May 16, 2026
Pikes Peak Library District
Library 21c, Colorado Springs, CO
Mountain of Authors

Free! Open to the public.
It’s not just about selling books. Meet some great local authors looking to meaningfully connect with readers and their fellow authors. I’ll be there with my amateur sleuth/cozy mystery and Pikes Peak Writers’ four anthologies. Come say “hi!” This year’s keynote speaker is Randi Samuelson-Brown who writes about the darker side of western history.
Registration information coming soon!

May 19, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Pikes Peak Writers Write Brain
Presented online via Zoom (attend from anywhere)

Free! Open to writers of all levels.
I’ll be hosting Mario Acevedo, internationally bestselling author and past faculty member in the Regis University Mile-High MFA program and Lighthouse Writers Workshops. In his workshop, Let Me Tell You: Exposition and Backstory we’ll be talking about when exposition and’/or backstory are the right tools to make your story work.

We’ve heard the writing dictums. Show, don’t tell. Avoid exposition and backstory. But sometimes, the most compelling way to tell your story is through exposition and backstory. How do we know when? And why? How can you use exposition and backstory to modulate pacing and suspense? We’ll review examples from literary and commercial works and try our hand with writer prompts.

June 13, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Pikes Peak Library District
Library 21c, Colorado Springs, CO
Indie Author Basics

Free! Open to the public.
Ready to take control of your publishing journey? “Indie Author Basics” is a hands-on workshop designed for writers who want to publish their books with confidence. Learn how to prepare your manuscript, navigate publishing platforms, build your author brand, and market your work effectively. Whether you’re finishing your first draft or ready to hit “publish,” you’ll gain the tools, strategies, and insider tips you need to become a successful independent author. Join us and start turning your writing dreams into a thriving author career!  

Registration is required and opens May 30th at 11 a.m.

July 11 at 1:00 p.m – 3:00 p.m.
Pikes Peak Library District
Cheyenne Mountain Library, Colorado Springs, CO
How to Start & Run a Critique Group

Free! Open to the public.
Want to improve your writing and connect with other serious writers? A well-run critique group can sharpen your skills, boost accountability, and provide valuable feedback. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to start, organize, and sustain a productive critique group. We’ll cover everything from setting expectations and finding members to running effective meetings and giving (and receiving) constructive criticism. Leave ready to launch your own thriving writing group!

Registration is required and opens June 27, 1:00 p.m.

August 8 at 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Pikes Peak Library District
Penrose Library, Colorado Springs, CO
General Craft Fiction Writing

Free! Open to the public.
Whether you’re just beginning your writing journey or refining your storytelling skills, this workshop explores the essential craft of fiction. We’ll dive into character development, plot structure, dialogue, point of view, and theme — the foundational elements that bring stories to life. Through practical exercises, examples, and discussion, you’ll learn how to shape ideas into engaging narratives that connect with readers. Leave with new tools, techniques, and confidence to craft compelling fiction in any genre. Perfect for aspiring authors, short story writers, or novelists seeking to strengthen their creative voice.  

Registration is required and opens August 8, 2026 at 12:00pm.

August 29 at 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Pikes Peak Library District
Penrose Library, Colorado Springs, CO
The Devil is in Your Story’s Details

Free! Open to the public.
Whether you’re just beginning your writing journey or refining your storytelling skills, this workshop explores the essential craft of fiction. We’ll dive into character development, plot structure, dialogue, point of view, and theme — the foundational elements that bring stories to life. Through practical exercises, examples, and discussion, you’ll learn how to shape ideas into engaging narratives that connect with readers. Leave with new tools, techniques, and confidence to craft compelling fiction in any genre. Perfect for aspiring authors, short story writers, or novelists seeking to strengthen their creative voice.  

Registration is required and opens August 15, 2026 at 9:00am.

October 1-4, 2026
Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Colorado Gold Writers Conference
The Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center
Presenting  Deviously Twisted Mystery Writing and more!

Harvest your inspiration!
I’ll be talking about twisting the knife, turning the screw, causing the mayhem, and generally wreaking havoc (in your writing). I’m a good egg outside the workshop, trust me. <wink, wink>

Did you know that the Colorado Gold Rush Literary Award is open for submissions? Send in your submission by May 25th to be considered. Winner will be announced at the Colorado Gold Writers Conference.

Smash the button below for more information about the Colorado Gold conference, all it has to offer, and registration.

Early bird registration opens May 8!

November 10-13, 2026
Author Nation
Horseshoe Las Vegas

I’m excited to be attending the largest indie author conference in the country where Andy Weir is scheduled to be the keynote speaker! Gahhhhh!! Way to land a big fish Author Nation. Can’t wait! The theme? Incomparable.

Hope to see some familiar faces!

Smash the button to learn all about it.

Stay tuned…