July 18-20, 2025 | Grand Rapids, MI
2025 Conference Faculty
Our Keynote Speakers
Classes Kathy Will Teach
Writing Deep Viewpoint: A two-part elective
Deep Viewpoint can convince your readers that they have become your characters. This powerful writing-craft skill set includes showing instead of telling, maintaining story flow, attributing dialogue effectively, and showing characters interacting with convincing antagonists and believable settings.
New York Times bestselling science fiction author Kathy Tyers will condense a powerful set of writing-craft tools into just two hours!
Kathy Tyers Gillin
Kathy Tyers’s conference badge says “Elder of the Tribe” for a good reason: she has been professionally publishing science fiction since 1987. Kathy is widely known for two licensed Star Wars Legends novels, including New York Times bestseller The Truce at Bakura, and several Star Wars-related short stories. Her hard science fiction standalone novel, Shivering World, received the 2019 Christy Award in the Visionary category.
Yet her heart remains firmly tractor-beamed to her award-winning Firebird series, introduced by Bantam Books and now with Enclave Publishing. A new Firebird novel, Firebreak, is a 2026 Enclave release, and two more books are planned in a Firebird Interlude Trilogy that takes place roughly midpoint in the original five-book series. Kathy writes adventure-romance science fiction with plausible science, intense peril, and a deep heart. She also authored the craft book, Writing Deep Viewpoint: Invite Your Readers Into the Story, for the Christian Writers Institute.
Kathy holds degrees in microbiology, education, and theological studies, and she was a semiprofessional musician for many years. Attending Realm Makers is a high point of any year when she can get here. At home in southwestern Montana with her husband, retired pilot Bill Gillin, she now focuses on writing, music, and short-season vegetable gardening. Ask her about the “Firebird” tomato variety that she trialed in her garden this year–and about her beautiful grandson!
Steve Taylor
Filmmaker and Recording Artist
Steve Taylor earned his “Renaissance Man” stripes (Prism Magazine) from a body of work that’s garnered him multiple Grammy, Billboard, Telly, Addy and Dove awards and nominations. As a recording artist, he’s sold over one million albums, garnered two Grammy nominations for Meltdown and Squint, and made history as the only artist to twice win Billboard Music Video Awards for self-directed music videos. He also fronts the rock band Chagall Guevara, whose latest album Halcyon Days released in 2022.
His resume as a record producer includes the Platinum-certified Sixpence None The Richer and three Gold-certified albums for the Newsboys, with all four albums earning Grammy nominations. His greatest success as a producer came with Sixpence None The Richer’s #1 international smash hit “Kiss Me,” as well as the band’s follow-up hit, “There She Goes.”
His filmmaker resume as a writer/director includes The Second Chance for Sony, and Blue Like Jazz, based on Donald Miller’s New York Times bestselling memoir, which premiered at the South By Southwest Film Festival and won the 2013 Wilbur Award for Best Feature Film, joining past winners The Help, Schindler’s List, and Dead Man Walking. He’s the producer of the feature films Sun Moon for Sony Affirm (filmed in Taiwan); and SKETCH starring two-time Emmy winner Tony Hale of Arrested Development and Veep fame, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and grossed $10M at the worldwide box office. He’s also producer of the new kids animated series The Dead Sea Squirrels from VeggieTales co-creator Mike Nawrocki.
Steve serves as Filmmaker-In-Residence at Lipscomb University, and lives in Nashville with his wife, the artist D.L. Taylor.
Continuing Sessions
Carla Hoch
Continuing session
Carla Hoch is an award-winning writer, trained fighter and professional educator who regularly teaches on the craft of writing fight scenes, action and violence as well as the mechanics of fighting for writers. She is the author of the Writer’s Digest book Fight Write: How to Write Believable Fight Scenes and Fight Write, Round Two: Crafting Chaos, Combat and Crime. Carla is a writer for Writer’s Digest Magazine and the WD Blog as well as an instructor for both Writer’s Digest University and Writing Mastery Academy. Her award-winning blog, FightWrite.net, has been named in Writer’s Digest 100 Best Site for Writers six times.
Carla is a world champion jiujitsu player and has experience in almost a dozen fighting styles. She lives and trains outside Houston, Texas.
Classes Carla Will Teach
Christine Cohen
Continuing session
Christine is the director of the Camperdown MFA program at New Saint Andrews college. Her first two books are The Winter King (2020 Christy Awards finalist) and The Sinking City. Her debut middle grade novel, The Second Greatest Thief, will be published with Viking Penguin in Spring of 2027.
She is represented by Lindsay Auld at Writer’s House
Classes Christine Will Teach
From Good to Great: How a Unique Voice Can Transform Your Novel
Christine’s content will come to attendees in several segments, including time to do some hands-on application.
Learn from the Greats: A Deep Dive into Different Authorial Voices
By studying samples from famous authors, students will learn how to identify the different stylistic choices that make a writer’s voice memorable. Students will have time in class to practice imitating the voices they found most compelling. They’ll also learn how to incorporate their favorite techniques into their own writing.
Changing Novels, Changing Voices
Many authors vary voice when they write a new novel, and yet their authorial voice still shines through. In this class, students will learn the difference between the voice of the author and the voice of the story. They’ll study how audience, genre, mood, and main character all influence the choice of voice. And they’ll have time to experiment with different voices for their own works in progress.
Tara Grayce
Continuing session
A full time indie author, Tara Grayce writes romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky leading ladies, and broken heroes. She is a lifelong fantasy geek with a growing collection of swords, a few cosplay costumes in her closet, and a Narnia-themed guest bedroom (aka Spare Oom).
Classes Tara Will Teach
The Christian Indie Author Life in the General Market
Should a Christian Write General Market Fiction?
As a Christian, there is a lot of pressure to make writing a mission and ministry. For a Christian writing for the general market, this can create a lot of soul-searching. Is writing for the general market less worthy and less Biblical? Should a Christian even write for the general market?
Staying Physically, Mentally, and Spiritually Healthy Writing for the General Market
Writing for the general market can create a lot of pressure to churn out more and more books, especially in the indie side of the market. If you’re writing for the general market, odds are you are trying to make a profit from your books. But this can lead to neglecting your health, especially your spiritual health.
Publishing for the General Market
An overview of tips and tricks for publishing for the general market, with a focus on indie publishing.
Nova McBee
Teen Track
Nova McBee is a producer, screenwriter and award-winning author of the Calculated series, which is currently in production to become a major motion franchise with OneDoor Studios and Apelles Entertainment. Nova is a Seattle native who has lived nearly half her life in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, which is why her stories are always full of international diversity and rich perspective.
Classes Nova Will Teach
The Teen Workshop
How can you become an epic storyteller of binge worthy novels when you’re just starting out? Story is KEY. Come learn the secrets to storytelling that apply to both screenwriting and novels, Nova shares how she perfected her craft, learned the industry, and soon became a best-selling, award winning author with both publishing and film deals.
Jumpstart to Story Structure, Plotting, and Pacing
You have a relatable character, a beautiful world, a killer concept, now all you need is that incredible way to put each part into story! Story structure, plotting, and pacing are essential to writing a compelling story. Come learn fundamental structure, helpful plotting tools, pacing tips, and page-turning hacks!
How to Create Suspense, Tension, and Mystery in Your Novel
A great novel doesn’t need to be fast paced, but it does need to be laced with mystery, tension, suspense and unanswered questions to drive the plot forward. Learn specific techniques on how to craft these elements into your story. This session also includes 4 tips on creating a killer first chapter! We will also cover messy middles and worldbuilding
Elective Instructors
Ronie Kendig
Electives
Best-selling, award-winning author Ronie Kendig is a believer in the power of a good romantic trope and an even better plot twist. She has spent most of her life in Texas with her hunky hero, enjoying barbecue and peach cobbler, which they—sometimes—share with Benning the Stealth Golden and AAndromeda the Military Working Dog washout. Ronie’s degree in psychology has helped her pen novels of intense, raw characters. Connect with Ronie via her website or on Instagram!
Classes Ronie Will Teach
Refining Fire
Learn to take the dull dross of your manuscript and put it through the refining fire of tough edits that make your story shine! Discover what creates depth and distinction in characterization, how to fuel setting so your readers live and breathe your storyworld, why being ruthlessness in your edit means a better, tighter story—not just because of word count!—as well as psychological tools that trick minds into melting into our story.
Crews and Codes: Digging Deeper with Character Relationships
Why did Samwise Gamgee work so well paired with Frodo? Why do underdogs steal the day—and sometimes the story? Dig deep with Ronie to understand why some characters spark off each other, and why some don’t. We’ll hone characters and their relationships so they not only play off each other but sharpen one another, as well as discover how to write razor-sharp banter. Learn how to align character relationships to complement and inflame the story (hello, plot!), so readers beg your hero to stop being so brave (because they end up in bad spots) and cheer on those beloved underdogs.
Steve Laube
Electives
Steve Laube, a literary agent and president of The Steve Laube Agency, has been in the book industry over four decades, first as a bookstore manager where he was awarded the National Store of the Year by CBA. He then spent many years with Bethany House Publishers where he was named Editor of the Year by AWSA. Over twenty ago he became an agent where he and his agency have represented over 2,500 new books and Steve been twice named Agent of the Year by ACFW. He was also inducted into the Grand Canyon University Hall-of-Fame by their College of Theology. In addition, he is the Publisher of Enclave Publishing and serves as president emeritus of The Christian Writers Institute. He is the author of the annual Christian Writers Market Guide, Write Your First Novel (with Gilbert Morris), and The Chosen Presents: A Blended Harmony of the Gospels (with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins). His office is in Phoenix, Arizona.
Classes Steve Will Teach
The Spiritual Life of a Writer: The Peril of Both Failure and Success
The writing life has its pitfalls on both the roads to success and the path of “failure” and self doubt. Learn how to thrive no matter what part of the journey you’re experiencing.
Writing Quality Fiction
What exactly makes a book Christian fiction? How can you craft a story that shines a light on a Christian worldview that’s excellent in both its craft and impact? Join Steve Laube for insight on the mission of storytelling.
Z.S. Diamanti
Electives
Z.S. Diamanti is the award-winning author of the Stone & Sky trilogy, an epic fantasy adventure, and the Fables of Finlestia cozy fantasy series, which includes Guard in the Garden. In 2025, Zac received the honor of being named Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer of the Year. He went to college forever and has too many pieces of paper on his wall. He is a USAF veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and worked in ministry for over 10 years. He and his wife live in Colorado with their four children, where they enjoy hikes and tabletop games.
Connect with him on social media: @zsdiamanti
Classes Z.S. Will Teach
Selling Books on TikTok
TikTok Shop is the real deal and people are bought in! Whether you’re a debut author trying to come out the gates swinging, or you have a great backlist to offer readers, the time to sell books on TikTok Shop is now. It doesn’t have to be overcomplicated. In this presentation, award-winning fantasy author, Z.S. Diamanti, breaks down TikTok and TikTok Shop into easy-to-understand nuggets and gives you practical steps to implement on your own. Come learn the ins and outs of TikTok Shop and how to sell loads of books!
Making Magic with Reader Magnets
If you’ve done much research on selling books, you’ve likely noticed a vast general consensus that an author newsletter is a must! Reader Magnets are what get readers to subscribe to your newsletter. Seems simple enough, but what are reader magnets, really? What do they look like? How do you make them? What do you do with them after you make them? What should they do? Maybe you’ve even tried to make some, but they don’t seem to be doing what you hoped they would. In this presentation, award-winning fantasy author, Z.S. Diamanti, demystifies what he considers to be one of the three foundational pillars for author growth. Let’s make magic with reader magnets.
Marilyn Kretzer
Electives
Currently a senior acquisition editor at Blackstone Publishing, Marilyn Kretzer has over 35 years of experience in the publishing industry. Her roles have ranged from acquisitions and rights sales, including: international, subsidiary rights and editorial acquisitions and contracts. She has a strong network across the industry, including with agents, editors, and rights professionals. Previously, she held key roles at Sterling Publishing as Rights and Editorial Director, and at Scholastic as Acquisitions Manager.
Classes Marilyn Will Teach
Understanding Rejections
Why does a publisher pass on a manuscript? Marilyn will take you through the acquisition process from pitch receipt to pass and help you understand the many factors that make a book a “no” …or maybe just a “not at this time.”
Emily Bain Murphy
Electives
Emily Bain Murphy is the USA TODAY bestselling author of two historical mysteries for adults, The Ivory City and Enchanted Hill. She is also the author of two young adult fantasies: The Disappearances, which was a Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year, an ALAN Pick, and was shortlisted for the Waterstones’ Children’s Book Prize; and Splinters of Scarlet, which received multiple starred reviews and was nominated for the Mark Twain Readers Award. Lightseekers: A Kingdom of Shadows is Emily’s middle grade debut.
Classes Emily Will Teach
Writing Across Age Categories and Genres
Are you a storyteller with the desire to write for different age categories and genres? This session will discuss how to tell stories that target each audience–what differentiates them, and what are the universal themes that weave through them all.
Capturing Atmosphere
Learn how to make your atmosphere tangibly come alive by creating immersive scenes that engage all of the senses and invite your reader to experience the story in a deeper way.
Bunmi Ishola
Electives
Bunmi Ishola is a senior editor at Penguin Random House, specifically acquiring books for young readers ages 0-18 in the Christian space. Before becoming an editor, she worked as a journalist and middle school teacher. Born in Texas, raised in Nigeria, and having lived all across America, Bunmi currently calls Los Angeles home.
Jamie Foley
Electives
Award-winning sci-fi/fantasy author Jamie Foley loves strategy games, homesteading, and running away into wild nature to write. When she’s not designing bespoke book interiors or typesetting, she’s probably battling red wasps with her teal lightsaber. She and her technomancer husband live with their hyperactive spawnlings in a hobbit hole between the Texas Hill Country and the family cattle ranch.
Classes Jamie Will Teach
Offline Marketing: Selling Actual Books at Actual Locations (Like an Actual Boss)
In the vast digital marketplace, our books must compete with thousands of books in the same genre—not to mention the ever-changing algorithms. But the Internet isn’t the only place to sell books. Attend this class to learn about the advantages of in-person book sales, how to design your table and swag affordably, and how to market your books at bookstores, libraries, schools, local events, and more.
Level Up Your Launch: Build Your Book’s Character Sheet with Epic Marketing Strategies
Launching a book can be overwhelming, even for experienced authors. This class will tackle many marketing strategies, organizing them into easy-to-understand categories (especially if you’re a gamer). Learn the advantages and pitfalls of various promotions, how to get the most out of your book cover reveal, how to handle swag and shipping affordably, and more. Then craft a launch timeline tailored specifically to your strengths and your book’s genre—and begin your adventure without an inventory full of stress.
Mark Gottlieb
Electives
Mark Gottlieb is the Executive Vice President and a leading literary agent at Trident Media Group, one of the most prominent agencies in book publishing.** Known for his record of securing hundreds of notable book deals across genres, Mark combines deep industry expertise with a hands-on, strategic approach to author representation. He has guided debut and established writers alike to bestseller lists, major awards, and cross-media opportunities in film, television, audio, and translation. A frequent speaker at conferences and educational programs, Mark is recognized for his data-driven insights into the publishing landscape and his commitment to building long-term, career-shaping partnerships with authors.
Classes Mark Will Teach
Indie vs. Traditional: Choosing (and Sequencing) the Right Path
A clear, concise guide to understanding the advantages of each publishing route—and how to strategically choose or combine them to build a successful author career.
From Page to Screen & Audio
A quick, practical overview of how books are adapted for film, television, and audiobook formats—and what authors need to know to navigate these opportunities.
Morgan L. Busse
Electives
Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of multiple series including THE RAVENWOOD SAGA, SKYWORLD, and THE NORDIC WARS. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and winner of the INSPY, the Carol, and the Realm Award in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel. Visit her online at www.morganlbusse.com.
Classes Morgan Will Teach
The Art of War
How do you incorporate a war into your story without it feeling like a historical documentary or a long sequence of battles? In this class, we will look at:
-what to consider when starting and ending a war
-the complexities of war
-how to spread a war through multiple books and keep the tension high
-make each battle feel different
-make it character driven
-not bore your reader.
Soul Care
How do we write when our souls feel heavy and disappointment has in? Or life feels rushed with deadlines, marketing, and constant social media? How do we find inspiration when trauma hits, health issues arise, and our lives are in chaos? If you find yourself burned out and not sure how to continue writing, I want to invite you back to a quiet place of healing where you can remember again how to create with your Creator.
Pre-conference Session
Mark Gottlieb is the Executive Vice President and a leading literary agent at Trident Media Group, one of the most prominent agencies in book publishing.** Known for his record of securing hundreds of notable book deals across genres, Mark combines deep industry expertise with a hands-on, strategic approach to author representation. He has guided debut and established writers alike to bestseller lists, major awards, and cross-media opportunities in film, television, audio, and translation. A frequent speaker at conferences and educational programs, Mark is recognized for his data-driven insights into the publishing landscape and his commitment to building long-term, career-shaping partnerships with authors.
The Pre-conference Session Detials
This year’s pre-conference workshop happens on Wednesday, June 24 from 1 pm to 6 pm. It will cover a wide array of career topics that apply to any author, regardless of publishing plans for a first or next book.
The Business of Authorship: End to End
A comprehensive, step-by-step guide that walks writers through the entire publishing journey—from developing a market-ready manuscript to navigating agents, contracts, marketing, and long-term career strategy.