After many successful Seattle events, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Online Seattle Writing Workshop — a two-day online “How to Get Published” writing event November 6-7, 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 Online Seattle Writing Workshop!
(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This Fall 2026 SWW is an Online Conference, November 6-7, 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 Seattle event.
WHAT IS IT?
This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop, November 6-7, 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 “Seattle” 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 SWW agent & editor faculty so far includes:
- literary agent Monica Rodriguez (Context Literary)
- literary agent Ali McDonald (5 Otter Literary)
- literary agent Maggie Sadler (Howland Literary)
- literary agent Jackie Kruzie (Focused Artists)
- literary agent Kristina Sutton Lennon (Focused Artists)
- literary agent Diego Harrison (SBR Media)
- literary agent Eric Smith (Neighborhood Literary)
- literary agent Mindi St Peter (BAMbooks)
- literary agent Paul Levine (Paul Levine Literary)
- literary agent Nicole Payne (Confluence Literary)
- literary agent Kate Moody (Transatlantic Agency)
- literary agent CoCo Freeman (Linda Chester Literary)
- literary agent Jess Taylor (Martin Literary)
- literary agent Rebecca Love (Booker Albert Literary)
- literary agent Hailey Stephens (Rosecliff Literary)
- literary agent AJ Van Belle (Booker Albert Literary)
- literary agent Jane Chun (Transatlantic Agency)
- literary agent Stephanie Katz (GiraffeLight Literary)
- literary agent Tara Kimberly (D4E0)
- literary agent Jessica Larios-Zarate (Wave Literary)
- literary agent Mason Rowlee (DeFiore)
- literary agent Nephele Tempest (Knight Agency)
- literary agent Shelly Romero (Azantian Literary)
- literary agent Ruth Gila Berger (Red Sofa Literary(
- literary agent Gordon Warnock (Fuse Literary)
- literary agent Geffen Semach (Westwood Creative Artists)
- literary agent Elisa Moles (Painted Fire Literary)
- literary agent Alex Land (Mad Woman Literary)
- literary agent Kaylyn Aldridge (Metamorphosis Literary)
- literary agent Jeanne De Vita (Martin Literary)
- literary agent Erica Bauman (Aevitas Creative Management)
- literary agent Megan Frayser (Creative Media Agency)
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 Seattle event.
EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS:
(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This Fall 2026 SWW is an Online Conference, November 6-7, 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 (NOV. 6-7, 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, NOVEMBER 6, 2026
9:30 – 10:30: The Art of a Page-Turner: How to Craft an Unputdownable Book. This session focuses on the dynamics of a page-turner, including how to write chapter cliffhangers, build tension and promise, write unexpected twists, and what common mistakes to avoid — no matter what kind of book you’re writing.
10:45 – 11:45: Nail Your Query Letter: How to Pitch Your Book Like a Bookseller. This class breaks down how to craft a sharp, compelling pitch by thinking like a bookseller.
11:45 – 1:15: Break
1:15 – 2:30: How to Create a Long-term Writing & Publishing Plan. This workshop will look at the factors that influence opportunities for authors both in their writing and in their publishing paths.
2:45 – 3:45: Developing Compelling Characters. This sessions teaches how acting out a role helps in developing the character from the inside out.
4:00 – 5:00: The Essentials of Book Marketing. Looking for a way to cut through the noise and be able to promote your book successfully? This class is intended for both traditionally published authors and those who are self-publishing, and will go through all of the things writers can do to be good promoters, create buzz, and ensure their book has a long shelf life.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026
9:30 – 10:30: Your Must-Do Checklist Before You Submit. From researching agents to evaluating agency agreements and accepting an offer of rep, this class will demystify the submissions process and increase your chances of landing a traditional publishing deal.
10:45 – 11:45: Dial Up Your Dialogue: The Nuts and Bolts of Effective Fictional Convos. Learn exactly how to drive character, propel the plot, and keep readers hooked thanks to memorable, effective dialogue.
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 OWW attendees. Bring your questions and get them answered in this popular session.
4:00 – 5:00: Four Ways Book Authors Make Money from Publishers: How Authors Go from Fingers on Keyboard to Dollars in Bank Account. Examine the four major ways authors make money from traditional book publishing.
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:
Jess Taylor is a literary agent with Martin Literary Management. She reps young adult, new adult, and select romance. I’m open to any subgenre except tech-heavy science fiction. I adore fresh and unique concepts as well as tried-and-true tales. Retellings of myths, fairy tales, or classic stories are always appreciated, and I love a good paranormal romance (especially if there are mermaids). New Adult wishlist: I am specifically open to new adult romance titles featuring characters under twenty-five and focused on coming-of-age stories. Romance wishlist: Witchy and cozy fantasy romances will always be on my TBR pile. If you have a book like The Kiss Curse, Love’s a Witch or The Nightmare Before Kissmas, I want to read it. I know I love a book when I can’t stop thinking about it. LGBTQ+ books are always welcome, and previously self-published titles are considered on a case-by-case basis. Learn more about Jess here.
Monica Rodriguez is a literary agent with Context Literary Agency. “I gravitate towards stories about…identity, family relationships, and travel. I’m looking to uplift underrepresented voices in publishing. In children’s literature, I am currently looking for MG, YA & Graphic Novels. I also represent illustrators and comic artists. In adult fiction, I’m looking for contemporary romance, speculative, sci-fi, and book club fiction.” Learn more about Monica here.
Kate Moody is a literary agent with Transatlantic Agency. Kate represents authors in both adult fiction and no-fiction. She is seeking authors with strong platforms in nonfiction, including true crime, narrative, journalism, memoir, sports, current affairs and pop culture. In fiction, she is particularly interested in thrillers, psychological thrillers, family sagas, and stories that are dark, twisty, and complex. Kate is also drawn to authors whose exceptional writing can stand above a platform, as well as those who skillfully bend genres and execute multi-POV narratives with precision. Learn more about Kate Moody.
Kristina Sutton Lennon is a literary agent with Focused Artists. “I am drawn to upmarket fiction, picture books (particularly already illustrated), and non-fiction self-improvement books. I seek to champion underrepresented voices and am particularly scouting multicultural content, Indigenous and Latiné voices. I am not accepting screenplays, pitch decks, loglines or pilots.” In fiction, she seeks young adult fiction and romantasy (especially Hollywood Gilded Age, Regency era or Roaring 20s). In nonfiction, she seeks women’s wellness (menopause, perimenopause, pregnancy, and postpartum); career advancement; parenting; relationships; motherhood; climate tech; trad wives; foraging; financial literacy; crafting (beadwork, crocheting, embroidery, knitting). In picture books, she seeks underrepresented voices, particularly those of Indigenous or Latiné descent; books about being a community helper; stories that caregivers can enjoy reading just as much as children; humorous tone such as in Mr. S, The Leaf Thief, or !Tengo Hambre! (I’m Hungry!); multicultural books and bilingual books; fully illustrated picture books; books that encourage critical thinking and SEL; and economics (importance of saving). Learn more about Kristina here.
Ali McDonald is a literary agent with 5 Otter Literary. In sixteen years as an international literary agent, Ali McDonald has represented many award-winning and bestselling authors and illustrators. Specializing in children’s and young adult literature, she works on projects ranging from concept and novelty books, board books, picture books, early readers, chapter books, middle grade, young adult, and new adult fiction and nonfiction, and graphic novels. Learn more about Ali here.
Hailey Stephens is a literary agent with Rosecliff Literary. In general, Hailey is only looking for Adult novels, but she will selectively take on Middle Grade books if the manuscript will inspire a passion for reading. She would also love to champion authors from rural areas, especially authors from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and/or any other community that tends to be overlooked in rural areas. (This doesn’t mean the manuscript itself has to be based in a rural setting, although she always appreciates a good rural horror.) For Literary, Upmarket, and Contemporary fiction, Hailey wants vivid stories that pull the reader in right away, immersing them in the work the author has created. For thriller and horror, she wants stories that linger in the corners of the mind, with characters that feel like they’re in the room with the reader (for better or worse). Hailey will also selectively take on Adult Romance, and is hopeful there are still love story tropes out there that can be discovered or re-explored in a way that redefines the genre. In nonfiction, she is looking for both trade and literary proposals. She is especially interested in memoirs that play with the concept of time and structure. Learn more about Hailey here.
Nephele Tempest is a literary agent at The Knight Agency. Nephele continues to actively build her client list and looks for fiction with both strong, well-developed characters and a story that pulls her in and won’t let go. She primarily represents women’s contemporary or historical fiction; contemporary, paranormal, and historical single-title romance; and adult fantasy and science fiction. More generally, Nephele always looks for work with diverse cultural influences, #ownvoices projects, and stories that inspire and/or make her think. Learn more about Nephele here.
Jane Chun is a literary agency with Transatlantic Agency. Jane is particularly interested in stories that center marginalized communities and prose that is cinematic and atmospheric with good rhythm. In both fiction and nonfiction, she is drawn towards compelling, fresh voices that make her feel as though the writer is in the room with her, telling her their story with intimacy as if they were already acquainted. Regardless of how plot-driven a story is, characters with rich inner worlds and emotional depth are a must for her. She is interested in literary, upmarket, and commercial fiction across adult, MG, and YA and select nonfiction. She is also seeking graphic novels/nonfiction. In the fiction space, she is open to contemporary, historical, fantasy, sci-fi, speculative, and horror. In nonfiction, she is looking for memoirs; narrative nonfiction; history; investigative journalism; books about nature, climate, and science; and books about food, travel, pop culture, and cultural criticism. Learn more about Jane here.
Ruth Gila Berger is a literary agent with Red Sofa Literary. She is seeking: adult and young adult fiction that has a hook, nuance and heart; essay collections that show up in the wrong outfit, take a circuitous or unexpected route to writing, and question assumptions; narrative nonfiction with a story – especially if it marries two seemly disparate fields like art and mathematics, physics and cooking, birds and language, etc. I want to read experts who can charm and surprise me, make me laugh and never take a tone of intellectual superiority; memoir is where my heart lives but you have to knock my socks off and be connected to something in the larger world (must have a platform to sell) and graphic Novels, only if they are original, beautiful and funny. Learn more about Ruth 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.
Mason Rowlee is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Mason only represents adult books. He is seeking innovative, boundary-pushing literary fiction, engrossing upmarket and commercial fiction, and nonfiction that amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices in publishing. He is particularly interested in working with queer authors. For adult fiction, he loves: literary novels with genre elements (romance, fantasy, horror); explorations of LGBTQIA+ relationships, chosen families, and communities; expansive, big-hearted family sagas; unputdownable thrillers and horror novels with social commentary; coming-of-age adventures with small town antics; and novels that embrace the absurd. For adult nonfiction, he loves: narrative nonfiction about the inequity faced by marginalized communities; savvy pop culture reporting; biographies of obscure or underappreciated historical figures; well-researched, paradigm-shifting journalism; memoirs with strong, voice-driven writing; and disruptive self-help with a social justice component. Learn more about Mason here.
CoCo Freeman is a literary agent with Linda Chester Literary Agency. “I am a graduate of Bard College with a B.A. in Written Arts. Before joining Linda Chester, I worked for Tom Yoon Productions developing projects and editing existing material. I am very happy to have entered the world of my first love, books. I am looking for smart adult commercial fiction in a variety of genres, including mystery/thriller/suspense, fantasy, romance, women’s fiction and historical, Young/New Adult, Middle Grade and select picture books.” Learn more about CoCo here.
Shelly Romero 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.
Gordon Warnock 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.
Elisa Moles is a literary agent with Painted Fire Literary Agency. She is seeking: Especially interested in upmarket fiction. “In one word, what defines fantastic fiction narrative? Consequences. Consequences give structure. And stories with cohesive and creative structures, true to each writer’s background and voice, stand the test of time beyond the trendy topics and gimmicks of the day. I especially love psychologically complex characters. I’m looking for distinctive and compassionate voices who are telling organically unexpected stories in a wide variety of styles and genres. Surprise me.” Things you should NOT pitch her include: nonfiction, poetry, children’s books, middle grade, young adult, graphic novels, screenplays, westerns, horror, nihilist, or erotic work. Learn more about Elisa here.
Jackie Kruzie is a literary agent with Focused Artists. Adult Fiction wishlist: book club fiction, cozy mystery, historical fiction, horror, paranormal, romantasy, speculative, Western, supernatural, women’s fiction. “I love grounded speculative fiction where characters must keep their abilities hidden as they strive to right wrongs and exist in a world where fear of the unknown and misunderstood is prevalent. I love witches but not a big fan of vampires or werewolves.” Children’s Fiction wishlist: board books, chapter books, middle grade, picture books, and young adults. Learn more about Jackie here.
Stephanie Katz is a literary agent with GiraffeLight Media Agency. In fiction, she seeks comedy, traum-com, genre twists, classic Goth literature, contemporary women’s fiction, messy family dramas, coming-of-age stories, contemporary war dramas (post 1910; particularly with female protagonists), Cold war or contemporary espionage thrillers with female protagonists, fantasy, speculative fiction, magical realism, alternate realities, mysteries (female protagonists); LGBTQ fiction that is character driven (not agenda driven), unreliable narrators, and anything set in Ireland or Antarctica. In nonfiction, she seeks business leadership, macro-economics, investing, personal development, thematic memoirs, culinary nonfiction (excluding cookbooks), narrative nonfiction, narratology, self-help that is strongly researched, psychology, living with AI, inspirational nonfiction, Christian living that is well researched and open minded, social justice topics, wellness, travel, landmark legal cases, intelligence and whistleblowers, and journalism. Learn more about Stephanie 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. He is seeking romantasy, horror (love zombies!), thriller (domestic, crime, high concept — not paranormal), young adult (including YA across genres), middle grade, children’s picture books from author-illustrators, nonfiction and memoir with a properly construction prospectus / front matter, romance and romantic suspense, military action, crime fiction, mystery and cozies. He will consider select fantasy and science fiction if it has exceptional writing and a high concept pitch. Learn more about Diego here.
Erica Bauman 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.
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.
Alex Land is a literary agent with Mad Woman Literary Agency. She is seeking adult fiction, young adult fiction, and middle grade fiction in the areas of: Action/Adventure, BIPOC Literature, Fantasy, Folklore, Gothic, Historical, Horror, Humor, LGBTQ, Magical Realism, Mystery, New Adult, Psychological Thriller, Romcom, Science Fiction, South East Asian Literature, Speculative, Thriller. She is always enthusiastic about representing diverse writers. Learn more about Alex here.
Tara Kimberly is a literary with D4E0 Literary. She seeks: Romantasy, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, New Adult, Young Adult, Romance & Dark Romance. Tara is interested in primarily Romantasy (adult and young adult and new adult) with a focus on strong female characters and all consuming stories. She is a self diagnosed Romantasy addict and loves diving into lush worlds with complex characters and messy interpersonal relationships that teach us about our own lives. Learn more about Tara 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.
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.
Maggie Sadler is a literary agent with Howland Literary. She is seeking: literary fiction written in lyrical, artful prose with carefully crafted tension; iterary fiction with speculative flavors—let’s get weird; upmarket fiction, especially with emotionally complex characters who explore evocative settings; untold and/or underrepresented historical fiction (pre-twentieth century, please); urban fantasy/magical realism rooted in our reality; folk and fairy tale retellings—the more stunning the twist, the better; work from Indigenous/First Nations authors, as well as other historically marginalized and underrepresented voices; narratives that interrogate themes of cultural identity, femininity, family legacy, rebellion against tradition, and self-discovery from a fresh, unorthodox perspective. An experienced traveler, Maggie also welcomes nonfiction travel narratives depicting remote locations and thought-provoking encounters in a raw, authentic, and intentional narrative voice. Learn more about Maggie 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.
Mindi St. Peter is a literary manager at BAMbooks. In fiction, she seeks: action/adventure, children’s, commercial, crime, domestic thriller, erotica, family saga, fantasy, general, graphic novel, historical, horror, humor, LGBTQ, literary, middle grade, mystery, new adult, picture books, psychological thriller, romance, thriller, women’s fiction, young adult. In nonfiction, she seeks: humor, LGBTQ, memoir, pop culture. Favorite sub-genres: contemporary romance, contemporary YA, literary, middle grade, magical realism, narrative nonfiction, psychological thrillers. Learn more about Mindi here.
Geffen Semach 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.
Eric Smith is a literary agent at Neighborhood Literary, with a love for young adult books, literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and nonfiction. Eric is eagerly acquiring fiction and nonfiction projects. He’s actively seeking out new, diverse voices in young adult (particularly sci-fi and fantasy), middle grade, and literary and commercial fiction (again, loves sci-fi and fantasy, but also thrillers and mysteries). In terms of nonfiction, he’s interested in cookbooks, pop culture, humor, middle grade, essay collections, and blog-to-book ideas. 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.
Megan Frayser is a literary agent with Creative Media Agency. In adult books, she is seeking: contemporary romance, women’s fiction, book club fiction, mystery, thriller, horror, mythological retellings, dark academia, fantasy, and some nonfiction (true crime, sociology). In young adult books, she is seeking: contemporary, romance, fantasy, mystery, and horror. “Pitch me anything with found families, stories about a close group of friends, or a quirky cast of characters. I’m also always looking for stories that focus on minority voices, including neurodivergent, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disability, and mental health.” Learn more about Megan here.
Agent meetings for an online conference are on the Saturday of the event — in this case, November 7, 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 SWW 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 Seattle 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 Seattle 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.
- 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 SWW is an Online Conference, November 6-7, 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 SWW 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 Seattle 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 Seattle Writing Workshop.
