Welcome to the Science Fiction Writers' Week Hub

Thank you for attending Science Fiction Writers' Week! Scroll below to view replays, session resources, and exclusive offers. If you would like to be part of our 2025 program or recommend a speaker, please email hello@prowritingaid.com.

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Continue the conversation and connect with your fellow storytellers in our private online forum. We host additional Q+As, polls, and other opportunities to share.

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Unlock advanced suggestions for fiction writing, author comparisons, and full integrations for Scrivener, Word, and more.

Click the link below to take advantage of your 15% off promotion until September 27.

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Science Fiction Writers’ Week Full Schedule

Click the drop-down arrow beside each session title to see the full description, replays, and supplementary materials. Replays will be added as soon as they process.

Monday, September 9

Tuesday, September 10

Wednesday, September 11

Thursday, September 12

Friday, September 13 (Premium members only)

10:00AM EDT/ 3:00PM UK

How to Build, Evaluate, and Improve Your Science Fiction Story

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Presented by Anne Hawley and Rachelle Ramirez of Pages & Platforms

workshop

Developmental editors Anne Hawley and Rachelle Ramirez present how to build, evaluate, and improve your Science Fiction story using four tools:

  1. Marketing Categories

  2. Story Types

  3. Essential Story Elements

  4. Worldbuilding

In this webinar, you will learn how to:

  • Evoke empathy for your characters

  • Create tension and excitement

  • Provide emotional satisfaction for your reader

  • Convey a thoughtful takeaway

  • Meet reader expectations for your Story Type

  • Innovate within the Science Fiction genre

  • Finish a professional draft of your story

Anne Hawley is a certified developmental editor of literary, historical, and fantasy fiction, and is the author of Restraint, a novel of forbidden love in Regency England. She was the producer and writer of the popular Story Grid Roundtable Podcast, and currently teaches and develops writing courses at Pages and Platforms.

Rachelle Ramirez is a certified developmental editor, who helps fiction and nonfiction writers structure and finish their projects. She is a co-creator of the Story Path course and numerous writing masterclasses. She is a co-host of The Happily Ever Author Club at Pages and Platforms and the author of the forthcoming book, The ADHD Writer: From Frustrated to Focused to Finished.

Special links:

Click here to download Anne & Rachelle's session slides

12:00PM EDT/ 5:00PM UK

4 Easy Steps to Master Backstory Without Info Dumping

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Presented by Heather Davis

workshop

Backstory is an essential part of every well-written speculative fiction novel. It’s the element of Story that brings characters to life, helps them to feel real and three-dimensional to readers, and allows you to skillfully worldbuild while making sure your readers understand and care about what’s happening in your plot. Without it, none of the “exciting” events in your plot will matter to readers at all.

But the problem is writers often mishandle backstory and alienate readers. Either they try to add too much backstory and bore their readers by info dumping or they become so afraid of info dumping that they remove almost every trace of backstory from the narrative, rendering it flat, dull, and lifeless.

This leaves writers frustrated and uncertain about how to integrate meaningful backstory in a way that enhances their story without dragging it down.

If these struggles sound familiar, this workshop is for you!

You’ll learn:

  • The 3 main types of backstory: context, memory, and flashback—and how to use them

  • The 4 critical guidelines of backstory

  • The 5 backstory traps to avoid

  • How to determine what information is essential to share and when to share it

  • How to effortlessly integrate backstory into your writing, making your story and characters come alive without slowing down the narrative

Heather Davis is an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, developmental editor, and host of the popular podcast Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple. In these roles, she helps writers connect with their characters, deepen their world-building, and find the emotional center of their stories so they can create novels that resonate with authenticity, promote diversity, and explore big ideas. She has studied with renowned story experts Lisa Cron, Jennie Nash, and Ben Frahm, and contributes regularly to Jane Friedman's popular writing blog. She has been featured on numerous podcasts and frequently leads workshops for writers. Additionally, she is a contributing author to the bestselling book Launch Pad: The Countdown to Writing Your Book. Heather supports writers through private coaching and an interactive group mentorship program called Powerful Writers, Magical Novels.

Special links:

Get your free workbook: https://subscribepage.io/WorkbookSFWeek

2:00PM EDT/ 7:00PM UK

Main Character Energy: Create an Unforgettable Character

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Presented by Dani Abernathy

workshop

How much do you know about your main character? If you’re like most writers, you know a lot of details—their favorite ice cream and daily routine—but haven’t explored the most important elements, the ones that will make your reader fall in love. In “Main Character Energy,” you’ll explore what really drives your protagonist—their deep desires, fears, goals, beliefs, and stakes. By building these elements in relation to one another, you’ll create a character who is complex, authentic, and deeply relatable. Attendees will gain an understanding of how to shape cohesive character motives and tools to create their own.

Dani Abernathy is an Enneagram Teacher and book coach who helps novelists write the stories they need to tell so their readers can feel seen and can see others. Specializing in fantasy, soft sci-fi, and YA, Dani merges how story works with how people work, creating books that help readers have more empathy for themselves and others. Through her Rooted Writers Mentorship, she helps novelists embrace, plan, and write books they're proud of. Dani is a Capricorn, INFJ, and Enneagram Type 4 who believes that stories can change the world, one reader at a time.

Special links:

Click here to download Dani's session slides

4:00PM EDT/ 9:00PM UK

Conflict that Hits Hard: Tension that Leaves a Mark

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Presented by Eilidh Locherty

workshop

Transform your writing using powerful methods that build tension so intense that your readers will be unable to look away. Discover the secrets to creating conflict that packs a punch, especially in high-stress situations, using dialogue and descriptions that leave a lasting impression. Walk away with actionable insights you can put into practice right away, backed by real-world examples that show you exactly how to make it happen.

We will uncover:

  • Proven ways for raising tension through speech, ensuring that your conflicts are not only plausible, but engaging.

  • Tips on writing in high-stress situations, where every word and action heightens the urgency and stakes.

  • Approaches for creating unforgettable moments that make your readers feel as if they're experiencing it personally.

  • Practical advice for fine-tuning your speech to be snappy, impactful, and deeply resonant, cutting right to the heart of your characters' conflicts.

  • And more...

Eilidh can't wait to delve into the madness that is showing tension and conflict effectively. These techniques are intended to elevate your storytelling, making your words not only effective, but also unforgettable.

Eilidh Locherty is a certified line and copy editor and founder of Chaptered Vine Studio. Specializing in science fiction, fantasy, and romance, she’s passionate about helping indie authors bring out the best in their manuscripts, ensuring their unique voices shine through, with a specific interest in bringing out underrepresented voices due to being disabled herself. When not working, she enjoys getting lost in a good book, dreaming up new ideas, or savoring her signature peach iced tea.

Special offer:

Email Eilidh Locherty at eilidh@chapteredvinestudio.com and get 25% off any service for a book above 50,000 words when mentioning code PWASciFiWriter.

Click here to download Eilidh's session slides

6:00PM EDT/ 11:00PM UK

The Nearest Stars

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Presented by Mark O'Bannon

workshop

Have you ever wanted to know more about our closest stellar neighbors? Mark O'Bannon, an esteemed science fiction author, takes us on a journey through our stellar neighborhood within a hundred light-years. He will unveil a meticulously crafted map, the product of 15 years of research. The map displays the XYZ coordinates of the stars within 50 light-years of Earth. This presentation showcases the different settings you can use in your science fiction stories.

Mark O’Bannon is an American novelist, screenwriter and game designer best known as the author of three fantasy novel series: “Shadows and Dreams,” “Whiskers,” and “Aia the Barbarian.” O’Bannon is also the author of the science fiction series, “Imperium.” O’Bannon is the CEO of Shadowstar Games, which publishes the Interactive Storytelling Game (a Pen & Paper Role Playing Game), “Fantasy Imperium.” O’Bannon is an advocate of Self-Publishing and teaches workshops to aspiring authors on how to publish, market and promote their work. Born in San Diego, California, O’Bannon is the grandson of the famous aviation pioneer, Reuben H. Fleet (who acquired the Wright Brother’s airplane company Dayton-Wright along with Gallaudet Aircraft and formed Consolidated Aircraft, the makers of the famous B-24 Liberator bombers and the PB-Y Catalina flying boats from WWII).

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10:00AM EDT / 3:00PM UK

Working with Libraries and Bookstores

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Presented by Mark Lefebvre

workshop

It's easy to get your book listed in virtually any online catalog, but what if you want your book(s) to rise above the digital masses and be seen as more relevant to booksellers and librarians? What does it take to attract the attention of the curators of those sales channels? Author Mark Leslie Lefebvre who has been writing for more than forty years and has worked as a bookseller and book industry professional for more than thirty-two years will share insights and perspective to help you understand ways you can help highlight your books, spotlight your author brand, and get the support of bookstores and libraries to promote your book(s) to their customers and patrons.

Mark Leslie Lefebvre started writing in the mid 1980s and had his first work published in 1992, the same year he started working as a bookseller. He has since published more than thirty-five books under the name Mark Leslie that include novels, anthologies, and a series of non-fiction paranormal explorations for Dundurn, Canada’s largest independent publisher. He has also written several books about the business of writing and publishing under his full name, Mark Leslie Lefebvre that include Publishing Pitfalls for Authors, Wide for the Win, and The Relaxed Author co-authored with Joanna Penn. Mark has spoken as both an author and publishing industry professional across Canada and the United States, as well as in the UK and Europe, and since 2018 he has hosted a weekly podcast on the business of writing and publishing called Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing.

Special offer:

Get Mark’s eBook AN AUTHOR'S GUIDE TO WORKING WITH LIBRARIES AND BOOKSTORES for 99 cents (Regularly priced at $6.99) using code PROWRITING24: https://payhip.com/b/MQ1NW

Click here to download Mark's session slides

12:00PM EDT / 5:00PM UK

Blending Love and Logic: Crafting Compelling Romance in Science Fiction Narratives

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Presented by Dana Pittman

workshop

In the vast and imaginative worlds of science fiction, love often serves as the emotional heart that grounds readers in the story. But how do you seamlessly integrate romance into a genre known for its speculative concepts and futuristic landscapes? In this workshop, bestselling romance author and developmental editor Dana Pittman will guide you through the art of blending romance with science fiction to create narratives that are both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.

Dana Pittman is a USA Today and Amazon Bestselling romance and paranormal romance author, Certified Developmental Editor, and the Chief Storyteller with Danja Tales, a boutique romance developmental editing company in Houston, Texas. She specializes in romances (contemporary, steamy, billionaire, etc), paranormal romance, fantasy, suspense/thrillers, and plotting. And she'd love to chat with you about YOUR novel.

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2:00PM EDT/ 7:00PM UK

How to Write Single vs. Multiple Protagonists (And Which Option is Best for Your Sci-Fi Story)

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Presented by Hannah Kelley

workshop

Science fiction novels either feature one hero (like Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games) or they feature multiple heroes (like Juliette, Lukas, Houston, and Major Jahns in Silo). How do writers decide how many protagonists to feature in your story? Or narrators? And what is a primary protagonist? In this workshop, we’ll dive into the benefits of each option and how to choose the perfect amount of protagonists for your sci-fi story.

Hannah Kate Kelley is a developmental editor and Author Accelerator certified book coach helping fiction writers write, revise and launch their stories. She lives in New York City with her partner.

Special links:

Click here to download Hannah's session slides

4:00PM EDT/ 9:00PM UK

Sub-Genres in Science Fiction: Meeting Reader Expectations

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Presented by Kyle Cisco

workshop

Science fiction indeed offers a rich tapestry of sub-genres, each captivating readers with distinct worlds and narratives. Dystopian fiction often explores grim futures where society has typically fallen into decay due to oppressive regimes or other catastrophic events, serving as a cautionary tale about current societal issues. Space Opera, with its grand scale and dramatic adventures, takes readers across galaxies to witness epic battles and complex, often political, dynamics between different civilizations. First Contact stories delve into the unknown, focusing on the initial meetings between humanity and alien species, exploring themes of communication, conflict, and the vastness of the universe. Lastly, Cyberpunk immerses readers in near-future Earth settings where advanced technology and cybernetics intersect with a breakdown in social order, often highlighting the struggles against mega-corporations and artificial intelligence. Each of these sub-genres not only entertains but also provides a lens through which we can examine human nature and our possible futures.

Kyle Cisco is a Story Grid Certified Editor from Winter Springs, Florida. He is a disabled Air Force Veteran, utilizing his discipline and attention to detail as an aircraft mechanic to check the structural integrity of your story. He is a writer working on a flintlock fantasy thriller series and horror story anthology. He has three kids, three dogs, a wife that supports his dream of editing books, and a love of reading that can never be sated.

As an editor he specializes in helping authors in bringing their world to life through compelling worldbuilding and his vast knowledge of history.

His experience in data management from the military gave him an expertise in spreadsheets, and a level of dedication that helps authors to hone their craft to reach the next level. He never backs down from a challenge and lives by the values instilled in his Air Force service of integrity, Service before self and excellence in all he does.

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6:00PM EDT/ 11:00PM UK

Networking Event: Speed Dating

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Presented by ProWritingAid

networking

During this networking session, you will have the opportunity to meet other people in the Science Fiction writing community. We will be sending you into breakout rooms in groups of 4 or 5.

10:00 AM EDT/ 3:00PM UK

Immersive World-Building Workshop

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Presented by Kerry Savage

workshop

In this generative workshop, we’ll walk through a series of questions designed to get you thinking about all aspects of the unique world you want to create to inspire and delight your readers. Alternating craft instruction with writing time to start on (or continue to create) your book universe, along with Q+A, writers will walk away with the tools (and some words!) to craft a captivating setting for your novel.

A voracious reader of all kinds of fiction (and sometimes memoir and non-fiction), Kerry Savage (she/her) is an Author Accelerator certified book coach who works with novelists from the planning stages through revision, helping writers get their best book ready for the world. She is also a J-school grad and former project manager, as well as being hard at work on her first novel (a work of historical fiction based on the life of a real badass female pirate). She serves as a volunteer mentor for the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) and Sisters in Crime (SinC). She loves good wine, cheese, and trying to keep her succulents alive.

Special link:

Access Kerry’s presentation slides, a free workbook with world-building exercises, and a special offer for ProWritingAid users: https://www.kerrysavage.com/prowritingaid-scifi-week

12:00PM EDT/ 5:00PM UK

The Art to Science Fiction Keywords and Categories

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Presented by Hank Marcacci

workshop

In this session, we'll dive into the details of how Keywords and Categories work on Amazon, tactics Science Fiction authors can use to gain traction, and optimizations for effective sales results.

Included topics are:

  • Finding profitable keywords that Science Fiction readers actually search for on Amazon

  • Identifying niche bestseller categories while avoiding devastating ghost categories

  • Learning how to become a category bestseller without spending thousands

  • Strategies to make a book more discoverable to target readers

  • ...plus more!

Data Engineer turned Amazon bestselling author, Hank Marcacci writes in several genres including Science Fiction on Amazon KDP. As Product Manager of Publisher Rocket, he's always on the lookout for how authors can better connect with readers who will love their work.

Special links:

Access your exclusive offer from Publisher Rocket and Kindlepreneur: https://kindlepreneur.com/SFWeek

Click here to download Hank's session slides

2:00PM EDT/ 7:00PM UK

How to Craft the Perfect Dynamic Between Your Protagonist and Antagonist

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Presented by Savannah Gilbo

workshop

Join developmental editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo for an in-depth presentation about how to craft the perfect dynamic between your protagonist and antagonist. She’ll walk you through considerations for developing both your protagonist and antagonist as well as how to make sure they’re linked through conflict—aka the secret sauce that makes your story both engaging and satisfying.

Savannah Gilbo is a certified developmental editor and book coach who helps fiction authors write, edit, and publish stories that work. She’s also the host of the top-rated Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, where she delivers weekly episodes full of simple, actionable, and step-by-step strategies that you can implement in your writing right away. When she’s not busy crafting her own stories, you can find Savannah curled up with a good book, a cozy blanket, and her three furry partners in crime.

Special links:

Get Savannah’s freebie “The Writer’s Guide to Crafting Compelling Characters”: https://www.savannahgilbo.com/pwa

Click here to download Savannah's session slides

4:00PM EDT/ 9:00PM UK

Tent Pole Revision Process: Make Your First Editing Pass More Effective

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Presented by Rona Gofstein

workshop

Congratulations! You finished the draft of your novel! You’ve written this amazing book with dynamic characters, an immersive world, and a riveting plot. Now… it’s time to edit. But how? Too many writers start linearly with a scene-by-scene, chapter-by-chapter process. Unfortunately, with this method, you can miss some of the larger, structural issues which then go unfixed – and might even get worse. What if you had a process that gives you some distance and allows you to see the overall picture and where it’s succeeding or not? Join Author Accelerator certified book coach Rona Gofstein as she shows you how to use six key scenes so you can see what’s working, what needs strengthening, and what’s not there yet. Discover a new system that emphasizes the pivotal moments in your story, so your revision has a more significant impact on your book - in less time - and improves your editing process.

Rona Gofstein is a published author and an Author Accelerator certified fiction book coach who loves working with writers of heroine-driven fiction. She describes her style as intensive feedback combined with compassionate enthusiasm because she knows that on this journey, writers need clarity, support, and encouragement. She has spoken on writing craft and business across the country and is the past president of the New Hampshire RWA chapter and Broad Universe. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and sons, misses the 24-hour diners of her home state of New Jersey. A proud Gen-Xer who’s been published since 2007 (you can learn her pen name if you work together), she’s always up for getting coffee, talking about movies, and finding great places to eat.

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6:00PM EDT/ 11PM UK

Creativity Tips to Help Keep Ideas and Energy Flowing For Writers

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Presented by Isabelle Hardesty

workshop

When it’s you against your self-doubt, distractions, and a fast-approaching deadline, writers need more than a cup of coffee to forge ahead. Learn how to step into a creative mindset and enjoy the process of writing again with simple tips which will cover:

  • Comparison is a prison.

  • Play is vital for writers.

  • Failing is part of life.

  • Connection strengthens us as creatives.

You will leave this session inspired and energized with the tools you need so you can create with more joy and ease.

Isabelle Hardesty writes stories about people doing magical things and kicking butt. She writes for all readers, and people like her, who didn’t see themselves in their favorite fantasy adventures growing up.

She is the author of The Witch of Belle Fleur, which is part of her book series, The Destroyer Witch Chronicles. She has written other book series, including The Delacourt Shapeshifter Trilogy, Sea Witch High, and Viola the Vampire Witch.

Isabelle Hardesty has written a short story which is being published in the Marvel anthology, Captain America: The Shield of Sam Wilson, published by Titan Books.

She lives with her husband and family in Atlanta.

Special links:

For more information, visit her at https://isabellehardesty.com/

Click here to download Isabelle's session slides

10:00 AM EDT/ 3:00 PM UK

Edit Your Way to an Epic Sci-Fi Adventure Using Technology

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Presented by Hayley Milliman

workshop

Unlock the full potential of your science fiction novel in "Edit Your Way to an Epic Sci-Fi Adventure Using Technology." This session delves into how you can leverage ProWritingAid to elevate your manuscript to new heights. You'll learn how to utilize the advanced features of ProWritingAid to enhance your sci-fi novel's world-building, character development, and overall readability. ProWritingAid's Director of Community, Hayley Milliman, will guide you through the process of:

  • Identifying common pitfalls: Learn how to identify and correct common mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and style that could disrupt your narrative flow.

  • Strengthening your narrative: Use ProWritingAid's tools to tighten your plot, craft believable futuristic worlds, and maintain an exhilarating pace that keeps readers fully immersed.

  • Analyzing readability: Employ readability reports to ensure your novel is accessible and captivating, whether your readers are hardcore sci-fi fans or newcomers to the genre.

And more!

As Director of Community at ProWritingAid, Hayley Milliman is dedicated to creating engaging, informative content for the millions of users who rely on ProWritingAid to sharpen their writing. With an extensive writing portfolio spanning education, marketing strategy, history, and beyond, Hayley is well-equipped to help you bring your sci-fi masterpiece to life.

12:00PM EDT/ 5:00PM UK

Networking Event: Build a Science Fiction World

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Hosted by ProWritingAid

networking

During this networking session, you will have the opportunity to work in small groups with other people in the Science Fiction writing community to create a Science Fiction world. We will be sending you into breakout rooms in groups of 4 or 5.

2:00PM EDT/ 7:00PM UK

Remaking Yourself as an Indie Speculative Fiction Author

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Presented by Dave Dobson

workshop

In this session, Dave will talk about his mid-life shift from geology professor to writer and game designer. He’ll share his journey from occasional spare-time writer to his current pace of two to three novels a year, starting with the writing and creative process. He’ll talk about plotting, character development, discovery writing, and the specific challenges he’s faced writing science fiction compared to other genres. He’ll also describe his process for seeking feedback from early readers, editing, proofreading, and then building a finished, marketable product, then launching and shilling it out in the real world. He’ll also discuss how to find an audience for your books and stories as an indie author, sharing his failures and successes, and spending some time particularly on indie book competitions (Dave won the SPSFC this past summer with Kenai). Finally, Dave will talk about how adding writing as a side hustle or full mid-life career shift can work, and what it can do to your life, your income, your relationships, and your priorities. There will be ample time for questions, discussion, and talking about participants’ projects as well.

A native of Ames, Iowa, Dave Dobson loves writing, reading, boardgames, computer games, improv comedy, pizza, barbarian movies, and the cheaper end of the Taco Bell menu. Also, his wife and kids.

Dave has written nine novels including fantasy, sci-fi, mysteries, and thrillers. In addition to his books, Dave is the author of Snood, Snoodoku, Snood Towers, and other computer games. Dave first published Snood in 1996, and it became one of the most popular shareware games of the early Internet. His most recent project (other than writing) is Doctor Esker's Notebook, a series of puzzle card games in the spirit of escape rooms.

Dave taught geology, environmental studies, and computer programming at Guilford College for 24 years, and he does improv comedy every week at the Idiot Box in Greensboro, North Carolina. He’s also played the world’s largest tuba in concert. Not that that is relevant, but it’s still kinda cool.

Special links:

Learn more about Dave Dobson: https://davedobsonbooks.com

Check out Dave Dobson’s sci fi books:

Follow Dave Dobson on socials:

Click to download Dave's session slides

4:00PM EDT/ 9:00PM UK

Taking Your Author Website From OK to WOW

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Presented by Stuart Grant

workshop

Join this session to learn:

  • Key things you should include on an author website

  • How to make the design immersive and engaging

  • Ideas on how to promote your site

  • To sell direct or not…?

Stuart Grant is the highest rated author web designer on Reedsy, a high end marketplace for authors. He also runs a very successful web design agency (Digital Authors Toolkit) specifically for authors. With over 10 years of experience in the publishing industry, he knows what makes a successful author website. He designs stunning, world class sites that help to sell books and grow mailing lists.

Stu has worked with the team at The Self Publishing Formula (Learn Self Publishing) for the last decade but is now focused on helping authors to grow their online business. He was a speaker and sponsor at The Self Publishing Show 2024 in London, will be speaking at Author Nation this year in Las Vegas.

Having created over 300 sites for authors, there are few people out there who know more about the process of building an author website than Stu and his team. With his background in teaching and broadcasting, Stu is in an ideal position to bring his skills to sessions and talk about websites for authors.

He is based in Norfolk UK and is Dad to a very sassy 6-year-old, a crazy dog, and an even crazier wife.

Expect a fun session, with loads of takeaways for your Author Website.

Special links:

Find Stu at:

Click here to download Stuart's session slides

10:00 AM EDT/ 3:00 PM UK

Build Your Sci-Fi Universe: An Interactive World-Building Workshop

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Presented by Hayley Milliman

premium workshop

Step into the role of a creator and bring your science fiction universe to life in this dynamic, interactive world-building workshop. Whether you're crafting an epic space opera or a dystopian future, this session will guide you through the essential elements of constructing a rich, immersive world that captivates readers. In this hands-on workshop, you'll:

  • Design intricate worlds: Learn how to create detailed settings, from the geography and ecosystems to the cultures, politics, and technologies that define your universe.

  • Develop compelling societies: Explore how to build societies with unique histories, governments, and social structures, ensuring your world feels authentic and lived-in.

  • Integrate world-building into your narrative: Discover techniques to seamlessly weave world-building details into your story, enhancing your plot and character development without overwhelming the reader.

  • Collaborate and share: Engage with fellow writers in group activities, brainstorming sessions, and feedback exchanges to refine your world-building ideas.

As Director of Community at ProWritingAid, Hayley Milliman is dedicated to creating engaging, informative content for the millions of users who rely on ProWritingAid to sharpen their writing. With an extensive writing portfolio spanning education, marketing strategy, history, and beyond, Hayley is well-equipped to help you bring your sci-fi masterpiece to life.

12:00PM EDT/ 5:00PM UK

Query Letter Critique With Kerry Savage

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Presented by Kerry Savage

premium workshop

Join developmental editor and book coach Kerry Savage as she critiques some audience-submitted query letters. You'll learn how to immediately capture an agent's attention with a strong hook, what plot and character details to include (and what NOT to include), as well as how to think about comp titles and what biographical information to share. 

A voracious reader of all kinds of fiction (and sometimes memoir and non-fiction), Kerry Savage (she/her) is an Author Accelerator certified book coach who works with novelists from the planning stages through revision, helping writers get their best book ready for the world. She is also a J-school grad and former project manager, as well as being hard at work on her first novel (a work of historical fiction based on the life of a real badass female pirate). She serves as a volunteer mentor for the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) and Sisters in Crime (SinC). She loves good wine, cheese, and trying to keep her succulents alive.

2:00PM EDT/ 7:00PM UK

First 5 Pages Critique With Savannah Gilbo

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Presented by Savannah Gilbo

premium workshop

Join developmental editor and book coach, Savannah Gilbo, as she critiques the first five pages of a few different stories. You’ll learn what agents (and readers) are looking for in the opening pages of a story—plus, how you can avoid some of the most common mistakes writers make in their opening pages, too.

Savannah Gilbo is a certified developmental editor and book coach who helps fiction authors write, edit, and publish stories that work. She’s also the host of the top-rated Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, where she delivers weekly episodes full of simple, actionable, and step-by-step strategies that you can implement in your writing right away. When she’s not busy crafting her own stories, you can find Savannah curled up with a good book, a cozy blanket, and her three furry partners in crime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend the events?

All registrants are welcome to attend sessions on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday’s session are available only for Premium and Premium Pro members.

How can I attend Premium Day?

Attendees who registered with an email address associated with their Premium or Premium Pro account can expect to receive email instructions on the morning of Friday, September 13. Anyone who has not received their email should reach out to hello@prowritingaid.com.

Free users can upgrade to a Premium or Premium Pro account by Friday morning to gain access to the live Premium Day workshops. Please reach out to hello@prowritingaid.com with any questions.

Are there any special offers for Science Fiction Writers’ Week?

Yes! We’re so excited to offer 15% off your first year of ProWritingAid Premium or Premium Pro.

The offer will be open from September 9–27. Scroll up for more information.

How do I access the session replays?

MondayThursday’s session replays are stored on this page. Scroll up to the schedule, then hit the small drop-down arrow next to a session’s title.

That will expand the session description and show the replays.

How soon are replays added?

We aim to offer all replays as soon as we can. Most are up within 3–5 hours after the session ends, depending on processing time.

How long do I have access to replays?

All attendees have access to Monday–Thursday’s session replays on the hub page.

ProWritingAid Community members will also have indefinite access to the replays on the Event Recordings page by September 20.

How do I join the community?

We’re thrilled to host the Science Fiction Writers’ Week community in our private online forum.

You can join the community using your free or premium ProWritingAid account. Click here to go to the community and enter your log in details.

Then head over to the Live Event Chat space to join the party.

If you can’t remember your username or password, feel free to send an email to hello@prowritingaid.com.

Do you have the slides for [x] presentation?

When we add replays, we upload any slides given to us by our presenters. Sometimes, presenters can’t share slides. If that’s the case, we won’t upload any slides.