[NOTE: What follows is the faculty list as of January 9, 2013. There may be future adjustments. This page will remain in the "2013 Faculty" tab above and will be updated as new information comes our way.]
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We are happy to present the BR2013 faculty and classes list. Below is a list of our 40 plus faculty and the classes they plan to teach. As in all such endeavors, it takes a great deal of juggling to pull together a well-rounded, top-notch set of classes. We have classes for beginners to professionals.
Class designations:
We have different styles and lengths of classes. Following each class is a descriptor such as "workshop." You'll need to know what these mean.
Workshop refers to a class that covers all the intended material in a 1 hour, 15 minute sessions. Many of these will repeat through the week.
Continuing Class means the subject matter is taught over 3 or 4 sessions. These deal with material that can't be covered in a single workshop session.
Next.Level are classes intended for the experienced conferee. If you've attended a few conferences, then some of these classes may be for you. Next.Level classes can be workshops, continuing classes, or practicums. Speaking of practicums . . . These are ACT III classes (see below).
Our Practicums are hands-on clinics. Students share their material, or work on material in classes. Some practicums have limited enrollment. Be sure to review guidelines provided by the instructor to see class requirements.
Our goal is to make it easier for you to find and choose the classes you need. This year we are offering three levels of classes.
- Act I
- Act II
- Act III
Act I classes are the basics. This level is a good choice if you’re new to a particular discipline of writing, or if you want to reinforcYvone the foundation.
Act II classes cover more intermediate material. These are the majority of our classes and will build on some basic knowledge.
Act III classes are more advanced. These are for those who really want to take this particular discipline to the next level.
Agents
Sally Apokedak, Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency
Sally Apokedak is an associate agent with the Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency.
She has been studying, reviewing, and marketing children’s books, as well as giving writing instruction for a dozen years. As the manager of the Kidz Book Buzz blog tour she was privileged to work with best-selling and award-winning authors such as Jeanne DuPrau, Ingrid Law, and Shannon Hale. She is presently the YA contributor to Novel Rocket and she teaches at general market and Christian Writers’ conferences across the country.
She is interested in children’s books from picture books to young adult (Christian or general market), nonfiction for all ages (Christian or general market), and women’s novels (Christian market).
Find out more at sally-apokedak.com
Submit to Sally at submissions@sally-apokedak.com
Jonathan Clements, Wheelhouse Literary
Jonathan Clements has worked in the entertainment industry for more than 15 years, calling Nashville home for the full term. Although he has an extensive background in the music business, including artist management, development and career consulting, he found his true calling in 2005, beginning working with authors as a literary agent.
Jonathan founded Wheelhouse Literary Group in January 2010, after running The Nashville Group’s literary and licensing division for five years. He loves coffee, music, and the ever elusive well-crafted sentence. Therefore, you may just find him at the nearest trendy coffee shop, multitasking on his laptop, conducting client meetings, reading manuscripts, and well … grooving to the latest tune. Of course, the end result is helping writers communicate their passion to the masses, to encourage creative types in spreading their words, messages, and souls via book, film, television, music, or whatever new form of medium is yet to come down the proverbial path.
Wheelhouse represents commercial and literary fiction in the general areas of inspirational, historical, contemporary, military, as well as biography/memoir, sports, political, current events and pop culture non-fiction -- all with a values-friendly approach. Wheelhouse clients reach audiences with works projecting values-driven, hopeful messages, and / or family-friendly projects.
Jonathan prefers not to "drop names," but has worked with some of the more influential types within the entertainment and publishing worlds through the years, many culminating in New York Times list best-selling books, feature films, documentaries, and television series under his guidance. Always willing to listen to a pitch, or read a manuscript, you won't meet a more approachable agent. Just don't forget the coffee and the tunes. [ws]
Blythe Daniel, The Blythe Daniel Agency
The Blythe Daniel Agency, Inc. is a marketing and literary agency. We have 20 years experience with publishers, authors, media, and ministries in the publicity and literary representation of authors and their strategic messages. On our literary track, we represent: Adult and select young adult and juvenile non-fiction; Adult non-fiction books. We have represented CBA Bestsellers as well as new voices in publishing. We currently represent two Genesis Finalists and one Genesis Winner from the 2012 ACFW Genesis Contest. Our expertise lies in representing and promoting the works of inspirational-based authors and self-help, home and lifestyle books.
Blythe Daniel is a literary agent and publicist and has been working in the publishing industry since 1992 when she started as a freelance writer to magazines and as a host and news director for a radio station. She later became the publicity director and marketing director for Thomas Nelson Publishers and upon moving to Colorado to get married, she was the product development manager for John Eldredge before starting her agency.
In addition to contracting books with Christian and general market publishers for literary clients, she has had clients on the Today Show, Fox News, The 700 Club, The G. Gordon Liddy Show, USA Radio Network, The Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, LA Daily News, and other media outlets.
Jessica Kirkland is a literary agent with The Blythe Daniel Agency and handles all young adult and adult fiction for the agency.
INTEREST: We are looking for a limited amount of books that fit into these publishing categories: Non-fiction: Christian Living, Spiritual Growth, Current Events, Business/Leadership, Church Leadership, Women's Issues, Health, Marriage, Parenting, (some) Personal Stories, and New Voices (Pastors, Journalists, Contemporary Thinkers). We also represent some Bible studies given the right hook and subject matter. We represent a couple of middle grade reader series (especially looking for a good series for boys) and do represent some YA fiction and non–fiction that this age (13-18) is interested in.
Adult Fiction: We represent and are looking for: romance, historical romance, historical, romantic suspense, contemporary romance, contemporary, thriller, suspense, dystopian, and (some) speculative fiction.
YA fiction – We are looking for romance, suspense, and dystopian, and novels with crossover appeal.
** I would like your photo in your proposal if possible.
NOT INTERESTED IN: We are not acquiring devotionals unless the author has previously published and there is a clearly unique hook to the devotional. We are also only taking personal stories/memoirs that have a a distinct voice from similar ones and that have media interest/attention. We're not looking for fantasy, science fiction, or biblical fiction. We don't represent poetry, short stories, or picture books.
Diana Flegal, Hartline Literary Agency
Past Editorial Assistant to Joyce Hart for six years, and an agent for three, Diana represents Inspirational Fiction and Non Fiction in both the CBA and General Markets. Diana has been a medical missionary to Haiti, a women's speaker and Bible study leader and majored in Missions and Anthropology at Bible College. One of her life's highlights has been teaching apologetics to high school students as preparatory for college. Diana now lives in beautiful Asheville North Carolina.
Jessica Kirkland, Blythe Daniels Agency
Jessica Kirkland joined The Blythe Daniel Agency, Inc. as Marketing and Literary Agent in 2012, where she is the primary fiction acquisition agent. Jessica has a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications, and a minor in Marketing, from Sam Houston State University. She brings a lot of creative energy and innovative thinking to the publishing field. In addition to her skills in finding good talent Jessica also has a strong background in sales, which has led to the successful sales and positioning of her authors. She is a book app creator and enjoys spinning tales of truth for children to help them learn about Christ. Jessica writes on her own website www.iliveloud.net where she encourag! es people to make memories that matter. Jessica lives in Texas with her husband, Robb, and 6-year-old triplets. She can be bribed with hugs and gluten-free cupcakes.
Jessica is looking for:
- Adult fiction: Contemporary Romance, Historical Romance, Romantic Suspense, Suspense/Thriller
- Young Adult: Conflict—give me good layers of conflict.
- Middle Readers: I would love to see a unique middle reader. Remember, kids read up.
What she is NOT interested in seeing:
- Children's picture books
- Speculative fiction
- Historical
- Sci-Fi
Special notes:
Please complete a proposal and include four sample chapters—Michael Hyatt's fiction proposal format is a good guide. I'd also like a business card w/photo if possible. Make sure there are page numbers in your proposal. Questions to ponder for our meeting: What makes your manuscript unique compared to other writers in your genre? What marketing ideas do you have to help sell your novel? What other writing projects exist/could exist beyond the current manuscript? Your high school G.P.A. — just kidding. :)
Amanda Luedeke, MacGregor Literary
Amanda Luedeke is an agent with MacGregor Literary. One of her defining skills as an agent is her understanding of marketing and promotions. Before agenting, Amanda worked as a social media marketer and a copywriter at a marketing agency in Fort Wayne, Indiana. There, she worked with Vera Bradley, Peg Perego, Bejnamin Moore, and other major national clients.
Amanda represents CBA and general market literary fiction, romance, paranormal romance, women’s fiction, YA, science fiction, fantasy, horror, steampunk, African American fiction, and non-fiction.
Editors
Kim Bangs, Regal Books
For 23 years Kim Bangs has served in the Christian publishing industry. Beginning as an editor in the Children’s Curriculum Department at Gospel Light, she currently is the Contracts/Author Relations Manager for Regal (the book division of Gospel Light) and also serves as a part of the acquisitions team. In 2012 Kim was awarded Editor of the Year by AWSA. She also can be found at several writer’s conferences throughout the year doing all she can to inspire and encourage writers to write their passion and keep pressing on. She enjoys baking, gardening, Disneyland and sports…but loves Jesus and His Church.
Michelle Cox, (feature articles, nonfiction books) (updated 5-3-12)
Michelle Cox writes feature articles for WHOA Magazine for Women. She is a speaker, songwriter, scriptwriter, and the author of seven books. She’s the food blogger for the Fox News Radio website hosted by Todd Starnes, and has written for groups like Focus on the Family, Product Concept, Cracker Barrel, and The Buntin Group. Michelle is the creator of the Just 18 Summers® brand which will feature books, films (with Elevating Entertainment), music (with Lamon Records), and other products. She’s been a guest on numerous radio and television programs, is on faculty for writing and media conferences, has taught webinars for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild, and designed book trailers for Tentmakers Entertainment. Whew, she’ll figure out what she wants to do eventually! She’s been married to her favorite—and only—husband, Paul, for almost 39 years. They have three grown sons and five perfect grandchildren. Visit her at www.michellecoxinspirations.com.
Jeff Gerke, Marcher Lord Press
Jeff Gerke trains novelists how to better do what it is they’re trying to do. He trains through his three books for Writers Digest: Plot Versus Character, The First 50 Pages, and How To Write a Novel in 30 Days—and What To Do with It Next. He trains through his online video training program calledFictionAcademy.com, a part of BestsellerSociety.com. He trains through the many writers conferences he teaches at all over the country every year. And he trains through the freelance editing he does for his clients. Jeff is the founder of Marcher Lord Press, the premier publisher of Christian speculative fiction. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and three children.
Andrea Gutierrez, Thriving Family magazine
Andrea Gutierrez is a senior associate editor for Thriving Family magazine published by Focus on the Family. In addition to her everyday responsibilities of assigning and editing articles for the print magazine, she also gets to dream big and think about publishing as it relates to the digital space. During her time at Focus on the Family, she has also been a staff editor for the “Focus on Your Child” newsletters, Focus on the Family magazine, and worked as an editorial assistant for Breakawaymagazine. When she’s not working, Andrea likes to show up at yard sales and rifle through boxes of castoffs just for the sport of it. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado with her husband, Josh, and two daughters.
Eddie Jones, Christian Devotions Ministries/Lighthouse of the Carolinas Publishing
Eddie Jones is a North Carolina-based writer and Acquisition Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. He is a three-time winner of the Delaware Writers Conference and his Young Adult novel, The Curse of Captain LaFoote, won the 2012 Moonbeam Award in the Pre-Teen Fiction/Fantasy category and 2011 Selah Award in Young Adult fiction. Dead Man’s Hand, the first book in the Caden Chronicles mystery series, is now available from Zonderkidz.
He co-writes the He Said, She Said devotions, available at ChristianDevotions.us.
His latest adult novel, Bahama Breeze, is a humorous romantic suspense available from Harbourlight Books. Eddie’s recent devotional book, My Father’s Business: 30 Inspirational Stories for Discerning and Doing Gods Will, features Biblical insights and practical applications from the lives of Bruce Wilkerson, George S. Patton, Mother Teresa and more.
Terri Kalfas
Terri Kalfas has been with Hensley Publishing for over 20 years. Before that she wored as a journalist, and as a freelance writer and editor, Her goal is to publish Bible studies that convince people they should be reading the Word and not only reading books about the Word.
Susan King, The Upper Room, editor
Susan King, associate editor of The Upper Room daily devotional guide, also teaches English at Lipscomb University and functions as a seminar facilitator in leadership and group dynamics. Formerly she taught English and feature-writing classes at Biola University, served as book editor and radio-program producer/on-air talent for The Institute of Scriptural Psychology, and wrote magazine features as a freelance writer. Susan is married to her high-school sweetheart, Joe. They have three grown children and two grandchildren (both perfect, of course!)
Kim Moore, Harvest House
Kim Moore, a senior editor at Harvest House Publishers, has been in publishing for 17 years. Though she has a passion for fiction, Kim works with both fiction and nonfiction authors, including Mindy Starns Clark and Stormie Omartian. Kim is owned by three gorgeous cats, and she and her housemates make their home in the green and beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Vicki Moss, Southern Writers Magazine
Editor-at-Large for Southern Writers Magazine and an award winning poet and author of How to Write for Kids’ Magazines and Writing with Voice, Vicki was reared in Chattanooga, Tennessee during the week and raised on her family’s Appalachian Alabama farm on weekends. She attended the University of Tennessee, is a Precept Ministries Leader, Christian Communicators graduate, and had the privilege of assisting the late Dr. Spiros Zodhiates of AMG Publishing with his manuscripts. She’s written for Hopscotch and Boy’s Quest magazines for the last decade. She’s also published in South West Writer’s The Sage, Country Woman, In the City, Borderlines, and Scotland’s Thistle Blower.Selected to be a presenter of her fiction and creative nonfiction short stories for three conferences in a row at the Southern Women Writers Conference held at Rome, GA’s Berry College, Vicki continues to write about the South.
Rick Steele, editor, AMG Publishers
Bio to come.
Ramona Richards, Abingdon Press
An award-winning writer, editor, and speaker with more than 25 years experience, Ramona Richards is the Senior Acquisitions Editor for Abingdon Press. She’s edited more than 350 publications and has worked with such publishers as Thomas Nelson, Barbour, Howard/Simon & Schuster, and Harlequin, and many others.
The author of 8 books and a frequent contributor to devotional collections, Ramona has written sales training videos, feature film scripts, novels, gift books, Bible studies, biographies, cookbooks, and magazine articles. An avid live music fan, Ramona loves Nashville, which she’s called home since she was 10.
Cindy Sproles, Christian Devotions Ministries
Cindy Sproles is the co-founder and executive editor of Christian Devotions Ministries andwww.christiandevotions.us. She is a popular speaker at women’s retreats and conferences and teaches at writers conferences across the nation. Cindy is the co-writer of the successful He Said, She Saiddevotions and is the co-host of the nationally syndicated BlogTalk Radio show, Christian Devotions Speak UP! She is a contributor to CBN.com and is the director of Writers ADVANCE! Boot Camp Writers Conference. Cindy is the author of two devotional/inspirational books, one with her co-writer Eddie Jones and the most recent, a solo book, New Sheets: Thirty Days to Refine You into the Woman You Can Be. You may visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com or contact her for speaking engagements at cindyksproles@gmail.com.
Writers
Michele Adams, (children's, freelance)
Michelle Medlock Adams is an award-winning journalist and best-selling author, earning top honors from the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Hoosier State Press Association. Author of 58 books, Michelle has written more than 1,000 articles for newspapers and magazines since graduating with a journalism degree from Indiana University. Her book, Divine Stories of the Yahweh Sisterhood was named a Family Christian Bookstores Premiere Pick in 2006, and her children’s book, My Big Book of Prayers, won “The SELAH Award” for best children’s book in 2011. This year, Michelle celebrates the release of two new children’s books, God Loves You and God Keeps You Safe (Ideals Children’s Books) as well as the release of Kylie Bisutti’s story, I’m No Angel: From Victoria’s Secret Model to Role Model which she co-authored with Kylie. When not working on her own assignments, Michelle ghostwrites books for celebrities and some of today’s most effective and popular ministers. In fact, she helped pen a New York Times Bestseller in 2008. Michelle is also a much sought after teacher at writers conferences and universities around the nation, and she loves speaking to women’s groups, youth groups, and congregations, encouraging others to discover their destinies in God. Michelle is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeff, and they have two teenage daughters, Abby and Allyson, as well as a small petting zoo. The Adams family resides in southern Indiana and enjoys cheering on the Indiana University Basketball team and the Chicago Cubbies.www.michellemedlockadams.com
Dr. Joseph Bentz (novel, nonfiction books)
Dr. Joseph Bentz is published in both fiction and non-fiction, with four novels and four non-fiction books. His most recent book is Pieces of Heaven: Recognizing the Presence of God (Beacon Hill Press, 2012). He is a professor of English at Azusa Pacific University in Southern California, where he teaches courses in writing and American literature. Among the awards his books have received, his second novel, A Son Comes Home (Bethany House, 1999; republished by Randall House, 2007) won the Silver Angel Award, was selected for the Guideposts Book Club, and was chosen as one of the Top Ten Christian novels of the Year by Booklist magazine.
Bentz is a regular book reviewer for CBA Retailers + Resources magazine, which covers the Christian book industry, and he has published hundreds of other articles in magazines, journals and newspapers. He is a scholar of American novelist Thomas Wolfe, a native of Asheville, North Carolina, who immortalized the Blue Ridge area in such novels as Look Homeward, Angel (1929) and Of Time and the River (1935). Bentz is Articles Editor of The Thomas Wolfe Review. He has a Ph.D. and M.A. in American literature from Purdue University and a B.A. in English from Olivet Nazarene University. More information about his books and speaking can be found at www.josephbentz.com.
Dr. Jeffery L. Brown, nonfiction, media
Harvard psychologist Dr. Jeff Brown is a best-selling author and an assistant clinical professor at Harvard Medical School. A frequent media guest and witty, inspirational speaker, Jeff has written several books including his first book about integrity called The Competitive Edge: How to Win Every Time You Compete (Tyndale, 2007). In 2010, he co-authored The Winner's Brain: 8 Strategies Great Minds Use to Achieve Success (Da Capo, 2010) which has now sold in more than twelve languages. In 2012, Jeff authored two popular books for Chicken Soup for the Soul: Say Goodbye to Stress and Think Positive for Great Health.
Jeff has been cited as an expert by media outlets such as Good Morning America, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, ESPN, Real Simple, NPR, Time magazine, Better Homes and Gardens, and Family Circle. He also blogs for Psychology Today and is on the scientific advisory board for Runner's World magazine. He is the first-ever psychologist for the Boston Marathon Medical Team, a post he has held for over a decade. In 2010, he received an honorary doctorate from the University of Central Missouri for his contributions to sport psychology.
Jeff practices what he preaches and thoroughly enjoys helping others reach their potential by optimizing their brains to achieve goals. In his private practice, he consults with authors at various stages of career development, helping them to be productive, creative, and resilient. He and his wife Carolynne have one son, Grant. Visit Jeff's his website at www.DrJeffBrown.com complimentary, essential resources.
Daniel F. Case, (broadcasting)
Over his 40 year career in broadcasting, Daniel F. Case has worked in every facet of radio. In fact, at one point he was simultaneously the Chief Engineer, Local Sales Manager, Afternoon Drive Host, Production Director, Assistant Janitor and 50% of the sales force at a small-town radio station in Pennsylvania. He would have been the receptionist too, but he didn’t have the legs for it (and couldn’t type fast enough, either).
Dan stumbled into the writing world while doing daily radio commentaries on a station in St. Louis. After a couple of stunning embarrassments, he decided to write his commentaries in advance, and when he left that station two years later he found he couldn’t stop writing. He still can’t quit, even though he’s tried. His publishing credits include Christian Single, Marriage Partnership, Spirit Magazine and several regional magazines and newspapers.
For the past few years, Dan has focused exclusively on learning the art and craft of fiction. In 2008, Dan won First Place in the ACFW Genesis contest (Contemporary Fiction) and is now focused on Upper Middle Grade/Lower YA Fiction.
Dan lives in Little Rock, Arkansas with his wife Sharon and the three cats who employ them. He continues to support his writing habit by working as Director of Engineering/IT for the Little Rock market of Cumulus Media, Inc. When not writing, wrangling electrons or playing with techie toys, he enjoys torturing fine hardwood with power tools in his woodworking shop.
Mary Denman, (photographer)
Mary Denman is a writer who also loves photography. Or a photographer who loves writing. As a freelance writer, Mary has had articles published in various forms ranging from Focus on the Family publications to magazines to devotions to op-ed pieces. She has also completed her first novel and started her second. She's a member of several professional writing organizations including ACFW, My Book Therapy, and Word Weavers.
As a professional photographer, Mary has had photos published in both print literature and online. Her shots have been used by businesses and by fellow authors alike. Her philosophy is to catch a moment that reflects God’s beauty and creativity, whether in nature, in life or in the face of her subjects. And as a writer herself, she understands what authors need in a headshot. Mary blends the two mediums of writing and photography on her blog. www.marydenman.blogspot.com.
Lynette Eason, (novels)
Lynette Eason is the best selling, award winning author of the Women of Justice Series and the Deadly Reunions series. Since 2007, she has written/contracted thirty-two books. Currently, she is working on her third series for Revell and her sixteenth book for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line. She has won several awards and was a 2011 finalist in the prestigious Carol Awards Contest. Lynette is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). One of Lynette’s favorite activities is teaching at conferences and encouraging new writers. She and her husband and their two children make their home in South Carolina.
Eva Marie Everson, (novels, nonfiction books)
Eva Marie Everson is an award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction as well as an award-winning national and international speaker. She has worked closely with Israel Ministry of Tourism to bring Christian pilgrims and journalists to The Land of the Bible, teaches at writers conferences across the US and, in 2011, served as a adjunct professor at Taylor University in Upland, IN. Eva Marie is the president of Word Weavers International, Inc., made up of face-to-face critique chapters in the US and Canada. She is the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, a role she shares with Mark Hancock.
Eva Marie has worked with a number of publishers--and not because she is difficult to get along with. Among those she has been honored to work with are: Barbour, David C. Cook, NavPress, Baker Publishing Group, Broadman Holman, and Thomas Nelson. In 2012, B&H, along with Harbinger Media, honored Eva Marie by asking her to novelize the movie Unconditional. Eva Marie has been chosen to be a part of the Spirit of Naples Storytellers Conference, 2013. www.EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com
Aaron Gansky, MFA
In addition to being a loving father and husband, Aaron D. Gansky is a novelist, teacher, and editor of The Citron Review, an online literary journal. In 2009, he earned his M.F.A in Fiction at the prestigious Antioch University of Los Angeles, one of the top five low-residency writing schools in the nation.
He is the author of the novel The Bargain (2013, Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) as well as Firsts in Fiction: First Lines and (along with Diane Sherlock) Write to Be Heard. Currently, he is writing a YA Fantasy series called the Hand of Adonai which you can read athttp://handofadonai.wordpress.com/.
Dr. Alton Gansky, (novels, nonfiction books)
Alton Gansky is a full time writer, director of BRMCWC, and founder of Gansky.Communications. He is the award winning author of nearly 40 books. In addition to his own writing, he consults with publishers and writers. Through Gansky Communications he aids nonprofits, business, publishers, agents, and authors in producing the best in written communications. He has also written scores of videos, radio and television ads and other business productions. Prior to turning to full time writing, he was the senior pastor of a Southern Baptist church. In addition to his writing, he speaks to writers groups and church organizations.
Dr. Dennis Hensley, Taylor University
Dennis E. "Doc" Hensley is director of the Department of Professional Writing at Taylor University, where he holds the rank of full professor. Under his pen name of Leslie Holden, he has written a series of mystery-romance novels for Harvest House. His 54 published books include eight textbooks on professional writing, such as How to Write What You Love and Make a Living at It(Random House) and Teach Yourself Grammar and Style in 24 Hours (Macmillan). Dr. Hensley is a columnist for Christian Communicator and Advanced Christian Writer. He serves as a judge for the Evangelical Press Association Awards, the Christian Writers Guild First Novel Contest, the Christy Fiction Awards, and the Gold Medallion/Christian Book Awards. His newest book is Jesus in the 9 to 5(AMG Publishers).
Yvonne Lehman, (novelist)
Yvonne is an award-winning, best-selling author of more than 3,000,000 books in print, who founded and directed the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference for 25 years, is now director of the Blue Ridge “Autumn in the Mountains” Novelist Retreathttp://ridgecrestconferencecenter.org/event/novelist and mentors for the Christian Writers Guild. She earned a Master’s Degree in English from Western Carolina University and has taught English and Creative Writing on the college level. Her latest releases include ebooks for Barbour’s Truly Yoursline, and a series of three novels (The Caretaker’s Son, Lessons in Love, The Pirate’s Treasure) set in Savannah GA, to be released by Harlequin Heartsong in 2013. Her 50th novel is, Hearts that Survive – A Novel of the TITANIC (Abingdon). yvonnelehman3@gmail.com
Torry Martin, (writing, marketing)
Torry Martin is an actor, author, screenwriter, humor columnist, comedian, speaker, storyteller, teacher and an ADHD multi-tasker. He is a member of the Christian Comedy Association and a two-time Christian Artists Gospel Music Association Grand Prize Winner for his acting and writing abilities. Most recently he was awarded the Grand Prize for creating the best “Life Lessons” commercial for The Learning Channel (TLC).
Torry has written for the Adventures in Odyssey radio program produced by Focus on the Family and is the creator of Wooton Bassett, a popular character in the series. He additionally writes a regularly featured humor columnist for Christian periodicals Clubhouse, On Course, and Enrichment Journal.Martin has also had the great pleasure of co-writing several screenplays with his good friend Marshal Younger.
Martin travels nationally speaking and performing stand up comedy at a variety of Christian events. As an actor his most recently completed feature films are “The Greater Sins of Lucas Blackstone” and “Adrift”. Torry begins filming his upcoming roles in the faith-based films “Skid” and “My Name is Paul” in early 2013.
Edie Melson, (freelance writing, editing, nonfiction, social media)
Edie Melson is a leading professional in the writing industry. She’s a sought after writing instructor; and her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers all over the country. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, as well as a popular faculty member at numerous others.
She’s a prolific writer, publishing thousands of articles over the years, and has a popular writing blog,The Write Conversation. Edie is a regular contributor on the popular Novel Rocket and Inspire a Fire websites, as well as social media columnist for Southern Writers Magazine.
In keeping up with the leading edge of all things digital Edie has become known as one of the go-to experts on Twitter, Facebook, and social media for writers wanting to learn how to plug in. Her bestselling eBook on this subject, has been updated and expanded for re-release in late January 2013. Look for Connections: Social Media and Networking Techniques for Writers in the My Book Therapy Bookstore.
Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home, released in 2011. This devotional book for those with family members in the military shares Edie’s story of how she dealt with a son at war, as well as stories from others who’ve faced this heart-rending issue.
She’s a member of numerous professional writing organizations, including the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, The Christian Pen and American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s also the Social Media Coach for the My Book Therapy Core Team, and the Assistant Acquisitions Editor forwww.ChristianDevotions.us.
Debroah Raney, novels
Deborah Raney dreamed of writing a book since the summer she read Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House books and discovered that a Kansas farm girl could, indeed, grow up to be a writer. After a happy twenty-year detour as a stay-at-home mom, Deb penned her first novel, A Vow to Cherish, which won a Silver Angel Award and inspired the acclaimed World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Since then, her books have won the RITA Award, HOLT Medallion, ACFW Carol Award, National Readers' Choice Award, as well as twice being finalists for the Christy Award. Deb teaches at writers' conferences across the country. She and her husband, Ken Raney, love small-town life in their native Kansas––the setting for many of Deb's novels. They have four children and four precious grandchildren who all live much too far away. Visit Deb on the Web at www.deborahraney.com.
Janet Roller, music/worship
Since being named Miss South Carolina 1997, Janet has used her gift of music communication to encourage and entertain groups of all sizes from Carolina to California.
Janet is a published author, songwriter, musician, recording artist, worship leader, Bible teacher and inspirational speaker.
A resident of Forest City, NC, Janet and her husband Matt enjoy each day with their two children, Sam and Darby.
Jim Rubart, (novels, marketing)
James L. Rubart is the best-selling, award winning author of four novels. Publishers Weekly says this about his latest, ““Readers with high blood pressure or heart conditions be warned: [Soul’s Gate] is a seriously heart-thumping and satisfying read that goes to the edge, jumps off, and “builds wings on the way down.” During the day he runs Barefoot Marketing which helps authors make more coin of the realm. He lives with his amazing wife and two sons in the Pacific Northwest and loves to dirt bike, hike, golf, take photos, and still thinks he’s young enough to water ski like a madman. More atwww.jameslrubart.com
Vonda Skelton, (novels, public speaking)
Vonda Skelton is a busy speaker, member of National Speakers Associations, who loves teaching other speakers through her Christian Communicators Conferences. She is co-owner of the Southern Christian Women's Conferences and The Story of a Woman's Life: Reading Between the Whines. Vonda also loves to write and is the author of four books, including Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe and the 3-book Bitsy Burroughs Mysteries. Her latest novel,Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island, was nominated for a SIBA book award. Her articles have appeared in HomeLife, Focus on the Family publications, ParentLife, ChristianSingle, New ManMagazine, and many others. Vonda is a frequent instructor at writers conferences, and loves encouraging writers through her Christian Writer’s Den blog. She is a playwright and lyricist, and enjoys performing in church and community theater. And if you have a magnifying glass, you may even be able to catch her in an occasional movie! Vonda and her husband, Gary, have been married all their lives, and are still happy about it! Want a laugh? Check out her YouTube video, Solomon's Beloved here: http://tinyurl.com/5fedyj For more information about Vonda's speaking ministry, take a look at her demo DVD on YouTube:http://tinyurl.com/33l27js. Check out her Christian Writer's Den blog and her website atwww.VondaSkelton.com.
Todd Starnes, (Nonfiction)
Todd Starnes is the host of Fox News & Commentary – a daily commentary heard on hundreds of radio stations around the nation. He writes a daily blog read by more than 2 million people. He is also a regular guest on Fox & Friends and Hannity. Todd has covered news from the White House to Wall Street. His writing has been described as a cross between Lewis Grizzard and Erma Bombeck. He is the author of two books, the most recent being “Dispatches From Bitter America.” His writing has been endorsed by Sean Hannity, Sarah Palin, and Jerry Jenkins. Todd is the recipient of the Edward R. Murrow Award and the Associated Press Mark Twain Award. He is a frequent speaker at churches and Christian colleges.
Cecil Stokes, (Visual media)
Cecil Stokes founded Tentmakers Entertainment in 1999. He has executive produced and/or produced more than 1250 television shows for the networks such as A&E, Court TV, DIY Network, ESPN, Fine Living, Food Network, HGTV, History Channel, the Travel Channel and Turner South. For his Television programming, Cecil has won Cable Ace, Communicator, New York Film Festival, and TElly awards. He also won an Emmy for his work on the show "Blue Ribbon." Cecil executive produced two award winning documentaries A MAN NAMED PEARL and CHILDREN OF ALL AGES. He has created commercials for BMW, Cadillac, Hyundai, the State of California, Sara Lee, and Kohler.
Beth Vogt, (Nonfiction, fiction)
Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of a former Air Force family physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. She’s discovered that God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.”
An established magazine writer, Beth now lives life on the “Dark Side” of the writing road. Her first novel, Wish You Were Here, debuted May 2012 (Howard Books). Catch a Falling Star released May 2013, and a third novel is slated for May 2014. Beth writes inspirational contemporary romance because she believes there’s more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.
Before a season of burnout refocused her writing dreams, Beth was the editor of Connections, MOPS’ leadership magazine. She was also a contributing editor to MOPS’ MomSense magazine and wrote abimonthly column for MOMSnext, an e-newsletter for moms of school-age children. Beth’s first book, Baby Changes Everything: Embracing and Preparing for Motherhood after 35, is a MOPS brand book (Revell 2007).
Beth is also the Skills Coach and Mentor for best-selling author Susan May Warren’s writing community My Book Therapy (MBT). She oversees the MBT StoryCrafters Online Writing Course, which connects writers with a mentor and helps them learn the fundamentals of writing a novel.
Beth enjoys speaking to both women’s and writing groups and considers it a privilege (and a lot of fun!) to mentor other writers. A quote aficionado, Beth connects with both her readers and other writers through her blog, In Others’ Words.
Susan May Warren, (Novels)
Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty-five novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Book of the Year. A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!
She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.
A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: www.susanmaywarren.com.
Rusty Wright, Amy Foundation Representative (articles)
Rusty Wright is an award-winning author, journalist, syndicated columnist and lecturer who has spoken on six continents. His columns have appeared in mainstream newspapers across the US and have been used worldwide by over 900 websites – Christian and secular – in any of 14 languages. He frequently presents at Evangelical Press Association conventions and has published in many EPA magazines such as Christianity Today, Decision, Worldwide Challenge, Plain Truth, Physician and Pentecostal Evangel. He holds a Bachelor of Science (psychology) and Master of Theology degrees from Duke and Oxford universities, respectively.
Pam Zollman, (Children's)
Pam Zollman is the award-winning author of 40 children’s books and numerous short stories and articles. Her middle-grade novel Don’t Bug Me!(Holiday House, 2001) has been translated into other languages. It was a Sunshine Sate Young Reader book, in the Florida Battle of the Books, and was one of Bank Street College of Education’s Best Books of 2002. A Chick Grows Up(Scholastic, 2005) was an honor book for the Maryland Blue Crab Readers Choice Award in 2006. Many of her books are included on school and library reading lists, and her Life Cycle series for Scholastic have been translated into Spanish. Her short story, “Millie’s Garden,” won first place in Highlights for Children’s annual fiction contest in 1996.
Looks GREAT! Hope to be there
Posted by: Pepper | 01/10/2013 at 06:33 AM
Is there a list of classes available?
Posted by: Cynthia A. Lovely | 01/12/2013 at 11:28 AM