Mercedes M. Yardley is a Bram Stoker Award–winning author known for her distinctive blend of dark fantasy, horror, and whimsy. Often described as a “whimsical dark fantasist,” her work explores the beauty and brutality of the human experience through lyrical storytelling and haunting imagery.

She is the author of numerous acclaimed works including Pretty Little Dead Girls, Darling, the Stabby Award–winning Apocalyptic Montessa and Nuclear Lulu: A Tale of Atomic Love, and the collection Love is a Crematorium and Other Tales. Her fiction has earned multiple Bram Stoker Awards, including honors for Little Dead Red and the short story “Fracture.”

Mercedes lives and writes in Las Vegas and is active in the horror and speculative fiction community. In addition to her writing, she has served as a senior fiction editor for Gamut Magazine and is a member of the Horror Writers Association and the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association.

Wander deeper into Miss Murder’s darkly whimsical worlds—books, blog, events and more on her website.

Sessions:

• Keynote Presentation: Finding the Magic in a Mundane World

  The world today is gritty, polarizing, and can feel utterly devoid of magic. Not true, my friends! We'll discuss how to find the precious things that shimmer and shine... for you, and for others.
  

• Step Aside, Darling: Getting Out Of Your Own Way

  Sometimes we are the toughest roadblocks on the path to literary success. Join Mercedes for a conversation about the ways writers can unknowingly stand in their own way. We'll discuss how to deftly step aside and let our true potential shine, giving our creativity the space and confidence it needs to flourish.

In her copious free time, she has led writing workshops for children and teens, served on the organizational committees for several writing conferences, judged national writing contests, and presented at writing/publishing conferences across the United States. Fearful that she was getting too much sleep, she started Terrible Advice: Author Edition as guidance for writers in all stages. Chasing the high of her early success from Skippy the Horse, she also dabbles in cozy mysteries as Moira Bates. She lives in Texas with her husband and more animals than any sane person should have in their home.

Pre-Con:

• Failure to Launch: Breathe New Life Into Old Work

  In this intensive preconference workshop, Jodi will guide writers through a practical framework for diagnosing why a project didn’t gain traction — and how to strategically relaunch it. Participants will examine potential breakdown points, including pacing and structural weaknesses, genre positioning, audience alignment, branding inconsistencies, cover and blurb effectiveness, and marketing missteps. Whether you’re revisiting a completed manuscript that stalled or an unfinished project that lost momentum, these analytical tools will help you determine whether your work needs revision, repositioning, or full reinvention.

  To enhance the session, Jodi plans to incorporate a participant’s submission for live case study analysis. If you would like your work considered, watch for a follow-up email after registration with submission details.

  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.
  

Sessions:

• Cancel Proof: Working with a Sensitivity Reader

  Whether you are a fan or foe, cancel culture exists in publishing. More and more authors, editors, and publishers are working with sensitivity readers to read for bias, stereotypes, misrepresentation, and offensive content long before a book makes it to market. Do you need one? How do you find one? And what in the heck do you do once the sensitivity reader report comes back?

  In this session, Jodi Thompson shares real-life examples of sensitivity reader feedback and offers a framework to help authors determine whether their manuscript may need a sensitivity reader. Time permitting, Jodi will also lead a discussion on safeguarding your author image as a protection against cancellation.

  After a brief discussion and examples of sensitivity reader feedback, attendees will examine portions of classic literature through the lens of the 2020s. Together, participants will consider where a sensitivity reader might be a good idea and what specific type of reader they would recommend.

  Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the purpose of a sensitivity reader and guidance on how to move forward if their manuscript needs one.
  
  

• Terrible Advice: Tackled

  Terrible advice is never in short supply—especially in the publishing world. In this session, Jodi Thompson tackles some of the most common (and questionable) guidance writers encounter along their publishing journeys.

  Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions or concerns prior to the event, and Jodi will select 10–15 to address during the session along with some of the most prevalent advice currently circulating in the industry.

  Jodi will break down each topic, parsing the good from the bad and suggesting alternative approaches authors may want to consider. The goal of this session is simple: to help writers navigate the madness of publishing with their sanity—and their pocketbooks—intact.

Before entering publishing, Amy worked in the mental health field and trained as a yoga instructor—experiences that uniquely equip her to guide authors through the stress and uncertainty of a highly competitive industry. Her empathetic approach, combined with a multitasking, hyper-organized mind, allows her to advocate effectively for clients while helping them navigate the professional and emotional challenges of publishing.

In addition to representing authors, Amy manages subsidiary rights sales for several publishers, working to expand opportunities for books beyond their original formats and markets. She maintains a full client list and is always on the lookout for captivating stories that resonate on a deeper level.

Discover more about Amy and her work on her agency’s website.

Sessions:

• Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads

  Amy Brewer joins fellow publishing professionals for the First-Page Reads Panel, offering live reactions and insights as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud.

• The Author Platform Playbook: Social Media That Builds Readers

  For traditionally published authors, a strong online presence is no longer optional. In this session, Amy Brewer explains why maintaining at least two social media platforms—along with a professional author website—can be critical to long-term success. She’ll explore which platforms work best for different genres, how to develop a manageable posting schedule, and strategies for growing an engaged readership without feeling overwhelmed by the process.

• Traditional Publishing in 2026: The Real Story

  What does traditional publishing actually look like in today’s market? In this session, Amy Brewer offers a candid look at the realities of publishing in 2026. She’ll share industry numbers that reveal just how competitive the path to publication can be, balanced with uplifting success stories from authors who have made the journey. Attendees will also gain practical advice from agents and publishers on how to navigate the industry and improve their chances of success.

• The Agent Pitch Lab

  Landing a literary agent starts with understanding what agents do—and how to pitch them effectively. In this interactive session, Amy Brewer breaks down the role of an agent in the publishing process and reveals pitch and query strategies that lead to success. Attendees will practice pitching with partners, and volunteers will have the opportunity to actually pitch Amy in front of the class, receiving live critique and real-world feedback.

Pitching:

Amy is looking for Romance of any kind, Cozy mysteries of any kind and anything in the LGBTQIA+ world. If you are a best-selling self published author, she would love to talk with you about selling your subsidiary rights. Amy is not a good fit for sci-fi, poetry, or non-fiction at this time. 

The series blends mystery, humor, quirky characters, and plenty of twists as the sassy heartbreaker navigates crime, chaos, and the occasional questionable dance move in what Marty calls “America’s most ordinary town.”

The first book in the series, At First I Was Afraid, has earned multiple honors, including a First Place Mystery Award from The BookFest and recognition as a finalist for the Silver Falchion Award at Killer Nashville, along with additional conference and literary acknowledgments.

Marty is active in the writing community through organizations such as Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. In 2019 he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and now donates a portion of his book sales to support MS research.

When he’s not plotting fictional crimes, Marty is an award-winning professor of Business Law at the University of Central Oklahoma. He enjoys international travel with his college sweetheart, Kara, reading, watching Netflix, listening to disco music (of course), spending time with his growing collection of grandchildren, and searching for the next great Mexican restaurant.

Boogie on over to Marty’s website to stay up to date on his work, accolades, events, and more.

Session:

• Legal Landmines for Writers: What You Need to Know Before You Get Sued
  Marty, a novelist and seasoned lawyer (which means he’s old), will explain some of the basic legal issues writers face. Don’t take legal advice from someone who isn’t a lawyer—get it from someone who’s been licensed since 1989. (Don’t do the math. That’s not polite.)

  Topics will include libel and slander, using real people and places in your writing, incorporating your writing business, tax turmoil (he’ll tell you everything he knows—which isn’t much), the many ways writers manage to get themselves sued, and other legal pitfalls novelists should avoid. There will be plenty of time for questions, so be sure to bring them.

• Hooked by Mystery: Creating Intrigue That Pulls Readers In

  Mystery is one of the most compelling forces in storytelling, drawing readers and viewers into books, films, and television alike. Why are we so captivated by the unknown? In this session, we’ll explore why audiences are so drawn to intrigue and how writers can use it to create tension, deepen engagement, and keep readers guessing. Learn how mystery fuels curiosity and keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

He has been writing since a college creative writing class first hooked him on storytelling. Along the way, he found community with writing groups Red Dirt Writers, Rose Rock Writers, and the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc (OWFI). Since 2018, he has served on the OWFI board in several roles, including PR Director, President, Past-President, First Vice-President, and Junior PR Director. In 2024, Nick was presented with OWFI’s Honorary Lifetime Member Award.

Currently, he’s keeping up with his blog, I Wanted to Tell You a Story, and working on a sequel to Bootlegger.

When he’s not writing, he teaches high school English and speech to students who would rather be on their phones. He’s also a husband and dad, a guitar player in the band The Dead Armadillos, and a woodturner. He lives in Guthrie, Oklahoma.


Session:

• The Missing Link: Why You Should be Writing Scripts for High School Competitions

  As a high school speech coach, Nick Lyon sees a lot of performances every year—and reads a lot of scripts. It raises an interesting question: where do these scripts come from? Students announce the title and author before performing, but who are these writers? And the real question is—could you be one of them?

  As it turns out, several outlets pay for scripts written specifically for the high school speech competition market. In this session, Nick will share examples of competition scripts, show videos of performances, and point attendees toward resources where they can try to publish their own work. The exciting part? These scripts can be sold all over the country and performed at high school competitions across the United States. Nick hears the name Don Zolidis at nearly every competition—and it turns out, writing for this market is all that guy does for a living.

  If you’ve ever wondered whether your writing could end up on a speech and debate stage, this session will show where to start—and how to get your scripts into the hands of student performers across the country.
  
  

•  Don't Forget Your Tuner: The Basics of Songwriting

  The lyrics of a song are just another form of poetry…right? If that’s the case, why aren’t more poets also songwriters? As a guitar player for more than thirty years and a songwriter for over twenty, Nick Lyon has spent decades performing with bands on hundreds of stages—from living rooms and restaurants to the occasional former strip club. Along the way, he discovered that songwriting can be a powerful creative outlet, especially when the story you’re working on just isn’t ready to be written but you still feel the need to create.

  
  In this session, Nick will share his own songwriting journey while exploring what makes a song work. Participants will look at the building blocks of songwriting, try a short idea-generating exercise, and learn the basics of recording and sharing music online so others can hear it. What’s scarier than publishing a story you’ve been working on? Singing a song where people can actually hear you, of course.

In 2000, Merle began teaching inside state prisons, where he spent more than two decades helping incarcerated adults earn their GEDs while studying criminal behavior and recidivism. His graduate work focused on understanding criminal thinking patterns and how education can help interrupt cycles that lead back to prison.

Drawing on more than twenty-five years of firsthand experience in correctional education, Merle brings a unique perspective to storytelling. His nonfiction book, Echoes of the Criminal Mind: A Writer’s Guide to Crafting Authentic Villains, explores how real criminal thought processes can help writers create deeper, more believable antagonists.

Merle has served in leadership roles with several adult education organizations, including the Michigan Council on Learning for Adults, the Michigan Reading Association, and the Michigan Association for Adult and Continuing Education. Today, he serves as president of Tulsa NightWriters, where writers help writers become better writers.

He and his wife, Karen, are also longtime writing partners who collaborate on historical romance, blending their shared love of storytelling into the next chapter of their creative journey.

Explore the MK Davenport writing world—including books, works in progress, events, and more on their website.

Luncheon:

• Fix a Flat: From Forgettable Villain to Formidable Foe

  In this interactive luncheon workshop, Merle Davenport shows writers how to transform a flat antagonist into a psychologically compelling force of conflict.

  Participants will receive one of several intentionally underdeveloped villain profiles along with a streamlined antagonist trait sheet adapted from Merle’s framework. As they enjoy lunch, attendees will analyze their assigned character, identifying what’s missing and discussing how to strengthen the villain’s motivations, contradictions, and personality.

  Merle will begin with a brief overview of the ten key antagonist traits before demonstrating how to add psychological depth and narrative tension that make villains both believable and unforgettable. Using practical tools drawn from his book—and a few real-world examples—he’ll guide writers through the process of turning a stock adversary into a character readers love to hate.

  Writers will leave with a clear method for diagnosing weak antagonists and building villains with the depth and complexity their stories deserve.
  
  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.

Born and raised in Oklahoma, Cathie is a 1992 graduate of the University of Oklahoma where she earned a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in history. She currently resides in Minnesota where she and her husband of 33 years share two grown children, a son-in-law, and a precocious black lab-mix named Ozzy.

Explore the many sides of Cathie’s storytelling world—from championing authors as an agent to crafting her own novels under the pen name C.H. Armstrong—on her website.

Sessions:

• Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads

  Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong joins fellow publishing professionals for the First-Page Reads Panel, offering live reactions and insights as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud.

• Pick Your Path: Choose the Right Publishing Path for You

  Today’s writers have more publishing options than ever before—but how do you know which path is the right one for you and your goals? In this session, literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong offers a clear overview of the major publishing routes available to authors, including self-publishing, small presses, and pursuing representation for large traditional publishers.

  Together, we’ll explore what each path involves, the steps required to pursue it successfully, and the advantages and challenges authors should consider along the way. Whether you’re preparing to publish your first book or weighing your options for the future, this session will help you better understand the landscape and choose the publishing path that best fits your work and your writing career.
  

• Your Agent Meet-Cute: Where Advance Preparation Meets Author-Agent Compatibility and Success

  Finding the right literary agent isn’t just luck—it’s preparation meeting opportunity. In this session, literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong walks authors through the important steps to take before sending that first query letter to agents or small publishers.

  We’ll uncover the essential steps writers should take before querying, including how to assemble a strong and professional query package, where to find agents who represent your type of work, and how to ensure the professionals you’re contacting are legitimate. Authors will learn how preparation, research, and a little strategy can help spark the right author-agent connection. If you’re getting ready to query, this session will help you approach the process with confidence—and give your story its best chance at a happily-ever-after.

Pitching:

Cathie is looking for adult romance, mystery, suspense, horror, paranormal, historical, commercial, and book club fiction, along with select nonfiction. She is especially interested in fiction by Native American authors, mysteries with a strong will-they-or-won’t-they romantic subplot, and romantic comedies with strong family dynamics.

A retired schoolteacher and former theatrical director, Christine brings a lifelong love of storytelling and performance to both her writing and her presentations.

Christine is a dedicated member of the writing community, and has been deeply involved with the Oklahoma Writers' Federation, Inc. for many years. A legacy member of OWFI, she has had the honor of completing the OWFI Trifecta—serving as President (twice), being honored with The OWFI Lifetime Member Award, and winning the coveted Crème de la Crème.

When she’s not plotting her next mystery, Christine enjoys playing the piano badly, hot mess yoga, and spending time with family. Through both her fiction and her involvement in writers’ organizations, she continues to champion storytelling, mentorship, and the enduring joy of a good mystery.

Browse Christine’s books and latest releases on Amazon.

Sessions:

• Mistakes Were Made

  Last spring, while participating on a panel for cozy writers, Christine Jarmola noticed a trend in her answers. As other writers shared what had worked for them, she kept offering examples of what not to do. For example, be sure to purchase your website address or it might get taken over by a Korean lingerie company—or at least that's what she prefers to say it was. Or make sure your free QR code is free for more than a week when printing it on promotional materials. And most importantly, always check your spelling.

  In this candid and often humorous session, Christine explores some of the most common mistakes authors make—both on the page and in the business side of writing. From marketing missteps to avoidable writing pitfalls, she shares lessons learned the hard way so others don’t have to. Part cautionary tale and part group therapy, this session offers practical insight, encouragement, and a reminder that every writer’s journey includes a few memorable mistakes along the way.
  

• Cozy Up With a Cozy

  Curl up with one of mystery’s most beloved genres as Christine Jarmola explores the world of cozy mysteries in this three-act session. Act One looks at the history of the cozy mystery and the classic elements that define the genre—from amateur sleuths to charming settings and puzzles readers love to solve. Act Two steps into today’s cozy landscape, exploring how the genre has evolved and what modern readers are loving today. Act Three focuses on the essentials for writers who want to craft their own cozy mystery—what ingredients belong in the story, and what should stay out.

  Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or considering writing your own cozy mystery, this session offers insight into the tradition, tools, and enduring appeal of stories where intrigue is high as wit, charm, and clever clues lead the way.

But a surprise love for the editing process moved her to start Blue Clover Editing, a freelance editing business. Now she polishes the work of many writers—including an Oklahoma Book Award winner—serves as managing editor and podcast host for eMerge Magazine, reads submissions for the online literary journal Apple in the Dark, edits anthologies, judges contests, and (when she makes the time) still writes. Her poetry, short stories, and essays have won various awards and appeared in eMerge Magazine, The Talon Literary Journal, The Okie Bookcast, Brio magazine and others. She has been nominated for both the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net.

And at the end of the day, she still tries to make sure her husband, son, dog, and cats are fed on a semi-regular basis.

Sessions:

• Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads

  Aubrey Green joins fellow publishing professionals for the First-Page Reads Panel, offering live reactions and insights as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud.

• Goblin Gold: Guiding Beta Readers to Better Feedback

  Beta readers are like tiny manuscript goblins. When well fed, they bring you helpful treasures like “This scene drags” or “I’m confused about the villain.” But when left to their own devices, they may return days—or even weeks—later with “I liked it!” before disappearing into the woods.

  In this session, you’ll learn how to guide your readers so their feedback actually helps you revise. Learn how to set expectations, ask better questions, and give readers simple tools to point out what’s working, what’s confusing, and where your story might be wobbling. Because “It’s great!” may feel nice—but it won’t fix Chapter Twelve.

  Turn any reader (even your mom) into a key part of your revision process. No goblin-wrangling experience required.

• The Editorial Escape Room: Curse of the Doomed Draft

  Something has gone terribly wrong with this manuscript. Legend has it the draft is cursed—and only a team of sharp-eyed writers can break the spell.

  In this hands-on workshop, participants will work in small groups to solve a series of editorial “puzzles” designed to rescue a story before time runs out. Equal parts craft lesson, puzzle room, and collaborative chaos, this session transforms the editing process into a magical adventure.

  Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned writer, you’ll sharpen your editorial instincts, learn how to identify (and fix) common manuscript mishaps, and have more fun editing than you thought possible. Break the curse. Save the story. Escape the draft — if you can.
  

Pitching:

Aubrey offers manuscript evaluations, line editing, and copyediting services for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. She enjoys reading most genres but is especially drawn to romance, mystery, sci-fi, urban fantasy, and horror. She would love to do more poetry and short story collections. She is not currently taking memoir, political thrillers, or children’s lit (board book-YA).

Consults:

• Page Review

  Submit up to 10 pages at least two weeks in advance and receive written, actionable feedback. Then meet one-on-one with Aubrey Green, managing editor and podcast host for eMerge Magazine and Blue Clover freelance editor, for a 20-minute consultation to discuss revision strategies and next steps.
  
  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.
  
  

• Author Strategy

  Spend 20 minutes one-on-one with Aubrey Green—eMerge Magazine managing editor, podcast host, and Blue Clover freelance editor—to discuss editing, literary magazines and journals, poetry collections, and next steps in building your body of work.
  
  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.

His litRPG series, Non-Player Character, was initially released online in a serialized format, allowing him to slowly build an audience of dedicated readers who eagerly await the release of his next chapter. Growing up, video games were daily entertainment, but as his life progressed and his family grew, Tyler had less time to enjoy them. Now, instead of immersing himself in playable stories, he writes them himself.

He holds a degree in Journalism and Broadcasting and is the Director of Marketing and Communications for a large trucking company headquartered in Oklahoma City. He and his wife, Roxanne, have two children and live in Moore, Oklahoma.  

Connect with Tyler and follow his latest adventures in storytelling on Facebook.

Sessions:

• LitRPG, Progression, and Isekai: The Fantasy Boom You Might Be Missing

  Across web fiction, indie publishing, and online reading platforms, genres like LitRPG, Progression Fantasy, and Isekai have exploded in popularity. These stories share a common appeal: characters who grow stronger over time, worlds built around structured systems, and narratives driven by advancement, discovery, and power progression.

  In this session, Tyler Lenz explores what defines these booming genres, why they resonate so strongly with modern readers, and how writers can use progression-based storytelling—from leveling systems to structured character growth—to build compelling fantasy narratives.

• Serialized Fiction: How to Build an Audience Chapter by Chapter
  
  More and more authors are finding success by releasing their work online one chapter at a time. Platforms like Royal Road and subscription communities such as Patreon have created new opportunities for writers to grow dedicated audiences before a book is ever complete.

  In this session, Tyler Lenz explores how serialized fiction works, why the model has become so popular in genres like LitRPG and progression fantasy, and how writers can use consistent releases and audience engagement to build momentum. Learn how authors are turning serialized storytelling into thriving reader communities—and, in many cases, sustainable income.

She is also a writing coach, freelance editor, and author, under the name Alicia Dean, with more than thirty published titles. She’s partial to all things dark and creepy…the scarier the better.

She loves meeting authors, discovering fabulous new stories and helping authors realize their dreams. She adores editing, writing, reading, Elvis Presley, the MLB, the NFL, and watching her favorite television shows—which she calls ‘research’ so it doesn’t seem as though she’s wasting time.

Sessions:

• Whose Head Are We In Now? Head Hopping and Other Point-of-View Violations

  Learn how to spot head hopping and other point-of-view violations in your writing, how to revise them, and why it matters. Many authors, especially newbies, head hop by jumping from one character’s thoughts to another’s within the same scene, sometimes even within the same paragraph. This can be jarring for readers, and even when it seems to flow smoothly, it is usually best avoided.

  Think you may be guilty as charged? Head hopping attendees are welcome to submit a writing sample to Ally in advance for review and possible use during the workshop as an example for on-the-spot fixes. Click here to send your sample as a Word attachment using “POV Workshop” in the subject line.

• Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads

  Ally Robertson joins fellow publishing professionals for the First-Page Reads Panel, offering live reactions and insights as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud.

Pitching:

The Wild Rose Press is looking for most fiction genres and would especially love to see more romance submissions. Ally is particularly interested in crime fiction/suspense and horror, but also welcomes historical, paranormal, contemporary, women’s fiction, YA, sci-fi, and most other fiction genres. Ally is not looking for children’s fiction, Christian fiction, nonfiction, memoir, or similar non-fiction projects.

She knew she was destined to write romance when she attempted to rewrite the entire movie Titanic just to save Jack from drowning. She is passionate about connecting with readers through emotionally moving, realistic, sexy love stories set across all time periods.

Her books have been recognized across multiple romance subgenres, earning honors from the New England Reader’s Choice Awards and the Greater Detroit Booksellers’ Best Awards. She has also been named a semifinalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award, a 2018 RITA® finalist, the 2019 Publishers Weekly BookLife Prize winner in the Romance category, and an Oklahoma Book Awards finalist.

Visit Lauren’s website to discover stories you’re sure to fall in love with.

Sessions:

• Don’t Sign That Yet! What Authors Need to Know About Copyright and Contracts

  Understanding copyright and contracts is essential for protecting both your work and your career. In this session, you’ll learn the crucial basics of publishing contracts, including key clauses to watch for and how to advocate for yourself when negotiating terms. Lauren will also walk through how contracts shape your relationships with agents, editors, and publishers, and what rights you retain as an author. Learn how to recognize when you have the authority to defend your work—and when you may not.
  

• From First Book to Superfan: How to Write a Series Readers Can’t Quit

  What turns a series into a binge-worthy obsession? In this session, multi-time USA Today bestselling author Lauren Smith breaks down what makes a series truly compelling and keeps readers coming back for more. You’ll explore both craft and strategy, from building story momentum across multiple books to using smart back matter that nudges readers to click “buy” on the next installment. Learn how to turn curious readers into loyal, die-hard fans who can’t wait for the next chapter.

They are the author and illustrator of several acclaimed graphic novels, including As the Crow Flies (Iron Circus Comics, 2017), Stage Dreams (Lerner/Graphic Universe, 2019), and Other Ever Afters (Random House Graphic, 2022). Their work has received numerous honors, including a Stonewall Honor Book Award, an Excellence in Graphic Literature Award, and a Society of Illustrators Gold Medal.

Mel holds a BA from the University of Colorado Boulder and an MFA from the Center for Cartoon Studies. Their comics often explore queer history, folklore, and coming-of-age themes through bold visual storytelling. They are currently at work on a lesbian horror graphic novel, The Goblin Throne, coming from Iron Circus Comics in 2027.

Follow Mel’s artistic journey on Instagram.

Sessions:

• Once Upon a Panel: Crafting Fable and Fairy Tale Comics

  Fairy tales and fables have enchanted readers for centuries—and comics offer a powerful way to bring those timeless storytelling traditions to life. In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, graphic novelist and comics professor Mel Gillman will guide participants through the process of creating a short, original fable comic of their own.

  Participants will explore the basics of visual storytelling—combining words and images to shape character, setting, and narrative through sequential art—before creating a short comic of their own during the session.

  All ages and drawing levels are welcome—no prior comics or illustration experience required.

• The Monster at the End of this Page: Let's Draw Horror Comics!

  What scares you most? In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, horror cartoonist and comics professor Mel Gillman will explore how comics use mood, tension, and visual storytelling to create effective horror stories.\

  Participants will learn how pacing, atmosphere, and panel-to-panel storytelling work together to build dread on the page. Mel will then guide the group through the process of writing and drawing a short, original horror comic of their own, using simple comics techniques to bring eerie ideas to life.

  All ages and drawing levels are welcome—no prior comics or illustration experience required.

Luncheon:

• Inked Insights: Queer Comics and Graphic Novels

  What makes comics such a vibrant medium for telling stories about queer experiences?

  In this luncheon session, comics professor and graphic novelist Mel Gillman will explore the unique language of visual storytelling and discuss the inventive ways contemporary LGBTQ comics creators are using comics to examine complex queer experiences. Mel will highlight how comics blend image and narrative to capture identity, history, humor, and emotional truth—and why the medium continues to be such a powerful space for queer storytelling.

  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.

Raised in South Dakota and now a proud Oklahoman, she shares life with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband, their five daughters, a few wonderful sons-in-law, and a growing crew of grandkids. Heather loves a good cup of coffee, a loyal dog at her side, and telling stories that make readers laugh, think, and maybe even tear up a little—sometimes all at once.

For stories, services, and heartfelt insights, visit Heather’s website.

Sessions:

• Your Muse Called: She Says You Need an Author Coach

  You have a story to tell, but somehow, the words aren't flowing. The plot has more holes than Swiss cheese, and your motivation entered the Federal Witness Protection Program. Sound familiar? Your muse has put her foot down, and decided it's time for backup. Are you ready to meet your literary Ride-or-Die?

  In this session, Heather Nuttall Westover shares how an author coach can help writers break through creative blocks, strengthen their stories, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Learn what an author coach actually does, when it might be time to bring one into your writing life, and how the right support can turn frustration back into forward momentum.

• From "The End" to Worth the Applause

  You’ve finished the manuscript… but deep down you know it’s not quite there yet. In this encouraging, no-nonsense session, we’ll talk about what really separates a finished draft from a story that truly shines—and why “done” is often where great stories start to flounder.

  You’ll learn how to move from Done to “Dang… That’s Good!” by recognizing the blind spots that hold your work back and silencing the imposter syndrome that whispers you’re not good enough. This session will challenge you to raise the bar on your craft, trust your calling as a writer, and do the hard work that turns a manuscript into something truly worth the applause.

Known throughout the Arizona cosplay and convention community as AZ Stolas, he began publishing fan-inspired adventures in 2024 and has since developed a growing catalog of one-shot modules and character options set within the fandom’s “Hellaverse.”

Alongside creating new content for the D&D 5e system, Killian enjoys helping fellow creators learn the craft of TTRPG design and navigate the process of funding and self-publishing their own projects through crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter.

Gather your party and explore Killian’s tabletop adventures, available through his Etsy shop.

Sessions:

• Quest to Print: Taking Your D&D Adventure From Play to Profit

  Turning a tabletop idea into a book readers can hold in their hands takes more than a great adventure—it requires planning, design, and a clear path to publication. In this session, Killian Davies shares how he transforms Dungeons & Dragons concepts into finished tabletop modules ready for print, distribution, and sale.

  Drawing on his experience creating projects like Loo Loo Lunacy and Wedding Crashers, Killian will break down the process of TTRPG design, crowdfunding, and independent publishing so you can begin bringing your own game ideas to life.
  

• Kickstarter 101: Crowdfunding for Creators

  What makes a crowdfunding campaign successful? In this session, you’ll learn what information potential backers need to see, why strong visuals matter, and how to design rewards that encourage supporters to invest in your project.

  Killian Davies, creator behind AZ Stolas, breaks down the process of building an effective Kickstarter campaign page, using his own current project as a real-world example to demonstrate the steps involved in preparing a campaign for launch.

He has collaborated with studios and brands including Netflix, Hulu, Apple, Discovery, Angel Studios, Lifetime, Hallmark, and Amazon Prime, with films screening at international venues such as Festival de Cannes and multiple Oscar-qualifying festivals. He recently directed and produced episodes of The Mercy Ships, which premiered in 2025 on Angel Network and Amazon Prime, and filmed its second season in Madagascar, set to premiere in summer 2026.

Ben is the Founder and President of the 11:11 Media Creator Academy, an educational platform focused on traditional and AI-driven filmmaking and narrative visual production. He frequently collaborates with writers and authors to develop character-driven stories and screen adaptations, and previously served as Vice President and Board Member of the Oklahoma Motion Picture Alliance, where he helped advance statewide advocacy for film and television production.

Sessions:

•  Are Book Trailers Dead? The New Era of Cinematic Promotion for Authors

  Are book trailers dead, or have they simply evolved? In this session, Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ben Richardson explores why trailers still matter in an era shaped by TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Learn how modern short-form visuals are boosting engagement, fueling discoverability, and helping authors turn browsers into buyers in ways most writers haven’t yet considered.
  

• My Book (or Series) Is Ready for Hollywood—What Are My Next Steps?

  You’ve written the book—now what does it actually take to get Hollywood interested? Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ben Richardson breaks down the real-world avenues authors can explore to position their story for film or TV adaptation. If you’ve ever wondered how your book could become a film, this is the session you won’t want to miss.

Deeply engaged in her community, Julie currently serves as chair of the board of trustees for the Tulsa Performing Arts Center Trust. Her past leadership roles include board chair for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma and service with organizations such as the Tulsa Ballet, the Tulsa Regional Chamber, the Collins College of Business at the University of Tulsa, and the Tulsa Area United Way.

Drawing on decades of experience in banking, investment strategy, and financial planning, Julie shares practical insight to help writers and other creative professionals navigate the financial side of building a sustainable career.

Session:

• Write the Book, Run the Business: Managing Your Creative Career

  For many writers, the creative side of the work comes naturally—but the financial side can feel far less familiar. Realizing that building a creative career also means running a small business may seem overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.

  In this session, CPA Julie Smith shares practical perspectives to help authors approach their work with a stronger business mindset—from managing irregular income streams and tracking expenses to tax planning. Developing healthy financial habits and setting long-term financial goals can lay the foundation for financial stability and help you write your way through retirement.

Her editorial experience spans multiple fiction genres and select nonfiction, and she regularly teaches workshops designed to help authors craft compelling stories, memorable characters, and immersive worlds.

Projects she has edited include The Unfavored Children’s Club and the award-winning The Forgotten Son by B.J. Sloan; The Mortician Murders series and An Almost True Crime Story series by USA Today bestselling author Greta Boris; the award-winning Mexicanos Hustle by J. Benjamin Sanders; the Aunt Claire’s Pet Care series by Katie Evans; My Storied Year by Katie Proctor; and the political thrillers and mysteries of Larry Enmon.

To connect with TwylaBeth or learn more about her editing work, visit her on Facebook or reach out directly by email.

Sessions:

• Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads

  TwylaBeth Lambert joins fellow publishing professionals for the First-Page Reads Panel, offering live reactions and insights as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud.
  

• Characters with Differences: Crafting Representation with Authenticity & Sensitivity

  Characters with differences—whether neurospicy, chronically ill, with curves or with crutches—can bring richness, complexity, and sometimes beautiful messiness to a story. But portraying those differences with authenticity and sensitivity can be tricky.

  In this session, we’ll talk about what works when writing characters with differences and how to avoid making that difference the sum of who the character is. We’ll also explore how to avoid painting an entire group with a narrow brush. The goal is dimensional, whole-person characters—not caricatures or simplistic tropes.

  Readers welcome thoughtful, well-executed representation. Let’s explore how to write it well.
  

Pitching:

TwylaBeth is looking for middle grade, cozy, thriller, paranormal, and romance (sweet to spicy), as well as LGBTQIA+, YA & adult coming of age, historical, and fantasy/scifi. She is also open to working with select nonfiction projects.

Consults:

• Page Review

  Submit up to 10 pages at least two weeks in advance and receive written, actionable feedback. Then meet one-on-one with TwylaBeth Lambert, seasoned acquisitions and manuscript editor, for a 20-minute consultation to discuss revision strategies and next steps.
  
  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.
  
  

• Author Strategy

  Enhance your conference experience with an Author Strategy Consultation with seasoned acquisitions and manuscript editor, TwylaBeth Lambert. You'll have twenty one-on-one minutes to discuss your publishing path, editing needs, genre positioning, characterization, or your most pressing author questions.
  
  *This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.

— Tikiman & the Viking —

Inspired by classic hard-boiled writers such as Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler, H.B. writes historical crime fiction, including The Wichita Chronicles and the Ark City Confidential Chronicles series. He also experiments with literary forms, exploring both fiction and verse.

H.B. maintains a long-running blog (The Tikiman Says…) reflecting on writing, creativity, and the craft of storytelling, and co-hosts the Tikiman and the Viking podcast with fellow creatives discussing process and the writing life.

When he’s not writing, Berlow enjoys experimenting in the kitchen—particularly baking bread and making sausages. The gin martini is his cocktail of choice, though he remains open to attempts at persuasion.

Sessions:

• Standing Out From the Crowd: The Writer’s Platform

  With so many books competing for readers’ attention, how does a writer stand out? In this session, Tikiman & the Viking will discuss how a strong author platform can help readers discover you and recognize your work as something worth reading. We’ll look at practical ways to develop your presence, including social media, speaking engagements, and other strategies for creating a recognizable author brand that helps your work rise above the crowd.
  

• The Lyricism of Dialogue

  Playwrights, screenwriters, songwriters, and poets all craft words meant to be spoken, performed, or sung. Fiction writers, however, often focus more on character development and exposition than on how dialogue actually sounds. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how the rhythm, pacing, and word choices within dialogue can shape character, set tone, and influence mood. Through readings and brief performances of classic dialogue from fiction, plays, and film, participants will discover how bringing the “sound” of language onto the page can add depth and energy to their writing.

After earning degrees in education and working with the National Writing Project, Brian returned to fiction with renewed focus. His novel The Dark Cry of Aristid was published in 2022, and his latest work, Middle-Aged Man in a Trashcan, was published by The Wild Rose Press in 2025.

A fellow of the National Writing Project’s Writers Circle, Artist INC, and Project Atmosphere, Brian blends a scientific background with artistic vision in his work as a storm chaser and photographer. His imagery has been used by NASA, the National Weather Service, and NOAA, and can be seen at RuminationofThunder.com. He also co-hosts Tikiman and the Viking, a podcast exploring creativity and the writing process.

William Brian Johnson is a crow in a field of broken glass—an author, teacher, storm chaser, and photographer whose books are both semiautobiographical and damn lies.

For more from The Viking, visit his blog and Amazon Author Page.

Sessions:

• Standing Out From the Crowd: The Writer’s Platform

  With so many books competing for readers’ attention, how does a writer stand out? In this session, Tikiman & the Viking will discuss how a strong author platform can help readers discover you and recognize your work as something worth reading. We’ll look at practical ways to develop your presence, including social media, speaking engagements, and other strategies for creating a recognizable author brand that helps your work rise above the crowd.
  

• The Darker Edge of Legend: Writing Complex Fantasy with Myth and Folklore

  Mythology, folklore, and ancient writings offer rich material for fantasy writers looking to deepen character, plot, and setting. In this session, Brian Johnson draws from Norse mythology, Northern European folklore and sagas, and Japanese folklore to show how these traditions can inspire unforgettable characters, immersive worlds, and monsters that linger in the reader’s mind.