click here for a pdf of the brochure

 

opportunity to listen to these authors, ask them questions, and interact with them.

 

Tuition for the 2012 Fiction Writing Conference for Physicians & Lawyers on August 11-12, 2012 is $1,295 and includes:

• Continental breakfast and lunch with faculty on Saturday and Sunday,
• Seminar handbook,
• All sessions,
• Small group breakout sessions with agents on Sunday morning,
• Distribution of your query letter to numerous literary agents (if desired),
• Review and written critique of concise writing exercises, and
• Eligibility to enter and compete for conference writing prizes and awards
• Awards Reception (Spouses Invited)

Cancellations: Conference Cancellations: Conference cancellations received in writing before July 15, 2012, will receive a full refund. Persons canceling after July 15, 2012, will not receive a refund.

Conference Writing Prizes and Awards: Attendees will be encouraged to compete for the conference writing prizes and awards. Prizes and awards will be given for the following:

• Best First Sentence: Winner and Runner-Up
• Best First Paragraph: Winner and Runner-Up
• Best Query Letter: Winner and Runner-Up
• Best Pitch: Winner and Runner-Up
• Best Completed Writing Exercises (5 exercises in total): Winner and Runner-Up for Each Exercises

A professional photographer will be on hand to commemorate each award. The prizes, awards, and readings of the authors’ work will take place Saturday, August 11th during our reception and awards ceremony (spouses invited).

Literary Agents
The faculty also features 15+ literary agents who will explain what they do and what they are looking for from new authors.
You will have an opportunity to have your query letter submitted to all the agents (if you desire). The agents will take your
pitches for your novel and contact the authors they would like to work with.

Regina Brooks is the founder of Serendipity Literary Agency LLC., a boutique agency representing a diverse base of
award-winning clients in the areas of adult fiction and non-fiction, young adult, and children’s literature.

Sheree Bykofsky is the co-author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Getting Published and is a New York Literary
Agent who represents some 100 book authors in all areas of adult non-fiction, literary and commercial fiction.

Deborah Carter is a literary agent at Muse Literary Management, www.museliterary.com. She is looking for fiction
and narrative nonfiction that’s imaginative in character and situation, for adults, teens & children, by writers with
formal training (workshops) who are willing to revise.

Lindsey Clemons joined San Francisco’s Larsen Pomada Literary Agents in 2009. As an associate agent Lindsey is
actively looking for captivating thrillers, mysteries of all sorts and literary fiction. She is an advocate for strong, well developed characters and fresh, distinct voices.

Ann Collette has been an associate at the Helen Rees Literary Agency in Boston, MA, since 2000. Her fiction list
includes mystery, horror, suspense and thriller authors.

Marisa Corvisiero is a literary agent and the founder of the new Literary Powerhouse Agency. Otherwise known as
LitPow, this agency is affiliated with Literary Powerhouse Consulting, LLC, where she offers literary consulting services
for all facets of the Publishing Industry. Marisa is also an Attorney with over ten years of experience in New York City.
Before LitPow, Marisa worked with the L. Perkins Agency where she represented over twenty international clients in different genres.

David Forrer began his career in publishing in 1997 after receiving a Masters in Creative Writing (fiction) from Boston University. He has been an agent with InkWell Management since it was created in 2004. His areas of interest and representation range from literary, commercial, historical and crime fiction to suspense/thriller, humorous non-fiction and popular history.

Joshua Getzler worked at Writers House until November 2009, building a list of novelists, YA and children’s book
authors, and the occasional nonfiction writer; then joined Russell & Volkening. In May 2011, Josh became a principal at Hannigan Salky Getzler Agency, an agency designed to navigate the changing world of 21st century book publishing. Josh represents fiction and nonfiction (mostly fiction, much of which is crime-related), adult and YA/middlegrade books (though not picture books).

Billy Kingsland is an agent at Kuhn Projects, a literary agency in New York City. He started his career in book publishing at the Russell & Volkening Agency, and prior to joining Kuhn Projects in 2004, he worked in the literary department of the William Morris Agency. He represents a broad range of writing, including literary and commercial fiction, narrative nonfiction, and practical nonfiction.

Kirsten Neuhaus started her own literary agency in the spring of 2009, after a decade in the business. She represents a wide range of fiction and nonfiction, by award winning and both domestic and international bestselling writers. She is looking for narrative non-fiction, particularly concerning current events, cultural studies, memoir, and stories with strong female voices, as well as smart, up-market and commercial fiction.

Gina Panettieri is President of the Milford, Connecticut-based Talcott Notch Literary, and has worked in publishing for twenty years as agent, freelance editor and writer. She represents both fiction and nonfiction, and is most intently seeking mystery, suspense, thrillers, as well as prescriptive nonfiction, including health, parenting, psych self-help and career, finance and business titles.

Rita Rosenkranz is a Literary Agent in New York City. She specializes in all areas of non-fiction.

Katharine Sands is a literary agent with the Sarah Jane Freymann Literary Agency in New York City. She represents a
wide range of authors in a broad range of categories including legal non-fiction, literary fiction, and dysfiction.

Ken Sherman is the President of Ken Sherman and Associates, a Los Angeles-based literary agency. An agent for more than twenty years, Ken represents screen, television and book writers, and also sells film and television rights to books as well as life rights. A few of Ken’s clients include David Guterson, author of “Snow Falling on Cedars”, Tawni O’Dell, whose first novel, “Back Roads”, became an international best seller and Oprah Book Club selection, Starhawk, considered the best-known witch in the world, Anne Perry, the world’s best-known Victorian murder mystery writer and author of 60 books, and the estates of Luis Buñuel, John Hersey, and Simon Wiesenthal.

Brooks Sherman is on the lookout for adult fiction that runs the gamut from contemporary (with an eye toward multicultural or satirical) to speculative. He has a weakness for historical fiction and a burgeoning interest in thrillers and crime fiction. He is specifically seeking projects that balance strong voice with gripping plot lines, and particularly enjoys flawed (but sympathetic) protagonists and stories that organically blur the lines between genres. Stories that make him laugh earn extra points.

Rachel Vogel is a literary agent at the New York agency of Mary Evans Inc. She is continuing to build her list of literary and upmarket fiction, narrative nonfiction, and memoir. She has previously held positions at Movable Type, Lippincott Massie McQuilkin, and Maria Campbell Associates.

Mentors
A select group of our speakers has agreed to act as writing mentors and meet with attendees individually. These mentors
will offer sage advice and suggestions which will be invaluable in saving you time and helping you avoid going down blind
alleys.

THE RESORT AND CONFERENCE CENTER AT HYANNIS
A limited block of rooms has been reserved at convention rates ($210/single/double) at the site hotel. These rooms will be assigned on a first request basis. To reserve your room, please call 866-828-9111 and mention the SEAK, Inc. Fiction Writing for Physicians & Lawyers Conference. The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis is surrounded by 52 totally private acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and offers an 18-hole par 54 golf course, a private patio or balcony for the 232 guest rooms, a complete fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, a whirlpool, a complete spa, and free parking. The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis is conveniently located within walking distance of Main Street with its many shops and restaurants. Public beaches and the ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are minutes from the hotel. A $12,000,000 renovation was completed at this property in June of 2008.

GETTING TO HYANNIS
The two major airports closest to Cape Cod are Logan International Airport in Boston, MA (70 miles) and T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island (80 miles). Barnstable Airport is a five minute drive from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis, but this is a commuter airport that has smaller planes and fewer flights. T.F. Green is preferred over Logan (if you can get a non-stop flight) as it is usually less congested. Rental cars, taxis and car service are available at all three airports.

CAPE COD
Cape Cod is a true destination spot that features beautiful beaches, warm water, great restaurants, historic towns, sightseeing, kayaking, whale watching, museums, numerous bike trails, shopping, nightlife, championship golf, and world famous boating. Cape Cod is also gateway to the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. For more information on what to do on Cape Cod, please visit www.capecod.com.

ALTERNATIVE LODGING
As a tourist destination, the Hyannis area has numerous alternative lodging options for different tastes and budgets. The Holiday Inn Hyannis (www.holidayinn.com/hyannisma) is approximately 3 miles from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis and is located nearby the Cape Cod Mall and several restaurants. The Holiday Inn Hyannis was recently renovated and features an indoor pool, restaurant, modern gym and free hi-speed internet access. If you prefer a hotel on the harbor and within walking distance of downtown/ waterfront restaurants, we suggest the Anchor In (www.anchorin.com), which is 2 miles from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis. For a good value, we suggest the Sea Coast Inn (www.seacoastcapecod.com) which is within healthy walking distance of the site hotel and easy walking distance of main street and the Hyannis docks. For a small motel directly across from Craigville Beach, we suggest the Ocean View on
Craigville Beach (www.capecodoceanviewmotel.com) If you are coming with your family or colleagues and prefer a suite or townhouse with kitchenette, we suggest the Red Jacket Green Harbor Resort, which is located directly on Lewis Bay, 3 miles from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis. If you would like to stay at an oceanfront beach resort with a private beach, jet ski rentals, etc., we suggest the Red Jacket Beach Resort (www.redjacketresorts.com). The Red Jacket Beach Resort is 6 miles from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis, but please note that traffic can be heavy in the afternoons coming back from The Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis.

Feedback

Q. Do I have to have a manuscript to attend or benefit from this course?
A. No. All you need is a desire or interest in writing.
Q. If I have never written fiction before, is this course for me?
A. Yes. This course will help both the new and experienced writer.
Q. Will this course help me get started?
A. Attendance is the first step to getting started. Don’t put it off.
Q. Will this course be work or fun?
A. It will be lively, interactive, and fascinating. You will “work” as much as you want to.
Q. Is CLE/CME credit offered in conjunction with this course?
A. No. This is a fun and inspirational weekend, not a CLE/CME conference.
Q. Will this course save me time?
A. Yes. Attendees avoid wasting valuable time by going down blind alleys.
Q. What types of feedback on my writing will I receive?
A. A written critique of concise writing exercises, a written review of your pitch and a review and critique of your query letter.
Q. Will I get a chance to meet and talk with agents?
A. Yes. There are small group breakout sessions with the agents on Sunday morning specifically for this purpose. Additionally, there will be agents in attendance at the seminar lunches and at Saturday night’s reception and awards ceremony.
Q. Will I be able to ask questions?
A. Yes. There will be substantial time reserved for questions and answers.
Q. Are there things for my spouse to do while I’m in class?
A. Cape Cod is a great area for people of all interests to spend time. We recommend that you have a car available
and your spouse will be able to enjoy many activities including: golf, museums, touring the islands of Martha’s
Vineyard & Nantucket, whale watching, kayaking, fine dining, shopping, historical sites, hiking, fishing, bicycling, etc.
Q. If I submit a query letter to you, what will happen to it?
A. We’ll give you feedback on how to improve it and will distribute it to all the agents on our panel, unless you
request otherwise.
Q. Can non-lawyers and non-physicians attend?
A. The course is designed for lawyers and physicians and the vast majority of those in attendance will be lawyers and
physicians, however it is open to anyone interested in writing.

 

SCHEDULE

 

DAY ONE: August 11, 2012

7:00-8:00 Registration and Continental Breakfast

8:00-9:15 Creating a Great New Character: Crimes and Thrillers
Peter James will discuss how he, at the request of his publisher, created a new character, Detective Roy Grace. He will explain how he is a detective who solves puzzles but has a vexing personal puzzle of his own, a missing wife. Mr. James will explore his extensive research and writing about things he finds intriguing including: threats, fear of being alone, the innocent getting into trouble, human nature, obstacles, and complex plotting. He will share how after a hard day of writing and coming up with some killer sentences “This is the kind of house where you need to wipe your feet on the way out” he treats himself to a vodka martini. Questions & Answers.

Peter James is one of the UK’s most treasured crime and thriller novelists. His Roy Grace detective novels have sold over two million in the UK alone and six million worldwide in total. The series is now translated into 34 languages and his previous novel Dead Man’s Grip went straight into the Sunday Times bestseller lists at No. 1 in hardback and stayed in the top 10 for 6 weeks. The paperback of ‘Dead Man’s Grip’ also went straight into the Sunday Times bestseller list at No. 1 in late October. Peter’s novella, ‘The Perfect Murder’ (2010) went to No. 1 on iBooks and has spent 40 consecutive weeks in the iBooks Top 10 and he was voted the ITV3 People’s Bestseller Dagger 2011 Winner earlier in the Autumn. Peter, an established film producer and script writer, has produced numerous films, including The Merchant of Venice, starring Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons and Joseph Fiennes. A TV adaptation of the Roy Grace series is currently in development, with Peter overseeing all aspects, including the scriptwriting. In 2009 he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Brighton in recognition of his services to literature and the community. Earlier this year Peter became Chair of the Crime Writers’ Association. Born and brought up in Brighton, Peter divides his time between his homes in Notting Hill, London and on the South Downs in Sussex.

9:15-9:25 Break & Networking Opportunity

9:25-10:40 Chasing the Dream: A Writing Career
Known for using violence and flawed characters to explore deeply existential themes, John Hart, Esq. will discuss the risks involved in quitting his practice to chase the dream, and how his years in criminal defense gave him the perfect background to write compelling crime fiction. An ardent believer in the “Grope and Hope” school of novel writing, John will discuss how to manage the “fear” of flying blind, and how working without an outline can still lead to powerful settings, meaningful characters and multi-layered plots. Questions & Answers.

John Hart is the author of four NEW YORK TIMES bestsellers, The King of Lies, Down River, The Last Child and Iron House. The only author in history to win the best novel Edgar Award for consecutive novels, John has also won the Barry Award and England’s Steel Dagger Award for best thriller of the year. His books have been translated into twenty-nine languages and can be found in over fifty countries. A “recovering attorney”, John has also worked as a banker, stockbroker and apprentice helicopter mechanic. Other than writing, his favorite job was pouring pints in a London pub. A husband and father of two, John spends his time in North Carolina and Virginia.

10:40-10:50 Break & Networking Opportunity

10:50-12:00 Building and Using Suspense in Your Thriller/Novel
Every story can be improved by increasing the suspense, tightening the tension, and ratcheting up the action. This seminar will help you improve your story by pacing the promises that you make and connecting emotionally with your reader. Steven James will explore the differences between suspense and conflict, cover the four ingredients necessary for suspense, and examine how to include twists in your story that will both surprise and satisfy the most discerning readers. Questions & Answers.

Steven James has penned 30+ books spanning the genres of psychological thrillers, YA fantasy, scripts, monologues, a nine book series on creative storytelling, and inspirational nonfiction. He has received wide critical acclaim for his work including four Storytelling World Honor awards, and 2009 and 2011 Christy Awards for best suspense. His thriller, The Bishop, was named both Suspense Magazine’s and The Christian Manifesto’s 2010 Book of the Year. Publishers Weekly has called him “[A] master storyteller at the peak of his game.” Steven earned a Master’s Degree in Storytelling from ETSU in 1997 and is an active member of International Thriller Writers, The Authors Guild, Mystery Writers of America, and International Association of Crime Writers. He serves as a contributing editor to Writer’s Digest, and has taught writing and storytelling on three continents. He lives in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Tennessee with his wife and three daughters. When he’s not writing or speaking, he’s rock climbing, eating chicken fajitas, playing disc golf, or (shh....) slipping away to a matinee.

12:00-1:15 Lunch (Provided) with Faculty

1:15-2:25 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

Mining Your Life and Work Experiences
Daniel Kalla, MD will explain and show how your experiences at work and in life can inspire your novel writing. He will share examples of how the events in his own life and career have shaped his story ideas, plot twists and characters. He will discuss how to mine your own areas of technical expertise to drive rich novels and thrillers, and how to open new worlds for your readers. He will also share some ideas on how you can do it without giving up your day job. Questions & Answers.

Daniel Kalla, International best-selling author, has been called the John Grisham of the medical world. Dan spends his days (and sometimes nights) working as an ER Physician in an urban teaching hospital. The idea for his first medical thriller, PANDEMIC, sprang from his clinical experience in facing the SARS crisis of 2003. He has written five science thrillers and or medical mysteries, delving into themes and topics as diverse as superbugs, drug addiction, prions, DNA evidence, pandemics and patient abuse. Kalla’s sixth book, OF FLESH AND BLOOD, is a multigenerational family drama, featuring a fictional West Coast hospital and interwoven storylines. The FAR SIDE OF THE SKY is his first historical novel. It’s set against the backdrop of Second World War Shanghai, which played a little known but amazing role in sheltering tens of thousands of German Jews from the Holocaust. His books have been translated into eleven languages, and Pandemic and Resistance have been optioned for feature films. Daniel received his MD from the University of British Columbia. He is married and the proud father of two girls in a home predominated by the XX chromosome (even his beloved Labrador retriever, Lola, is female.)

OR

Putting the Thrill in Thrillers: Writing Class
J.T. Ellison will show attendees the tips and tricks for writing a compelling thriller, from pace and plot to character development and setting. As an exercise, attendees will be given three characters, one setting, one of seven plots, and given time to let their creative juices flow without censors in order to write the opening of a short, thrilling story. Instructive lessons will be drawn from the class, and Q&A is encouraged. Questions & Answers.

J.T. Ellison is the international award-winning author of eight critically acclaimed novels, multiple short stories and has been published in over twenty countries. Ellison is a graduate of Randolph-Macon Woman’s College and received her master’s degree from The George Washington University. She was a presidential appointee and worked in The White House and the Department of Commerce before moving into the private sector. As a financial analyst and marketing director, she worked for several defense and aerospace contractors. After moving to Nashville, Ellison began research on a passion: forensics and crime. She has worked with the Metro Nashville Police Department, the FBI, and various other law enforcement organizations to research her books. Her short stories have been widely published, including her award winning story “Prodigal Me” in the anthology Killer Year: Stories to Die For, edited by Lee Child, “Gray Lady, Lady Gray” in the anthology Surreal South ‘11, edited by Pinckney Benedict and Laura Benedict, “Killing Carol Ann” in First Thrills, edited by Lee Child, and “The Number of Man” in the forthcoming anthology Thriller 3, edited by Sandra Brown. Her novel The Cold Room won the Thriller award for Best Paperback Original of 2010 from the International Thriller Writers (ITW).

2:25-2:35 Break & Networking Opportunity

2:35-3:45 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

The “Hook” – First Sentence, First Paragraph, First Page, First Scene, First Chapter
Nancy Pickard will explain the importance of your first paragraph, page, scene, and chapter. She will demonstrate techniques for grabbing the reader’s attention immediately and never letting go. Nancy will offer practical suggestions and templates for writing your killer “firsts”. Questions & Answers.

Nancy Pickard is a crime novelist and is the author of 18 popular and critically acclaimed novels, including the Jenny Cain and Marie Lightfoot mystery series. She has won five Macavity Awards, four Agatha Awards, an Anthony Award, a Shamus Award, and is the only author to win all four awards. Ms. Pickard is a frequent speaker and teacher at writing conferences where she shares her vast knowledge and experience with aspiring authors.

OR

E-Book Publishing Landscape: What Every Author Needs to Know
Jane Friedman will present an intensive tutorial on e-books and e-publishing. She will explain how new authors can get their books published electronically at little or no cost. Ms. Friedman will explain:
• What services are available to distribute your e-book, plus what you can expect from these services, and how they turn a profit
• What the industry standard file formats are, and where the industry is headed
• Most popular paid and free software used to convert and format your files
• The technical skill required during the process, and how/when to use a professional to help you with formatting and conversion
• What special considerations come into play when you want to produce a multimedia or enhanced e-book
• If and when you’re endangering the future potential of your work by making it available electronically
• Do’s and don’ts for digital covers
• How to appropriately price your work
• 3 essential factors that impact your e-book sales
• Basic strategies for marketing and promoting your e-books
• How to maximize your presence and visibility on Amazon, the No. 1 retailer of e-books
• How to decide when it’s time to seek traditional publishing options
• The changing role of literary agents in e-publishing for both traditional authors and independent authors
• A list of trusted resources

Jane Friedman is a former publishing & media exec who now teaches e-media full-time at the University of Cincinnati. She has spoken on writing, publishing, and the future of media and e-books at more than 200 events since 2001, including South by Southwest, BookExpo America, and the Association of Writers and Writing Programs. Her expertise has been featured widely, by sources such as NPR’s Morning Edition, Publishers Weekly, GalleyCat, and PBS. She has been blogging every week day since 2008, and her presence on Twitter has often been cited as a model for those seeking to use social media effectively. Jane consults with a range of nonprofits, businesses, and creative professionals, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Creative Work Fund, and the Contemporary Arts Center in Cincinnati. Find out more at JaneFriedman.com.

3:45-3:55 Break & Networking Opportunity

3:55-5:00 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

Writing the Best-Selling Memoir
Dr. Ross Pennie will discuss the unique characteristics of a successful memoir and how to use journaling, vivid details, entertainment, and humor to build your memoir. He will demonstrate how to increase readability, navigate transitions, and address privacy concerns as you drive your narrative and engage your readers. Dr. Pennie will explore the various avenues for getting your memoir published. Questions & Answers.

Dr. Ross Pennie’s career as a specialist in infectious diseases has spanned the globe. Recently retired from McMaster University, he practices in a community hospital where he takes care of hockey stars and donut lovers alike. He started writing at age ten by chronicling the four-day train trip he made solo across the Prairies and Rockies. His award-winning memoir of Papua New Guinea, The Unforgiving Tides: the true story of a young doctor’s encounters with mud, medicine, and magic on a remote South Pacific island, continues to delight readers with its grit and charm. TAINTED, his debut Dr. Zol Szabo medical mystery novel, and TAMPERED, the second in the series, are set on Canada’s Niagara Escarpment, where there is always less snow than nearby Buffalo. Ross’s website: www.rosspennie.com

OR

Writing the Successful Thriller
Gary Goshgarian (AKA Gary Braver) will detail and discuss the 10 ingredients to the writing of your successful thriller. Using familiar examples, he will explain the necessary thriller elements including solid story line, points of view, character development, the importance of dread, pacing, narrative thrust, and other characteristics. Gary will offer practical advice and suggestions for turning your ideas into thrillers that sell. Questions & Answers.

Gary Braver is the pen name of Gary Goshgarian, the author of eight critically acclaimed suspense novels: three under his own name–Atlantis Fire, Rough Beast and The Stone Circle–and five under his pen name–Elixir, Gray Matter, Flashback, Skin Deep, and, most recently, Tunnel Vision. He is the only thriller writer to have won a Massachusetts Book Award (for Flashback, 2006). His books have been published into 8 languages, and 4 have been optioned for movies. He is also the author of six popular college writing textbooks–Exploring Language, The Contemporary Reader, Dialogues, What Matters in America, Readings for Today, and Dialogue as Argument: A Concise Guide, now in 36 editions! Gary is an award-winning professor of English at Northeastern University where he teaches Fiction Writing and courses in popular culture (Science Fiction, Horror Fiction, Detective Fiction, Modern Bestsellers, and Edgar Allan Poe.) He has taught fiction-writing workshops throughout the U.S. and Europe, including the Maui Writers Retreat, Cape Cod Writers Conference, London Writers Conference, Almost Famous Writers Conference (Switzerland), as well as workshops at Brown University, Emerson College, Florida State, and others. Gary’s short fiction and articles on travel and scuba diving have appeared in The New York Times, The Boston Globe, The Christian Science Monitor, Today’s Education, and Thriller 2, among others. His website is www.garybraver.com.

5:00-7:00 Reception and Awards Ceremony (Spouses Invited)
Meet, mingle and mix with fellow attendees, agents and faculty members at a private reception.

DAY TWO: August 12, 2012

7:00-7:30 Continental Breakfast

7:30-8:40 Creating Memorable Multi-Dimensional Characters
William Bernhardt will explain and demonstrate, with examples, how to create and develop memorable characters who define and reveal themselves by acting in rotation to other characters. He will explore the relationship between action, dialogue, and character. Bill will offer practical suggestions for creating characters who you hate to leave at the end of the novel and who stand the test of time. Questions & Answers.

William Bernhardt loves his job and it shows in his writing. Library Journal has called him the “master of the courtroom drama.” His twenty-seven books have sold more than ten million copies worldwide. The Vancouver Sun dubbed him “the American equivalent of P.G. Wodehouse and John Mortimer.” His most recent novel is Capitol Conspiracy, which takes attorney Ben Kincaid to Washington, D.C., for a high-profile case involving controversial anti-terrorist legislation, political skullduggery, and murder. His forthcoming novel, Nemesis: The Final Case of Eliot Ness, solves the mystery of America’s first serial killer, whose identity has eluded investigators for decades. Bernhardt’s novels are renowned for their unexpected twists, breathless pace, humor, and insightful consideration of issues confronting contemporary American society. He is also the author of The Code of Buddyhood, a coming-of-age novel described by The West Coast Review of Books as “a powerful and sophisticated novel about the nature of friendship,” a biography for young adults, Equal Justice: The Courage of Ada Sipuel, a children’s book, Princess Alice and the Dreadful Dragon, and he has edited an anthology of original short stories (Legal Briefs) and a multi-author fundraising novel for The Nature Conservancy (Natural Suspect). And as if that weren’t enough, he is also an often-published poet and a member of the Academy of American Poets. Bernhardt’s books have been translated and published in more than two dozen countries. In addition to his work as a writer, Bernhardt is also a popular teacher and publisher.

8:40-8:50 Break & Networking Opportunity

8:50-10:00 The Engine That Drives Your Story: How Not to Get Stuck
Peter Abrahams will discuss the importance of understanding the engine or heart of your story and how to make its beat work for you. He will show how plotting, POV, and characterization all flow from this central concept. He will also reveal the secrets of Enid’s Laws. Questions & Answers.

Edgar-award winner Peter Abrahams – “criminally gifted” according to the New York Times Book Review – is the author of 27 novels. These include the New York Times bestselling Echo Falls mystery series. Among his adult books are OBLIVION (Shamus prize finalist), THE FAN (made into a movie with Robert DeNiro) and LIGHTS OUT (Edgar award finalist). DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE was a finalist for the Edgar best young adult mystery award and won the Agatha in the same category. BEHIND THE CURTAIN and INTO THE DARK were Agatha finalists. In her Cleveland Plain Dealer review of NERVE DAMAGE (2007), Michelle Ross wrote: “I swear, if one more literary person says in that oh-so-condescending tone, ‘Oh, I don’t read ... mysteries,’ I’m going to take a novel by Peter Abrahams and smack him on his smug little head.” As Spencer Quinn, Abrahams also writes the Chet and Bernie mystery series, the first of which DOG ON IT, reached #7 on the New York Times bestseller list.

10:00-10:10 Break & Networking Opportunity

10:10-11:00 AGENT PANEL PRESENTATION

11:00-12:00 AGENT SMALL GROUP BREAKOUT SESSIONS

12:00-1:15 Lunch (Provided) with Faculty

1:15-2:25 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

Finding Your Voice: Whose Story Is It?
Voice is the sound, the feel, the flavor of your story and is the single most important thing agents and editors look for in manuscripts. A fresh, strong voice will open doors more quickly than will any other aspect of fiction writing. Using famous, and not so famous examples, D.P. Lyle, MD will reveal the answer to the questions that plague every writer: What is voice? How do I find mine and what do I do with it? In this class attendees will discover the sound, the rhythm, and the feel of a writer’s most powerful tool, his or her voice, and will come away with the confidence to take their writing to the next level. Questions & Answers.

D. P. Lyle, MD is the Macavity Award winning and Edgar® Award nominated author of Murder & Mayhem; Forensics For Dummies; Forensics & Fiction; and Howdunnit: Forensics as well as the Samantha Cody thriller series (Devil’s Playground and Double Blind); the Dub Walker thriller series (Stress Fracture and Hot Lights, Cold Steel); the Royal Pains tie-in novel series (Royal Pains: First, Do No Harm). His essay on Jules Verne’s The Mysterious Island appears in Thrillers: 100 Must Reads. He has worked with many novelists and with the writers of popular television shows such as Law & Order, CSI: Miami, Diagnosis Murder, Monk, Judging Amy, Peacemakers, Cold Case, House, Medium, Women’s Murder Club, 1-800-Missing, The Glades, and Dirty Little Liars. He has taught fiction writing for many years at writing conferences across the nation as well as classes at The Learning Tree University and in the UCLA Extension Writing Program. He is the creator and director of CraftFest, the thriller writing school presented by International Thriller Writers each July in New York.

OR

Plotting and Structuring Your Novel
Sheldon Siegel will discuss the “big picture” of your novel, protagonist, and the narrator’s voice. He will explain plot basics, who did what, and why, and a list of characters he develops. Mr. Siegel will explain the benefits of sketching out the plot twists, the beginning, and the end. He will offer practical suggestions on plotting and structuring your novel. Questions & Answers.

Sheldon Siegel, Esq., a native of Chicago, earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois and graduated from the Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of California at Berkeley. He has been in private practice in San Francisco for over twenty years and specializes in corporate and securities law with the firm of Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP. Perfect Alibi is the seventh novel in his series of critically acclaimed, best-selling courtroom dramas featuring San Francisco criminal defense attorneys Mike Daley and Rosie Fernandez. His books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been translated into eight languages. Sheldon lives in Marin County with his wife, Linda, and twin sons, Alan and Stephen. He is currently working on his eighth novel.

2:25-2:35 Break & Networking Opportunity

2:35-3:45 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

Digital Books and Indie Publishing: How To Succeed
Rebecca Forster will explain how and why she switched over from Harper Collins, and Penguin/Putnam with multiple printings and top seller lists to Indie publishing and how she has been able to remain on the Amazon legal thriller bestseller list for over one year. She will discuss the critical craft skills necessary to succeed in both digital and traditional publishing and the necessity of high quality work which is professionally edited and designed. Ms. Forster will present the challenges and opportunities for writers, how to get started, a look at the digital consumer, and how to market to them including case studies from her own and other experiences. Ms. Forster will present bottom line advice and suggestions for attendees to go from being unpublished to selling their books successfully in a digital format. Questions & Answers.

Rebecca Forster started writing novels on a crazy dare. Now her work is called “Perfect. Impossible to put down” by the legal correspondent for CBS television Network while USA Today lauds her “sharp eye for detail and keen ear for dialogue.” Raised in Long Beach, CA Forster earned her BA at Loyola University, Chicago before returning to earn her MBA at Loyola University, Los Angeles. Her series featuring Southern California volleyball playing attorney Josie Baylor-Bates, her lover Archer, and Josie’s sixteen year-old ward, Hannah, has enjoyed exceptional success in both print and electronic media. A strong advocate for education, Rebecca teaches at the acclaimed UCLA Writers Program. She has also taught at the accredited Professional Writers Certificate Program at California University Extension Services at California University, Long Beach, and the University of California, Irvine Extension.

OR

Essential Elements of a Best-Selling Thriller
Joseph Finder will explain and demonstrate the six key elements of successful thrillers, including: a sympathetic lead character, a problem or conflict that commands immediate attention, a worthy adversary in the form of a compelling villain, ever-escalating peril, a dramatic clear climax, and a satisfying conclusion. He will discuss the crucial first ten pages and how to keep it fun for both you, and your readers. Questions & Answers.

Joseph Finder is the New York Times bestselling author of ten novels whom the Boston Globe has called a “master of the modern thriller.” His most recent book, BURIED SECRETS, is the second to feature “private spy” Nick Heller.  His first novel, THE MOSCOW CLUB, was named by Publishers Weekly as one of the ten best spy novels of all time.  KILLER INSTINCT was named Best Novel of the Year by the International Thriller Writers, and PARANOIA is in development as a major motion picture. His novel HIGH CRIMES became a hit movie starring Morgan Freeman and Ashley Judd.  A summa cum laude graduate of Yale, Joe did graduate work at the Harvard Russian Research Center and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Association of Former Intelligence Officers. He lives in Boston with his wife, their teenage daughter, and a neurotic golden retriever named Mia, a dropout from seeing-eye dog school.

3:45-3:55 Break & Networking Opportunity

3:55-5:00 BREAKOUT SESSION (CHOOSE ONE):

Developing and Writing the Killer Non-Fiction Book Proposal
Robert H. (Rob) Miller, Esq. will discuss and demonstrate the crucial elements of the successful non-fiction book proposal including: developing marketable non-fiction ideas, writing a compelling overview, developing a thoughtful market analysis and assessment of the competition, creating a tight, compelling biography (including the important author’s platform), developing the outline and chapter summaries, selecting and writing the killer sample chapter, marketing the proposal to agents, and much more. Rob will also explain and demonstrate how helpful a “hook” that captures the imagination of the agent/publisher can be, and will offer a host of practical suggestions for aspiring non-fiction authors. Questions & Answers.

Rob Miller graduated with distinction from Yale University and from the University of Pennsylvania Law School where he served as Senior Editor and was published in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review. He is currently a partner with the firm of Sheehan, Phinney, Bass & Green in Manchester, New Hampshire, where he serves on the firm’s Management Committee and maintains a busy litigation practice specializing in complex business disputes in the federal courts. He is the author of the critically-acclaimed and bestselling law school preparatory book Law School Confidential, now in its Third Edition; co-author of the critically-acclaimed and top selling medical school preparatory book Med School Confidential; co-author of Business School Confidential, which has been translated into multiple languages; and author of the cherished college success guide Campus Confidential: the Complete Guide to the College Experience, By Students, For Students. Rob is represented by the New York Literary Agency Harold Ober & Associates. He is currently working on the autobiography of a major sports and entertainment figure, due in 2013, and is at work on his first novel.

OR

The Business of Writing and Selling Fiction to the Film and Television Industry
Ken Sherman will discuss and demonstrate, with examples, the possibilities, practicalities, and effective strategies for moving your book to film and television. He will explain the need for originality, passion, and individual voice, craftsmanship, and the confidence to be different. Ken will offer practical advice and suggestions for turning your idea into a film, and how to navigate the treacherous waters of Hollywood with the right agents. Questions & Answers.

Ken Sherman is the President of Ken Sherman and Associates, a Los Angeles-based literary agency. An agent for more than twenty years, Ken represents screen, television and book writers, and also sells film and television rights to books as well as life rights. A few of Ken’s clients include David Guterson, author of “Snow Falling on Cedars”,Tawni O’Dell, whose first novel, “Back Roads”, became an international best seller and Oprah Book Club selection, Starhawk, considered the best-known witch in the world, Anne Perry, the world’s best-known Victorian murder mystery writer and author of 60 books, and the estates of Luis Buñuel, John Hersey, and Simon Wiesenthal. A popular and accomplished speaker, Ken has lectured extensively at venues including UCLA, USC, Loyola University in both New Orleans and Los Angeles, The Santa Barbara Writer’s Conference, The Maui Writer’s Conference, The University of Oklahoma, Sherwood Oaks Experimental
College, The Santa Fe Writer’s Conference, The Novelists, Inc. Conference/San Diego, The San Francisco Writer’s Conference, The Aspen Institute, and The Aspen Summer Words Writer’s Conference.