How do you scare your readers? How do you build terror and suspense and keep someone turning the pages well into the early-morning hours? Learn how to add an element of fear to your writing from our panelists, who are experts at sending shivers down peopleâs backs. Judi Rohrig, Richard Lee Byers, Tim Waggoner
There are people who dream about writing, and there are people who write and fulfill their dream. Get some pointers from writers and editors on how to attack the keyboard . . . every day. Topics covered include dealing with family, friends, discipline, and deadlines. Panelists: Jean Rabe, Judi Rohrig, Elizabeth Vaughan
Learn about one of the most well-established science fiction universes. With a long history of publishing top-line fiction, the professionals involved with MechWarrior (and Classic BattleTech) are ready to step up and let you know the state of the universe, what the editors are looking for, and where the newest markets are opening up. Discover new opportunities, or just come to find out about one of your favorite storylines. Panelists: Sharon Turner-Mulvihill, Loren Coleman, John Helfers
Got a favorite game or three? Have you ever wanted to try your hand at writing for publication? If so, listen to our industry experts who have made careers out of writing, editing, and publishing work-for-hire short fiction, novels, and game material. They will talk about the ins and outs of the field, the demands, and where you can go to find help and open doors. Questions welcome! Panelists: Jean Rabe, Loren Coleman, Tim Waggoner, Richard Lee Byers, Sharon Turner-Mulvihill
Slimy, squishy, furry, predator, prey, cold-blooded, blue-blooded, antennaed, bald, sneezing, tripodal, lusty, hungry... The choices available to make your Bug Eyed Monster and its motivations unique and interesting are vast, but there has to be logic behind your creation. Join our panelists as they discuss how to populate a story with believable otherworldly characters. Richard Lee Byers, Linda Baker, John Helfers, Tim Waggoner
Clothing, agriculture, trade, and the arts are details that can add life and realism to your fiction. Our panelists show you how to add just the right amount of âwindow dressingâ to your books and short stories. Kerrie Hughes, Elizabeth Vaughan, Chris Pierson, Linda Baker
Worldbuilding: Creatures, Magical Beasties, and Enchanted Locations
Description:
Sprinkling fantastical elements across your continents is fun. But how do you do it without making your world look like a mirror-image of whatâs already in print? Our panelists show you how to apply your own magical signature. Chris Pierson, Linda Baker, Kerrie Hughes, Richard Lee Byers
Setting the groundwork for a fiction or gaming world requires attention to the landscape. In the first of several sessions on worldbuilding we explore crafting the world your characters will walk upon. Panelists: John Helfers, Jean Rabe, Donald Bingle, Linda Baker, Paul Genesse
How do the characters in your stories and books govern themselves? Establishing the rules and the rulers, will enrich the world youâre crafting. Panelists: Linda Baker, Chris Pierson, Elizabeth Vaughan, Kerrie Hughes
Establish the rules for your worldâs magical pulse. Setting limits will actually give you limitless possibilities and improve your story. Panelists: Chris Pierson, Linda Baker, Jean Rabe, Kerrie Hughes