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June 23-26, 2027

Book Editors

Appointments with Book Editors

The first 30 to register for the conference are eligible for a 4th appointment. Their appointments will be scheduled in the order they registered. After that, appointments will be scheduled on a first come basis.
 

The deadline for requesting appointments is June 10.

See Our Appointment Process for important details.
Be prepared to email the following to
whaconferenceappointments@gmail.com 
no later than June 12.

One Sheet that includes
Title, Audience, Brief Overview, Comparative Books, Marketing Plan

First Page of Manuscript
12-pt Times New Roman font, double-spaced, 1" margins

Be sure to watch the videos on preparing your one sheet and attend the live Practice your Pitch sessions with
DiAnn Mills – Fiction
Karen Whiting – Nonfiction
See 
Pre-Conference Opportunities
The pitch sessions are only open to conferees.

 

Editors from traditional publishing houses are highlighted in green.


Everything is Eastern Time

Continuing Sessions
Thursday & Friday: 11:15 – 12:15 and 3:15 – 4:15
Saturday, 11:15 – 12:15
 

James Burd Brewster
President, J2B Publishing
Author

 


Jim is the president of J2B Publishing, an Indie press established in 2014 and dedicated to publishing “Good Books for Young Boys and Girls.” He is the author of the successful “Glad To Do It!” series of 21 picture books which highlight the public service of first responders and nurses. They are unique in that they honor first responders by basing each story on a real rescue.

Jim was raised in New England, sailed on Lake Champlain, and served a career in the United States Coast Guard, which included navigating a polar icebreaker above Alaska. He and Katie, devout Christians, raised and homeschooled five children, have eight grandchildren, and recently moved to coastal North Carolina.

Workshop 6E – Children’s Picture Books: The Complete How-to  (Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35)
Jim will walk you through the complete process from initial concept to ready-to-print, fully formatted files. Includes picking a children’s book genre, genre appropriate concepts/words, verse vs. prose, illustrations vs. photographs, finding and hiring an illustrator, and working with an illustrator. 

Editorial Interests – J2B Publishing
Publishes children’s picture books, enjoyable and accessible poetry, devotionals, personal testimonies, short stories, anthologies, and compilations. Their specialty is publishing new authors.


Marlene Bagnull

Marlene Bagnull  
Conference Director
Author, Editor, Speaker
writehisanswer.com
Publisher, Ampelos Press

Marlene is the director of the conference (her 68th) and the publisher/editor of Ampelos Press, dedicated to helping Christians self-publish affordably yet professionally. She has over 1,000 sales to Christian periodicals and is the author of  eleven books including Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers (in print for over 30 years) and her newest book, Write and Live His Answer NOW – Encouragement to Impact Our Culture. She is also the compiler/editor of four other books. 

Pre-conference Opportunity – Nonfiction One Sheet 
Beyond explaining what needs to be included on your nonfiction one sheet and why, Marlene shares some of her journey to publication in “Who Me?” Click here for sample one sheet and video.

Round Table – Replacing disappointment, discouragement, doubt, and despair with courage, faith, and hope.

Editorial Interests – Ampelos Press
Nonfiction: Culture/contemporary issues

Fiction: Issues fiction
Children & YA: Missions-oriented books, especially regarding the needs of children
Other: I’m glad to answer questions about indie publishing, and I also welcome the opportunity to pray for you.


Tamara Clymer 
President/CEO
CrossRiver Media Group
Author

 

Tamara (or Tami as her friends call her) used to work in television and newspaper newsrooms as a reporter and photographer. Then she turned in her camera and keyboard for a life publishing Christian books . . . and she hasn’t looked back.

Born and raised in the Midwest, Tamara earned a journalism degree from Kansas State University in the early 90s. Soon after, she started working in T.V. and newspaper newsrooms, covering everything from local school board meetings to terrorist attacks. In the process, she realized God was calling her to do more with her writing—something with an eternal impact.

In 2010, she founded CrossRiver Media Group, a Christian publishing company that helps women build a battle-ready faith. CrossRiver has become a tiny powerhouse in the Christian publishing world. It has produced several award-winning books including Christian Small Publishers Books of the Year and SELAH Award winners. Tamara encourages her authors to use the words God has given them for His glory, and she teaches writers at Christian writers’ conferences across the country to do the same.

Her high school sweetheart, Shad, went home to the Lord recently. They were married more than 35 years. Tamara enjoys an empty nest life that includes a devoted Pug and a grumpy cat ironically named Gracie. When she’s not publishing books or enjoying her family, you’ll find her savoring a cup of hot chocolate, camping under the stars, or losing herself in a good book. 

Workshop 3H – The Book Review Roadmap (Friday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Turn reader feedback into your book's greatest asset. Learn to navigate the world of book reviews – earning more of them, using them effectively, and handling the dreaded negative ones with grace. Learn practical strategies to encourage reviews, leverage them for marketing, and build lasting reader engagement. Whether you’re a new author or a seasoned writer, this workshop will equip you with the tools to harness the power of reader feedback to boost credibility, increase sales, and strengthen your author brand. Don’t leave your reviews to chance. Unlock their full potential!

Workshop 6H – Inbox Influence: How to Attract Readers and Grow Your Email List (Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35)
A thriving email list is the backbone of a successful author career—but where do you start? Tamara will walk you through the step-by-step process of building a quality email list the right way. Learn how to attract your ideal readers, create irresistible lead magnets, and grow your list without relying on social media’s ever-changing rules. Whether you’re starting from zero or looking to grow faster, this workshop will equip you with the tools to turn casual visitors into loyal subscribers who can’t wait to read your next book!

Critique Group – Friday 4:30 – 5:10 – Nonfiction

Editorial Needs – CrossRiver Media Group
Nonfiction: Bible studies, Christian living/ministry/evangelism, culture/contemporary issues, devotionals, discipleship/personal growth, marriage/family/parenting, memoir/personal experience, prayer & spiritual warfare, women’s interests

Fiction: Biblical fiction, contemporary, historical, historical romance, legal/political thrillers, romance, southern, suspense/crime/mystery, women’s fiction

Overworked Topics: American historical fiction, memoirs

Helpful Tips: Come prepared with your elevator pitch. Don’t tell me the whole story. Hook me and reel me in.

Guidelines for Writers: crossrivermedia.com/manuscript-submissions


Cheri Cowell
Founder / Acquisitions
EABooks Publishing
Author


Cheri is the founder of EABooks Publishing. She is both a traditionally and independently published author and award-winning author of 365 Devotions for Peace (Zondervan) and Parables and Word Pictures Bible study (AMG Publishers). Her other books include Direction: Discernment for the Decisions of Your Life (Beacon Hill) and One Story, One Mission, One God Bible Study. She’s published over 500 articles and countless devotions. Cheri has a unique approach and grace when working with authors to bring their dreams to reality. 

Workshop 1H – Marketing into Ministry (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
No one wants to hear about you and your book after the third week of your book’s release, so how do you market your book without talking about your book? Learn the proven strategy that turns marketing into ministry AND sells books.

Editorial Interests – EABooks Publishing
Bible studies, children’s books, crossover books, devotionals, memoirs, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.


Shane Crabtree
COO, Christian Book Services LLC/
Clovercroft Publishing Group

 

Shane took over day-to-day operations at Christian Book Services from Larry Carpenter in January 2021, and hasn't looked back since. He serves as a guide, a sounding board, and occasionally a GPS for authors navigating the winding road of publishing—helping them skip the detours and get their work into the world where it belongs. Nothing makes him happier than seeing an author hold their finished book for the first time.

Round Table – Friday, 12:30 – 12:55 

Editorial Interests – Christian Book Services LLC
Nonfiction: all
Fiction: all
Children & YA: all
Other: gift books, humor, poetry
Overworked topics: Memoirs are tough sells unless used as a lead magnet for speaking engagements.


Amy Deardon 
Publisher, EBook Listing Services
Award-winning Novelist, Nonfiction Author 
amydeardon.blog
   Unable to be with us. We will schedule her Learning Lab
       for a Saturday.


Amy had a literary agent before she discovered self-publishing. Later, she founded Ebooklistingservices that helps authors self-publish while they keep all rights and profits. She has published more than 75 books for clients and a few of her own as well.

Amy loves good stories and coaches writers to help them bring their work to life. She speaks regularly at conferences on story structure, writing habits, and ways to publish and market.

Check out the Free Downloads page on amydeardon.blog for helpful articles and a Death-by-Chocolate Brownie recipe that is amazing!

Learning Lab – Marketing Magic (Wednesday, 3:45 – 6:00)  Cancelled. We will schedule for a Saturday
Congratulations on finishing your book! But with a new book published on Amazon every five minutes, how do you stand out? This learning lab covers essential marketing tactics to help launch your book and drive sales. Learn how to optimize your book’s quality, build your website and mailing list, lead your ARC team, leverage ads and platforms like Story Origin and BookBub, and tap into out-of-the-box strategies. It takes effort, but with the right plan, amazing sales are within reach. Let’s make it happen!

Editorial Interests – EBook Listing Services
Nonfiction: all
Fiction: all
Guidelines for Writers: Create a one sheet and logline. ebooklistingservices.com


David E. Fessenden 
Editorial Coordinator, CLC Publications
Publisher & Proprietor, Honeycomb House Publishing LLC
Literary Agent, WordWise Media Services
Author

Dave has degrees in journalism and theology, and over 30 years of experience in writing and editing. He has served in editorial management positions for Christian book publishers and was a regional editor for the largest Protestant weekly newspaper in the country.

Dave has published eight books, written hundreds of newspaper and magazine articles, and edited numerous books. He is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences. Two of his books, Writing the Christian Nonfiction Book: Concept to Contract and A Christian Writer’s Guide to the Book Proposal, are based on his experience in Christian publishing. 

The Case of the Exploding Speakeasy, Dave’s first novel, reflects his love for history and for the Sherlock Holmes stories of Arthur Conan-Doyle. Dave is currently pitching his second novel to publishers. Figman O’Firth is about a Scottish storyteller at the cusp of the Renaissance. His most recent published title is How to Be a Wise Guy, a preteen study of the book of Proverbs.

Workshop 5F – Writing Sidebar and Discussion Questions (Saturday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Your nonfiction article or book manuscript will be more salable with strong sidebars and discussion questions. This workshop gives tips on how to produce these valuable additions.

Round Table -Thursday, 6:30 – 6:55

Critique Group – Friday, 4:30 – 5:10 – Historical fiction

Editorial Needs – CLC Publications
Nonfiction: Books Military Related, Bible Studies, Christian Living, Ministry, & Evangelism, Church Growth, Life * Renewal, Culture Contemporary Issues, Curriculum, Devotions, Discipleship & Personal Growth, How-To/Teaching, Men’s Books, Prayer & Spiritual Warfare, Women’s Interests

Greatest Areas of Interest: books that draw believers to a deeper walk with Christ

Overworked Topics: New-believer material; fiction masquerading as a nonfiction book (e.g., allegory); books addressed only to women on a topic that men also would be interested in.

Helpful Tips: Books that clearly have been bathed in prayer, contemplation, and rigorous study of Scripture are most likely to appeal to us.

Guidelines for Writers: clcusa.org/publishing

Editorial Interests – Honeycomb House Publishing LLC
Nonfiction: all *
Fiction: all *

* Honeycomb House Publishing is a subsidy publisher—the author pays production costs. I am open to any Christian nonfiction or fiction, as long as the author recognizes the need to hire an editor to look over their text and a designer to do their cover. 


Liana George
Co-owner, Operations Manager
& Marketing Director, Scrivenings Press
Author and Speaker
 

Liana is the author of the Hopeful Heart Series (Perfectly Arranged, Perfectly Placed, and Perfectly Matched), a collection of clean, uplifting women’s fiction, as well as a speaker and the co-owner, operations manager, and marketing director of Scrivenings Press. In her role, she helps guide the company’s day-to-day operations and oversees all marketing efforts. When she’s not working with writers, you can usually find her traveling, reading, or laughing her way through a good game of tennis.

Learning Lab – AI: Author Friend or Foe? (Wednesday, 3:45 – 6:00)
In this practical and encouraging session, Liana walks authors through what AI is, how it works, and how to use it ethically without compromising their voice or calling. You’ll learn key AI terms, explore real-life applications for writing and marketing, and discover how to set personal boundaries that align with your values.

This presentation also includes a hands-on practicum where attendees will learn how to “seed” their AI, write effective prompts using proven frameworks, and begin using AI as a supportive tool—not a replacement—for their creative work. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or completely new to AI, you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and actionable next steps.

Round Table – Wednesday6:30 – 6:55

Editorial Needs – Scrivenings Press
Open to everythng but speculative, nonfiction, andR children’s books.


Virginia Grounds
Breakthrough Christian Publishing
Self-publishing Coach
Author, Speaker, Bible Study Teacher
 

Virginia is an award-winning author, speaker, Bible study teacher, self-publishing coach, and publisher for Christian writers and authors. Her works include fiction, nonfiction, and children’s picture books. You will find them all on Amazon.com. Her mission is to help writers become published authors at a reasonable price. She is a member of AWSA, CIPA, Nonfiction Authors Association, as well as IBPA. Her gentle and kind spirit is an encouragement to all who work with her. See her other website at hope4widows.com.

Workshop 4C – Writing Bible Studies for Transformation (Friday, 5:15 – 6:05)
Jesus changes lives. When Bible study is taken seriously to learn more about God and His Word, true transformation takes place. Writing Bible studies is an important mission for leading others to experience changed lives. What needs to be included? How many questions? How much commentary? 

Editorial Interests
As a Christian publisher, we are committed to promoting works that reflect Christian values and inspire readers to grow in their faith. We work with authors across a range of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, devotionals, and Bible studies. Our mission is to publish works that inspire and make a difference.


Robin Grunder
Executive Editor, Legacy Press
Award-winning Author
Ghostwriter
 

Robin is an award-winning author, ghostwriter, and executive editor of Legacy Press, an independent publishing company serving authors, speakers, families, and churches. With more than two decades of experience, she has ghostwritten and published church histories, memoirs, and life-story projects that preserve faith-filled legacies for future generations.

Robin is also the author of Memoir in the Margins of Psalms, and writes The Legacy Writer Substack, dedicated to connecting faith, family history, and future generations—one story at a time. Her work has been featured in multiple anthologies, regional and national parenting publications, and newspapers across the Midwest.

A trusted voice in legacy writing and self-publishing, Robin regularly teaches at writers’ conferences nationwide, equipping both beginning and seasoned writers to steward their stories with clarity, faith, and purpose. She believes every story—whether bound for a bookstore or written for a family bookshelf—has the power to point future generations back to God’s faithfulness.

Workshop 6D – Legacy Writing: Words That Outlive You (Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35)
What if the most important words you ever write are the ones your grandchildren read someday? In this workshop, Robin Grunder explores the heart of legacy writing—capturing faith stories, family memories, and moments of God’s faithfulness so they won’t be forgotten. Whether your words belong in a bookstore or on the family bookshelf, discover how your stories can point others to Jesus—and impact eternity.

Round Table – Thursday, 12:30 – 12:55

Editorial Interests
From ghostwriting and coaching to publishing support, Legacy Press is here to turn your memories and manuscripts into a professionally crafted book that honors your voice, your faith, and your legacy—one your family will treasure for generations. 


Amanda Jenkins
Sales Manager, Acquisitions
Author Liaison
AMG Publishers
 

Amanda is the Sales Manager at AMG Publishers and oversees acquisitions. She has been with AMG for 20 years. As a ministry-first, mission-minded company, her roles include everything from customer service, to sales, to marketing. For the last 13 years she has been receiving, reviewing, and approving all queries. Amanda is also AMG’s Author Liaison, which entails working with authors on contracts, processes, manuscripts, due dates for editing, and printing steps. AMG Publisher’s vision statement is for God’s Word to be accessible to everyone and have biblical content for a range of ages and study levels. Amanda believes this deeply and is grateful for her role at AMG where she can see this vision come to fruition. 

Editorial Needs – AMG Publishers
Nonfiction: apologetics, books military related, Bible studies, devotionals, discipleship/personal growth, marriage/family/parenting, prayer & spiritual warfare, women’s interests . . . ONLY  if they are in devotional or Bible study format.

Greatest Areas of Interest: Always looking for good Bible studies to add to the Following God Bible Study Series.

Helpful Tips: Look at the format of books in the Following God series. They don’t have to be exactly the same, but we do try and keep them very similar. Look at other devotional books we offer to see if maybe you think yours could add to the ‘series’ or topics. We are trying to do devotionals around joy, happiness, fulfillment (any other synonym), personal/spiritual growth.

Guidelines for Writers: amgpublishers.com/index.php/author-guidelines


Jason William Karpf 
Marketing Manager and Acquisitions Editor
Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.

Author


Jason grew up with storytelling. The son of a screenwriter, he was a child actor, guest starring on classic TV shows. Jason writes Christian sci-fi including the anthology HONOR System. He teaches for Christian universities and hosts the live study series, “Christian Sci-Fi Night with Professor K.” A history and trivia aficionado, Jason was a four-time champion on the game show Jeopardy. He lives in Minnesota with his wife, Ann. They are parents of three grown children. 

Continuing Session – Content Marketing: Today’s Hot Trend, Made for Storytellers Like You 
Jason William Karpf, acquisitions editor/marketing director for Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. and marketing professor at Christian universities, presents the fundamentals of content marketing—today’s hot trend in marketing communications. Learn how content marketing strives to inform and entertain in its own right, building connection and community, leading more people to your books. You say you’re a writer, not a marketer? Content marketing is happening now, and it’s made for storytellers like you!

Workshop  5C — Playing God Leads to Trouble: Science Fiction as a Vehicle for Biblical Truths (Saturday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Jason William Karpf, acquisitions editor/marketing director for Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. and award-winning author, explores the fascinating genre of Christian sci-fi. Jason will present science fiction tropes that tie into recurring biblical themes. He will show how genre legends Rod Serling and Gene Roddenberry specifically used science fiction to impart lessons. Jason will provide highlights from his live study series, “Christian Sci-Fi Night with Professor K.” Two hundred years ago, Mary Shelley launched science fiction with Frankenstein, its core message found in Scripture millennia earlier: playing God leads to trouble!

Round Table – Friday,12:30 – 12:55

 Editorial Needs — Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.
This midsize Christian publisher based in Massachusetts is looking for fiction – primarily mysteries, suspense, and speculative, with no horror. Nonfiction topical with a twist. And most of all, excellent writing. Publisher Deb Haggerty is celebrating her 10th anniversary as the head of Elk Lake. “Publishing the Positive.”


Rowena Kuo
CEO, Executive Editor, Producer
Brimstone Fiction
Brimstone Books and Media
Brimstone Fire

Rowena is the CEO, Executive Editor, and Executive Producer for Brimstone Fiction, Brimstone Books and Media, and Brimstone Fire. With over 20 years of ministering to children, youth groups, young adults, women, and family groups, Rowena advocates for writers to build God-centered support systems consisting of people, perseverance, practice, and most of all, prayer. Her specialties include Author Legacy and Financial Literacy.

Rowena is the web talk show host for Don’t Be Cinderella and has written for Christian Devotions, Written World Communications, Splickety, the 168 Write of Passage, and Scrivenings Press. When not working on words or films, she is a full-time mom with secret aspirations for spaceflight.

Workshop 1G – Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
What if you knew what publishing professionals really wanted? Let’s take a guided tour of how to win the hearts of agents, publishers, editors, and readers. Discover what it takes to unlock each “gate” within the publishing industry.

Workshop 6B – Research Techniques (Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35)
Wiki-me-not! If history is written by the victors, then make history by writing it yourself. Discern fact from fiction, theory from law, and Churchill from Plato. State your position, but be prepared to back it up using reliable sources. Where do you start when researching material for your written work? How do you attribute researched information once you find it? And does it all have to be so boring? Whether you love or hate research, but have to do it anyway, this is the workshop for you.

Round Table – Thursday, 12:30 – 12:55

Editorial Needs – Brimstone Fiction
Brimstone Fiction seeks engaging, well-written stories in the genres of Speculative Fiction (YA Science Fiction and YA Fantasy) and chiller thrillers with supernatural/paranormal elements. I am open to considering all genres of fiction and nonfiction, but I will be more interested in your work if you already know your audience.

During appointments, I would like to see a one-sheet and the first chapter of your book.* I look for authors with enthusiasm and a willingness to develop their writing skills, whether they are just at the beginning of their writing career or multi-published world-wide. Although the Brimstone Community maintains a Christian worldview, our audience will extend to the general market. I look forward to meeting you, no matter where you are on your career path as you continue your journey to publication. *If you request an appointment with Rowena, please send your first chapter.


Carolyn Mandarano
Senior Managing Editor
Guideposts Books    

NOTE: Carolyn also represents Guideposts magazines. 

Carolyn has been with Guideposts for 7 years. Her roles have included managing editor, acquiring editor, book editor, and project manager. Guideposts is a Christian ministry, sharing stories and experiences that inspire your walk with God and spread His comfort to others. Our mission is for every person to know God’s love during life’s challenges and joys. Guideposts content supports that mission with products that empower people to find strength within themselves, their communities, and their faith.

Round Table – Wednesday, 6:30 – 6:55

Critique Group – Thursday, 4:30 – 5:10 – Nonfiction

Editorial Needs
Nonfiction Books – Our books uplift and inspire readers to find hope, foster connections, and nurture spiritual wellness. Writers can send a 150-word summary of true inspiring stories grounded in faith to nonfictionsubmissions@guideposts.org.

Fiction Books – Seeking contemporary romance with or without time slip and women’s fiction. Prefer agented authors but will consider unagented. Submit a story blurb, 1 - 3 page synopsis, first 3 chapters, and a bio including any awards, writing credits, and any platform to fictionsubmissions@guideposts.org.


Edwina Perkins
Managing Editor, Harambee Press
  an Imprint of End Game Press
Author, Editor, Mentor
Sensitivity Consultant


Edwina’s first novel, The Colors of Home, was released last month. I was happy to be part of her launch team.
     Edwina is Co-director and Mentoring Moments Coordinator of the Blue Ridge Mountains Writers Conference. She is also an advisory board member with Word Weavers International and Manager for Sensitivity Between the Lines.

Workshop 2B – Build Your Creative Confidence (Thursday, 5:15 – 6:05)
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein
     Creativity isn’t a lightning bolt that strikes ocasionally, and it can’t be predicted: it’s more like a muscle. Creativity needs to be trained, challenged, and worked on constantly to develop your skills. Edwina will address some obstacles and benefits of being a creative and ways to build your creative muscle.

Workshop 3A – I.D.E.A. for Change: Inclusive Writing for Writers (Friday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Understanding IDEA requires a broader focus. Inclusion doesn’t explain everything, nor does diversity, equity, or access. Inclusive writing is designed to promote inclusion, promote equity, and promote respect for diversity. It’s important to educate yourself on cultural differences to ensure your writing is authentic in your cross-cultural books.

We’ll address what IDEA for Change is, clarify what it is not, and detail the biblical basis for this important concept. The care we demonstrate for others in our writing is an expression of our faith.

Round Table – Wednesday, 6:30 – 6:55

Critique Group – Friday, 4:30 – 5:10 – Contemporary women’s fiction


David Seid
Co-founder, MiniBuk
 

David is a visionary entrepreneur and lifelong creative with a passion for photography, printmaking, and transforming ideas into printed works. His publishing journey began early, shaped by two transformative seminars with photographic legend Ansel Adams: one on photographic bookmaking led by Beaumont Newhall, former Curator of Photography at MoMA, and another immersive workshop guided by Adams himself. These experiences contributed to his lifelong dedication to visual storytelling and the art of printing.

While earning a Marketing degree, David supported himself through arts-related entrepreneurial ventures, honing a blend of creative and business acumen. He later spent seven years in sales and management at Pacific Bell Yellow Pages—what he calls “the first internet”—before the Bell System breakup. Seeking a global perspective, he pursued a Master’s in International Management at Thunderbird School of Global Management (now part of ASU), which further sharpened his strategic vision. Given the advent of digital technologies and its convergence with the graphic arts in the mid 80s, David founded Access Laserpress, a trailblazing full-service digital printing company and national pioneer in delivering cost-effective, high-quality manuals and books for corporations and niche publishers. His innovative solutions helped organizations nationwide embrace the potential of digital printing.

In 2010, David co-founded MiniBük (minibuk.com), an innovative venture focused on compact, versatile book formats. From stitched eight-page booklets with attached business cards to perfect-bound titles of 64 to 250 pages, MiniBük has produced over 1,300 titles and over a million copies. Catering to speakers, marketers, authors, and trainers across diverse industries, MiniBük’s tailored solutions have earned a reputation for creativity and excellence in niche publishing. As David puts it, “When it comes to digital print—we’ve pretty much done it all.”

Round Table Bite-sized Books for Busy People 
Want to share a big idea in a small package? Discover MiniBük, the 3.5 x 5” powerhouse that delivers your message with impact. Perfect for promoting a concept, complementing a larger book, or creating memorable giveaways, they are versatile, affordable, and quick to produce. 
NOTE: David is not available for appointments this year, but he is doing a round table Q & A.

Round Table – Thursday, 12:30 – 12:55


Dawn Stephens
Owner/Publisher
EABooks Publishing
Author, Children’s Book Expert
Author

Dawn is the owner/publisher of EABooks Publishing. She is an award-winning author and illustrator and holds a master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Administration and Supervision. But first and foremost, she is a Fruit Pot! In other words, she is a vessel through which the Potter has chosen to grow the fruit of the Spirit. It took a long time for her to discover that. She searched for purpose as a teacher, wife, mother, fundraising director, sales manager, and school principal. As God emptied and refilled her with new roles, she believed she had found the one thing He wanted her to be. Each time, she let the things she held define her. Eventually, she realized God was more concerned about what could grow through her.

Dawn shares her author’s journey as she presents at schools, churches, and writers’ conferences. Her Creator continues to bear fruit through her as she helps other write and publish their stories from “seed to shelf.”

Workshop 4A – Be an Author! Your Dreams Versus God’s Plan (Friday, 5:15 – 6:05)
So, you want to be an author. Do you ever wonder if that is what God wants for you? Dawn will share her personal journey of surrender, obedience, and unexpected redirection. Participants will discover that publishing a book may not lead them down the path they have carefully planned – but may open doors to something even greater. Through Scripture, reflection, and practical encouragement, writers will learn to trust the true Author of their life story and gain confidence that God is faithfully preparing them for what comes next.

Workshop 6C – Growing Great Stories (Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35)
Discover how God-designed storytelling can flourish when rooted in purpose, structure, and heart. In this interactive workshop, you will learn how to create a story map and follow the process of growing fruit while you identify and use the elements of a great story. From planting strong characters and settings to cultivating rising action and harvesting a powerful climax, you’ll gain practical tools to grow stories that are engaging, meaningful, and ready for publication. Leave inspired, equipped, and confident to nurture the story God has placed inside you.

Round Table – Wednesday, 6:30 – 6:55

Critique Group – Thursday, 4:30 – 5:10 – Children’s books

Critique Group – Saturday, 3:45 – 4:35 – Picture books

Editorial Interests – EABooks Publishing
“I personally love a good children’s picture book,” Dawn says. However, EABooks also publishes Bible studies, children’s books, crossover books, devotionals, memoirs, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Dawn will speak with authors in all genres and offer edits and critiques from her personal staff.

 




For more information on editorial needs, be sure to check The Christian Writers Market Guide 2026 available in paperback and as an eBook. We recommend a yearly subscription to the eBook because it is updated throughout the year.

Available through Christian Writers Institute