2027 Florida Writing Workshops: April 16 (Orlando) and April 17 (Tampa)

Screen Shot 2016-12-25 at 10.34.26 PM.pngAfter many previous successful Florida events, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2027 Florida Writing Workshops — two separate full-day “How to Get Published” writing events in Florida — Orlando (April 16, 2027) and Tampa (April 17, 2027).

These writing events are a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the events. All questions about the events regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2027 Florida Writing Workshops! We are very proud of our many success stories where attendees sign with agents following events — see our growing list of success stories here.

(Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 16, 2027; and Tampa on Saturday, April 17, 2027. See you there.)

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

WHAT ARE THE EVENTS?

These are a pair of special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshops on Friday, April 16, 2027 (Orlando) at the Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown; and Saturday, April 17, 2027 (Tampa) at the Hyatt House Tampa Airport Westshore. In other words, the workshops are both one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more.

No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.

This event is designed to squeeze as much into one day of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents onsite to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s agent and editor faculty so far includes:

  • literary agent Andie Smith (Creative Media Agency) – ORLANDO
  • literary agent Sarah Fisk (Tobias Literary) – ORLANDO
  • literary agent Stephanie Katz (GiraffeLight Media) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Laurie Dennison (Creative Media Agency) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary scout Erika Staiger (Spencerhill Associates) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Matthew Valdez (Megibow Literary) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Ritu Anand (D4E0 Literary) – TAMPA
  • literary agent Esty Loveing-Downes (Howland Literary) – TAMPA
  • and more to come.

By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinator Chuck Sambuchino of Writing Day Workshops.

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

EVENT LOCATIONS & DETAILS:

(Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 16, 2027; and Tampa on Saturday, April 17, 2027. See you there.)

FRIDAY. APRIL 16, 2027:  Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown, an IHG Hotel, 304 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32801.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2027: Hyatt House Tampa Airport / Westshore. 5308 Avion Park Dr, Tampa, FL 33607. (813) 207-9500.

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ORLANDO CLASSES (FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2027):

What you see below is a quick layout of the days’ events (Orlando first, then Tampa). The topics below are mostly set, but subject to change. You can see a more detailed layout of the day’s classes on the Schedule Page here.

There will be 1-3 classes/workshops going at all times during the day, so sometimes you may have your choice of what class you attend. Classes are subject to change.

8:30 – 9:30: Check-in and registration at the event location.

BLOCK ONE: 9:30 – 10:30

1. Query Letter Boot Camp.
2. Organized Writing: There’s an Outline for Everyone.

BLOCK TWO: 10:45 – 11:50

1. From Manuscript to Market: Demystifying Traditional Publishing.
2. Characters That Drive the Plot.

LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: 11:50 – 1:15

Lunch is on your own during these 85 minutes.

BLOCK THREE: 1:15 – 2:30

1. “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest.
2. How to Sell a Nonfiction Book Proposal. 

BLOCK FOUR: 2:45 – 3:45

1. Open Agent Q&A Panel.
2. Editing Your Novel From an Agent’s POV

BLOCK FIVE: 4:00 – 5:00

1. Start Strong: How to Get an Agent’s Attention with the First 50 Pages of your Novel.
2. Yes – You Really Need a Platform.

SESSIONS END: 5:00

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. Classes are subject to change. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

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TAMPA CLASSES (SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2027):

The topics below are subject to change. You can see a more detailed layout of the day’s classes on the Schedule Page here.

There will be 1-3 classes/workshops going at all times during the day, so sometimes you may have your choice of what class you attend.

8:30 – 9:30: Check-in and registration at the event location.

BLOCK ONE: 9:30 – 10:30

1. Understanding the Publishing Industry in 2027 — From Hybrid Publishing to Artificial Intelligence and Everything in Between
2. The Twelve Rules for Writing Sentences.

BLOCK TWO: 10:45 – 11:50

1. Literary Agents 101.
2. Creating an Authentic Kidlit Voice.

LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: 11:50 – 1:15

Lunch is on your own during these 85 minutes.

BLOCK THREE: 1:15 – 2:30

1. “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest.
2. Nonfiction Intense: Book Proposal Tips.

BLOCK FOUR: 2:45 – 3:45

1. Open Agent Q&A Panel.
2. You Have an Agent Offer or Book Contract — Now What?

BLOCK FIVE: 4:00 – 5:00

1. Inspiration as an Author.
2. How to Market Yourself and Your Books: Talking Author Social Media and Platform.

SESSIONS END: 5:00

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. Classes are subject to change. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR:

Coming soon

Coming soon

Coming soon

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ADDED ONLINE PITCHING: To ensure that writers have a robust and diverse lineup of agents & editors to pitch, 2027 Florida Writing Workshop attendees will have the ability to also pitch literary agents at a specific Writing Day Workshops *online* event that follows the 2027 FWWs on our calendar.

That event is the 2027 (Online) New England Writing Workshop, July 23-24, 2027, which will have 30-40 agents taking one-on-one Zoom virtual pitches.

This means that 2027 FWW attendees can have access to pitching all those online New England WW agents — pitches still at $29 each — without being a formal registrant for the online July 2027 event. (That said, if you want to formally register for the July 23-24 New England Writing Workshop and have access to all classes and panels, let us know, as there is a discount for confirmed Florida attendees.)

If you are interested in this added pitching opportunity, the first step is to get formally registered for a Florida conference. Following the conferences on April 16-17, 2027, we will be in touch with all Florida attendees and ask them if they want to partake in pitching online agents at the 2027 NEWW (July 23-24). At that time, you can communicate your pitch requests and purchase meeting time.

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        More 2027 agents to be announced as they are confirmed. You can sign up for pitches at any time, or switch pitches at any time, so long as the agent in question still has appointments open.

These one-on-one meetings are an amazing chance to pitch your book face-to-face with an agent, and get personal, individual feedback on your pitch/concept. If the agent likes your pitch, they’ll request to see part/all of your book — sending you straight past the slush pile. It also gives you an intimate chance to meet with an agent and pick their brain with any questions on your mind.

(Please note that Agent/Editor Pitching is an add-on, separate aspect of the day, for only those who sign up. Spaces are limited for these premium meetings, and pricing/detail is explained below.)

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PRICING:

$189 — EARLY BIRD base price for registration to either 2026 FWW event and access to all workshops, all day. Pricing is the same for both workshops. As of fall 2026, registration is now OPEN. The $189 price is the same for both separate events: Orlando (April 16, 2027) and Tampa (April 17, 2027). 

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

$309 — EARLY BIRD discounted base price for registration to BOTH the April 16 Orlando event and the April 17 Tampa event. To register, email coordinator Chuck Sambuchino at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida events.

Add $29 — to secure a 10-minute one-on-one meeting with any of our literary agents or editors in attendance. Use this special meeting as a chance to pitch your work and get professional feedback on your pitch. (Spaces limited.) If they wish, attendees are free to sign up for multiple 10-minute pitch sessions at $29/session — pitching multiple individuals, or securing 20 minutes to pitch one person rather than the usual 10. Here are four quick testimonials regarding writers who have signed with literary agents after pitching them at prior Writing Day Workshops events. (Our bigger, growing  list of success stories an be seen here.)

“I met Mai Nguyen at the Toronto Writing Workshop
and sold her manuscript to Simon & Schuster for six figures.”
– literary agent Carly Watters of P.S. Literary Agency

“I signed Sarah G. Pierce from the Seattle Writing Workshop,
and we recently sold her book to Orbit/Redhook.”
– literary agent Pam Gruber of Highline Literary Collective

“I met Amber Cowie at a Writing Day Workshops conference. We sold
her best-selling crime novel to Lake Union / Amazon.”
– literary agent Gordon Warnock of Fuse Literary

“I met my client, Dana Corbit Nussio, at the Michigan Writing Workshop.
Dana signed a new three-book contract with Harlequin Romantic Suspense.”
– literary agent Rachel Beck of Liza Dawson Associates

“I signed Nedda Lewers from a Writing Day Workshops event. Her debut
novel from Putnam Children’s was an Indie’s Introduce Best Book of 2024.”
– literary agent Kelly Dyksterhouse of Tobias Literary Agency

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Chuck Sambuchino, one of the day’s instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Florida Writing Workshop attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 15-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

  • All adult fiction, young adult, and middle grade genres and categories (virtual critiques): Faculty member Jaimie Engle, an author and freelance editor, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Adult romance (all kinds), adult fantasy (all kinds), adult mystery/thriller, adult literary fiction, and all types of young adult fiction (virtual critiques): Faculty member Mallory Day, a freelance editor, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Romance, women’s fiction, domestic suspense, and young adult fiction (virtual critiques): Faculty member Swati Hegde, an author and freelance editor, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Memoir, as well as children’s picture books (virtual critiques): Faculty member Eve Porinchak, a published author and former agent, will get your work in advance, critique your picture book (or 10 pages if memoir), meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
  • All adult fiction, all young adult fiction, and all middle grade fiction (with the exception of thriller/mystery) (virtual critiques): Faculty member Joel Brigham, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, talk with you virtually (Zoom/phone) for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss his thoughts, and pass along written critique notes.
  • Science fiction, fantasy, romance, horror, young adult SFF, urban fantasy (virtual critiques): Faculty member Wesley Chu, a published novelist, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss his thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • More critique options possibly forthcoming.

How to pay/register — Registration is now open. 

To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Chuck Sambuchino via email: WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The FWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Chuck plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Florida workshop specifically.

REGISTRATION:

Because of limited space at the venues, each one-day workshop can only allow 150 registrants. For this reason, we encourage you to book sooner rather than later. 

Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 16, 2027; and Tampa on Saturday, April 17, 2027. See you there.)

Are spaces still available? Yes, we still have spaces available. We will announce RIGHT HERE, at this point on this web page, when all spaces are taken. If you do not see a note right here saying how all spaces are booked, then yes, we still have room, and you are encouraged to register.

How to Register: 

To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Chuck Sambuchino via email: WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The FWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Chuck plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Florida workshop specifically.

Refunds: If you sign up for the event and have to cancel for any reason at any time, you will receive 50% of your total payment back [sent by check or PayPal]. The other 50% is nonrefundable and will not be returned, and helps the workshop ensure that only those truly interested in the limited spacing sign up for the event. (Please note that query editing payments and manuscript editing payments are completely non-refundable if the instructor has already edited your work.)

Thank you for your interest in the 2027 Florida Writing Workshops.

The 2026 Online Florida Writing Workshop: Oct. 9-10, 2026

Screen Shot 2016-12-25 at 10.34.26 PM.pngAfter many successful past Florida events, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Online Florida Writing Workshop — a two-day online “How to Get Published” writing event October 9-10, 2026. (Writers are welcome to attend virtually from everywhere and anywhere.)

This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of two days, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total). All questions about the event regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Fall Online Florida Writing Workshop!

(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This Fall 2026 FWW is an Online Conference, October 9-10, 2026. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)

To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

WHAT IS IT?

This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop, October 9-10, 2026. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “Florida” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation — see our growing list of success stories here.

This event is designed to squeeze as much into two days of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the online classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents online to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s 2026 FWW agent & editor faculty so far includes:

  • literary agent Diego Harrison (SBR Media)
  • literary agent Kaylyn Aldridge (Metamorphosis Agency)
  • literary agent Eric Smith (Neighborhood Literary)
  • literary agent Mindi St Peter (BAMbooks)
  • literary agent Rachel Estep (D4E0)
  • literary agent Paul Levine (Paul Levine Literary)
  • literary agent Nicole Payne (Confluence Literary)
  • literary agent Sheila Madonia Mayberry  (BAMbooks)
  • literary agent Kimberly Monaghan (The Purcell Agency)
  • literary agent Bridgette Kam (Westwood Creative Artists)
  • literary agent Frannie Dove
 (Caldwell Literary)
  • literary agent Gordon Warnock (Fuse Literary)
  • literary agent Shannon Lechon (Azantian Literary)
  • literary agent Rebecca Love (Booker Albert Literary)
  • literary agent Jacqui Lipton (Raven Quill Literary)
  • literary agent Gabrielle Harbowy (Corvisiero Literary)
  • literary agent Bethany Jett (MacGregor & Luedeke)
  • literary agent Annie Romano (Olswanger Literary)
  • literary agent AJ Van Belle (Booker Albert Literary)
  • literary agent Najla Mamou (Savvy Literary)
  • literary agent Jessica Larios-Zarate (Wave Literary)
  • literary agent Kat Kerr (Donald Maass Literary)
  • editor Leticia Gomez (Dafina and Kensington)
  • literary agent Olivia Emerick (Metamorphosis Agency)
  • literary agent Geffen Semach (Westwood Creative Agency)
  • literary agent Jeanne De Vita (Martin Literary)
  • literary agent Kim Carson Bodie (Susan Schulman Literary)
  • literary agent Tali Shammas (Storm Literary)
  • literary agent Renee Runge (SpencerHill Associates)
  • literary agent Des Salazar (Metamorphosis Literary)

By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinators Brian Klems and Chuck Sambuchino of Writing Day Workshops.

To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS:

(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This Fall 2026 FWW is an Online Conference, October 9-10, 2026. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)

THIS YEAR’S SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS (OCT. 9-10, 2026):

What you see below is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.

Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to change and updates:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2026

9:30 – 10:30: The Quintessential Query: Writing a Query Letter that Stands Out from the Rest. This class will help authors learn how to silence the background noise of extraneous information to focus only on the important information that will grab an agent’s attention.

10:45 – 11:45: The Market-Minded Writer. Whether you write nonfiction, fiction, or picture books, understanding your genre and how your book fits in the marketplace is essential.

11:45 – 1:15: Break

1:15 – 2:30: Lead, Don’t Follow – Staying Ahead of Publishing Trends. In this workshop, authors will learn how to stay ahead of the curve and to be on the cutting edge of publishing trends.

2:45 – 3:45: How to Deal With Rejection in the Writing Trenches. Every writer faces rejection. The real secret to industry success isn’t discovering a secret code word but learning how to channel failure into positive progress.

4:00 – 5:00: Pick Your Path: Choose the Right Publishing Path for You. This presentation is intended to give authors a good overview of the different paths to publishing (self-publishing, small press, finding an agent for large publisher) along with the necessary steps they’ll need to take for each path.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2026

9:30 – 10:30: Story Beats and Why They Matter. From the inciting incident to the finale, story beats are the foundation that makes your story work.

10:45 – 11:45: Finding Your Voice Through POV. “Despite what you may have heard, there is no superior One POV to Rule Them All. The correct POV will always be the one that best conveys your characters’ voices.

11:45 – 1:15:Break

1:15 – 2:30: “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest, with participating literary agents and editors. In the vein of “American Idol” or “America’s Got Talent,” this is a chance to get your first page read (anonymously — no bylines given) with attending agents commenting on what was liked or not liked about the submission.

2:45 – 3:45: Open Agent Q&A Panel. Several attending literary agents will open themselves up to open Q&A from FWW attendees. Bring your questions and get them answered in this popular session.

4:00 – 5:00: From Story to Screen: Adapting Your Book into a Screenplay. This session will show authors how to adapt their book into a screenplay by structuring their story for film, developing their characters, and crafting a scene using dialogue and visuals to forward their plot.

Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to change and updates:

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR:

Annie Romano is a literary agent with Olswanger Literary. She represents General Fiction, Upmarket, Commercial, Romantic Comedy, ​Literary, Women’s Fiction, Contemporary, Multicultural, LGBTQ+, Suspense/Thrillers, Mystery, ​Magical Realism, Light/clever horror (not gore-heavy), and Narrative Nonfiction. “I accept submissions of adult fiction and select narrative nonfiction. For adult fiction, I am currently on the hunt for lighter fare with smart humor and a unique hook. I also am seeking upmarket and commercial fiction in the following areas: contemporary fiction, women’s fiction, sharp romantic comedy (do not send me romance if there’s no comedic element or original hook), psychological thrillers/suspense, mystery, and light/clever horror (not slasher/gore; think more Grady Hendrix-style for this). I welcome diverse narratives, including but not limited to LGBTQ+ and underrepresented ethnicities/cultures.” Learn more about Annie here.

Jessica Larios-Zarate is a literary agent with Wave Literary. In regards to fiction, Jessica gravitates towards: commercial fiction, contemporary upmarket fiction, literary fiction, mystery/thrillers, and speculative fiction. She is particularly invested in stories that feature LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or disabled protagonists, especially when the books are not issue-driven. As for nonfiction, Jessica is interested in: narrative nonfiction and historical nonfiction. In terms of historical nonfiction, she seeks: Ancient History, Historical Expeditions, Civil Rights Movements, and Indigenous History Books; no War History, please. Learn more about Jessica here.

Kimberly Monaghan is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency. Kimberly is also a traditionally published author, with credits from Chicago Review Press and Highsmith/Upstart. Her book Organic Crafts was featured in US Magazine after it was given to actress Julia Roberts as a baby shower gift, and it was referenced in the best-selling book Pregnant with the Stars. She is the host of the award-winning literary citizenship project, Books Uplift. Currently building her client list as an Associate Literary Agent, Kimberly is looking forward to expanding it in the following genres: Suspense/Thrillers (Romantic, Detective, Domestic, Legal/Action, Mysterious, Military, Psychological, Political, Police/Crime, and Spy); Romance: (Inspirational, Sweet, and Contemporary—think Southern and Hallmark). Learn more about Kimberly here.

Kaylyn Aldridge is a literary agent at Metamorphosis Literary seeking commercial, upmarket, and literary fiction for adult and new adult audiences. In particular, romances with dark psychological or thriller elements, dark comedies and satires centered on women’s issues or sociopolitical themes, and women-centered horror. Outside these genres, she seeks fiction that is strange, sharp, emotionally raw, fearless, and voice-driven. Stories centering Black/POC and LGBT+ characters are a plus, as well as unreliable narrators and characters who are plain terrible.​ Learn more about Kaylyn here.

Gordon Warnock [SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS] is a literary agent at Fuse Literary. Gordon seeks large-platform nonfiction in which the book itself is not the primary goal but instead is the result of a greater, sustained effort. In nonfiction, he seeks: memoir and biography; food narrative/studies/history; graphic and illustrated nonfiction; essays on social issues; pop/punk/geek culture; historical narrative; pop-science; humor; and how-to. In fiction, he represents high-concept suspense, psychological thrillers, horror, book club women’s fiction, literary fiction from marginalized perspectives, and graphic novels for adults / young adults / middle grade. Learn more about Gordon here.

Kim Carson Bodie [SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS] is a literary agent with Susan Schulman Literary Agency. Kim is interested in reading adult commercial, upmarket, and literary fiction, horror, slipstream, bookclub-with-an-edge, creative nonfiction, pop culture, essay, and select memoir—particularly projects that feature strong voice, experimental structure, bold risks, and big swings. Kim gravitates toward themes of adolescence, monstrosity, class, innocence, memory, healing, freakishness, community, otherness, identity, the body, the natural world, and the concept of home. She will read anything that takes place at a carnival. Please keep in mind: She does not represent YA, MG, or children’s books. (She is open to new adult, though.) “I’m probably not the best fit for high fantasy or other speculative projects without grounded elements, in addition to pure romance or thrillers, with the exception of projects that use suspense as a tool to examine suprising social, scientific, cultural, or political elements of the world at large. I welcome #OwnVoices projects and am particularly interested in representing authors from diverse backgrounds.” Learn more about Kim here.

Eric Smith is a literary agent at Neighborhood Literary. With over fifteen years of experience in publishing, both at a house and an agency, Eric Smith (he/him) has worked with numerous New York Times bestselling and award-winning authors across genres and categories. He’s also an author of books for young readers. He is looking for adult genre-blending upmarket and literary fiction, accessible science fiction and fantasy, high concept romance and rom-coms, and memoir, essays, and wellness titles in the nonfiction space. While he adores kidlit and has worked on a lot of it, he’s currently not open to new middle grade or young adult projects. His kidlit client list is full, but check back to his agency page whenever you like. Learn more about Eric here.

A.J. Van Belle (they/them) is a literary agent at the Booker Albert Literary Agency. A.J. is actively building a diverse list and welcomes queries from marginalized writers. In young adult and adult fiction, they’re seeking horror, thriller, and science fiction / fantasy with dark and atmospheric elements. They’re also open to select MG across all genres. In all categories, they’re drawn to books that merge literary sensibilities with compelling plotlines. Some of their favorite authors include Paolo Bacigalupi, Nnedi Okorafor, Jordanna Max Brodsky, Yangsze Choo, Natasha Pulley, T. Kingfisher, and Jenna Satterthwaite. In nonfiction, they’re seeking fresh ideas in science, popular science, self-help, and health/wellness from authors with established platforms. As a scientist who has published NSF-funded research in ecology, they welcome queries from authors whose expertise links with evolution, ecology, statistics, microbiology, and biogeoscience. Learn more about AJ here.

Leticia Gomez is the editorial director for Kensington Books and Dafina. Leticia is the Editorial Director for Dafina Books, an imprint of Kensington Publishing Corp., which focuses on high-quality fiction and nonfiction that centers on race, identity, and its impact on our experiences. Launched in 2000 as the first African-American imprint, Dafina has led the market for more than twenty years in highlighting voices of color. Leticia is actively seeking to acquire multicultural fiction and nonfiction of all genres, including literary fiction, commercial fiction, historical fiction, romance, mystery, and narrative nonfiction of all genres with a focus on authors of color (BIPOC) hailing from all walks of life, as well as specific nonfiction projects for marginalized communities. As a literary agent, Savvy Literary is now an industry leader specializing in Self-help, Narrative Non-fiction, Memoir, True Crime, Spiritual/Inspirational, Political/Current Affairs, Suspense/Thriller, Family Drama, and the Young Adult market. Championing the work of minority writers continues to be a top priority for the agency. Blending her experience as an author, literary/film/television agent and acquisition editor, she is truly excited to spearhead her very own Hispanic book imprint Café con Leche Books. Learn more about Leticia here.

Jacqui Lipton is a literary agent with Raven Quill Literary Agency. Jacqui represents authors of novels, novels-in-verse, and nonfiction from middle grade through adult. She is particularly interested in nonfiction titles for both children and adults. She is not currently seeking high fantasy, and considers science-fiction selectively. Children’s stories with animal protagonists are not the best fit for her. She holds an M.F.A. in Fiction from Vermont College of Fine Arts and regularly teaches classes on writing and on legal aspects of publishing around the country. Learn more about Jacqui here.

Des Salazar is a literary agent with Metamorphosis Literary. They seek: Romance, Fantasy, Horror, LGBTQ+, Literary Fiction, Thriller, Mystery, New Adult, Science Fiction, and Young Adult. A graduate of Columbia College Chicago, Des Salazar holds an MFA in Fiction having completed a thesis containing translations of stories and poems from an archived journal and reflection essays. Learn more about Des here.

Renee Runge is a literary agent at Spencerhill Associates. She is actively building her list in all genres of middle grade and young adult fiction. Her taste can be summed up as “eclectic,” and she is drawn to high-concept commercial projects with a literary aura, unexpected hooks, strong A/B plots, and distinct voices. She’s especially passionate about supporting diverse and underrepresented creators from all backgrounds, with the hope that every child can one day see themselves in the pages of a book. A lover of anthropomorphic characters, she dreams of repping the next blockbuster animal novel or series. Her favorite feeling is being moved to tears by a book’s last chapter. Learn more about Renee here.

Shannon Lechon is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. In young adult, I am looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery/thrillers. In adult fiction, I am looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery/thrillers. In graphic novels, I am looking for young adult and adult fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, and horror. For graphic novels, I am only interested in taking on author/illustrators or author/illustrator duos. Please do not submit graphic novel proposals or scripts without either being an artist or having an artist attached. Learn more about Shannon here.

Nicole Payne is a literary agent with Confluence Literary. “In general, I represent young adult and adult fiction novels, preferably in romance, women’s fiction, literary fiction, mystery, suspense, thriller, and speculative fiction. They hold a special place in my heart. As I slowly delve into nonfiction, I would love to see more science-based books, especially biology and forensic, as well as medicine, travel, and cookbooks in my queue. I’m also actively seeking diverse voices and stories across the board. Give me all the books!” Learn more about Nicole here.

Bethany Jett is a literary agent with MacGregor & Luedeke. She seeks a variety of adult fiction, adult nonfiction, and children’s picture books. In adult fiction, she seeks: psychological thriller, domestic thriller, suspense, inspirational fiction, cozy mysteries, book club / upmarket, women’s fiction, romantic comedy, romantic suspense, magical realism (aka grounded fantasy like The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie), and select Christian fiction, particularly rom-com. In adult nonfiction, she seeks cookbooks, how-to, self-help, Christian living, lifestyle, home & garden, and gift. In children’s picture books, she leans heavily toward 1) Highly commercial concepts with strong hook appeal, like How to Babysit a Grandpa or How to Catch a Unicorn; and 2) Classic, literary-type prose or emotionally layered storytelling like BIG, The Rabbit Listened, or The Rough Patch. Learn more about Bethany here.

Bridgette Kam is a literary agent with Westwood Creative Artists. “I’m currently looking for upmarket & book club fiction and nonfiction for adults. I’m on the lookout for upmarket & book club novels (propulsive storytelling with beautiful and accessible language) and strongly encourage those submissions. I’m seeking high stakes contemporary novels with a big and unique hook (a secret, a mystery, a critical event and its fallout) that ask timely questions, spark important conversations, and subvert expectations. As someone who always has a classic in her TBR pile, retellings or reimaginings of global classics interest me, as well as stories inspired by mythology and folklore (though I’m not looking for sci-fi or fantasy). In nonfiction, I’m very keen to work with journalists, researchers, field experts, thought leaders, and emerging writers on full-length book projects about business, food, health & wellness, history, personal growth/self-improvement, pop culture, religion/spirituality, science, sociology, and sports. Though I represent a selection of children’s book writers, I’m only representing kidlit works by existing clients and considering referrals at the moment.” (No new children’s book pitches please.) Learn more about Bridgette here.

Olivia Emerick is a literary agent with Metamorphosis Literary Agency.  With her experience in the literary and theatrical spaces, she values collaboration, communication, and human stories. She is passionate about advancing authors’ careers while respecting their artistic visions. Outside work, she enjoys writing poetry and attending local theatre productions. Under the umbrella of commercial fiction for young adult and adult audiences, she is looking for manuscripts in the romance, fantasy, mythology, dark academia, dystopian, horror, and thriller genres. Learn more about Olivia here.

Mindi St. Peter is a Senior Literary Manager at BAMbooks. In fiction, she seeks: action/adventure, children’s, commercial, thrillers, family saga, fantasy, historical fiction, horror, humor, literary, upmarket, book club, middle grade, cozy mystery, new adult, young adult, picture books, psychological romance, sexy or cute rom-coms, and women’s fiction. In nonfiction, she seeks: humor, memoir, and pop culture. Favorite sub-genres: contemporary romance, contemporary YA, literary, middle grade, magical realism, narrative nonfiction, psychological thrillers, anything with witches, and romantasy. Mindi can only entertain previously unpublished works. Learn more about Mindi here.

Geffen Semach [SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS] is a literary agent with Westwood Creative Artists. Fiction: I am looking for general upmarket fiction; horror, thriller and suspense; sci fi, speculative, fantasy and romantasy; as well as select concept-driven romance and literary novels. I am drawn to genre-blending novels that tackle human complexity, thoughtful world-building, strong emotional resonance, and bold voices and concepts. I love novels with teeth that make me feel viscerally—either grounded or unsettled—and nuanced characters that feel both fresh and challenging.   Nonfiction: I am interested in journalism in the vein of social commentary, pop culture, politics, art and media; expert-driven writing relating to medicine and mental health, sex and relationships, and money; as well as exceptional memoir. For me it is the balance of an authoritative voice with accessibility. Particularly books that explore complex, often systemic issues—from politics to psychology to culture—told from a personal or human-centered lens. Please connect with me if you are an expert with a strong voice and an idea to share. I am happy to chat with writers who are at the beginning stages of forming an idea to craft a proposal together. I encourage submissions from underrepresented writers including 2SLGBTQI+, BIPOC, and/or disabled. Learn more about Geffen here.

Rachel Estep is a literary agent with D4EO Literary Agency. She is seeking: literary fiction; mainstream fiction; all types of middle grade and young adult (especially that centers underrepresented voices); voicey, high-stakes psychological thrillers; stories that mess with your head in the best way; gothic fiction that blends deep senses of foreboding with modern themes; true crime projects that dig deeper than the headlines and center empathy alongside the horror; queer romcoms that bring the banter, the swoon, the spice, and a whole lot of heart; historical fiction driven by complex, unforgettable women in the style of Marie Benedict. Learn more about Rachel here.

Najla Mamou is a literary agent with Savvy Literary Services. In nonfiction, Najla gravitates towards narrative nonfiction, true crime, memoir, biography, identity, business/economics, leadership, and stories inspired by lesser known people, professions and crafts (builders, designers, architects), musicians/artists/creators, daredevils, athletes, etc. In fiction, she seeks adult and new adult. She is prioritizing realistic sci fi thriller, military sci fi, unique sleuth mystery, intergenerational stories, strong female leads, migration/immigration, underrepresented protagonists (especially from marginalized communities), stories set in distant futures wanting to return to Earth and experiencing humanity, alternating timelines, backwards timelines, or dual timeline that interweaves a present-day investigation with a historical crime. In both fiction and nonfiction, she seeks underrepresented stories and writers across all genres. She is not requesting young adult, middle grade or children’s. Learn more about Najla here.

 

Sheila Madonia-Maberry is a literary agent with BAM Management. Sheila is seeking fresh voices across several genres. “I enjoy manuscripts that allow readers to experience cultures and perspectives different from their own. “I am primarily interested in representing: crime, thriller, psychological thrillers, domestic suspense, domestic thrillers; mystery (traditional and cozy); domestic fiction; historical fiction (covering adult, young adult, and middle grade); fantasy (historical fantasy, fantasy grounded in reality, cozy fantasy); horror; dystopian and speculative fiction (including middle grade and YA).” She also reps select young adult and middle grade projects across her genres. Learn more about Sheila here.

Paul S. Levine is a literary agent and the founder of Paul S. Levine Literary. He is also an attorney. His fiction interests include adventure novels, mainstream fiction, mysteries, romance, thrillers, and women’s fiction. His nonfiction interests include business/commerce, pop culture, how-to, self-help, politics/law, relationships, and sports. With almost 40 years of experience in the entertainment and book industries, Levine is one of the few lawyers on the West coast who also understands the world of book publishing; as such, he is able to act as both literary agent and publishing attorney for his clients. Learn more about Paul here.

Frannie Dove is a literary agent at The Caldwell Agency. “I love books that change and challenge the way we interact with the world, especially stories that explore the margins of the history books. I’m eager to champion stories that stir book club conversation, inspire readers to engage with their local communities, and bring people together around the dinner table. Genres I seek: historical fiction, narrative history, historical fantasy, comedic mystery, book club fiction, genre bended and blended fiction (especially with some history), science for the non-scientist, and essays with wisdom to share.” Learn more about Frannie here.

Kat Kerr is a literary agent with Donald Maass Literary Agency. Kat feels strongly about supporting programs like We Need Diverse Books and is passionate about creating space in this industry for those from historically marginalized communities. She is actively seeking to grow her client list and is particularly hungry for magical realism, literary leaning speculative (fantasy) and science fiction, women’s fiction, YA works with a lot of heart, and narrative nonfiction with something to say. In fiction, she seeks literary, upmarket, women’s, rom-coms, multicultural, speculative, magical realism, family saga, young adult, and select sci-fi and fantasy. In nonfiction, she seeks narrative nonfiction and journalistic nonfiction tackling current affairs and social justice issues, particularly covering topics of racism, immigration, LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, and poverty. She also represents select biographies and memoirs. Learn more about Kat here.

Gabrielle Harbowy is a literary agent with Corvisiero Agency. Gabrielle is seeking science fiction, fantasy, paranormal mysteries, queer romance, and genre-bending speculative fiction. She loves these genres in adult, new adult, and young adult fiction. She loves reading diverse books, characters that come alive and immersive worlds, and tropes turned on their heads. She would like to see queerness, neurodiversity, and disability represented and normalized, both in the world and on the page. ​Her passions include music, travel, tabletop roleplaying games, crocheting and needlepoint, tattoo art, everything Finnish (except lutefisk), outer space, and the Oxford comma. ​Note: Corvisiero Literary Agency does not represent already-published work, poetry, short story collections, or novella-length fiction at this time. Learn more about Gabrielle here.

Tali Shammas [SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS] is a literary agent with Storm Literary Agency. In adult fiction, she seeks fantasy (all sub-genres), horror, science fiction, thriller, mystery, romance, rom-com, suspense, women’s fiction, upmarket / book club fiction, and genre blends combining any of the above. She also represents pockets of both young adult and middle grade fiction. In nonfiction, she seeks funny, authentic, and brutally honest stories, like anything by Jenny Lawson and Belle Burden’s STRANGERS; unique and niche topics; and coffee table books. Learn more about Tali here.

Rebecca Love is a literary agent with Booker Albert Literary Agency. From a young age, she has been fascinated with epic worlds like LOTR and The Way of Kings. Books with romantic elements like Ella Enchanted, The Goose Girl, and The Cruel Prince all have places in her top ten. She also adores historical fiction like The Wednesday Wars and iconic masterpieces like Monica Hesse’s They Went Left, but her all-time favorite novel has to be the grounded fantasy The Scorpio Races. Her favorite tropes are houses-with-personality (think House of Leaves or The Haunting of Hill House), zombie apocalypses like in the book World War Z, and underwater worlds. Regardless of genre, Rebecca is looking for stories that have good pacing, grounded worlds, and believable characters. She is interested in fantasy of all kinds and anything that has a good hook. She loves YA and MG historical fiction. Learn more about Rebecca here.

Jeanne De Vita is a literary agent with Martin Literary Management. I’m currently open to most commercial genre fiction, and I especially encourage new authors, indie authors, and authors underrepresented in traditional publishing to pitch. I am always open to LGBTQIA+ authors and #OwnVoices stories. Genre fiction is my happy place: romance, romantasy, thriller, horror, mysteries, speculative fiction, and more. (She is not a good fit for contemporary YA, most memoir, middle grade, picture books, or Christian/inspirational.) Learn more about Jeanne here.

Diego Harrison is a literary agent with SBR Media. Diego’s his list is built around two things above all else: horror and romance, with dark romantic suspense sitting right at the intersection of both. He is actively looking for romance across its commercial subgenres, from contemporary romance and rom-coms to romantic suspense, dark romance, sports romance, small-town romance, and high-concept love stories. He’s equally hungry for thrillers, suspense, and horror, particularly psychological and domestic thrillers, high-concept suspense, and horror with an original premise. Mystery and crime elements are welcome, especially when they cross into these areas. He’ll also consider upmarket and book-club fiction with a strong commercial hook, as well as select middle grade and YA. Fantasy, romantasy, and science fiction are the exception rather than the rule for him. Learn more about Diego here.

 

            Pitches happen on the Saturday of an online event — in this case, October 10, 2026. More 2026 agents to be announced as they are confirmed. You can sign up for pitches at any time, or switch pitches at any time, so long as the agent in question still has appointments open.

These one-on-one meetings are an amazing chance to pitch your book face-to-face with an agent, and get personal, individual feedback on your pitch/concept. If the agent likes your pitch, they’ll request to see part/all of your book — sending you straight past the slush pile. It also gives you an intimate chance to meet with an agent and pick their brain with any questions on your mind.

(Please note that Agent/Editor Pitching is an add-on, separate aspect of the day, for only those who sign up. Spaces are limited for these premium meetings, and pricing/detail is explained below.)

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PRICING:

$189 — EARLY BIRD base price for registration to the 2026 FWW and access to all workshops, all days. (You also get 10+ additional free pre-recorded webinars on writing and publishing.) As of Summer 2026, registration for 2026 is now OPEN.

To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

Add $29 — to secure a 10-minute one-on-one meeting with any of our literary agents or editors in attendance. Use this special meeting as a chance to pitch your work and get professional feedback on your pitch. (Spaces limited.) If they wish, attendees are free to sign up for multiple 10-minute pitch sessions at $29/session — pitching multiple individuals. There is no limit. Here are quick testimonials regarding writers who have signed with literary agents after pitching them at prior Writing Day Workshops events. Our bigger, growing list of success stories can be seen here.

“I met Mai Nguyen at the Toronto Writing Workshop
and sold her manuscript to Simon & Schuster for six figures.”
– literary agent Carly Watters of P.S. Literary Agency

“I signed Sarah G. Pierce from the Seattle Writing Workshop,
and we recently sold her book to Orbit/Redhook.”
– literary agent Pam Gruber of Highline Literary Collective

“I met Amber Cowie at a Writing Day Workshops conference. We sold
her best-selling crime novel to Lake Union / Amazon.”
– literary agent Gordon Warnock of Fuse Literary

“I met my client, Dana Corbit Nussio, at the Michigan Writing Workshop.
Dana signed a new three-book contract with Harlequin Romantic Suspense.”
– literary agent Rachel Beck of Liza Dawson Associates

“I signed Nedda Lewers from a Writing Day Workshops event. Her debut
novel from Putnam Children’s was an Indie’s Introduce Best Book of 2024.”
– literary agent Kelly Dyksterhouse of Tobias Literary Agency

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Brian Klems, one of the workshop’s former instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Florida Writing Workshop attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 15-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

  • All types & genres of fiction for adults, young adults, and middle grade readers (virtual critiques): Faculty member Lorin Oberweger, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Memoir (virtual critiques): Faculty member Carlie Webber, a former literary agent, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Horror, fantasy, sci-fi, urban fantasy (virtual critiques): Faculty member Bob McGough, a published novelist, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss his thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • General fiction, contemporary, suspense, thriller, horror, romance, fantasy, young adult, cross-genre (e.g. horror romance or young adult fantasy), and memoir (virtual critiques): Faculty member Aimee Hardy, an author and editor, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Women’s, mainstream, science fiction, fantasy, romance, crime, thriller, mystery (virtual critiques): Faculty member Michelle McGill-Vargas, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Children’s picture books (virtual critiques): Faculty member Rosie Pova, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
  • More critique options possibly forthcoming.

REGISTRATION:

(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This Fall 2026 FWW is an Online Conference, October 9-10, 2026. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)

Are spaces still available? Yes, we still have spaces available. We will announce RIGHT HERE, at this point on this web page, when all spaces are taken. If you do not see a note right here saying how all spaces are booked, then yes, we still have room, and you are encouraged to register.

How to Register:

To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Brian Klems via email: WDWconference@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The FWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Brian plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Florida workshop specifically.

Refunds: If you sign up for the event and have to cancel for any reason at any time, you will receive 50% of your total payment back [sent by check or PayPal or CC refund]. The other 50% is nonrefundable and will not be returned, and helps the workshop ensure that only those truly interested in the limited spacing sign up for the event. (Please note that query editing payments and manuscript editing payments are completely non-refundable if the instructor has already started edited your work.)

Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Online Florida Writing Workshop.

2026 Florida Writing Workshops: April 17 (Orlando) and April 18 (Tampa)

Screen Shot 2016-12-25 at 10.34.26 PM.pngAfter many previous successful Florida events, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Florida Writing Workshops — two separate full-day “How to Get Published” writing events in Florida — Orlando (April 17, 2026) and Tampa (April 18, 2026).

These writing events are a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the events. All questions about the events regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Florida Writing Workshops! We are very proud of our many success stories where attendees sign with agents following events — see our growing list of success stories here.

(Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 17, 2026; and Tampa on Saturday, April 18, 2026. See you there.)

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

WHAT ARE THE EVENTS?

These are a pair of special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshops on Friday, April 17, 2026 (Orlando) at the Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown; and Saturday, April 18, 2026 (Tampa) at the Hyatt House Tampa Airport Westshore. In other words, the workshops are both one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more.

No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.

This event is designed to squeeze as much into one day of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents onsite to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s agent and editor faculty so far includes:

  • literary agent Andie Smith (Creative Media Agency) – ORLANDO
  • literary agent Kelly Thomas (Serendipity Literary) – ORLANDO
  • literary agent Erica Bauman (Aevitas Creative Management) – ORLANDO & TAMPA
  • literary agent Laurie Dennison (Creative Media Agency) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary scout Erika Staiger (Spencerhill Associates) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Shelly Romero (Azantian Literary) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Sarah Fisk (Tobias Literary) – ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH
  • literary agent Robert Wilson (Wilson Media) – TAMPA
  • literary agent Ritu Anand (D4E0 Literary) – TAMPA
  • and possibly more to come.

By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinator Chuck Sambuchino of Writing Day Workshops.

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

EVENT LOCATIONS & DETAILS:

(Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 17, 2026; and Tampa on Saturday, April 18, 2026. See you there.)

FRIDAY. APRIL 17, 2026:  Crowne Plaza Orlando-Downtown, an IHG Hotel, 304 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32801. Click here for a booking link to hotel guest rooms.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2026: Hyatt House Tampa Airport / Westshore. 5308 Avion Park Dr, Tampa, FL 33607. (813) 207-9500.

* * * * *

ORLANDO CLASSES (FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2026):

What you see below is a quick layout of the days’ events (Orlando first, then Tampa). The topics below are mostly set, but subject to change. You can see a more detailed layout of the day’s classes on the Schedule Page here.

There will be 1-3 classes/workshops going at all times during the day, so sometimes you may have your choice of what class you attend. Classes are subject to change.

8:30 – 9:30: Check-in and registration at the event location.

BLOCK ONE: 9:30 – 10:30

1. How to Write a Query Letter That Gets Agent Attention.
2. What the Heck is Agency?

BLOCK TWO: 10:45 – 11:50

1. Traditional Publishing vs. Self Publishing: The Pros & Cons of Each.
2. How to Master Dialogue.

LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: 11:50 – 1:15

Lunch is on your own during these 85 minutes.

BLOCK THREE: 1:15 – 2:30

1. “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest.
2. How to Sell a Nonfiction Book Proposal. 

BLOCK FOUR: 2:45 – 3:45

1. Open Agent Q&A Panel.
2. Why Agents Are Passing on Your First Page.

BLOCK FIVE: 4:00 – 5:00

1. Strengthening Your Character’s Voice.
2. How to Market Yourself and Your Books: Talking Author Social Media and Platform.

SESSIONS END: 5:00

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. Classes are subject to change. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

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TAMPA CLASSES (SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2026):

The topics below are subject to change. You can see a more detailed layout of the day’s classes on the Schedule Page here.

There will be 1-3 classes/workshops going at all times during the day, so sometimes you may have your choice of what class you attend.

8:30 – 9:30: Check-in and registration at the event location.

BLOCK ONE: 9:30 – 10:30

1. How to Write an Amazing Query Letter.
2. Understanding Scene Structure.

BLOCK TWO: 10:45 – 11:50

1. 15 Evergreen Publishing Tips — How to Control Your Writing Journey.
2. Worldbuilding as a Character: Putting Your World to Work.

LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: 11:50 – 1:15

Lunch is on your own during these 85 minutes.

BLOCK THREE: 1:15 – 2:30

1. “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest
2. Nonfiction Intense: Book Proposal Tips.

BLOCK FOUR: 2:45 – 3:45

1. Open Agent Q&A Panel.
2. Developing Compelling Characters.

BLOCK FIVE: 4:00 – 5:00

1. Why Agents Are Passing on Your First Page
2. How to Market Yourself and Your Books: Talking Author Social Media and Platform

SESSIONS END: 5:00

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. Classes are subject to change. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.

PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR:

Kelly Thomas (ORLANDO) is a literary agent with Serendipity Literary. Kelly considers herself a generalist who is drawn to lyrical writing and strong voices. She is interested in nonfiction (narrative nonfiction, memoirs, true crime, self-help, business, travel writing, photography, medical, STEM, psychology, health and fitness, music, food & drinks, cooking) and adult fiction (psychological thrillers, suspense, comedies). She enjoys working with musicians, television personalities, athletes, and other pop culture figures to help translate their stories or expertise onto the page. She also represents children’s books including picture books, middle grade, and young adult. The truth is often stranger than fiction, so Kelly is actively looking for the next great true crime manuscript with a murderous and methodical plot. Learn more about Kelly here.

Andie Smith (ORLANDO – SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS) is a literary agent at Creative Media Agency. In adult fiction, she seeks fantasy, romantasy, romance, speculative, and science fiction. In young adult, she seeks eco-fiction, contemporary, thriller, fantasy, and science fiction. In middle grade, she seeks mystery, contemporary, fantasy, and science fiction. In picture books, she enjoys authors, author/illustrators, and author/illustrator teams. She always has an eye out for diverse voices, underrepresented cultures, invisible disabilities. Learn more about Andie here.

Erica Bauman (SOLD OUT OF MEETINGS IN BOTH ORLANDO AND TAMPA) is a literary agent with Aevitas Creative Management. Erica represents a wide variety of authors across middle grade, young adult, and commercial adult fiction. She is most interested in commercial novels that feature an exciting premise and lyrical, atmospheric writing; imaginative, genre-blending tales; speculative worlds filled with haunting, quietly wondrous magic; fresh retellings of mythology, ballet, opera, and classic literature; sharply funny rom-coms; graphic novels for all ages; fearless storytellers that tackle big ideas and contemporary issues; and working with and supporting marginalized authors and stories that represent the wide range of humanity. Learn more about Erica here.

Laurie Dennison (SOLD OUT OF MEETINGS IN BOTH ORLANDO AND TAMPA) is a literary agent with Creative Media Agency. In adult books, Laurie seeks: Romance, Contemporary, Light fantasy/paranormal grounded in the real world, Book Club Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Domestic Suspense, Commercial Mystery/Thriller, Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative, Women’s Issues. In Young Adult books, she seeks: Contemporary, Suspense/Thriller/Mystery, Light Fantasy/Paranormal, Light Science Fiction. and Nonfiction. Learn more about Laurie here.

Shelly Romero (ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH) is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. She is seeking: science fiction; speculative fiction; horror (almost all subgenres & especially for all age categories); Honduran authors; stories by Latine/x authors from Central America and the Caribbean (including Afro-Latine & Indigenous Latine stories); playing with formatting such as mixed-media & epistolary novels that give the story a “found footage” type of vibe; anything comped to Guillermo del Toro, David Cronenberg, Clive Barker, John Carpenter, or Wes Craven; Catholic horror; gothic romance; grounded fantasy; midwestern gothic; southern gothic; vampires; Jewish stories especially if they are intersectional with BIPOC and/or queer characters; thrillers/mysteries (with non-cop protagonists); commercial fiction; slice-of-life a la One Tree Hill, OG Gossip Girl, The Sandlot, Real Women Have Curves, What We Do in the Shadows; historical fiction set during: Regency, Edwardian, & Victorian eras; post-WWII; 80s – 00s…but featuring BIPOC and/or queer characters; adult erotic fiction, especially featuring BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA characters in kink spaces; set during college and non-college bound post-high school. Learn more about Shelly here.

Erika Staiger (ORLANDO & TAMPA BOTH) is a literary assistant with Spencerhill Associates. She is acting as a literary scout for her agency at the events. On behalf of her co-agent, Erika is scouting for commercial fiction — new women’s fiction, romance, historical fiction, thrillers and horror. She is seeking exciting new voices that utilize elements of different genres to tell their story. Learn more about Erika here.

Sarah N. Fisk (SOLD OUT IN ORLANDO; STILL HAS MEETINGS OPEN IN TAMPA) is a literary agent with The Tobias Literary Agency, and is open to pitches for young adult of all genres, middle grade of all genres, adult romance, science fiction, fantasy, speculative fiction, and select nonfiction. They also take pitches for mysteries and thrillers via conferences only. Sarah especially loves fiction that is compulsively readable and social justice issues woven into commercial plots. Particular areas of interest include atmospheric fantasies, speculative mysteries, books that challenge societal norms, especially gender norms. Learn more about Sarah here.

Robert Wilson (TAMPA) is a literary agent with Wilson Media. His specialty is nonfiction. Of particular interest are works related to American history, sports, biography, memoir, religion/faith, politics, current affairs, music, and pop culture. Many titles represented by the agency have achieved bestseller status, most notably Bill Madden’s STEINBRENNER, a New York Times hardcover bestseller for 12 consecutive weeks. Learn more about Robert here.

Ritu Anand (TAMPA) is a literary agent with D4E0 Literary. In Kidlit, she seeks: Picture books, Middle Grade and Young Adult Novels. In Literary Fiction, she seeks: Drama, Fairy Tales and Fiction in Verse. In General Fiction, she seeks: Women’s Fiction, Drama, Humor, Realistic Fiction, Satire and Tragedy. In Historical Fiction, she seeks: Women’s Historical Fiction, Historical Romantic Fiction and Historical Fantasy. Diverse and underrepresented Voices are encouraged to submit. Learn more about Ritu here.

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ADDED ONLINE PITCHING: To ensure that writers have a robust and diverse lineup of agents & editors to pitch, 2026 Florida Writing Workshop attendees will have the ability to also pitch literary agents at a specific Writing Day Workshops *online* event that follows the 2026 FWWs on our calendar.

That event is the 2026 (Online) New England Writing Workshop, July 24-25, 2026, which will have 30-40 agents taking one-on-one Zoom virtual pitches.

This means that 2026 FWW attendees can have access to pitching all those online New England WW agents — pitches still at $29 each — without being a formal registrant for the online July 2026 event. (That said, if you want to formally register for the July 24-25 New England Writing Workshop and have access to all classes and panels, let us know, as there is a discount for confirmed Florida attendees.)

If you are interested in this added pitching opportunity, the first step is to get formally registered for a Florida conference. Following the conferences on April 17-18, 2026, we will be in touch with all Florida attendees and ask them if they want to partake in pitching online agents at the 2026 NEWW (July 24-25). At that time, you can communicate your pitch requests and purchase meeting time.

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        More 2026 agents to be announced as they are confirmed. You can sign up for pitches at any time, or switch pitches at any time, so long as the agent in question still has appointments open.

These one-on-one meetings are an amazing chance to pitch your book face-to-face with an agent, and get personal, individual feedback on your pitch/concept. If the agent likes your pitch, they’ll request to see part/all of your book — sending you straight past the slush pile. It also gives you an intimate chance to meet with an agent and pick their brain with any questions on your mind.

(Please note that Agent/Editor Pitching is an add-on, separate aspect of the day, for only those who sign up. Spaces are limited for these premium meetings, and pricing/detail is explained below.)

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PRICING:

$189 — EARLY BIRD base price for registration to either 2026 FWW event and access to all workshops, all day. Pricing is the same for both workshops. As of fall 2025, registration is now OPEN. The $189 price is the same for both separate events: Orlando (April 17, 2026) and Tampa (April 18, 2026). 

To register, click the button above, or email Chuck at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida event.

$309 — EARLY BIRD discounted base price for registration to BOTH the April 17 Orlando event and the April 18 Tampa event. To register, email coordinator Chuck Sambuchino at WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Florida events.

Add $29 — to secure a 10-minute one-on-one meeting with any of our literary agents or editors in attendance. Use this special meeting as a chance to pitch your work and get professional feedback on your pitch. (Spaces limited.) If they wish, attendees are free to sign up for multiple 10-minute pitch sessions at $29/session — pitching multiple individuals, or securing 20 minutes to pitch one person rather than the usual 10. Here are four quick testimonials regarding writers who have signed with literary agents after pitching them at prior Writing Day Workshops events. (Our bigger, growing  list of success stories an be seen here.)

“I met Mai Nguyen at the Toronto Writing Workshop
and sold her manuscript to Simon & Schuster for six figures.”
– literary agent Carly Watters of P.S. Literary Agency

“I signed Sarah G. Pierce from the Seattle Writing Workshop,
and we recently sold her book to Orbit/Redhook.”
– literary agent Pam Gruber of Highline Literary Collective

“I met Amber Cowie at a Writing Day Workshops conference. We sold
her best-selling crime novel to Lake Union / Amazon.”
– literary agent Gordon Warnock of Fuse Literary

“I met my client, Dana Corbit Nussio, at the Michigan Writing Workshop.
Dana signed a new three-book contract with Harlequin Romantic Suspense.”
– literary agent Rachel Beck of Liza Dawson Associates

“I signed Nedda Lewers from a Writing Day Workshops event. Her debut
novel from Putnam Children’s was an Indie’s Introduce Best Book of 2024.”
– literary agent Kelly Dyksterhouse of Tobias Literary Agency

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Chuck Sambuchino, one of the day’s instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Florida Writing Workshop attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 15-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

  • All types of middle grade; all types of young adult; and adult fantasy, sci-fi, and historical fiction (no horror or thriller) (virtual critiques): Faculty member Jillian Boehme, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Fantasy, historical fiction, horror, literary fiction, magical realism, mystery, romance, sci-fi, thriller, upmarket, women’s fiction, memoir, and young adult (virtual critiques): Faculty member Victoria Griffin, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • Children’s picture books (virtual critiques): Faculty member Rosie Pova, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
  • Romance, women’s fiction, domestic suspense, and young adult fiction (virtual critiques): Faculty member Swati Hegde, an author and freelance editor, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
  • More critique options possibly forthcoming.

How to pay/register — Registration is now open. 

To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Chuck Sambuchino via email: WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The FWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Chuck plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Florida workshop specifically.

REGISTRATION:

Because of limited space at the venues, each one-day workshop can only allow 150 registrants. For this reason, we encourage you to book sooner rather than later. 

Please note that these are in-person events. We at Writing Day Workshops plan both online/virtual as well as in-person events. This next FWW conferences are in-person events happening in Orlando on Friday, April 12, 2026; and Tampa on Saturday, April 18, 2026. See you there.)

Are spaces still available? Yes, we still have spaces available. We will announce RIGHT HERE, at this point on this web page, when all spaces are taken. If you do not see a note right here saying how all spaces are booked, then yes, we still have room, and you are encouraged to register.

How to Register: 

To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Chuck Sambuchino via email: WritingDayWorkshops@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The FWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Chuck plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Florida workshop specifically.

Refunds: If you sign up for the event and have to cancel for any reason at any time, you will receive 50% of your total payment back [sent by check or PayPal]. The other 50% is nonrefundable and will not be returned, and helps the workshop ensure that only those truly interested in the limited spacing sign up for the event. (Please note that query editing payments and manuscript editing payments are completely non-refundable if the instructor has already edited your work.)

Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Florida Writing Workshops.

Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Kimberly Monaghan of The Purcell Agency

Kimberly Monaghan is a literary agent with The Purcell Agency.

Kimberly’s corporate career includes leading teams and supporting professionals’ success as a human resources director, licensed counselor, career consultant, and coach. Her creative career spans three decades, encompassing roles as a magazine contributing editor, publicity assistant at Severn River Publishing, and a decade-long reviewer for School Library Journal.

Kimberly is also a traditionally published author, with credits from Chicago Review Press and Highsmith/Upstart. Her book Organic Crafts was featured in US Magazine after it was given to actress Julia Roberts as a baby shower gift, and it was referenced in the best-selling book Pregnant with the Stars. She is the host of the award-winning literary citizenship project, Books Uplift.

Currently building her client list as an Associate Literary Agent, Kimberly is looking forward to expanding it in the following genres:

Suspense/Thrillers (Romantic, Detective, Domestic, Legal/Action, Mysterious, Military, Psychological, Political, Police/Crime, and Spy)

Romance: (Inspirational, Sweet, and Contemporary—think Southern and Hallmark)

Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Gabrielle Harbowy of Corvisiero Agency

Gabrielle Harbowy is a literary agent with Corvisiero Agency.

Gabrielle has more than 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, from her entry into the field as a pricing analyst at Scholastic, to becoming a full-time editor and part-time writer. A third-generation reader of fantasy and science fiction, a love for the speculative is in her blood. Gabrielle was Managing Editor at Dragon Moon Press for a decade, has worked with award winners and international bestsellers, and is passionate about elevating the authors around her. A three-time published novelist, short story author, and award-nominated anthologist, Gabrielle has spoken, given workshops, and run D&D and Pathfinder games at numerous conventions. She is a member of SFWA, IAMTW, and the LGBTQ+ Editors Association.

Gabrielle is seeking science fiction, fantasy, paranormal mysteries, queer romance, and genre-bending speculative fiction. She loves reading diverse books, characters that come alive and immersive worlds, and tropes turned on their heads. She would like to see queerness, neurodiversity, and disability represented and normalized, both in the world and on the page. ​Her passions include music, travel, tabletop roleplaying games, crocheting and needlepoint, tattoo art, everything Finnish (except lutefisk), outer space, and the Oxford comma.

​Note: Corvisiero Literary Agency does not represent already-published work, poetry, short story collections, or novella-length fiction at this time.

Genres of Interest (Adult / New Adult / Young Adult):

Science fiction with feels: hard sci-fi, space travel, literary sci-fi, and hopepunk (but not military, time travel, dystopian, or climate sci-fi)
Immersive Fantasy: urban, epic, and everything in between, with a preference for secondary worlds (but not a fit for portal stories, and historical fantasy can be a tough sell)
Heists with paranormal/supernatural elements
Genuine Magical Realism (as distinct from urban fantasy)
Queer Romance and alternative relationship structures like polyamory (preferably with speculative elements, but willing to consider contemporary as well)
Speculative fiction that falls between the genre cracks

Gabrielle is not looking to acquire: nonfiction, graphic novels, horror, mystery or historical without speculative elements, children’s books, or religious fiction.

Elements Gabrielle is not a fit for include: dystopia, post-apocalyptic, global disaster, superheroes, child abuse, sexual assault, actual angels and/or devils, animal brutality, science-fantasy.

Elements Gabrielle is looking for:

Underrepresented own voices
Non-Western perspectives (like in the work of Tade Thompson or Fonda Lee)
Anti-colonialism themes (like in the work of Ciel Pierlot or CL Clark)
Disability representation and use of assistive devices (like in the work of Megan O’Keefe or Peadar Ó Guilín)
Neurodivergence
Characters with agency
LGBTQ+ and nonbinary characters
Sentient non-human (and non-animal) protagonists (like in the work of Aliette de Bodard or AK Larkwood)​

Some favorite books (by authors not already mentioned above) include:

The Wanderers by Meg Howrey
City of Dark Magic by Magnus Flyte
The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey
Hardwired by Walter Jon Williams
The Broken Earth series by N.K. Jemisin
Warped State by Jo Miles

Note: If your book comps to Terry Pratchett, Emily St John Mandel, Travis Baldree, or Becky Chambers, you may be better served querying another agent at Corvisiero. These are fine authors, but they aren’t a fit for my list at the moment. Thanks!
​
For word count, she hopes to see:

young adult between 60-90k words
​ adult fiction between 70-100k words

Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Annie Romano of Olswanger Literary

Annie Romano is a literary agent with Olswanger Literary.

“I accept submissions of adult fiction and select narrative nonfiction.

“For adult fiction, I am currently on the hunt for lighter fare with smart humor and a unique hook. I also am seeking upmarket and commercial fiction in the following areas: contemporary fiction, women’s fiction, sharp romantic comedy (do not send me romance if there’s no comedic element or original hook), psychological thrillers/suspense, mystery, and light/clever horror (not slasher/gore; think more Grady Hendrix-style for this). I welcome diverse narratives, including but not limited to LGBTQ+ and underrepresented ethnicities/cultures. I adore stories with humor, well-done ensemble casts, and plots that deliver the unexpected.

“Send me something unique that will make me laugh! I’d love to see book club fiction or something spooky and atmospheric. I will consider literary fiction so long as there is a discernible structure/plot; I am not the best fit for stories focused on an emotional or sensory journey—beautiful as the writing may be—if the storyline is vague or absent. I am not seeking historical fiction at this time. I’m not a match for science fiction/fantasy but will consider stories with light elements of fantasy or magical realism grounded in a familiar world (think The House in the Cerulean Sea). Note: I do not represent any children’s/YA projects.

Pitch her:

General Fiction
Upmarket
Commercial
Romantic Comedy
​Literary
Women’s Fiction
Contemporary
Multicultural
LGBTQ+
Suspense/Thrillers
Mystery
​Magical Realism
Light/clever horror (not gore-heavy)

Do NOT pitch her:
Science Fiction
​Fantasy
Military/Political Fiction
​Police Procedurals
Erotica
Children’s/Picture Books
Middle Grade
Young Adult
New Adult
Graphic Novels
​Memoir
​Poetry
​Screenplays

Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Ritu Anand of D4E0 Literary

Ritu Anand (TAMPA) is a literary agent with D4E0 Literary.

Ritu has been a passionate storyteller since childhood. As a writer herself, she is on the same page with other writers and applauds their creativity.

Because she believes no good story should ever be filed away in a drawer but be shared with the world, she wishes to represent debut voices as an agent.

Ritu is looking for: kidlit, literary fiction, general fiction and historical fiction.

In Kidlit: Picture books, Middle Grade and Young Adult Novels.

In Literary Fiction: Drama, Fairy Tales and Fiction in Verse.

In General Fiction: Women’s Fiction, Drama, Humor, Realistic Fiction, Satire and Tragedy.

In Historical Fiction: Women’s Historical Fiction, Historical Romantic Fiction and Historical Fantasy.

Diverse and underrepresented Voices are encouraged to submit.

Not looking for: I am not the right agent for Erotica, Paranormal or Sci Fi Fiction.