Note: We will not be having a Pre-Con event this year. However, Thursday offers an amazing Master Class and a conference tour. Come mingle at the venue’s Happy Hour, beat the crowds to registration, and get settled in before the full conference schedule begins Friday morning.
1:00 - 5:00 PM
Bookstore Prelaunch
Bookstore sellers! Check-in your inventory during this come-and-go set-up. Please be prepared for the possibility of a wait, as our volunteer staff will be processing everyone's stock and preparing for the store's opening Friday morning.
— Pre-Convene Room
5:00 PM
Registration Opens
Check in at the registration desk to confirm your registration package and receive your conference materials. We’ll have your conference badge, program, Conference Clues card, and swag ready for you to collect. This is the spot for picking up your pre-ordered t-shirt and dropping off any donations for the Books for Literacy book drive, too.
— Lobby
5:30 pm - 8:00 PM
How To Write Compelling Scenes — Master Class with Jim Butcher
A great scene doesn’t just tell a story—it casts a spell, compelling readers to keep the pages turning. But how do you conjure that kind of wizardry on the page? Join Jim Butcher—master storyteller and author of The Dresden Files—as he explores the art of writing scenes that captivate, thrill, and leave readers hooked. Jim will show you how to craft tension, action, and emotion to create a world so immersive readers won’t want to escape.
*This is a limited-seating additional ticketed event, available until 4/24/25 or until sold out.
These seats are open to the public and a full conference registration package is not required to purchase a ticket.
— Ballrooms A-B
6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
New Attendee Tour
If you’re joining us for the first time or feel that you might have missed some important features of the annual OWFI conference, join us for a tour of our 2025 offerings. Discover where the pitching magic happens, learn where sessions will be held, explore the Basket Wars battlegrounds, find the book donation area, take a peek into the bookstore, and more!
— Meet in the Lobby
8:30 AM
Opening Ceremony
Sharpen your wits (and your pencils) and prepare to unlock the secrets of storytelling. First, we’ll set the mood with a lively skit sure to inspire, before President Vickey Malone Kennedy steps to the microphone to share her welcome address. Uncover the clues that will help you make the most of your conference experience. Size up the people ready to help you traverse the many paths waiting to be explored. Prepare for two clue-packed days spent Conjuring the Mysteries of Writing. And if you play your cards right, maybe you’ll win a door prize along the way.
— Ballrooms A-D
9:10 AM - 10:00 AM
ABC’s of Writing Conferences with Rene Gutteridge
New to writing? First time attending a conference? This session will help you chart your course with minimum confusion and false starts. Get the knowledge you need to make this writing endeavor a success.
— Ballroom A
Digging Into History with Dr. Forest Issac Jones
This session will help you understand how to turn the historical experiences of others into riveting stories with universal themes. Through discussion, examples of first person interviews, and readings from his work about Selma and Northern Ireland, Dr. Forest Issac Jones will introduce you to the possibilities and pitfalls of historical nonfiction.
— Ballroom B
Taking the Mystery Out of Writing Poetry with Jennifer Wilson
Writing poetry can seem like a mystical art, something reserved for esoteric and artistic souls, out of reach for the common man. But poetry can be approachable and accessible for anyone, from the seasoned writer to the ingenue. In this session, we will discuss what makes a poem a poem, different forms poetry can take, and how to begin writing your own poetry with confidence and joy.
— Ballroom C
Money for Creatives with Peggy Doviak
Does thinking about money make you break out in hives? If so, this session is for you! Personal finance and cozy mystery author Peggy Doviak's latest book covers all things money for creatives. Whether you're trying to turn your writing into a business or manage your personal finances, Peggy breaks complicated topics into bite-sized pieces that aren't overwhelming. One reviewer said, "I wish I could sit down with Peggy and have coffee. This book is like a friend-to-friend discussion because she knows money stuff..." Before the session, fill your mug, and join the conversation.
— Ballroom D
10:20 AM – 11:10 AM
How to Become an Overnight Success in 25 Years with 25 Books with Linda Hughes
Your dream of becoming an overnight success as a bestselling author hasn’t panned out. You know your writing is good, and you still love to do it but struggle to reach that pinnacle of fulfillment that everybody else seems to have achieved. Sometimes imposter syndrome eats up your writing days. You wonder why you’re even bothering to attend conferences, take classes, and do all this work.
In this session, Linda will help you turn your thinking around to appreciate the success you’ve had as a writer prevailing in the face of self-doubt. You’ll chart your accomplishments, small as you may think they are (they aren’t!) You’ll lay out a plan to harnass your ability to stick with it to the - not bitter - but brilliant end. Your definition of “success” will expand to include appreciating your will to be a long-term professional writer rather than a flash-in-the-pan overnight bestseller. We’re in this for the long haul and will support each other along the way.
— Ballroom A
Remembrance is Resistance: Challenging Historical Silences in Writing with Dr. Karlos K. Hill
If the most valuable lessons of history lie in the stories we share, we must confront the silence. In this session, Dr. Hill explores how to challenge historical erasure by infusing authentic history into your writing. Examine the enduring legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre and learn how to responsibly research, ethically represent, and compellingly weave historical truths into your narratives—breaking the silence and bringing vital lessons into the light.
— Ballroom B
Writing for Young Readers with Meg Dendler
This presentation clarifies the different categories in children’s books and focuses on middle grade books – Meg’s specialty. Advice will be shared on how to approach this audience, what popular books in the genre have in common, and how to be sure your manuscript is appropriate for and will appeal to elementary school kids. Meg will also share her experiences in successfully self-publishing this genre (with best-sellers and multiple awards) and marketing strategies.
— Ballroom C
TBA with Mel Odom
Description
— Ballroom D
11:30 AM – 12:20 PM
The Ins and Outs of Indie Publishing with Amy Le
In this session writers will get a brief overview of the pathways to publishing, from self-publishing to hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing to vanity presses. We will dive deeper into indie publishing including how partnering with a hybrid publishing company can be beneficial. Come learn about the ins and outs of indie publishing, from the economics of publishing to the many "how do I" questions authors ask.
— Ballroom C
Criminal Thinking: Helping Writers Develop Intriguing Villains by Understanding the Criminal Mind with Merle Davenport
Have you ever wondered what the villain is thinking? So do your readers. Merle Davenport will outline common thought patterns of criminals based on extensive research and 25 years of experience teaching in prisons. Learn how to make your villains sizzle with dialogue and behavior consistent with the most notorious criminals in our prisons today.
— Ballroom D
12:30 PM – 1:40 PM
How to Commit a Crime Novel Luncheon with panelists Ellen Withers (Christian Mysteries), Amy Shojai (Thrillers with Critters), Marty Ludlum (Cozy Mysteries), Peggy Chambers (Suspense), and moderated by Marcia Preston (Amateur Sleuth).
Uncover the secrets of crafting a compelling mystery with this diverse panel of published crime authors. Whether you're plotting your first mystery or looking for ways to sharpen your nefarious schemes, our panelists will offer clues to success, share behind-the-scenes insights, and answer your burning questions about the art of deception, red herrings, and keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
*This is a limited-seating additional ticketed event for registered attendees only, available until 4/24/25 or until sold out.
— Ballroom A & B
2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
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Improving/Creating a Blub and Keywords with Ally Robertson
The first thing readers look at when considering a book is the cover. The second is the blurb. It is critical that, like your cover, your blurb be appealing enough to entice readers to buy your book. Key words are tools that help readers find books, and authors need to choose key words that will lead readers to theirs. Learn some tips on crafting and/or improving your blurb and how to choose the best key words. Time permitting, some attendees will have the opportunity to receive feedback and assistance with their blurbs and key words, so come prepared!
— Ballroom A
Pitching to Sell: Non-Fiction Book Proposal with Tiffany Yecke Brooks
Participants will learn about the standard components of a non-fiction book proposal that agents and publishers want to see. We will look at excerpts and examples from real proposals in several non-fiction genres and discuss successful approaches.
— Ballroom B
Plotting for Pantsers: A Flexible Framework for Story Structure with Aiden Siobhan
Love the spontaneity of discovery writing but struggle to finish or revise your stories? This session introduces a simple, adaptable framework that helps you shape your narrative while preserving creative freedom. You’ll learn how to identify key story beats, strengthen pacing, and maintain momentum without rigid outlines. Perfect for those who write by the seat of their pants but need tools to bring their drafts to the finish line.
— Ballroom C
Ten Things They Don’t Tell New Writers with SL Dooley
Embarking on a writing career is fraught with mystery. While no crystal ball can reveal every twist in your journey, some fundamentals never change. Unfortunately, these essential truths are rarely discussed. In this session, uncover ten behind-the-scenes insights that every new writer should know—and learn how to navigate them with confidence.
— Ballroom D
3:10 PM – 4:00 PM
Launch Your Freelance Writing Career with Kim Toscano
Are you a dog lover? A financial whiz? A cigar aficionado? Turn your passions and writing talent into a career as a freelance writer. Learn how to transition from hobbyist to professional, set business goals, find print and digital outlets for your work, and start earning money for your writing. The world is hungry for written content, from blog articles to marketing materials. In this class you will:
✓ Begin your journey toward a professional career in writing.
✓ Define your platform and writing goals.
✓Discover outlets for your writing.
✓ Learn how to repurpose content to make even more money.
— Ballroom A
All the Legal-Smeagle Stuff Writers Need to Know with Thea Rademacher
Join Thea Rademacher, JD for a fast-paced, informative session packed with essential legal and publishing insights for authors. Learn how to protect your work and avoid common pitfalls in your writing career.
Topics include a deep dive into copyright law, including emerging issues with AI technologies. Gain crucial tips on avoiding legal trouble related to defamation, interviews, and the ever-growing threat of publishing scams. Explore the many paths to publishing and the pros and cons of each. You’ll also get an inside look at the business of being an author, including work-for-hire arrangements, licensing, and publishing contracts.
Come ready with questions—Thea will be in the hot seat, answering them all! Plus, all participants will receive a complimentary PDF of Authors Beware! Arm Yourself with Knowledge to Help Avoid Legal Pitfalls.
— Ballroom B
How to Build a Substack Newsletter with Michele Bardsley
Looking for a way to connect with readers, grow your audience, and promote your work? Substack offers a powerful platform for writers to create and distribute newsletters with ease. In this session, we’ll walk through the process of setting up your Substack, crafting engaging content, and building a subscriber base. You’ll learn strategies for growing your readership, monetizing your newsletter, and using Substack to enhance your writing career.
— Ballroom C
The Alchemy of Amour: Mastering Romantasy Magic with Tamara Grantham
Romantasy is a booming business, captivating readers with its enchanting blend of fantasy and romance. But how do you combine these elements to create a novel that truly resonates with this eager audience? Mixing the wrong ingredients can leave a sour taste with your readers. Join author Tamara Grantham as she shares her years of expertise to help you distill the essence of the romantasy genre into a bestselling formula!
— Ballroom D
4:10 - 5:00 PM
Book Launch Success: Marketing Strategies for a Successful Release with Candace Kade
Are you ready to make your next book launch unforgettable? In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to create buzz, boost sales, and cultivate long-term readership. Whether you’re launching your first book or looking to level up, this workshop will help unlock your unique strengths and build a sustainable marketing plan that works for you.
— Ballroom A
Writing Small – The Power of the Short Story with Samantha Ryan
Short stories are more than just brief narratives—they're powerful tools for honing your craft, experimenting with style, and building your writing credentials. In this session, we’ll explore how mastering the art of the short story can sharpen your skills, boost your publishing resume, and open doors to other projects. Whether you're new to short fiction or looking to refine your approach, you’ll come away with insights on making every word count.
— Ballroom B
GMC: Diving Deeper Into Goal, Motivation, and Conflict with Kathy Wheeler
In this session, Kathy Wheeler teaches authors how to dive deeper into their characters’ psyches. Explore GMC techniques that lead to richer, resonant characters and the tips and tricks to bringing their stories full circle.
— Ballroom C
Writing Edgy Christian Fiction with Yvette Walker
Sometimes Christian books, like my novel, Sixty, depict intense situations. However, as long as Christian books don’t glamorize these sinful or distasteful actions and stories have an overall message of redemption and/or salvation through Christ, there is nothing biblically wrong with depicting these situations in our books.
— Ballroom D
5:30 - 6:30 PM
Volunteer Reception
This invitation-only reception honors and thanks the many volunteers who contributed to this conference and to OWFI as a whole over the past year. We truly couldn’t do it without you!
— Hospitality Suite
7:00 PM
”Noir” Year Party: Mayhem Masquerade Costume Contest
Calling all word wizards, maestros of mystery, story streamers, and poetic dreamers! It's time to conjure your favorite characters... perhaps a 1940's noir private eye, gangster, or femme fatale? Channel your inner hero, a favorite villain, or form a shadow squad chasing clues. Compete for senseless prizes worth hundreds of cents and, of course, the real bounty—unlimited bragging rights! See you at the Friday night conference costume bash!
Famous Author’s Banquet
Come celebrate this year’s successes with our Famous Author’s Banquet. Presenter Jennifer McMurrain will showcase OWFI authors who have published a book, an active blog, or journalistic contributions since May of 2024.
How to Fail at Writing Keynote Presentation with Jim Butcher
Every writer faces rejection, missteps, and outright failures—but what separates success from obscurity isn’t magic—it’s persistence. In this inspiring and entertaining keynote, bestselling author Jim Butcher shares hard-won lessons on failure, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of storytelling. With his signature wit and wisdom, Butcher will recount the missteps that could have derailed his career, the mindset that kept him moving forward, and how embracing failure can be the key to ultimate success. Whether you’re battling imposter syndrome, struggling with rejection, or just seeking a boost of motivation, this presentation will remind you that when the plot twists against you, the only way forward is to never give up; never surrender.
— Ballroom A-D
9:30 PM
Buzz Sessions
Informal, come & go chats hosted by various attendees & speakers.
— Topics and locations to be announced at the Famous Author’s Banquet
9:10 AM – 10:00 AM
How Film is Ruining Your Fiction (And How to Fix It) with Rene Gutteridge
Many writers have let their love for film seep into their fiction in an unhealthy way. While it may seem that film influencing your fiction might be helpful and even fun, it can actually have a drastically different and opposite effect. Learn what parts of film may be killing your fiction, and how to use POV to correct course and improve your writing style.
— Ballroom A
A Publisher’s Advice to the Self-Publisher with Thea Rademacher
Thea Rademacher, JD, president of Flint Hills Publishing and publisher of over 80 books, offers authors professional advice on how to take a project from a messy Word document to a beautiful book. Starting with the pros and cons of various publishing options, authors will learn practical information needed to create print and eBooks. Rademacher will give insider tips about best practices in creating a professional-looking book. Attendees are encouraged to bring their in-progress work, including mock-up covers. Time for questions and feedback will be allocated.
— Ballroom B
Fixing Your First Pages to Hook Agents, Editors, and Readers with Aiden Siobhan
The first pages of your novel are critical for grabbing attention in the slush pile. In this session, you’ll learn how to craft an engaging opening that establishes character, stakes, and voice while avoiding common pitfalls. We’ll analyze examples, discuss what industry professionals look for, and workshop participant openings to ensure they stand out in a crowded market.
— Ballroom C
The Ins and Outs of Leaving Your Publisher to Self-Publish with Linda Hughes
It’s scary to think of abandoning the traditional publisher who produces, distributes, and markets your books. Why would you even think of doing that? The #1 reason authors give is that they aren’t making enough money and self-publishing holds the potential for greater income. That’s great. And that’s also harder than it sounds. Does that mean you shouldn’t do it?
No. It means you should learn how it works before taking the leap so you can make an informed decision and, should you decide to do it, lay out a plan for the transition. As an author who’s had an agent and three traditional publishers, Linda will take you through the steps of making the switch to self-publishing. She did it and was woefully ill-prepared. It all worked out in the end, but she wants you to have an easier time of it than she did. Join her for tips and tricks to make that change as painless as possible.
— Ballroom D
10:20 AM – 11:10 AM
Show Me, Don’t Tell Me with Meg Dendler
In this interactive workshop, Meg will guide you in elevating the quality of your writing with the 'show, don’t tell' mantra. Through examples from contemporary literature and hands-on exercises, you’ll discover how to infuse your writing with vivid, engaging detail.
— Ballroom A
Writing More Poetically with Jennifer Wilson
Every piece of writing, from flash fiction to full-length novels, can be enhanced by the art of poetic phrasing. In this session, we will explore ways that poetic speech can be used to make your writing more colorful, descriptive, and compelling. Learn how to craft sentences that are evocative and engage the senses, and paragraphs that will keep your readers engrossed in your stories.
— Ballroom B
Rage Against the Machine: How Authors Can Conquer AI with Tamara Grantham
Like the Terminator wishing his enemies a fond farewell, should authors say "hasta la vista" to their writing careers? Not so fast. In the rapidly evolving world of technology, AI has become a powerful tool for authors. This class will explore how writers can effectively and ethically integrate AI into their creative process. From idea generation to editing, discover how AI can enhance your writing while maintaining your unique voice and creativity—and avoid world ending doom.
— Ballroom C
TBA with Mel Odom
TBA
— Ballroom D
Pitching Like a Pro: Get Over the Fear of Pitching and Make Your Pitch a Home Run! with Ally Robertson
Pitching to an editor or agent is a stressful, anxiety-inducing experience. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth time, preparing and giving a pitch can put even those with nerves of steel on tenterhooks. Ally Robertson has taken hundreds of pitches over the years and has seen the best and the worst. In this workshop, you’ll learn the dos and don’ts of pitching and receive valuable tips to help make your experience at least somewhat less daunting. Time permitted, Ally will critique attendee pitches, so if you would like to participate, prepare a pitch ahead of time and bring it with you.
— Meeting Room III
11:30 AM – 12:20 PM
Emotionally Engaging Your Readers with Merle Davenport
Transform your book from “interesting story” to “OMG! WHAT A GREAT BOOK!” When readers become emotionally connected with your characters, they won’t be able to put your book down. Learn how to craft compelling stories that resonate, keep readers hooked, and watch your sales grow.
— Ballroom C
How to Get Published in the Opinion Section with Yvette Walker
Do you have strong opinions on current events, faith, culture, or social issues but aren’t sure how to get them published? This workshop will guide you through crafting compelling opinion pieces and successfully pitching them to newspapers, magazines, and digital platforms.
Led by veteran journalist and Opinion Editor Yvette Walker, this session will cover:
Understanding the role of opinion journalism
Choosing timely and relevant topics
Structuring a persuasive and engaging op-ed column or letter to the editor
Writing with clarity, credibility, and impact
Avoiding common pitfalls and editorial rejections
Effectively pitching your piece to editors
Whether you’re an aspiring writer, an advocate for a cause, or a thought leader looking to expand your reach, this seminar will equip you with the tools to share your voice in the public arena confidently.
— Ballroom D
The Art of Hustling with Amy Le
You have a book idea. Now what? How do I find a beta reader? How do I find an editor? What social media platforms do I use? How do I promote my brand? I hate marketing and promoting but I want to be read and sell books. Help me! I don't know what I don't know. This session is the perfect session for writers who are just beginning their authorpreneurial journey or seasoned authors who just want to reignite and kickstart their writing career!
— Meeting Room III
12:30 PM – 1:40 PM
Truth or Consequences Luncheon with Presenters Dr. Hill and Dr. Jones
Join Dr. Karlos K. Hill and Dr. Forest Issac Jones as they use their vast experience as professors, historians, and authors to teach us how to weed through false historical information to get to the truth of the story. Learn how to conduct interviews that lead to powerful, authentic storytelling, regardless of genre.
*This is a limited-seating additional ticketed event for registered attendees only, available until 4/24/25 or until sold out.
— Ballroom A & B
2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Say What? Crafting Dialogue That Speaks Volumes with Samantha Ryan
Great dialogue does more than fill the silence—it reveals character, builds tension, and drives the story forward. In this interactive workshop, we’ll break down what makes dialogue pop, learn how to give each character a unique voice, and explore ways to weave subtext for added layers of meaning. Whether you struggle with stilted conversations or want to take your dialogue to the next level, this session will provide you with the tools to make your characters truly speak volumes!
— Ballroom A
How to Write Serial Fiction for Reading Apps with Michele Bardsley
What makes a serial different from a traditional novel? How do you publish your story online in an engaging, binge-worthy format? Which apps offer the best opportunities for serial fiction writers? Get the answers to these questions and more in this informative session!
— Ballroom B
A Beginning Guide to Facebook Ads: Your Starter Kit with Kathy Wheeler
Unlock the power of Facebook ads to boost your author brand! This interactive session walks you through the essentials of setting up and running effective ad campaigns. Learn how to track key metrics and conduct strategic testing to maximize your results. If you're new to Facebook advertising or looking for a fresh start, this session provides the foundational tools to help.
— Ballroom C
The Writer’s Side Hustle with SL Dooley
Most writers don't make a living at their craft. But that doesn't mean you can't draw an income from what you love. You'll leave this session with a list and a game plan for how to use your creativity to pay the bills.
— Ballroom D
3:10 PM – 4:00 PM
How to Write a Great YA Novel with Candace Kade
Learn how to craft a standout YA novel that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impact. In this session, we’ll dive into the essential elements of young adult fiction-from creating authentic teen voices to weaving in themes that captivate a YA audience. Whether you’re just starting your first YA novel or already published, this session will equip you with practical ideas and inspiration to transform your story into a book readers will love.
— Ballroom A
The Business of [Freelance] Writing with Kim Toscano
Freelance writing is a profession and needs to be approached as a business, not a hobby. Remember, our goal is to get paid to write! But how much should you charge for an article? And what financial responsibilities come with those earnings? Like any business, freelance writers need to send invoices and file taxes (Yuck!), but you can also deduct expenses-like the registration fee for this conference (Yay!). As we dig into the business of writing, you’ll learn to:
✓ Set Rates for Your Work
✓ Invoice Clients
✓ Navigate Tax Forms
✓ Simplify Record Keeping
✓ Save for Retirement
This session is not only for freelance writers. If you don’t file a Schedule C (or know what one is), you need to attend this class!
— Ballroom B
The Art of the Arc: Structuring Plot in Narrative Non-Fiction with Tiffany Yecke Brooks
Non-fiction presents unique challenges and opportunities for innovative storytelling. We will explore different organizational and narrative structures for non-fiction books (with an emphasis on memoir) and discuss what approaches are currently in demand.
— Ballroom C
Incorporating Nonfiction in Novel Writing with Peggy Doviak
Although good novels allow us to suspend disbelief, as writers, we don't want to push our readers too far. Incorporating nonfiction into novels is a way to bridge the gap between everyday life and our created worlds. But the balance is tricky. What should we include? How much is too much? How do we find trustworthy sources? Personal finance and cozy mystery author Peggy Doviak writes nonfiction and fiction that gives her readers what they need to know without boring them to death. Join this interactive conversation about facts and fiction.
— Ballroom D
4:15 PM – 4:30 PM
OWFI Board Meeting
— Ballroom A-D
4:40 PM – 5:00 PM
OWFI General Membership Meeting
— Ballroom A-D
7:00 PM
Awards Ceremony Banquet & Announcement of the 2026 Keynote Speaker
— Ballroom A-D
