Northwest Christian Writers Renewal Conference 
April 25-26, 2025  

Dive into an inspiring journey at the 2025 NCWA Renewal Conference, where our exceptional lineup of workshops will elevate your writing and publishing skills to new heights! Don't miss this opportunity to connect with industry experts eager to share their insights and support your growth in the craft of writing. With a diverse array of workshops available, there truly is something to spark the creativity of every writer.

Choosing between these incredible sessions might seem daunting, but rest assured, we've got you covered. All workshops will be recorded, allowing you to revisit and enjoy each session at your convenience. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will enrich your writing journey!

Workshops and Continuing Tracks

Continuing Tracks

Explore our Continuing Tracks, a series of three interconnected workshops designed to deepen your understanding in key writing areas. Each track builds progressively, offering you a structured approach to enhance your skills and gain clarity on the subject matter.

This year, dive into the intricacies of Fiction Writing, unlock the potential of Non-fiction Storyboarding, explore the imaginative world of Children's Literature, or master the fundamentals with Editing Essentials. These immersive sessions will elevate your craft and enrich your writing journey.


SESSION ONE: Character and Plot Development

Dive into strategies to develop strong and relatable characters and how to build character arcs that highlight a character’s growth. We will also study how to construct plots that are compelling, that move the story along, and that bring the readers to a satisfying ending.

SESSION TWO: Point of View and Setting

Examine point of view—what is it, which POV to use, and how to write deeper POV that will have your readers falling in love with your characters and will turn reading from an activity into an experience. In addition, we will discuss the importance of a strong setting and how that can influence the story to the point of becoming another character.

SESSION THREE: The Nitty Gritty

Now we turn our focus to the little and not-so-little elements that can take your writing from basic to brilliant. Among these items are showing vs. telling, passive vs. active sentences, strong scene and chapter beginnings and endings, using strong verbs, dialog tags vs. beats, and so on. When done well, it’s these little things that will have editors and readers taking notice of your work.

Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast. 


WRITING FOR CHILDREN TODAY

SESSION ONE:  

Kids today are bombarded with entertainment options, distractions, and LOUD messaging. Now more than ever, children need great reading material that will hook them, hold their interest, and give them real hope. In “Writing for Children Today,” children’s author, editor, and writing coach Leslie Santamaria is fired up to equip and encourage you to write fiction and nonfiction kids will love. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to take your work to the next level, you’ll learn ways to make your work stand out in a competitive market. Come ready to discover how to tap into your passions and/or to adapt your work for adults to reach kids today. *If you have a work in progress or an idea, please bring a one-paragraph summary to share. In Session 1, Leslie will discuss why you should consider writing for children, explain the current state of the children’s market, and detail the characteristics of each category of books for children (from board books to young adult novels).

SESSION TWO:

Leslie will share her top tips for getting started, ten strategies for success, and everything about picture books, including layout, ways to tell the story, and wordplay. We’ll also examine the differences between a magazine story and a picture book story.

SESSION THREE:

We’ll focus on creating kidlike characters and dialogue, story structures for middle grade and young adults, and how to market your published work.


Storyboard Your Next Nonfiction Book

SESSIONS ONE, TWO and THREE: 

In this nonfiction track each session builds upon the next as you storyboard your next book as you create your nonfiction book outline with stickies.

In this hands-on workshop you learn how to storyboard an entire book using sticky notes. The activity starts with free-form brainstorming, then shifts to organizational strategies to discover chapter topics and the elements that could fill them. Those whose books are storyboarded will leave with their whole book outlined.


Develop a Thriving Editorial Business

SESSION ONE: Laying the Foundation

Start by establishing a strong base for your editorial business. Learn how to identify your unique strengths, craft a clear vision, and define your services. You’ll explore practical strategies for setting up your business, from choosing the right tools to creating a professional brand that reflects your expertise.

SESSION TWO: Building the Business
Take the next step by focusing on essential business strategies. This session covers how to attract and work with clients, set competitive pricing, and manage projects efficiently. You’ll also learn how to market your services authentically and build a reputation that keeps clients coming back.

SESSION THREE: Growing and Thriving
Round out the series by focusing on long-term success and personal growth. Discover how to maintain balance while expanding your business, set boundaries to protect your time, and nurture your passion for helping others. Gain insights into scaling your services and reaching new levels of success without compromising your values or well-being.

One-Hour Workshops

Unlock your potential with our dynamic series of one-hour sessions led by industry experts in writing, speaking, and marketing. Designed to equip you with the skills and insights needed for the next step in your growth, these enriching sessions offer invaluable knowledge and practical strategies. Whether you're looking to enhance your writing, refine your public speaking, or elevate your marketing techniques, each session provides a powerful boost to propel you toward your professional goals. Join us and take the next step in your career with confidence and clarity.

Details on workshops coming soon.


WORKSHOP ONE: Choosing Your Path Toward Publication

Publishing options vary and authors need to choose early on which suits them best. Traditional publishing, which pays an author to write, self-publishing, which requires the author to pay for everything, and hybrid publishers are a mix of each, sharing expenses. It is important to know the differences so a good decision can be made. In this session, Dan will outline the options, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and even determine whether a book is the best format for every author. 

WORKSHOP TWO: Effective Proposal Preparation

Expecting someone to "Just read my manuscript" is not an effective approach to selling your book. In this workshop, Dan will show how to develop an effective proposal for non-fiction, fiction, and books for children.


WORKSHOP: From Page to Stage - Crafting Your Signature Talk

Have you ever dreamed of stepping onto the stage and sharing the powerful message of your book with an audience? Transforming your book’s core ideas into a signature talk is a game-changer for authors looking to expand their influence and connect deeply with readers. This workshop will guide you through the process of turning your written words into an unforgettable presentation that inspires, educates, and captivates.

A signature talk is more than just a presentation—it’s your opportunity to take your book’s message into the world, grow your platform, and open new doors for connection and collaboration. Whether you’re an author looking to expand your reach or an aspiring speaker ready to share your story, this workshop is your first step toward owning the stage with confidence.

Walk away with a fully realized framework for your signature talk and the tools you need to inspire audiences and make your message shine. Don’t just write the story—live it, share it, and make it count!


WORKSHOP: The Power of Story in Non-Fiction Writing

Every story has the power to inspire, connect, and transform—but how do you tell your hardest truths with grace? This workshop is designed for non-fiction writers who want to master the art of storytelling, especially when tackling personal, emotional, or challenging topics. Learn how to craft narratives that resonate deeply with readers while maintaining both authenticity and sensitivity.

Sharing your story—even the hardest parts—can touch hearts and change lives. This workshop will empower you to tell your truths in a way that honors your experiences and reaches your readers with both power and compassion. Whether you’re writing a memoir, essays, or inspirational non-fiction, this session offers practical tools and guidance to write with courage, skill, and grace.


WORKSHOP: From Author to Speaker - Inspiring Audiences and Securing Opportunities

Whether you’re looking to expand your ministry, grow your platform, or simply share the story God has laid on your heart, this session will equip you with both the inspiration and the practical tools to get started.

  • Building Your Platform: Discover how to identify your unique topics that resonates deeply with your audience.
  • Securing Speaking Opportunities: Learn who to contact, how to approach event organizers, and ways to network within faith-based communities.
  • Essential Collateral Items: Find out what materials you need, such as a professional speaker bio, a one-sheet, a demo video, and how to craft a compelling pitch email.
  • Optimizing Your Website: Explore the key elements of a speaker’s website, including a dedicated speaking page, testimonials, a professional headshot, and booking information to effectively showcase your expertise.


Workshop: Microblogging for Authors - Building Connection, Growing Your Audience

Do you long to share the story God has placed on your heart with a wider audience? Microblogging could be the key to reaching readers in a meaningful and consistent way. This workshop is designed for authors who want to use social media to build their audience, connect readers to their message, and promote their book in an authentic, engaging style.

Explore the art and strategy of microblogging—sharing short, impactful posts that resonate with readers and encourage them to explore your full story. You’ll discover how to craft posts that reflect your voice, choose the platforms that work best for your message, and use social media as a tool to glorify God’s purpose for your writing.


WORKSHOP: Writing to a Felt Need - Capturing Hearts, Winning Publishers

Do you want to write a book that not only touches readers but also grabs the attention of publishers? Learning how to write to a felt need is the key to creating content that’s both marketable and meaningful. This workshop is designed for authors who want to craft stories and messages that resonate deeply with readers while meeting the expectations of the publishing world.

Explore the art of identifying the needs, desires, and challenges of your target audience and transforming those insights into irresistible content. You’ll gain practical tools to align your writing with readers’ struggles and aspirations, while presenting ideas that publishers can’t ignore.

  • Understanding Felt Needs: Learn what it means to write to a felt need and why it’s crucial to your book’s success.
  • Researching Your Audience: Discover effective ways to uncover what your readers truly want and need, and how to seamlessly weave that into your writing.
  • Developing Relevant Themes: Find out how to take universal needs and turn them into relatable, compelling content that connects on a personal level.
  • Pitching to Publishers: Learn how to frame your book idea around a felt need to make your pitch irresistible to editors and agents.
  • Marketable Messaging: Understand how to position your content so it stands out in today’s competitive publishing landscape.


WORKSHOP ONE: Publish - Your Guide to Navigating the Publishing World

Whether you dream of landing a traditional book deal, exploring hybrid options, or tackling self-publishing, this workshop will demystify your publishing path. "Publish" offers a deep dive into the world of book publishing, presenting the pros and cons of traditional, hybrid, and DIY methods, so you can make informed decisions about your manuscript's future. Beyond that, you'll get a fascinating look at the history of publishing, understanding how the industry has evolved and what it means for authors today.

This interactive session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to approach publishing with clarity. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the options, you'll understand what's possible and how to position yourself for success, no matter which route you choose. The result? A publishing plan that aligns with your vision and helps you bring your words to the world.

WORKSHOP TWO: Package - Presenting Your Book with Polish and Purpose

Your words deserve to shine, and how you package your book can make all the difference. This workshop focuses on the critical aspects of book presentation—cover design, content organization, and interior layout. "Package" will teach you how to create a visually stunning and professionally formatted book that captures readers' attention from the moment they see it. We will also explore the common mistakes to avoid that can lower your credibility or turn readers away.

Readers judge a book by its cover—and its layout. This workshop will help you take your book to the next level with polished packaging that reflects the care and effort you’ve poured into your writing. Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a publisher, you’ll leave with actionable steps to ensure your book looks as good as it reads.


WORKSHOP: Mastering Logos Bible Software 

Are you an author looking to enrich your writing with deeper biblical research? Logos Bible Software is an indispensable tool for enhancing your understanding of Scripture, crafting compelling content, and streamlining your study process. This hands-on workshop will equip you with the skills to make the most of Logos, no matter your current proficiency level.


WORKSHOP ONE: Master Your Book Marketing - A Blueprint for Success

Your book is written, but how do you ensure it reaches the readers it’s meant for? This workshop will equip you with a comprehensive blueprint for marketing your book effectively and confidently. From building your author platform to engaging with readers, you’ll learn the key strategies and tactics needed to amplify your book’s reach and impact. Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This workshop is designed to simplify the process and empower you with actionable steps to grow your book’s visibility. Whether you’re preparing to launch or breathing new life into an existing book, you’ll leave with the tools, confidence, and plan to market intentionally—and effectively.

WORKSHOP TWO: Mastering Amazon for Book Marketing

Amazon is the world’s biggest marketplace for books—but how do you stand out in such a crowded space? This workshop will teach you how to harness Amazon’s powerful tools and platform to market your book effectively, boost its visibility, and connect with more readers. Whether you're a first-time author or looking to take your sales to the next level, this workshop is your guide to making Amazon work for you.

Amazon’s tools and insights can take your book sales from stagnant to stellar—but only if you know how to use them. This hands-on workshop will empower you with practical, actionable techniques to ensure your book gets the attention it deserves on the world’s busiest book marketplace.


WORKSHOP ONE: Using Scripture in Your Writing - Study, Integrity, and Engagement

How do you ensure your writing not only incorporates Scripture but also honors its true meaning? This workshop is designed to help authors deepen their biblical understanding while creating compelling, theologically sound narratives. Learn how to study the Bible effectively, interpret its truths within historical and cultural contexts, and weave its message into your writing with care and creativity.

Writing with biblical context is about more than just quoting Scripture—it’s about creating work that’s rooted in truth and resonates with readers on a spiritual level. This workshop will empower you to write with confidence, integrity, and creativity, ensuring your words bring clarity, inspiration, and impact.

WORKSHOP TWO: Marketing Through Community, Collaboration, and Connections

Want to give your book the spotlight it deserves? The key might be closer than you think—your community, collaborations, and connections can be your most powerful marketing tools. This workshop is designed to teach authors how to harness the power of relationships to boost book visibility, sales, and authentic reader engagement.

Offline and On line Community-driven marketing is not only cost-effective but also one of the most authentic ways to promote your book. By focusing on meaningful connections and collaborations, you’ll cultivate a network that’s invested in your book’s success. This workshop will leave you with actionable techniques to rally your community, form powerful partnerships, and get creative with your promotions—all while staying true to your voice and vision.


TWO-PART WORKSHOP: Publishing Made Simple - How to Publish Your Books Like a Pro

Take charge of your writing career with this comprehensive two-part workshop that breaks down the self-publishing process into manageable steps. Whether you’re dreaming of holding your first book or looking to develop a professional publishing strategy, this workshop will empower you to publish with confidence and control.

Publishing and Promoting with Confidence

You will be guided through the steps of self-publishing and how to effectively market your book to find readers, including:

  • Choosing the Right Platforms: Understand the pros and cons of platforms like Amazon KDP, Apple Books, and more.
  • Setting Pricing and Royalties: Learn how to make smart decisions about pricing and profit strategies.
  • Marketing That Works: Explore simple, effective ways to market your book and grow your audience without overwhelming your budget.

Self-publishing offers unparalleled creative control and the potential for financial success—but only if you know how to do it right! This two-part workshop gives you the tools, step-by-step guidance, and insider tips you need to publish like a pro.


WORKSHOP: Writing Your Memoir - Sharing Your Faith Journey with Impact

Your life is a story of God’s grace and faithfulness, and a Christian memoir can be a powerful way to share that testimony with the world. This workshop is designed to guide you through the rewarding process of writing a memoir that authentically reflects your spiritual walk while inspiring and connecting with readers.

Writing a Christian memoir is not just about recounting your past—it’s about sharing hope, encouragement, and God’s work in your life with others. This workshop will equip you with the skills and confidence to tell your story in a way that glorifies God and uplifts those who read it. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your story or already drafting your manuscript, this session will help you turn your reflections into a memoir that inspires and resonates. 

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