WriteHive Annual Conference Schedule
Panels & Presentations
Below is a schedule of all panels and presentations during the Conference. Click on the date to see the day’s events. ALL TIMES ARE IN EDT. To see how this translates to your time zone, we suggest using a time and date converter, such as this one.
You may also RSVP for desired panels and presentations on the private WriteHive Conference Discord, which will send you alerts so you don’t miss a session. If you don’t know if you have notifications on, not to worry! This link will show you all the ins and outs of Discord notifications. Note: Event times may change before the Conference.
Looking for workshops such as 1st Page Critiques, Query Critiques, and Live Pitches? The schedule as well as relevant information can be found on our Workshops page.
3:00 - 04:00 PM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author Lara Lillibridge
Join Lara Lillibridge as she reads from "The Truth About Unringing Phones." This is an exploration of responsibility and culpability told in experimental and fragmented essays. There will be a chance for Q&A and a giveaway! (CW: Neglect, sexual abuse)
Lara Lillibridge
Panelist, Critiques
5:00 - 05:30 PM
WriteHive Lobby Chat Voice Channel
Opening Speech & Announcements
Join WriteHive staff in kicking off the 5th Annual WriteHive Conference
5:30 - 06:30 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
Live Reading from Author Jules Devito
Millennials killed the killing industry.
Join Jules in reading from her upcoming book Carnelian and be entered into a raffle to win a copy upon publication!
When Jesse Westchurch finds out he's dying, the last thing he expects is his old college roommate, Lucy Callahan, to climb through the second-story window of his quaint Hudson house and turn him into a vampire. Millennial vampires are killing the killing industry by refusing to sacrifice humans, so Jesse doesn’t even have to drink blood. The ancient vampire government, Carnelian, offers distilled blood pills. But they come at a price: you work for them, you get your supply of pills. Jesse finds out that Lucy and his sister, Ciceline, are Carnelian’s most skilled assassins, forced to pay off a century of debt for their blood pills. When their latest hit on a murderous politician puts Jesse and his doting sister, Stella, in danger, Jesse has to find a way to expose Carnelian's darkest secrets and obtain the pills they need to survive, or lose the family (both by blood and by choice) he has just finished putting back together.
Jules Devito
Author
5:30 - 07:00 PM
#pitch-isnt-a-bad-word
Pitch isn't a Bad Word
Pitching can be intimidating. It’s difficult to reduce an entire novel into a small query or elevator pitch. But it doesn’t have to be an anxiety-inducing process or something to avoid! Our panelists help break down pitching and how to take some of the pain out of the process by giving strategies based on where and how you’re pitching, along with pointing out misconceptions. | Moderated by Brad Lee
Keir Alekseii
Panelist, Critiques
C.J. Hamilton
Panelist
Lacy Phillips
Panelist, Moderator
Brad Lee
Moderator
6:00 - 07:30 PM
#outlining-in-depth
Outlining in Depth
You’ve learned the basics of outlining. You have a beginning, midpoint, and end. But what are the next steps? How do you add more depth to your outlining and keep your writing on track? In this panel, our speakers help you take your outline to the next level!
Kira Anderson
Panelist
Tiffany Christina Lewis
Panelist, Moderator
7:00 - 08:30 PM
#how-to-write-when-you-dont-want-to
How to Write When You Don't Want To (The Afronauts)
We get it. Life happens and you just had a long day. But those deadlines are coming and you absolutely need to meet them. In this panel, The Afronauts offers the writing community ways that not only motivate us to write when we don’t want to, and also taking it as an opportunity to delve deeper into our craft and ourselves. | Moderated by Maggie Harden
7:30 - 09:00 PM
#writing-for-an-established-ip
Writing for an Established IP
It’s the kind of job most authors drool for–writing for an existing IP, a built-in audience, and often something you’re already a fan of! But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, and it’s not nearly as easy as it may seem. Learn the ins and outs from authors who have been there and done that! | Moderated by Tim McLaughlin
Jamie D’Amato
Panelist
Rachanee Lumayno
Panelist
Bobby Nash
Panelist
Tim McLaughlin
Panelist, Moderator
8:00 - 09:30 PM
#making-each-word-count-short-story-master-class
Making Each Word Count: A Short Story Master Class
It takes skill to tell an elaborate story well. It equally takes skill to tell a concise story well. This panel discussion is for writers who specialize or want to specialize in short story writing. What are the tips, best practices, and pitfalls to know? Join our panelists to find out. | Moderated by Adria Bailton
C. H. Hung
Panelist
Hien Nguyen
Panelist, Moderator
Dawn Vogel
Panelist, Moderator
L. Marie Wood
Panelist
Adria Bailton
Moderator
8:30 - 10:00 PM
#deconstructing-colonization-in-your-fiction
Deconstructing Colonization in your Fiction
Colonization can find its way into our work due to the way it’s built into our culture, like it or not. Join our panel to learn more about how colonization ends up in our fiction, how to spot it, and how we can eliminate it in our work. | Moderated by Patchree Jones
C. M. Lockhart
Panelist
Mansi Shah
Panelist
Antoinette Van Sluytman
Panelist
R.M. Virtues
Guest of Honor
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
9:00 - 10:30 PM
#rooted-in-story-cultivating-the-natural-world-in-ink
Rooted in Story: Cultivating the Natural World in Ink
Nature means different things to different people. And with our natural world changing rapidly within a human lifetime, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to create your story’s natural world. In this panel, our panelists dive deep into the soil, the ocean, the air, and more to reveal their tips and tricks to finding the natural world that fits their stories. | Moderated by Maggie Harden
E.M. Anderson
Panelist
Gabriella Buba
Panelist
Adrian M. Gibson
Panelist
EA Mylonas
Panelist
Maggie Harden
Moderator
9:30 - 11:00 PM
#monsters-and-robots-queer-reclamation
Monsters and Robots: Queer Reclamation
For a very long time, monsters in fiction were queer-coded because straight cis artists saw their differing identities as a source of fear–but not any more. Our panel will discuss the history of this trope as well as the reclamation of the trope for and by the queer community. | Moderated by Basil Wright
Kristin Jacques
Panelist
XM Moon
Panelist, Moderator
Michael Williams
Panelist
Makana Yamamoto
Panelist
Basil Wright
Moderator
10:30 - 11:55 PM
#the-structure-of-flash-fiction
The Structure of Flash Fiction (Live Presentation / Class)
Flash fiction may be short, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its challenges! Not the least of which is how to write a compelling story in so few words. This workshop will help illuminate the structure of flash fiction and guide you through creating your own stories.
Finnian Burnett
Panelist
7:00 - 08:30 AM
#breaking-into-the-publishing-industry-as-a-non-american
Breaking Into the Publishing Industry as a Non-American
If you’re an American breaking into the American publishing industry, there are many resources available to guide you in your journey. But what if you’re not from the US? Our panel of multinational authors are here to share their stories of breaking into the US market! | Moderated by Cristina Jurado
Arva Bhavnagarwala
Panelist
Joyce Chng
Panelist, Moderator
Keshe Chow
Panelist
Moniza Hossain
Panelist
Cristina Jurado
Panelist, Moderator
8:00 - 09:30 AM
#creating-compelling-characters
Creating Compelling Characters (Presentation)
Characters have character, so how do we make them compelling? There are several methods to consider. What are they and which ones will impact your stories the most? Find out in this panel discussion as our speakers share their knowledge and insights.
Brieanna Wilkoff
Panelist
9:00 - 10:30 AM
#debate-traditional-vs-self-publishing
Debate: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing
Social media loves to argue this one. Which is better? Traditional or Self-Publishing? But is it better for everyone, or just better for one person? Listen to our panel of authors debate their opinions on their publishing method of choice. | Moderated by Nicholas Fuller
Marve Michael Anson
Panelist
C. Rae D’Arc
Panelist, Moderator
Erin Fulmer
Panelist
Jessica Lewis
Panelist
Nicholas W Fuller
Moderator
9:30 - 11:00 AM
#how-to-create-superheroes-and-villains-to-match
How to Create Superheroes and Villains to Match
Superheroes and villains often feature in powerful stories that incite excitement and wonderment from audiences. But how can you best approach stories like these to make your heroes pack a special punch and keep your villains in the fight? Our panel of superhero writers have all the tips to keep the tropes interesting…or defy them altogether. | Moderated by Patchree Jones
Cristina Jurado
Panelist, Moderator
Samantha Bryant
Panelist
Matthew Phillion
Panelist
Justine Manzano
Panelist, Moderator
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
#tarot-for-writers
Tarot for Writers (Presentation)
Have you ever considered consulting the tarot for your writing? Most people might be familiar with tarot cards to tell the future, but they also tell a story! Dive into the mystical with our presentation speaker to learn about different card decks, the various arcana, and how readings can guide you on your writing journey.
Kris Waldherr
Panelist
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
#fear-factors-horror-genre-master-class
Fear Factors: A Horror Genre Master Class
Sometimes we need a good scare. If writing horror is your bread and butter, put the knife down and grab a pen to take notes in this panel discussion. Hopefully our speakers don’t spook you too much and you run for the hills. | Moderated by Brad Lee
Zamil Akhtar
Guest of Honor
Rhonda Jackson Garcia
Panelist
Amanda B. Weaver
Panelist
Brad Lee
Moderator
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
Author Reading from Trey Stone
Join us for an excerpt of At The Gate by Trey Stone! There will also be an opportunity for a Q&A and giveaway. (CW: Alcoholism, self-harm, and death by suicide). About At The Gate: Joseph checks into The Gate as his final destination, but after the disappearance of a guest everything begins to unravel. Days go missing, people are acting strange, and nothing is what it should be. At every turn, he’s reminded of this most painful mistake.
Joseph disappears down a rabbit hole of mysterious events, all the while keeping up the battle against his own inner demons. Now he is trapped inside a haunted hotel trying to find a guest that may not even exist.
Trey Stone
Author
11:30 AM - 01:00 PM
#historians-on-history-in-fiction
Historians on History in Fiction
Fiction has often been informed by history. But how close to actual history do you need to be? What is the “Great Man of History,” what is “History From Below,” and is there even a “Below” from which history emerges? Our panel of actual history buffs will help guide you through how to make history work for your writing. | Moderated by Jesse Pohlman
Dawn Vogel
Panelist, Moderator
Joseph S. Samaniego
Panelist
MultiMind
Panelist
Jesse Pohlman
Panelist, Moderator
12:00 - 01:30 PM
#how-to-hook-readers-from-page-one
How to Hook Readers from Page One
They say the hook brings you back. So how do you craft a strong enough hook from the first page to keep readers engaged with your story? How can a hook go wrong? Learn from our panel of experts! | Moderated by Kay Malady
Anna Britton
Panelist
Ronni Davis
Panelist
Paulette Kennedy
Panelist, Critiques
J.R.H. Lawless
Panelist, Moderator
Matthew Phillion
Panelist
Kay Malady
Moderator
12:30 - 02:00 PM
#writing-multiple-genres-and-author-brand
Writing Multiple Genres and Author Brand
Much of the industry will tell you to stick with one genre for ease of marketing. But these authors have broken that rule and lived to tell the tale! So, how did they do it? How can you best market when writing across multiple genres? Check out the panel! | Moderated by C. Rae D'Arc
Jessica Lewis
Panelist
Kelsey Anne Lovelady
Panelist
Bobby Nash
Panelist
Lacy Phillips
Panelist, Moderator
C. Rae D’Arc
Panelist, Moderator
1:00 - 02:30 PM
#marketing-tactics-for-the-self-published
Marketing Tactics for the Self-Published
We don’t sign up to be marketers when we sign up to become writers, but the unfortunate truth of the industry is that nobody will see our books if we don’t learn how to market them! Join us as our panel discusses what they’ve learned about marketing their books, and learn some strategies for getting eyeballs on your books! | Moderated by Kay Malady
Whitney McGruder
Panelist
Liv Macy
Panelist
Marisa Noelle
Panelist
Tatiana Obey
Panelist
Kay Malady
Moderator
1:30 - 03:00 PM
#tackling-procrastination-and-creating-a-routine
Tackling Procrastination and Creating a Routine
Creating a routine sounds like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re looking for tips on how to help alleviate the stress of last-minute, rushing, and tight deadlines, join our panelists for this discussion. Don’t procrastinate on adding this session to your schedule! | Moderated by Kate DeMaio
Cyndi Brec
Panelist
S. Morgan Burbank
Panelist
Kristin Jacques
Panelist
C. M. Lockhart
Panelist
Kate DeMaio
Panelist, Moderator
2:00 - 03:30 PM
#the-older-beginning-author-never-too-late-for-a-plot-twist
The Older Beginning Author: Never Too Late for a Plot Twist!
You’re never too old to pursue your dreams. Read that again. You have a story to tell and it shouldn’t be left on the shelf, so be your own plot twist and take the writing world by storm! Join this panel discussion to brainstorm how you can achieve your goals. | Moderated by Lacy Phillips
KD Edwards
Panelist
Paulette Kennedy
Panelist, Critiques
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
Lacy Phillips
Panelist, Moderator
2:00 - 03:00 PM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author Justine Manzano
Join Justine Manzano as she reads from the Keys of the Dawn, the first book in her geeky YA series Keys & Guardians. There will also be the opportunity for an AMA and a giveaway! (CW: Violence, swearing).
Justine Manzano
Panelist, Moderator
2:00 - 03:00 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
Live Reading from Author Ria Parisi
Join Ria Parisi as she reads from her upcoming novel, Of Wolves and Stags! There will be an AMA and a giveaway as well!
About Of Wolves and Stags: Tidesend is a simple village. About as boring as can be. Perfect for someone who needs to hide away. Someone like Dalia Arrowwood. She is a Crystalline, a living weapon granted magic through elven experimentation. Three very simple rules have kept her alive: stay as far north as she can, stay put for her sister to find her, and never use her powers. The final rule is the most important of them all. At seventeen, Dalia is no stranger to waiting. She has spent the last decade of her life concealing her true self to stay safe, but safety has a way of feeling like a cage. A shadowy masked figure from Dalia’s past haunts this task, as a fearsome band of elves hunt the ragtag group. Wielding magic of their own, stolen from the hearts of other Crystalline, they change the search for the crystals into a deadly race. The comforts of her cage left behind, Dalia must learn to navigate a world that is set to see her as either one of two things: a weapon to be used or a monster to be feared.
Trigger Warnings: Death on page including animal death, Violent and disturbing imagery, Minor depiction of gore, PTSD flashbacks and dealing with trauma, medical experimentation. CW: Insinuation that a nonbinary character had a disapproving family, Off page violence against children.
Ria Parisi
Author
2:30 - 04:00 PM
#genre-alchemy-creating-a-tangible-atmosphere
Genre Alchemy: Creating a Tangible Atmosphere
Each genre you write in is a unique world, something you spin into life with a dash of many different craft elements. So how do you weave together a tangible atmosphere that fits your genre and gives your story the exact right tone? Our panelists are here to help. | Moderated by Tim McLaughlin
Hien Nguyen
Panelist, Moderator
Leanna Renee Hieber
Panelist
Jacob Devlin
Panelist
Amanda B. Weaver
Panelist
Tim McLaughlin
Panelist, Moderator
3:00 - 04:30 PM
#war-and-long-term-effects-in-fiction
War and Long-Term Effects in Fiction
So many fiction stories revolve around war-time, either focusing on battle itself, or on the effects of battle on the people involved. So how can you best capture the effects of war in a realistic way that reveals the true horrors and day-to-day effects of large-scale battle? Our panelists discuss their experiences. | Moderated by Jesse Pohlman
MultiMind
Panelist
M.K. Marteens
Panelist
Liam Quane
Panelist
Jonathan Weiss
Panelist
Jesse Pohlman
Panelist, Moderator
3:30 - 05:00 PM
#passive-marketing-seo
Passive Marketing: How Authors Can Leverage SEO (Presentation)
SEO is an acronym for “search engine optimization.” What does that mean? SEO is a group of strategies you can utilize to optimize your digital marketing channels – website, blogs, social media, and more. What are the best practices you can implement to attract your target audience without a heavy lift? Find out in this panel discussion.
Jessica Salina
Panelist
4:00 - 05:00 PM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author Carlie Kuhtz
Join author C. M. Kuhtz for an hour of activities including an introduction to the world of Sloe Moon: Tall Trees, a reading from Sloe Moon: Tall Trees and an AMA with the Author! (CW: strong language) About Sloe Moon:
Sloe Moon, youngest child of the ruler of Tall Trees, has always wanted to follow in their father’s footsteps and become a famous wizard. Instead they are expected to marry for the good of the Moon family and uphold an age-old alliance. When the opportunity arises for them to travel to the famed wizard council of Goldenlake, Sloe and their best friend Qes set off on a journey that will not only put them in the path of mortal danger but also entangle them with the fate of the Moon’s allies, enemies, and the mysterious men from the Eastern Cities, who have come to the land of the families with their own agenda. With so many odds stacked against them, will Sloe be able to fulfil their destiny?
Sloe Moon: Tall Trees is the first volume of a six-part queer fantasy series with a fat, nonbinary protagonist.
C.M. Kuhtz
Panelist
4:00 - 05:30 PM
#marginalization-and-the-querying-process
Marginalization and the Querying Process
Querying is a grueling process for everyone, but there are added hurdles for those from marginalized communities. Our panelists discuss the challenges within the process and how authors can protect themselves, along with how the industry can better open doors to underrepresented communities. | Moderated by Adria Bailton
Keir Alekseii
Panelist, Critiques
Lauren Davila
Panelist
Salinee Goldenberg
Panelist
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
Adria Bailton
Moderator
4:30 - 06:00 PM
#witch-way-to-your-heart-a-paranormal-romance-class
Witch Way to Your Heart? A Paranormal Romance Master Class
Paranormal Romance has always been a hot genre, whether you’re working in indie or traditional publishing. But it’s so popular! How do you write a novel that will stand out, while still observing the established genre conventions? Our expert panel will help you learn all about the genre and how to nail it, every time. | Moderated by Kay Malady
Robin Alvarez
Panelist
Leanna Renee Hieber
Panelist
Mariah Stillbrook
Panelist
Britta Threshie
Panelist
R.M. Virtues
Guest of Honor
Kay Malady
Moderator
5:00 - 06:30 PM
#tell-me-a-story-exploring-narrative-styles
Tell Me a Story: Exploring Narrative Styles
Many of us have heard of Save the Cat or Hero’s Journey, but more styles exist in writing! Our panelists explain why it’s beneficial to explore various styles, when a new style can be effective, and what to consider when choosing your style. | Moderated by Brad Lee
Lara Lillibridge
Panelist, Critiques
Tim McLaughlin
Panelist, Moderator
EA Mylonas
Panelist
Chyina Powell
Panelist
Brad Lee
Moderator
5:30 - 07:00 PM
#rm-virtues
The Revenge of the Divine (with Guest of Honor R.M. Virtues)
Join WriteHive Guest of Honor and bestselling romantasy and paranormal romance author R.M. Virtues in this special interview discussing religious horror and revenge in fiction. Both are thrilling, but together, divinely intriguing!
R.M. Virtues
Guest of Honor
6:00 - 07:30 PM
#introvert-or-extrovert-how-to-make-your-style-work
Introvert or Extrovert: How to Make Your Style Work
We know it’s long been a theory that all writers are introverts, but we all know that’s not true. We’ve all met extroverted authors–some of them are part of our team here at WriteHive! Each of the styles have different advantages. Our panel will discuss how they make their personality styles work for them. | Moderated by Tim McLaughlin
Kate DeMaio
Panelist, Moderator
Salinee Goldenberg
Panelist
Vanessa Ricci-Thode
Panelist
Patricia Tavormina
Panelist
Tim McLaughlin
Panelist, Moderator
6:30 - 08:00 PM
#lgbtq-traditional-vs-self-publishing
LGBTQ+ Traditional vs. Self Publishing
Different types of stories sell better in different venues, and in that way, self-publishing and traditional publishing could serve different purposes for writers at various points of their careers. But if you’re an LGBTQ+ author, are there advantages to traditional or self publishing? Our panel discusses the various paths and what it could mean for your career. | Moderated by XM Moon
Claudie Arseneault
Panelist
Finnian Burnett
Panelist
KD Edwards
Panelist
Christen Randall
Panelist
XM Moon
Panelist, Moderator
7:00 - 08:30 PM
#disability-representation-in-fiction
Disability Representation in Fiction
We all deserve to see ourselves represented in the media we consume. Join our panelists as they discuss why disability representation is important, and how to create strong and positive representation. | Moderated by Basil Wright
Lara Ameen
Panelist
Kate Foster
Panelist
Tyler Wittkofsky
Panelist
Nicole Zelniker
Panelist
Basil Wright
Moderator
7:30 - 09:00 PM
#post-apocalyptic-worlds-and-symbolism
Post Apocalyptic Worlds and Symbolism (Presentation)
Fiction helps us explore possible futures, and in many cases that can include post-apocalyptic realities. This presentation will discuss what makes effective post-apocalyptic worlds for your stories and how to bring them to life in your writing.
Jonathan Weiss
Panelist
8:30 - 10:00 PM
#first-page-analysis-by-lit-agents
First-Page Analysis by Lit Agents
What makes a first page so special? How can it make or break your manuscript’s chances with agents and editors? Join our panel to learn more about how you can get your first page as perfect as possible and really knock their socks off. | Moderated by Nicholas Fuller
8:30 - 10:00 PM
#writing-natural-dialogue-for-unique-characters
Writing Natural Dialogue for Unique Characters (Presentation)
We love to talk. Characters talk a lot. But how do we render the cadences, stutters, and mumbles into ink? Our presenter, a serial talker, will guide you through how exactly that um, oh, repeat that, can work within your story.
C. Rae D’Arc
Panelist, Moderator
9:00 - 10:30 PM
#worldbuilding-in-real-world-settings
Worldbuilding in Real World Settings
Second world stories are fun, but sometimes you want to set a story within the real world, in cities and settings familiar to your readers. This can certainly make certain aspects of worldbuilding easier, but at the same time it presents other unique challenges and research needs. Whether you’re adding a layer of magic to earth or simply creating a fictional town in a real state, there are things to consider and avoid while planning your story. Our panelists will offer some tools and tips to make this process easier! | Moderated by J.R.H. Lawless
Darío Aguilar Peregrina
Panelist
E.M. Anderson
Panelist
Ronni Davis
Panelist
Joseph S. Samaniego
Panelist
J.R.H. Lawless
Panelist, Moderator
10:00 - 11:30 PM
#breaking-into-the-serialized-fiction-world
Breaking into the Serialized Fiction World
Serialized fiction is a rapidly growing facet of the publishing industry, and a new way to independently publish your work. So, how does it work? What can you do to break into the serialized fiction world? Learn from our panel of talented authors! | Moderated by Patchree Jones
Joyce Chng
Panelist, Moderator
Kia Leep
Panelist
Rachanee Lumayno
Panelist
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
8:00 - 09:30 AM
#breaking-the-rules-the-path-to-authentic-writing
Breaking the Rules: The Path to Authentic Writing (Presentation)
You know how the saying goes: some rules are meant to be broken. That doesn’t mean you can break ALL of them. Believe it or not, there is a strategic approach to breaking rules. Join our presenter for this inspirational talk that will leave you energized and ready to take on your writing projects with renewed motivation!
L. Marie Wood
Panelist
9:30 - 11:00 AM
#writing-and-motherhood-balancing-it-all-and-what-to-do-when-you-cant
Writing and Motherhood: Balancing It All and What to Do When You Can't (Presentation)
Writing is difficult to balance in general, but adding children to the mix brings the difficulty to another level. It is far from impossible, however! This presentation will discuss ways to help balance time for your writing alongside raising children and other responsibilities, along with how to recognize when you may need a break or self-care.
Ashley Hawthorne
Panelist
9:00 - 10:30 AM
#fashion-and-worldbuilding
Fashion and Worldbuilding
Writers’ block can sometimes feel like sitting in the middle of your closet deciding what to wear. When we finally choose our #OutfitOfTheDay, it’s astonishing how the clothing we choose to wear impacts us as a person, so how does that translate into our characters’ stories? Put on your thinking caps and let’s talk about it! | Moderated by Brad Lee
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author E.M. Anderson
Join E.M. Anderson for an hour of fun with excerpts from their books! There will be a 30-minute reading ofThe Remarkable Retirement of Edna Fisher, a 10-minute teaser (The Keeper of Lonely Spirits), Q&A.
(CW: Reading: anxiety, grief, (past) death. Exclusive Teaser: death, abduction)
E.M. Anderson
Panelist
10:00 - 11:30 AM
#using-non-fiction-venues-to-help-promote-your-fiction-writing
Using Non-Fiction Venues to Help Promote Your Fiction Writing (Presentation)
Promotion and marketing are challenging for most writers. The key to reaching more people can be to get a bit creative! Instead of the standard bookstores or conferences, there are other unexpected places to promote your fiction, and that includes nonfiction venues. This presentation will discuss how to use these venues the most effectively.
Rhonda Jackson Garcia
Panelist
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
#how-to-handle-receiving-critiques
How to Handle Receiving Critiques
Let’s be honest: receiving critiques can be challenging. But it’s an important part of growth and development and makes us stronger. What are some helpful tips to handle critiques and use them to your advantage? Don’t miss this panel discussion to find out! | Moderated by J.R.H. Lawless
Bharat Krishnan
Panelist
M. J. Kuhn
Panelist
Lucy A. McLaren
Panelist
Liv Macy
Panelist
J.R.H. Lawless
Panelist, Moderator
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
Live Reading from Lawrence J West
Join us for a reading of Lawrence J West's horror novella Breached. There will also be a Q&A and raffle giveaway! (CW: Blood, gore, violence, homophobia, and death. This is a horror novel and contains many common horror elements.) About Breached: Outpost 9106 was a space transport station at the far end of the galaxy. Candace, Travis and the rest of the crew had 15 minutes remaining. Then they were going to go home. Retire. See the beach.
Their last transport malfunctions. The Avealus Gate that provides power to the station collapses and something stumbles in. Candace and Travis soon realize they are trapped inside the outpost as a shapeshifting monster hunts them down. Travis and Candace clash over the best plan of action. Travis struggles to ensure the survival of their friends, loved ones, and the crew, while Candace schemes a plan where the monster can never escape to harm anyone else, but no one on the outpost can leave.
Lawrence J West
Author
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
#healthcare-systems-in-fiction
Healthcare Systems in Fiction
Healthcare scenes: how do you get them right? Our panel of writers who happen to also be healthcare professionals will help you learn about what it’s really like in a healthcare setting and how to establish realism in writing scenes like these. | Moderated by Patchree Jones
Jenny Allen
Panelist
Arva Bhavnagarwala
Panelist
Nancy Foster
Panelist
Vanessa Lopez Aziz
Panelist
Patchree Jones
Panelist, Moderator
11:30 AM - 01:00 PM
Diverse Voices and Inspiration in Fantasy (with Guest of Honor Zamil Akhtar)
Join Zamil Akhtar, WriteHive Guest of Honor and author of the Gunmetal Gods Saga, in this special interview discussing his writing journey, the necessity of diverse voices, and finding inspiration in fantasy.
Zamil Akhtar
Guest of Honor
12:00 - 01:00 PM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author Michael Williams
Join author Michael Williams who will be reading the short story, "A Light Like Pain & Promises, a scene from his sci-fi novel, A Fall in Autumn, and a scene from an upcoming horror novel, Contemporary Ancestors. There will also be a Q&A. (CW: Swearing, curse words, the deaths of close relatives, difficult family relationships, and references to consenting sexual activity between adults)
Michael Williams
Panelist
12:00 - 01:00 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
The Writing Process: Creating Sustainable Habits to Succeed Again and Again
Join us for an exciting course, "The Writing Process: Creating Sustainable Habits to Succeed Again and Again." This transformative session is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to develop consistent and effective writing practices. Whether you're a novice or an experienced writer, this class will guide you through the essential stages of the writing process, from brainstorming to final edits, while emphasizing the creation of sustainable habits. Discover techniques to overcome writer's block, stay motivated, and enhance your productivity, ensuring your writing success time and time again. Embrace a new approach to writing that will serve you well in any project you undertake.
Allison Baggott-Rowe
Author
12:30 - 02:00 PM
#debate-soft-vs-hard-magic-systems
Debate: Soft vs. Hard Magic Systems
We all enjoy a little bit of magic, right? No matter what realm or universe we live in, one thing is for sure: magic systems have rules. No set of rules are the same, but sometimes worlds have soft or hard magic systems. Which one do you prefer? Join this conversation with our debaters. | Moderated by Darrell Hon
K. J. Harrowick
Panelist
Amena Jamali
Panelist
Tatiana Obey
Panelist
Jesse Pohlman
Panelist, Moderator
Darrell Hon
Moderator
1:00 - 02:30 PM
#penny-for-your-thoughts-giving-insightful-critiques
Penny for Your Thoughts? Giving Insightful Critiques
Critiques can do so much to help writers learn about their work and their skills. Most writers swap stories to critique to better their stories. So how do you make sure your critiques are as helpful as possible? Our panel looks at both sides of the swap, to tell you how to get and give the most out of your critiques. | Moderated by Hien Nguyen
Rhonda Jackson Garcia
Panelist
Justine Manzano
Panelist, Moderator
Brenda Radchik
Panelist
Ace Tilton Ratcliff
Panelist
Hien Nguyen
Panelist, Moderator
1:00 - 02:00 PM
#Inked-in-Gray
Reading from Author Elaina Battista-Parsons
Join us for a reading from Elaina Battista-Parson's YA novel Black Licorice! There will also be a giveaway. This session is pre-recorded due to time zone availability. About Black Licorice: Freddi’s life is over. Her best—and only—friend needed her and she failed. After a series of bad decisions, Freddi is pulled out of music school and forced to prove herself, but a new school and volunteer work only add to her overwhelming anxiety. Freddi finds a potential new friend in Lorna, who forces her to face her insecurities head on, but Freddi isn’t ready to let go. When Freddi learns Lorna is keeping something from her, their friendship starts to crumble. Now Freddi must choose between chasing her past or rebuilding her future.
Elaina Battista-Parsons
Author
1:30 - 03:00 PM
#bringing-writing-to-the-table-with-ttrpgs
Bringing Writing to the Table with TTRPGs
Tabletop Role-Playing Games. You know them, you love them, you’re getting more and more into them as Dungeons and Dragons continues to inspire and inform more entertainment. How can you use your TTRPG skills to strengthen your writing? How can your writing make you a better role-player? Join TTRPG players and writers Matt Phillion and Hannah Kates and find out.
Matthew Phillion
Panelist
Hannah Kates
Panelist, Critiques, Moderator
2:00 - 03:30 PM
#developmental-editing-basics-for-aspiring-editors
Developmental Editing Basics for Aspiring Editors
Interested in becoming an editor? This panel is for you! Our panelists will discuss what makes developmental editing unique and the important elements to remember while working on a client’s manuscript, along with what to expect as you enter this field. | Moderated by Dawn Vogel
Lauren Davila
Panelist
Christina Hartmann-Benchoff
Panelist
Whitney McGruder
Panelist
Chyina Powell
Panelist
Dawn Vogel
Panelist, Moderator
2:30 - 04:00 PM
#show-and-tell-what-works-and-what-writers-get-wrong
Show and Tell: What Works and What Writers Get Wrong
“Show, don’t tell” isn’t something you learn when you’re younger and ultimately don’t use later in life – like calculus. If you’re a writer, this rule is very much relevant in your everyday life. Sometimes we execute it well, and sometimes we need to work on it. Let’s talk about it in this panel discussion to help us continuously improve. | Moderated by XM Moon
Megan Bontrager
Panelist, Critiques
Tatiana Obey
Panelist
Jill Tew
Panelist
Tyler Wittkofsky
Panelist
XM Moon
Panelist, Moderator
3:00 - 04:30 PM
#writing-authentic-intergenerational-stories
Writing Authentic Intergenerational Stories
Intergenerational stories balance a rich family history with a plot line that carries us through the family line. Our panel of experts discusses the common tropes of intergenerational stories and why they hold such resonance for readers. | Moderated by Hien Nguyen
Suzanne Crain Miller
Panelist
C. H. Hung
Panelist
Mansi Shah
Panelist
Patricia Tavormina
Panelist
Hien Nguyen
Panelist, Moderator
4:00 - 05:00 PM
Author Live Readings Voice Channel
Live Reading from Author Samantha Bryant
TBD
Samantha Bryant
Panelist
4:00 - 05:30 PM
#marginalized-genders-in-fiction
Marginalized Genders in Fiction
Representation is so important in fiction, and marginalized genders have always existed, though rarely been represented in media. Our panel discusses the history of marginalized genders in fiction, discusses what is required for good representation and gives examples of existing positive rep. | Moderated by XM Moon
Finnian Burnett
Panelist
J.R. Hart
Panelist
C.M. Kuhtz
Panelist
C.L. Polk
Panelist
XM Moon
Panelist, Moderator
4:00 - 05:30 PM
#bethany-baptiste
Writing Your Heart's Story: How to Channel Negative Energy into a Positive Masterpiece (with Guest of Honor Bethany Baptiste)
Join Bethany Baptiste, WriteHive Guest of Honor and author of the bestseller Poisons We Drink, in this special interview discussing writing the story of your heart, and when things get difficult, how to channel the negativity into positive creativity.
Bethany Baptiste
Guest of Honor
5:30 - 06:00 PM
WriteHive Lobby Chat Voice Channel
Closing Announcements
Come hang out with the WriteHive team as we close out the conference! Announcements include the winner of the Sponsored Writer Award and the theme for our next anthology!
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