Workshops for Writers-Feb. 5: Love on the Page

Join author Sela Carsen from 10 a.m. to noon, Feb. 5, for a writing workshop hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild. This free workshop will be held online only.

Has Valentine’s Day got you thinking about writing romance or including a romantic arc in your books? Then let’s talk about getting some Love on the Page!

We’ll discuss what makes a book a romance (and what doesn’t), the wide variety of stories included within the romance genre, what readers are looking for in a great romance, and how to structure a romance novel… no matter what else may be going on in the story.

For the Zoom address, find the turquoise “Join current SLWG meeting” button at the top of the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Events page (http://www.stlwritersguild.org/events), or use this address on Feb. 5:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Sela Carsen is an award-winning author of paranormal and sci-fi romance—with or without sex and dead bodies. Your pick. She maintains a permanent nerd-on for fairytales and mythology and openly hoards reference books about obscure folklore. 

She also writes as Silke Campion, penning hot, flirty, sweet, and dirty romances featuring heroes who will gladly take control to ensure their heroines get their Happy Ever After.

Workshop Aug. 7: Improve Your Writing and Sell More Books with Beta Readers

Learn how to identify, qualify, locate, and use an incredible writer’s tool known as beta readers at this Aug. 7 workshop featuring author and marketing professional Cherie Postill. 

During this online workshop from 10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 7, you will learn the definition of beta testing, how to pinpoint your beta readers, and why every writer needs them. It is only one piece of the puzzle that ends with a published manuscript, but a vital one. 

For the Zoom address, find the turquoise button at the top of the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/events), or click here on Aug. 7:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

“I will introduce a process that results in a comprehensive manuscript critique, including actionable feedback,” Cherie said. “We’ll discuss the techniques and tools used to beta test your manuscript for optimal results.”    

In today’s crowded market, your manuscript needs to stand out more than ever. Methods outlined in her workshop will give you a competitive advantage and make you a better writer. 

“Once you have followed my process, not only will you be assured your story is perfect for your target readers, but you will also know precisely who your ideal readers are,” she said. “You will learn where to find your target readers and how to use their talents to help you sell more books and attract a loyal fan base.”

Additionally, you will discover how to get reviews, referrals, and book comps (comparable titles) from your beta readers to use in query letters, on your book cover, and in promotional material. 

Cherie Postill is an author of fiction and nonfiction books, a marketing professional, and a speaker. She serves as a Vice President on the St. Louis Writers Guild Board and as its liaison for more than 20 school districts. Cherie is an active member of the St. Louis Publishers Association and Saturday Writers.  She presents workshops for writers of all ages. Connect with her at clpostill.com or email cherie@clpostill.com and check out her latest book on Amazon.  

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at http://www.stlwritersguild.org/

How to Con the Con – Get Noticed in a Sea of Convention Booths

With conventions, conferences, expos and many other sales opportunities opening up after the drought of COVID-19, getting noticed has become a serious priority for authors. 

From 10 a.m. to noon, July 10, authors Jennifer Stolzer and Jessica Mathews will share their tips and tricks for sales, con etiquette, display set up and more at this free online workshop hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild. 

Access the workshop from the Events page of the Guild’s website (click the turquoise JOIN CURRENT SLWG MEETING button) or use this link:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

To call in: +1-312-626-6799 

Jessica Mathews began writing picture books for children at a young age. Her father would write down all of the stories she told him and they would read them together. Jessica wants to continue the tradition of making up stories for children, starting with her debut picture book, The Old Man and the Pirate Princess. Jessica wants to be able to work with schools, libraries, and after-care programs to help children discover their love of reading, writing, and creating. She wants her books to inspire others as much as her favorite books inspired her when she was growing up. Jessica also serves as President of the St. Louis Writers Guild.

Jennifer Stolzer is an author/illustrator from St. Louis, MO. She graduated from Webster University with a degree in digital media and animation and uses these skills to create bright and engaging characters. Her illustration company, Jennifer Stolzer Illustration, has served the St. Louis area and its authors for more than ten years. You can see samples of her work at www.jenniferstolzer.com or on Facebook under Jennifer Stolzer Illustration. Jennifer also serves as Secretary of the St. Louis Writers Guild. 

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org

Limited time offer ends 4/30!

 Meet new authors. Choose from 42 free SF&F short stories, 

including ELECTION DAY, a girapod adventure by T.W. Fendley!

(click image above)

Social Media Marketing workshop for writers May 1

Learn about social media marketing from 10 a.m. to noon, May 1, from Nicole Lanahan, nonprofit executive director and multi-published author, at a free online workshop hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild.

Have you ever wondered if there’s a magic day or time to post? She’ll answer that question and share tips on how to:

• build a platform

• engage readers authentically

• and turn followers into sales

To join the meeting, on May 1 click the turquoise button labeled “Join Current SLWG Meeting” on the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/events) or use the Zoom link below:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Nicole Lanahan is executive director of  the million-dollar nonprofit, Got Your Six Support Dogs, which she founded five years ago. She is the author of nine young adult and adult romance books under a different name. As a moonlighting superhero, she prefers to keep her alter ego a secret, but on weekends you can find her competing in agility trials with her Australian Shepherd or rocking out in a band.

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org.

How to Self-Publish Like a Pro

Join author education specialist Meghan Pinson from 10 a.m. to noon, April 3, for a free online workshop hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild entitled, “How to Self-Publish Like a Pro: The Parts You'll Hate, but Have to Do!”

She'll cover the worst, least fun, least creative parts of the indie-publishing process, including:

• Tackling the administrative tasks that require precision and timing

• Choosing a distribution plan you can live with

• How to  get your book to look like a book, not a document with book-sized pages

• What you need to know about metadata 

To join the meeting, on April 3 click the turquoise button labeled “Join Current SLWG Meeting” on the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/events) or use the Zoom link below:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Meghan Pinson is ringleader of My Two Cents Editing, a small band of specialists who provide expert editing, engaging critique, and fearless consulting to authors of novels and nonfiction manuscripts. She specializes in story development and author education and is the author of My Two Cents Editing's Indie-Publishing Workbook: A Guide to the Industry's Best Practices. Connect with her at www.mytwocentsediting.com.

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org. 

Find your next favorite story!

Free books and sample chapters --These 118 amazing authors have teamed up to offer a delightful selection of new books, including the opening chapters of my new adult sci-fi, Methuselah's Legacy. Offer ends March 31! (click graphic above)

Pitch to publishers and hear from writing experts at March 6 online conference

 At the March 6 “Writers on Zoom” online conference, experts will offer “how-to” tips on research, characterization, poetry, memoirs and humor, as well as advice for portraying the Deaf culture and community. 

The daylong event is free to St. Louis Writers Guild members, though registration is required. The $20 fee for nonmembers includes access to recordings of the six workshops. Sign up using Eventbrite on stlwritersguild.org 

If you have questions you’d like the speakers to address, post them at least a week in advance to the St. Louis Writers Guild Facebook page or email SLWGInfo@gmail.com with MARCH 6 in the subject line.

Concurrently, the Guild will host pitching to publishers on March 6. Register in advance on Eventbrite for up to two five-minute pitch sessions with publishers, including North Star Editions, Owl Hollow Press, The Wild Rose Press and Coffee House Press. Pitches are $10 for SLWG members, $20 for nonmembers.

The online conference is part of our yearlong celebration of the Guild’s 100th Anniversary. Learn more about the speakers and their talks, as well as what genres the publishers are seeking at www.stlwritersguild.org under the Special Events tab, Writers on Zoom.

Agenda

9 a.m. – RESEARCHING THE LUNATICK ASTRONOMERS, Andrew P.B. Lound 

10 a.m. – BEYOND NAME, AGE, AND SIBLING NUMBER: Turning Your Pinocchios into Real Characters, Jody Feldman 

11 a.m. – TRUE-BIZ: Best approaches to portraying Deaf culture and community, Zack Jodlowski

NOON BREAK

1 p.m. – TIPS FOR MEMOIRISTS—Craft, Family, and How to Get Your Book in the World, Linda Joy Myers

2 p.m. –  WRITING LIKE MY HAND IS ON FIRE, Jane Ellen Ibur

3 p.m. –  WHAT IMPROV COMEDY CAN TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMOR WRITING, Bob Baker

Learn How to Write Query Letters and Pitch Your Book to Literary Agents

Learn how to write query letters and pitch your book to literary agents and publishers during a free online workshop from 10 a.m. to noon, Feb. 6, featuring authors Catherine Bakewell and Brad R. Cook.

You can find the Zoom address on the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/events) or click here on Feb. 6 to join the meeting:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2021

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago

Catherine Bakewell will discuss the  “Five Steps to Having a Strong Query.”  

“Whether it's your first time sending a query or if you're tearing your hair out re-writing and re-querying for the thousandth time, this lesson is for you,” Catherine said. “I'll be going over the basic elements of a query and how to make them stand out. This talk is primarily for fiction writers querying literary agents, and especially for those authors querying YA or MG books.”

Brad R. Cook will share the “New Rules for Pitching.”

“The publishing world changed over the last year, and pitching was one of the biggest areas affected,” he said. “We'll discuss how to pitch your book online in 2021. Tips on where to find the agents and publishers, plus how to act and what to say when you get in front of them.” 

Catherine Bakewell is the author of We are the Song, a middle-grade fantasy novel to be released in Spring of 2022 by Holiday House. Catherine has lived in France and Spain, where she romped through gardens, ate pastries, and worked on her novels. She is represented by Jordan Hamessley of New Leaf Literary & Media. You can check out Catherine's blog about querying and find out about her editorial services at catherinebakewell.com.   

Brad R. Cook is the author of historical fantasy novels and award-winning short stories. He began as a playwright, dipped into the corporate writing world, and served as co-publisher and acquisitions editor for Blank Slate Press. He currently serves as Historian of St. Louis Writers Guild after three and half years as President. He learned to fence at thirteen, and never set down his sword, but prefers to curl up with a centuries’ old classic. https://www.bradrcook.com/

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org. 

Jan. 9 workshop: What authors need to know about Amazon

If you’re a self-published author, understanding Amazon is crucial. Join Matt Davids from 10 a.m. to noon, Jan. 9, for a free online workshop and learn about “The Amazon Mindset: What Self-Publishing Authors Need to Know About the World’s Largest Bookseller.”

You can find the Zoom address on the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Virtual Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/virtual-events) or click here on Jan. 9 to join the meeting: 

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2020

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Matt’s presentation will cover strategies and tactics for optimizing your books so they sell.

“We must learn how to make our books stand out from the millions of other books on Amazon,” he said. “We'll start with several key elements that are needed to understand Amazon and then dive into practical tips you can apply today.” 

Matt Davids is a full-time creator of tabletop role-playing game books, including the Amazon bestsellers, The Book of Random Tables and The Book of Random Tables: Quests. All his books can be found at dicegeeks.com. Matt is also the host of the Dicegeeks.com Tabletop RPG Show, a podcast featuring interviews with game designers, writers, and filmmakers. He is happily married to his beautiful wife, Erin, and is the father of three boys

To learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild, go to www.stlwritersguild.org

Guild honors young writers at Dec. 5 holiday gathering

Join a celebration honoring award-winning young writers at the St. Louis Writers Guild’s annual holiday gathering from 10 a.m. to noon, Dec. 5. 

You can find the Zoom address on the Guild’s Virtual Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/virtual-events) or click here to join the meeting: 

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2020

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

At this free online event, learn how fourth- through eighth-graders created stories that all began with the words: “Beneath the mask…” 

Winners of the first Young Writers Awards (High School Edition) for ninth- to twelfth-grade students will also be invited to read their stories centered on the 2020 theme: Beneath the Mask. 

Judging was based on originality, cohesiveness, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Award-winning author Jody Feldman judged entries in the 4th – 5th grade and 6th – 8th grade levels. Anna Ojascastro Guzon and Michelle M. Haberberger of Your Words STL judged contest entries for the Young Writers Awards (High School Edition). Your Words STL is a non-profit that uses creative writing workshops, tutoring, and collaborative projects to help amplify the voices of those who are marginalized. 

The Young Writers Collection, an anthology of winning entries in both contests, will be published and available on Amazon by mid-December.

SLWG offers an associate membership is for young writers who are currently enrolled in middle school, high school, or an equivalent alternative. Associate members have access to special areas on the website and special events hosted by St. Louis Writers Guild. Associate members are welcome to attend age-appropriate SLWG Events. Associate Membership is $5 per year, which is applied to the young writers programming. Go to the YWSTL tab (Young Writers of St. Louis) on the Guild’s website, www.stlwritersguild.org

Workshop Nov. 7: Tax tips for writers and other creative professionals

Tax time is coming up before you know it. If you’re like many writers and other creative professionals, you may find it challenging to keep track of what business expenses and sales the law requires you to report. 

Certified Public Accountant Dan Connor will offer tax tips and answer your questions from 10 a.m. to noon, Nov. 7, in a free online workshop hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild, in cooperation with the Volunteer Lawyers and Accountants for the Arts (VLAA).

You can find the Zoom address on the Guild’s Virtual Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/virtual-events) or click here to join the meeting: 

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2020

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Dan will address questions such as:

• Do I need to pay taxes ahead of time?  

• Can I deduct losses if I spent more than I made?  

• When is writing a business or a hobby?

• How will the election affect my taxes? 

Dan Connors, with  Buenger Accounting in Granite City, IL, is an Enrolled Agent under the IRS and a CPA under the state of Illinois. He has been preparing taxes for more than fifteen years for individuals, nonprofits, and businesses. Dan is also an aspiring writer and has been published in the St. Louis Post Dispatch several times. He can be reached at dan@buengeraccounting.com (accounting) or dan@authordanconnors.com  (writing). 

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org and about the VLAA at www.vlaa.org.

Workshop Oct. 24: Everything You Know About Screenwriting is Wrong

In this informative and brutally honest two-plus hours, Paul Guyot, who has worked in Hollywood for 30 years -- the last 20 as a full-time screenwriter -- shares the reasons why nearly every book on screenwriting is wrong.

Join Guyot from 10 a.m. to noon, Oct. 24, at this free online workshop, and stay on afterward to celebrate the St. Louis Writers Guild 100th Anniversary. We're limited to 100 participants, so sign up now on Eventbrite to reserve your spot. The Zoom link will also be posted in the Members Room on www.stlwritersguild.org.

Guyot’s self-proclaimed cause in the screenwriting world is to put all the gurus and charlatans who charge money for “how-to” secrets out of business.  

“Nine out of ten aspiring screenwriters I meet have completely wrong concepts about the job, the craft, and the business. I do what I can to tell THE TRUTH of what it takes to be a working screenwriter. Sometimes it’s not fun to hear, but as my grandmother used to say, ‘I’d rather be slapped with the truth than kissed with a lie.’”  

“I’ll discuss how to avoid the myriad of conmen out there proclaiming to sell the secrets of screenwriting; the difference between simply selling a screenplay and actually creating a career as a screenwriter; the truth about screenwriting contests; and why less is always, always more.” 

Guyot spent ten years working in Hollywood before his first paid writing job on the WB series FELICITY. From there, he worked on multiple shows, including writing and producing the Emmy-winning CBS series JUDGING AMY. He was the Supervising Producer on the hit TNT series LEVERAGE, and the Co-Executive Producer and showrunner for THE LIBRARIANS, starring Rebecca Romijn and Noah Wyle. 

Most recently, Guyot served as Co-Executive Producer on NCIS: NEW ORLEANS, one of the top 10 television shows in the world. 

Guyot co-wrote the 2017 film GEOSTORM, which was the number one movie in Indonesia for two weeks, but don’t hold that against the lovely Indonesian people. 

Currently, he is developing the comedy film “49” for Netflix; about a husband and father who turns his family’s life upside down when he sells everything to chase his dream of becoming a professional golfer. Greg Kinnear and Lauren Graham are attached to star. 

Guyot has taught screenwriting at the university level, and guest lectured at multiple conferences. He splits his time between Los Angeles and St. Louis. He believes that social media is neither -- and thus, his only presence is Instagram where you can find him at @p.guyot.

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org.

Guild’s Oct. 10 online conference features “Ask the Experts” and Pitchfest

On Oct. 10, the St. Louis Writers Guild (SLWG) will provide a forum for writers to “Ask the Experts” about their professions. The daylong online conference is free to SLWG Members, though registration is required, and $20 for nonmembers, including access to recordings of the five workshops. Sign up using Eventbrite on stlwritersguild.org

Writers may submit questions at the conference or in advance through the SLWG Facebook page for Regional Medical Examiner Dr. Mary Case, bestselling crime novelist Scott Phillips, registered nurse Jessica Patton, microbiologist Christine Hood, and aerospace engineer manager Jamie Krakover. They can also ask Anna Ojascastro Guzon and Michelle M. Haberberger for tips about writing realistic teen characters.

Concurrently, the Guild will host a Pitchfest on Oct. 10. Register in advance on Eventbrite for a five-minute pitch session with publishers including North Star Editions, Owl Hollow Press, Blue Fortune Enterprises LLC, The Wild Rose Press and Manniversary Media/Entercom Communications. Pitches are $10 for SLWG members, $20 for nonmembers.

The event is part of the Gateway to Publishing Conference Series, in celebration of the Guild’s 100th Anniversary. Learn more about the experts and publishers at www.stlwritersguild.org under the Special Events tab, Pitchfest.

ASK THE EXPERTS workshop agenda

9-9:50 a.m.: Bestselling Author Scott Phillips

10-10:50 a.m. Registered Nurse Jessica Patton 

11-11:50 a.m.: “Ask the YWSTL Community” with Anna Ojascastro Guzon and Michelle M. Haberberger

12-1 p.m. break – Grab lunch and get back to your computer! 

1-1:50 p.m. Microbiologist Christine Hood

2-2:50 p.m. Aerospace Engineering Manager Jamie Krakover

3-3:50 p.m. Regional Medical Examiner Dr. Mary Case

PITCHFEST publishers -- Check the Pitchfest page for more information 

Mari Kesselring - Managing Editor of Fiction - North Star Editions, Inc. (Flux & Jolly Fish Press)

https://northstareditions.com/jolly-fish-press/ 

https://northstareditions.com/flux/ 

Mari Kesselring serves as managing editor of fiction for North StarEditions and directs acquisitions and editorial work for its imprints Flux (young adult fiction) and Jolly Fish Press (middle grade fiction). She is seeking young adult fiction and middle grade fiction only. In young adult, she’s looking for thrillers, contemporary, SciFi, fantasy, and historical fiction. In middle grade, she’s seeking contemporary, action/adventure, humor, mystery, SciFi, and historical fiction. She’s especially interested in unique concepts, strong narrative voices, fast-paced storytelling, and #ownvoices stories.

Narielle Living, President, Blue Fortune Enterprises LLC 

https://blue-fortune.com/ 

Narielle Living is the president and founder of Blue Fortune Enterprises, a publishing company who believes that books have the power to change lives. She is taking pitches for mysteries and is also actively seeking work for their imprint Wildflower Press, which publishes LGBTQ+ work (fiction and nonfiction). For information about the books offered by Blue Fortune Enterprises, visit blue-fortune.com.

Hannah Smith - Acquisitions Director - Owl Hollow Press

https://owlhollowpress.com/ 

Hannah Smith is the Acquisition Director at Owl Hollow Press, responsible for discovering new talent and acquiring manuscripts. Hannah specializes in children’s fiction, but she is interested in anything that tells a unique and interesting story. Her preferences include YA Fantasy and Science Fiction, strong female protagonists, MG with a mystery, and anything that is surprising and well written. 

Ally Robertson - Editor - Wild Rose Press

www.thewildrosepress.com 

Ally Robertson has been an editor with The Wild Rose Press since they opened in 2006. She edits mainly for the suspense line but is open to other genres. Ally is open to all fiction genres, other than children and middle-grade. She is particularly looking for suspense, with or without romance, but can take pitches for all genres. She loves stories about murder and mayhem and is especially fond of the intense, scary, creepy kind.  

Ryan Wiggins - Content Development - Manniversary Media/Entercom Communications

Several Entercom radio markets are venturing into publishing and St. Louis will be the first test market in 2021. Ryan Wiggins’ company is tasked with handling this project as a third-party accompaniment. The company is Manniversary Media but the LLC authors will sign with is The Last Publisher on Earth LLC.  

"There is no particular genre we are seeking. In fact, we are looking for the widest breadth of genres possible for the round of books we're looking to publish in Q1 and Q2 of 2021.  We are generally looking for fiction or non-fiction that would appeal to a wide array of people in the age group 35-54."

100+ sci/fi & fantasy books free for limited time!

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Don't delay! This offer ends Sept. 15.

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Guild “Editing Extravaganza” Sept. 12 Offers Publicity Workshop, Consultations with Experts

Sign up now for online editing consultations at the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Sept. 12 Editing Extravaganza! Submit the first five to ten pages of your manuscript or your query letter to be reviewed by an editor and have a 20+ minute one-on-one consultation. 

Starting the day will be a free, online workshop from 10 a.m. to noon featuring international speaker and four-time bestselling author Jill Lublin. She will focus on how to “Get Known Everywhere Using Publicity.” 

Discover how to be the #1 Influencer in your industry by boosting your credibility and amplifying your media visibility. Based on her international bestseller, Guerrilla Publicity, Jill Lublin shares simple strategies and provides cost-effective short‐term, doable tactics. Helping you understand what the media is looking for, so you and your brand can stand out, get noticed and go from unknown to newsworthy. 

Jill shares her proven secrets to understanding what the media wants and provides cost effective short‐term, doable tactics that boost credibility and increase visibility for you and your brand. You will:

1) Understand the real purpose of publicity- To boost your credibility and amplify your visibility.  

2) Uncover your "Oooooo, Ahhhhhh!" factor. Find the Wow! that sets you apart from the crowd.  

3) You are the news! Craft a riveting message that lets others know who you are and what you do.

4) Simplify! Learn how the pros mesmerize the masses by tailoring their message to the level of a five-year-old.  

5) Write a four-sentence announcement that ignites a local media frenzy.

6) Pass the all-important "Who cares?" test by showcasing your expertise in a way that commands attention. 

Consultations with editors are $40. Sign up by clicking the button on the website’s Event page. The form asks for your editor preference. If you sign up before all the editors have been announced, you will be contacted for your first choice. Pages are requested by Sept. 1 to allow editors time to review them. Editing consultations with Meghan Pinson and Andrew Doty and query letter critiques with Catherine Bakewell will be held between 1-3 p.m., Sept. 12.

***

JILL LUBLIN is an international speaker on the topics of Radical Influence, Publicity, Networking, Kindness and Referrals. She is the author of four bestselling books including Get Noticed...Get Referrals (McGraw Hill) and co-author of Guerrilla Publicity and Networking Magic.  Her latest book, Profit of Kindness, went #1 in four categories. Jill is a master strategist on how to position your business for more profitability and more visibility in the marketplace. She is CEO of a strategic consulting firm and has over 25 years’ experience working with over 100,000 people plus national and international media. Jill teaches a virtual Publicity Crash Course and consults and speaks all over the world. She also helps authors to create book deals with major publishers and agents, as well as obtain foreign rights deals. Visit publicitycrashcourse.com/freegift and jilllublin.com 

MEGHAN PINSON is ringleader of My Two Cents Editing, a small band of specialists who provide expert editing, engaging critique, and fearless consulting to authors of novels and nonfiction manuscripts. She specializes in story development and author education and is the author of My Two Cents Editing's Indie-Publishing Workbook: A Guide to the Industry's Best Practices. Her current favorite genres: historical fiction, crime/mystery/suspense, middle grade adventure stories, and prescriptive nonfiction. Connect with her at www.mytwocentsediting.com.

ANDREW DOTY is an experienced editor and project manager who currently serves as the lead project coordinator at Editwright, a publishing services agency whose team serves authors and nonprofits; the Vice President of the St. Louis Publishers Association; and the founder of the budding nonprofit Write for a Change. Andrew is a published poet and a practicing musician. To contact Andrew, visit editwright.com.

CATHERINE BAKEWELL is a fantasy writer, history fan, and opera enthusiast. She has lived in France and  Spain, where she romped through gardens, ate pastries, and worked on her novels. She is represented by Jordan Hamessley of New Leaf Literary & Media. You can check out Catherine's blog about querying and find out about her editorial services at catherinebakewell.com.  

Learn more about St. Louis Writers Guild virtual events at www.stlwritersguild.org/virtual-events.

Get up to speed with the Publishing Evolution: Aug. 22 online conference

On Aug. 22, the St. Louis Writers Guild will host a variety of authors discussing the future of publishing at an online daylong conference. 

The event is free to SLWG Members, though registration is required, and $20 for nonmembers, including access to recordings of the four workshops. Sign up for the Publishing Evolution using Eventbrite on stlwritersguild.org

9-10:45 a.m. panel: “Write, Publish, Promote & Profit in the Digital Age”

with Nicole Evelina, Vivian Gibson, Esme Symes-Smith, and LaShaunda Hoffman, moderated by Marie Chewe-Elliott 

Learn tips, strategies and tools on writing and promoting your book from award-winning authors who are achieving success in the publishing evolution.

11a.m.-12p.m.: “Empowering Your Writing: Using Conscious Language for Inclusiveness and Representation” with Crystal Shelley 

Words have the power to do good: to uplift, to inspire, and to validate. Words also have the power to do harm: to hurt, to marginalize, and to erase. In this session, we'll discuss how we can wield words for good by using conscious language, balancing writer intent with reader impact, and incorporating diversity into our stories.  

12-1 p.m. break – Grab lunch and get back to your computer! 

1-2 p.m. “Art for Cause: Writing for Advocacy, Healing & CommUNITY Building” with Marie Chewe-Elliott, Antoinette Crayton and Kate Moore-Freeman

What role can writers and artists play during times of crisis, conflict and chaos in our community? Join this discussion on opportunities to use your work to make a difference and be the change you want to see. In cooperation with the North County Writing and Arts Network. 

2-3 p.m. “Locksmithing for Writers” with Arianne “Tex” Thompson

If you need that break-in scene to read just right - and if you'd like some first-hand experience to help you write it - then step right up! This introductory course includes essential vocabulary and hands-on lockpicking practice with a variety of antique and modern locks, along with little-known hints and facts guaranteed to inspire your next ingenious plot twist. Limber up your fingers and get ready to write some wrongs!

About the speakers:

Marie Chewe-Elliott is a writer, speaker, and poet in north St. Louis County. She is the author of four books and co-founder of North County Writing & Arts Network. Her poems have been published in The St. Louis Anthology, SO Magazine, UMSL's Litmag, and among winning selections in the 2019 Arts Rolla Writing Competition and Arts in Transit's 2019 Metro Lines Contest. Marie's love of words guided her to a career of more than 30 years in various facets of communications, including newspaper reporter, nonprofit and government communications, and adjunct lecturer. She earned degrees from the University of Mississippi and Webster University. Connect with Marie at myelliott61@gmail.com, https://www.mariecheweelliott.com/ on Facebook, or IG.

Esme Symes-Smith grew up in the South West of England, then earned their degree in Literature and Creative Writing at Aberystwyth University in Wales. After graduating, they moved across the world to be with their wife in St. Louis. They have freelanced as a ghost-writer, managed a frozen-yogurt shop, and are now focused on writing the queer kidlit they craved as a kid. They are represented by Megan Manzano of D4EO Literary and can be found at @EsmeSymesSmith on Twitter.  http://esymessmith.com/

Vivian Gibson is a native St. Louisian who grew up in Mill Creek Valley, a neighborhood razed in 1959 to build a highway. Her family, friends, church community, and neighbors were all displaced by this act of “urban renewal.” In her moving memoir, Gibson recreates the everyday lived experiences of her large family, including her seven siblings, her crafty college-educated mother, who moved to St. Louis as part of the Great Migration, and her at-times forbidding father, who worked two jobs to keep them all warm and fed. With an eye for telling detail, she sketches scenes populated by her friends, shop owners, teachers, and others who made Mill Creek into a warm, tight-knit, African-American community, and reflects upon what it means that Mill Creek was destroyed in the name of racism disguised as “progress.” http://vivian-gibson.com

LaShaunda Hoffman turned her love for books into an award-winning online magazine for readers and writers of multi-cultural literature, Shades Of Romance – SORMAG. Her mission in life is to help promote writers by introducing them to readers. Born and raised in St. Louis, LaShaunda started her adventure in life by joining the United States Navy. She served her country for six years and returned to her hometown. She began to work for the U.S. government. LaShaunda is currently working on a Christian romance and is on the hunt for a literary agent. She hopes to one day introduce her books to readers.

Nicole Evelina is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and women’s fiction whose six books have won more than 40 awards, including four Book of the Year designations. Nicole was named Missouri’s Top Independent Author by Library Journal and Biblioboard as the winner of the Missouri Indie Author Project in 2018 and has been awarded the North Street Book Prize and the Sarton Women’s Book Award. One of her books, Madame Presidentess, was previously optioned for film. She is represented by Amy Collins of Talcott Notch Literary. http://nicoleevelina.com

Crystal Shelley is a freelance copy editor, proofreader, and sensitivity reader who works with self-publishing fiction authors. She also practices as a licensed clinical social worker. She unites her love of language and social justice by providing editorial services with a focus on representation and conscious language. Visit her website at Rabbit with a Red Pen to read more tips on writing and editing or to connect with her on social media.  

Arianne "Tex" Thompson is a licensed locksmith, egregiously enthusiastic editor, and professional ruckus-raiser. She is the author of  Children of the Drought, an internationally-published epic fantasy Western series from Solaris, as well as an instructor for Writing Workshops Dallas and ‘chief instigator’ of WORD – Writers Organizations ‘Round Dallas. Now she’s blazing a trail through conferences, workshops, and conventions around the country – as an endlessly energetic, catastrophically cheerful one-woman stampede. Find her online at thetexfiles.com and wordwriters.org!

Workshop Aug. 1: How to write about encounters with the extraordinary

If you’ve been itching to write about a fictional character who has an encounter with something beyond the ordinary such as angels, extraterrestrials, UFOs, or ghosts, or if you’ve had an otherworldly experience you’d like to share, now is a great time to do so, said author Karen Cavalli.

At an online workshop from 10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 1, she will offer some history on writing about these encounters and key decision points during the writing process. For the Zoom address, go to the St. Louis Writers Guild’s Virtual Events page (www.stlwritersguild.org/virtual-events), or click here:

https://zoom.us/j/7028903800?pwd=bHp3cWhpWHBQSW9wMXgzM3N4cE5qZz09

Meeting ID: 702 890 3800

Password: SLWG2020

Call in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

“The taboo against speaking openly about one-on-one encounters with beings and phenomena outside daily reality is loosening its hold, along with the attendant fear of ridicule,” she said. “It is possible to write about these kinds of encounters, whether they are yours or a fictional character’s, in such a way that transports both you and your readers.”

Karen will offer specific writing exercises, a bibliography, and a matrix of the most common encounter types and responses that apply to both fiction and nonfiction. Her talk will cover:
• key differences between portrayals of encounters with the extraordinary vs. the paranormal in contemporary books, video and film
• personal risks when writing about encounters with the extraordinary
• that moment in history when the course was set
• how consciousness research and quantum mechanics fit into writing about this topic
• decision points during the writing and publishing process
• key elements to include in your writing for success
• gifts that await

Karen Cavalli has been exploring and publishing about encounters with anomalous beings and events since 2014. Her most recent book is Undercover Goddess, book one in the trilogy No Boundaries, a paranormal romance for adults. Her work has won awards including Outstanding Secondary Science Book. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Alabama where she studied with Margaret Atwood. Karen can be contacted at kcgoodguide@gmail.com and at Contact Karen Cavalli

Learn more about the St. Louis Writers Guild at www.stlwritersguild.org

New dystopian books free for limited time!

Searching for your next favorite story? Look no further!

I've teamed up with 18 other bestselling authors to offer you a selection of riveting new books for free, including my just-released young adult science fiction novel, Moonblood.

Don't delay! This offer ends soon.

Click here before July 21 to take advantage of this offer!

Praise for Moonblood:

“Fans of dystopian fiction looking for something refreshingly original and truly different in the society-building/destruction theme will find Moonblood a standout….”
–D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

"In a dystopian future mired in traditions whose origins have been lost, can one woman's search for truth bring answers for her and for all of humanity? ... Moonblood is an imaginative story with complex characters set in a future landscape that is all too easy to extrapolate from today's world. It pulls you and will not let go."
--Al Gritten, Goodreads review

AND check out Brad's "Three Thoughts About Dystopia" to put it all in perspective!

Young writers invited to July 13-17 online summer writers camp

Young writers in 4th-12th grades are invited to an online Gateway Con Summer Writers Camp July 13-17 hosted by the St. Louis Writers Guild (SLWG).

The $20 fee includes a one-year SLWG Associate Membership. Space is limited, please register in advance on Eventbrite

Six authors will share their expertise from 9 to 11 a.m. in workshops on Monday and Wednesday and a panel discussion on Friday. On Tuesday and Thursday, young writers will work independently on their own stories. More information is available on the Summer Writers Camp page.

St. Louis Writers Guild has aided writers for a century, and the Gateway Con Summer Writers Camp continues that tradition. Participating authors are:

Jody Feldman – Her middle-grade novels, The Seventh Level and The Gollywhopper Games series (all from Greenwillow/HarperCollins), have won a number of honors and have appeared on 26 state reading lists. Twitter & Instagram @jodyfeldman

Cole Gibsen – Because of the reprieve library books gave her as a homeless teenager, Cole vowed to become a writer so she could provide the same escape to readers who needed a break the reality of their own lives. Her titles include Risen, Seared on My Soul, Life Unaware and Written on My Heart. Twitter at www.twitter.com/colegibsen | Facebook at www.facebook.com/colegibsen

LaShaunda Hoffman – She turned her love for books into an award-winning online magazine for readers and writers of multi-cultural literature, Shades Of Romance – SORMAG. Her mission in life is to help promote writers by introducing them to readers. LaShaunda is currently working on a Christian romance and is on the hunt for a literary agent.

Meredith Tate – A New Hampshire girl at heart and a former Zurich expat, Meredith now lives in Houston and spends her days traveling the world and writing stories about characters much braver than she is. Her books include The Last Confession of Autumn Casterly, The Red Labyrinth, Freedom Trials, Missing Pieces, and a currently untitled romcom coming from Penguin Teen in summer 2021.

Jamie Krakover –After her day job as an Aerospace Engineer, Jamie writes middle grade and young adult science fiction and fantasy. Her debut novel is Tracker220 (October 2020). Jamie’s work appears in the Brave New Girls anthologies and in Writer’s Digest’s Putting the Science in Fiction.
https://twitter.com/Rockets2Writing | https://www.instagram.com/jamiekrakover/

C.L. Postill – Her debut novel, CORY SUMMERS-A New Beginning, was born out of a story she has been creating and telling her boys and their friends before bedtime, around campfires, and at sleep-over parties for over 25 years. www.clpostill.com | @postillc on Twitter.