular jobs, I do miss the camaraderie I had with my coworkers.

Born in Denver, Charis’s family moved to British Columbia, Canada. After that, it was down to Tampa Bay, Florida for a few years. Then we moved to the hometown where my parents were raised, Williamsport, PA—home of Little League baseball and… not much else.

I moved out to Iowa in 2008, and I’ve spent probably a cumulative year living in Hawaii over my lifetime.

I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was in second grade. My love of reading, writing, and that feel of words pressed into the pages of a notebook has always been a part of me.

We have one cat named Marco, and he is secretly a dog. He runs to the door and will announce when we have visitors, he yowls to be let outside, he answers to his name, and he will come when called. He even plays fetch.

Although I was the one to adopt Marco, he has taken a much stronger liking to Ben. He’ll even allow Ben to hold him like a baby. This preference has been a deep and hurtful betrayal. But… he’s a cat. I should have seen it coming.

Charis and her husband, Ben, live in ­­­­­­Bettendorf, Iowa with their two daughters—nicknamed Bri-Bear and Strawberry. Most nights of the week they can found snuggled up in front of the TV, poking fun at political ads and watching Survivor.

Married to Ben Wolf, our Keynote speaker for the Write Stuff Conference™ 2019, GLVWG asked, “What’s it like being married to writer/editor/freelancer?”

It’s usually fun, but we definitely disagree sometimes. Ben works faster than I do, so I think I frustrate him at times. We usually leave each other alone during the day—he prefers the dark, isolated basement office. I like to have tons of natural light in my workspace.

Creatively we’re total opposites. We frequently bounce ideas off each other when we’re stuck on a plot hole or a character development. We almost never give each other the “breakthrough” idea. Most of the time we end up inspiring the other person to do the exact opposite of what we suggested!

We try to balance out our knowledge and be a strength to each other. His editing skills are always going to surpass mine. But when it comes to running ads on Amazon, compiling data, or putting together a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet, I take the cake!

 

Charis can be found on Instagram (@CharisCrowe)

 

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Article by GLVWG member —  Idelle Kursman

Idelle Kursman was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Boston College and her Master’s from William Paterson University. She has a loved one with autism and after watching the movie Taken five years ago, she felt compelled to write a novel about human trafficking. Since she loves thrillers, especially if it is a book she cannot put down, she sought to give readers this experience in her debut novel. At the same time, Idelle seeks to raise awareness for autism and the international human trafficking crisis. She lives with her family in New Jersey.

You can find Idelle on her website: https://idellekursman.com/, and social media links.

facebook.com/luckcanchange

twitter.com/IdelleKursman

linkedin.com/in/idelle-kursman

Remembering the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ in Pictures

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Writing, Writing Conferences

The 2017 Write Stuff Writer’s Conference™, hosted by the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group, has come and gone. Once again, our resident photographer, Joan Zachary, took pictures during the March sessions. 

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Thursday, March 22, we held a full day workshop with bestselling author, Bob Mayer. In his seminar, he guided attendees through all the steps to develop an original idea, create characters, establish point of view, create setting, manage dialog, and how to go about selling our works in today’s market.

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Friday Morning, March 23, Bob Mayer focused on the challenges in the business of writing; researching a story project, POD, and the future of publishing.

In the afternoon, Jane K. Cleland conducted a session on Mastering Suspense, and Managing Structure & Plot.  

Jane Cleland

Dan Krippene, Social Media Chair for GLVWG, offered a one hour presentation on how writers can use Pinterest to connect with others and enhance author brand.

Pinterest Presentation

Dan Krippene

Early Friday evening, Dianna Sinovic moderated GLVWG’s annual Page Cuts Critique Session, which gave participants an opportunity to have a short piece of their work critiqued by three panelists composed of writers and agents.

Richard White, Tabitha Lord, Veronica Park

Friday ended with a welcome reception where participants had the chance to network with presenters, agents, editors, and other conferees. 

 

Conference Chair, Dawn Sooy, spoke about the group’s 25^th anniversary, and founding member, Peggy Adamczyk, reflected on GLVWG’s history through the years.

Dawn Sooy

Peggy Adamczyk

GLVWG member and professional magician, Arjay Lewis, entertained the event with amazing displays of prestidigitation.

Arjay Lewis

Arjay Lewis

Of course, no conference would be complete without a visit from ‘Samuel Clemmons’ (aka Charles Kiernan).

Charles Kiernan

Charles Kiernan

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The main event for GLVWG’s 2018 Conference encompassed a busy day with six presenters on subjects for self publishing, weapons in fiction, time management, steampunk, writer beware, and ways to improve writing. 

Bob Mayer

Jane Cleland

Richard White

Tabitha Lord

Matt Betts

Ben Sobieck

 

Those not attending the first morning session, had the chance to hear the latest publishing industry trends from a panel of Agents and Editors, Sheree Bykofski, Noah Ballard, and Amara Hoshijo. 

Sheree Bykofski

Noah Ballard

Amara Hoshijo

Agent Editor Panel

After introductions by GLVWG’s President, Keith Keifer, and Conference Chair, Dawn Sooy, our conference keynote speaker, Bob Mayer, gave an upbeat talk on “I Will Make It Work”, encouraging writers to find their passion and mine it. He also had us laughing with stories of his military days in the Green Berets.

Dawn Sooy

Keith Keifer

Following the day’s last sessions, winners were announced from the Flash Fiction Contest (of which the winner’s entry will be posted on the blog at a later date). Bernadette Sukley conducted the raffle for the many door prizes available at the conference. 

Bernadette Sukley

The day ended with a book fair, where participants could purchase signed copies from authors and presenters. 

Phyllis Palamaro

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Our thanks to Joan Zachary for providing the conference photographs.

 

We hope to see you next year at the GLVWG Writers Conference 2019.

Meet Jane Cleland

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Jane Cleland, Writer Courses, Writing, Writing Conferences

We are excited to have Jane Cleland participate at our GLVWG Write Stuff Conference ™, where she will share her knowledge on topics such as:

·         Mastering Suspense, Structure & Plot

·         The Art of Distraction: Using Red Herrings to Create Suspense

·         Using Metaphors to Add Richness and Texture to Your Work

 

Jane K. Cleland was born in Boston and reared in Newton, Massachusetts, graduating from Newton High School. She then attended the University of Denver, graduating with a B.A. in English and Theatre. She obtained an M.B.A in Marketing and Management from Babson College and an M.F.A. in Playwriting and Speechwriting from Western Connecticut State University.

She chairs the Black Orchid Novella Award, one of the Wolfe Pack’s literary awards, granted in partnership with Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine. She is a past chapter president of the Mystery Writers of America/New York Chapter and served on the national board as well. Additionally, Jane is the host of the Writer’s Room, a series of interviews with today’s bestselling crime fiction authors that appear on cable television and online, and she speaks frequently at writing conferences, association meetings, and universities.

Meet Matt Betts

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Matt Betts, Writing, Writing Conferences, Writing Courses

Matt Betts will be at the GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™ on Saturday, March 24, 2018, where he’ll talk to attendees about:  What is a Media Kit and Why Do I Need One, Make History with Your Writing, The Rhyming Dead (Horror Poetry), and Steampunk – Where Everything Old is New Again.

Matt Betts was born and raised in Lima, Ohio and went to college in Toledo to study communications, specializing in broadcasting. He signed on with the campus radio station as a news anchor and reporter not long after he arrived at college – before he took his first communications class, in fact. After graduation, he worked for some radio stations as a DJ, a reporter, and anchor. More than any other format, Matt worked at Oldies stations, which fed his love of Elvis, the Beatles, and other great early rock icons.

Matt met and interviewed comedian and actor Larry Miller one night at the club. Larry gave some advice that stuck with Matt long after. Larry was a classically trained musician who still played regularly, and when asked if it was all too much, Larry suggested that creativity is creativity. You don’t have to do just one thing. Whether you’re writing a poem or a script, that creativity feeds the other things you do. It helps you be a better actor, musician, etc. It is advice Matt has applied to his writing career from the beginning, allowing his love of pop culture to infuse and inform all of his work, including poetry, short fiction, and his longer works.

Matt’s short and flash fiction has focused a lot on humor and horror. His work appears in Arkham Tales, Ethereal Tales, the Triangulation: Taking Flight anthology, Bizarro Fiction! The Journal of Experimental Fiction 37, A Thousand Faces and Cinema Spec: Tales of Hollywood and Fantasy.

Matt’s poem “Godzilla’s Better Half” was nominated for a Rhysling Award, the Science Fiction Poetry Association’s highest honor. His poetry has appeared in Star*Line, Escape Clause, The Book of Tentacles, Illumen, the 2010 Rhysling Anthology, Kaleidotrope, and others.

Matt’s book Odd Men Out is a steampunk-horror-historical-thriller crossbreed where giant lizards and zombies roam a desolate United Nations of America received acclaims from David Pitt, Publishers Weekly, and Library Journal.

 He currently lives in Columbus with his wife Mackenzie, and their two wonderful boys.

To read more on Matt:

• Home – http://www.mattbetts.com/
• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/mattbetts

 

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Article by Dawn Sooy: Conference Chair for the 2018 GLVWG Write Stuff Conference™