After successful previous events in Texas as well as across the country, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Texas Writing Workshop — an online “How to Get Published” writing event on March 6-7, 2026. (Writers are welcome to attend virtually from everywhere and anywhere.)
This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of two days, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total). All questions about the event regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Texas Writing Workshop!
(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. The 2026 TWW is an Online Conference, on March 6-7. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)
To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Texas event.
WHAT IS IT?
This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on March 6-7, 2026. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “Texas” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation — see our growing list of success stories here.
This event is designed to squeeze as much into two days of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the online classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents online to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s 2026 TWW agent & editor faculty so far includes:
- literary agent Lee Melillo (Dunham Literary)
- editor Brittany Torres Rivera (Graywolf Press)
- literary agent Matthew Valdez (Megibow Literary)
- literary agent AJ Van Belle (Booker Albert Literary)
- literary agent Keir Alekseii (Azantian Literary)
- literary agent Andy Ross (Andy Ross Literary)
- literary agent Shelly Romero (Azantian Literary)
- literary scout Erika Staiger (Spencerhill Associates)
- literary agent Syrone Harvey (Belcastro Agency)
- literary agent Jess Taylor (Martin Literary Management)
- literary agent Nicole Payne (Confluence Literary)
- literary agent Nadia Lynch (Talcott Notch)
- literary agent Paul Levine (Paul Levine Literary)
- literary agent Ismita Hussain (Great Dog Literary)
- literary agent Emma Fulenwider (Wordserve Literary)
- literary agent Nephele Tempest (Knight Agency)
- literary agent Geffen Semach (Westwood Creative Artists)
- literary agent Amy Giuffrida (Belcastro Agency)
- literary agent Jael Morrill (Jennifer De Chiara Literary)
- literary agent Christine Goss (FinePrint Literary Management)
- literary agent Grace Demyan (Harvey Klinger Literary)
- literary agent Jen Chen Tran (Glass Literary Management)
- literary agent Des Salazar (Metamorphosis Literary)
- literary agent Shania Soler (Metamorphosis Literary)
- literary agent Mason Rowlee (DeFiore & Company)
- literary agent Hunter Strickland (Focused Artists)
- literary agent Shannon Lechon (Azantian Literary)
- literary agent Annie Bomke (Annie Bomke Literary)
- literary agent Jessica Larios-Zarate (Wave Literary)
- literary agent Ruth Gila Berger (Red Sofa Literary)
- literary agent Michelle Richter (Fuse Literary)
- and possibly more agents to come.
By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinator Brian Klems of Writing Day Workshops.
To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Texas event.
EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS:
(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. The 2026 TWW is an Online Conference, on March 6-7. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)
THIS YEAR’S SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS (MARCH 6-7, 2026):
What you see below is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.
Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to change and updates:
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2026
9:30 – 10:30: Creating a Remarkable Narrative Arc in Fiction or Memoir. This class, taught by a literary agent, discusses how an author develops a narrative character arc and how that arc can be applied in either a novel or memoir.
10:45 – 11:45: 15 Things You Can Do to Have More Control Over Your Writing Journey. If you want to have more say over a journey that seems out of your control, then you need to understand elements of the publishing path that are within your control, and how to harness them.
1:15 – 2:30 Publishing Buzzwords 101. This class will discuss terms commonly used by the publishing industry — popular and new buzzwords — and how writers can use them to their advantage.
2:45 – 3:45: Everything You Need to Know About Agents and Query Letters. This workshop is a thorough crash course in dealing with literary agents and writing an irresistible query.
4:00 – 5:00: How to Market Yourself and Your Books: Author Platform & Social Media Explained. This speech teaches writers the basics of what a platform is and why it is necessary. Then we delve into the building blocks of what can constitute a platform, from media appearances and speaking engagements to blogs, Facebook, Twitter and more.
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2026
9:30 – 10:30: If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now: 10 Things I’ve Learned as an Author. This class is designed to take a decade of learned wisdom from a published novelist and share it with attendees.
10:45 – 11:45: How Do I Decide? Traditional vs. Indie Publishing. There is plenty of information available on both traditional and self-publishing. But how do you choose between the two?
1:15 – 2:30: “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest, with participating literary agents and editors. In the vein of “American Idol” or “America’s Got Talent,” this is a chance to get your first page read (anonymously — no bylines given) with attending agents commenting on what was liked or not liked about the submission.
2:45 – 3:45: Open Agent Q&A Panel. Several attending literary agents will open themselves up to open Q&A from TWW attendees. Bring your questions and get them answered in this popular session.
4:00 – 5:00: Craft Compelling First Pages That Get Agent, Editor, and Reader Attention. If you want people to start reading your book and not put it down, you need compelling first pages.
Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to change and updates:
(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)
Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day.
PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR (MARCH 7):
Hunter Strickland is a literary agent with Focused Artists. Hunter, a member of the Cherokee Nation, has always had many passions in life, one of them being books, which has led her here. Hunter’s list of interests are just as extensive as her background. While she has previous experience in the sports world and historical nonfiction, she is also drawn to fantasy worlds with unique elements. Hunter is currently seeking: fantasy, romance, historical fiction, women’s fiction, young adult, new adult. Hunter is particularly drawn to anything mythology based or inspired. Learn more about Hunter here.
Ismita Hussain is a literary agent & social media manager with Great Dog Literary. In adult fiction, she seeks literary fiction, upmarket, new adult, and short story collections. She enjoys fiction in all genres that is informed by, or inspired by, the myths and superstitions of a culture. Ismita is open to novels that fit these categories but have some genre-fiction elements (i.e., literary fiction with a speculative twist). In adult nonfiction, she seeks narrative, pop culture, humor, memoir, travel, cookbooks, history, and sports. In young adult, she seeks contemporary, rom com, novel in verse, and commercial. In all pitches, she seeks Southern settings, Italian settings, gritty and realist writing, and books that explore health/disability. Learn more about Ismita here.
Andy Ross is a literary agent and founder of Andy Ross Agency. “I represent authors who write books in a wide range of subjects including: narrative non-fiction, science, journalism, history, current affairs, contemporary culture, religion, children’s books and commercial and literary fiction. I am eager to work with projects in most genres as long as the subject or its treatment is smart, original, and will appeal to a wide readership. In narrative non-fiction I look for writing with a strong voice and robust narrative arc. I like books that tell a big story about culture and society by authors with the authority to write about their subject. For literary, commercial, and children’s fiction, I have only one requirement–a simple one–that the writing reveal the terrain of that vast and unexplored country, the human heart.” Learn more about Andy here.
Shannon Lechon is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. In middle grade, I’m looking for horror, thrillers, mysteries, and action-packed adventure. I’m happy to receive both speculative stories with fantastical or sci-fi elements, or grounded ones set entirely in our world. In young adult, I am looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery/thrillers. In adult fiction, I am looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery/thrillers. In graphic novels, I am looking for young adult and adult fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, and horror. For graphic novels, I am only interested in taking on author/illustrators or author/illustrator duos. Please do not submit graphic novel proposals or scripts without either being an artist or having an artist attached. In nonfiction, I am looking for select adult nonfiction proposals. I’m very interested in memoirs about specialized careers like the beekeepers of Honey and Venom, as well as proposals (both memoir or entirely research-centric) on health and the medical industry, such as The Sleeping Beauties and What My Bones Know. Mental health, illness, and trauma recovery narratives like In the Dream House are also welcome. Learn more about Shannon here.
Michelle Richter is a literary agent with Fuse Literary. Michelle is seeking: suspense, mystery, psychological thrillers, domestic suspense, women’s fiction, book club fiction, YA mystery/thriller, and select contemporary YA. She’s especially eager to find suspense and psychological thrillers with complex lead characters. BIPOC, LGBTQ, and disabled voices in fiction always welcome. Michelle loves unreliable narrators, stories of family secrets, friendships, and sibling relationships. Learn more about Michelle here.
Grace Demyan is a literary agent with Harvey Klinger Literary. She is interested in a wide range of fiction and always on the lookout for underrepresented authors. She seeks adult and young adult fiction in the following genres: fantasy, science fiction, horror, historical, mystery, thriller, and suspense. “The key to my heart is fast-paced plotting, complex characters, and an interesting setting. In all genres, my tastes lean toward the dark, macabre, outlandish, violent, and shocking. Get to know more about Grace here.
Keir Alekseii is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. As a neurodivergent, queer person of color, Keir is invested in discovering engaging work with similar representation, and passionate about creating space for voices not often recognized. They are especially interested in stories from BIPOC who are born and raised in the Global South. She is open to science fiction, fantasy, and horror in adult, young adult, and middle grade. She also seeks historical young adult and middle grade. Learn more about Keir here.
Annie Bomke is a literary agent with Annie Bomke Literary Agency. She represents a wide variety of adult and YA fiction and nonfiction, including commercial and literary fiction, upmarket fiction, mysteries (from hilarious cozies to gritty police procedurals and everything in between), historical fiction, women’s fiction, psychological thrillers, literary/psychological horror, self-help, business, health/diet, cookbooks, memoir, relationships, current events, psychology, and narrative nonfiction. Learn more about Annie here.
Nicole Payne is a literary agent with Confluence Literary. “In general, I represent young adult and adult fiction novels, preferably in romance, women’s fiction, literary fiction, mystery, suspense, thriller, and speculative fiction. They hold a special place in my heart. As I slowly delve into nonfiction, I would love to see more science-based books, especially biology and forensic, as well as medicine, travel, and cookbooks in my queue. I’m also actively seeking diverse voices and stories across the board. Give me all the books!” Learn more about Nicole here.
Erika Staiger is a literary assistant with Spencerhill Associates. She is acting as a literary scout for her agency at the events. On behalf of her co-agent, Erika is scouting for commercial fiction — new women’s fiction, romance, historical fiction, thrillers and horror. She is seeking exciting new voices that utilize elements of different genres to tell their story. Learn more about Erika and her wishlist here.
Paul S. Levine is a literary agent and the founder of Paul S. Levine Literary. He is also an attorney. His fiction interests include adventure novels, mainstream fiction, mysteries, romance, thrillers, and women’s fiction. His nonfiction interests include business/commerce, pop culture, how-to, self-help, politics/law, relationships, and sports. With almost 40 years of experience in the entertainment and book industries, Levine is one of the few lawyers on the West coast who also understands the world of book publishing; as such, he is able to act as both literary agent and publishing attorney for his clients. Learn more about Paul here.
Amy Giuffrida is a literary agent with The Belcastro Literary Agency. “I am especially seeking stories written by diverse creators—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and disabled creators are encouraged to query me. Send me your stories of joy, where your characters and their worlds can be celebrated by the reader.” In nonfiction, she seeks: business, social media, tech, cookbooks, and also anything by an author with a strong platform and a love for their subject. She seeks upper middle grade fiction. In young fiction, she seeks fantasy, horror, sci-fi, contemporary, contemporary romance, mystery, thriller, historical, and novels-in-verse. In adult fiction, she seeks women’s fiction, book club / commercial fiction, non-political thriller, horror, contemporary romance, and rom-com. Learn more about Amy here.
Des Salazar is a literary agent with Metamorphosis Literary. They seek: Romance, Fantasy, Horror, LGBTQ+, Literary Fiction, Thriller, Mystery, New Adult, Science Fiction, and Young Adult. A graduate of Columbia College Chicago, Des Salazar holds an MFA in Fiction having completed a thesis containing translations of stories and poems from an archived journal and reflection essays. Learn more about Des here.
Nephele Tempest is a literary agent at The Knight Agency. Nephele continues to actively build her client list and looks for fiction with both strong, well-developed characters and a story that pulls her in and won’t let go. She primarily represents women’s contemporary or historical fiction; contemporary, paranormal, and historical single-title romance; and adult fantasy and science fiction. More generally, Nephele always looks for work with diverse cultural influences, #ownvoices projects, and stories that inspire and/or make her think. Learn more about Nephele here.
Jael Morrill is a literary agent with The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency. Adult fiction and young adult fiction wishlist for Jael: “I am eager to represent richly immersive science fiction and fantasy. I love seeing fresh takes on noir thrillers, horror with hope at the core of the story, and campy mysteries— especially if they contain speculative elements. Stories that contain queer characters, whimsical world-building, and witty but grounded dialogue are often my favorite things to read.” Nonfiction wishlist for Jael: “I would love to see books that focus on rarely told history, have a focus on cultural anthropology, or have to do with the arts. Memoirs from marginalized voices are especially welcome. Topics covering disability, queer experiences, and those hurt by fundamentalist movements are especially close to my heart, though I always welcome learning something new.” Learn more about Jael here.
Nadia Lynch is a literary agent with Talcott Notch. “I am interested in upmarket, literary, historical, young adult, and women’s fiction, especially narratives that showcase resilient female protagonists. While these genres anchor my reading repertoire, I’m invigorated by books that push boundaries and challenge my perspectives. In nonfiction, I enjoy delving into subjects that expand my understanding. History, philosophy, alternative medicine, and self-improvement books are among my preferred genres, each offering a unique lens to explore and absorb new insights.” Learn more about Nadia here.
Emma Fulenwider is a literary agent with Wordserve Literary. She’s looking for adult nonfiction books that are nerdy, helpful, and true. Emma likes working with thought leaders called to contribute their respectful insights into the problems we’re facing, and the ones we’re avoiding. Emma is a book junkie. She believes that writing is a form of self-care, publishing is about serving others, and yes you have to have a platform. Learn more about Emma here.
Jess Taylor is a literary agent with Martin Literary Management. She reps young adult, new adult, and select romance. I’m open to any subgenre except tech-heavy science fiction. I adore fresh and unique concepts as well as tried-and-true tales. Retellings of myths, fairy tales, or classic stories are always appreciated, and I love a good paranormal romance (especially if there are mermaids). New Adult wishlist: I am specifically open to new adult romance titles featuring characters under twenty-five and focused on coming-of-age stories. Romance wishlist: Witchy and cozy fantasy romances will always be on my TBR pile. If you have a book like The Kiss Curse, Love’s a Witch or The Nightmare Before Kissmas, I want to read it. I know I love a book when I can’t stop thinking about it. LGBTQ+ books are always welcome, and previously self-published titles are considered on a case-by-case basis. Learn more about Jess here.
Jennifer Chen Tran is a literary agent at Glass Literary Management. In nonfiction, she seeks cookbooks, memoir, narrative nonfiction, and prescriptive nonfiction. She loves nonfiction (narrative or memoir with a platform) that sheds light on an unseen corner in society or history. Prescriptive nonfiction with practical takeaways, cookbooks with a unique angle or narratives centered on culinary life (see David Chang’s Eat a Peach), lifestyle titles (see Kate Oliver’s The Modern Caravan), humorous or visually-driven projects, and business books that read like memoir. Big idea books that shift how we perceive or navigate the world. In fiction, she seeks: middle grade, young adult, graphic novels, bookclub fiction, commercial/mainstream fiction, and women’s fiction. She loves middle grade and young adult that has heart and humor or visually-driven elements (see Remy Lai’s Pie in the Sky). She gravitates toward contemporary fiction that braids together issues of social significance and identity (see Angie Kim’s Miracle Creek). Learn more about Jennifer here.
Christine Goss is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary Management. Christine is drawn to stories with high stakes and tension. The first pages must draw her in with action and curiosity. Lyrical writing, along with emotionality, physicality, and interiority, are all key components Christine looks for in a manuscript. Christine is generally interested in romance, historical fiction, book club fiction, upmarket, dystopian, graphic novel, and fantasy. Nonfiction and graphic novels covering a specific range of topics are also of interest. She is also open to most young adult. Championing marginalized voices is important to Christine as she seeks to include BIPOC, LGTBQ+, and neurodivergent (and more) authors on her list. “I am looking to uplift, support, and highlight marginalized voices.” Learn more about Christine here.
Shelly Romero is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. She is seeking: science fiction; speculative fiction; horror (almost all subgenres & especially for all age categories); Honduran authors; stories by Latine/x authors from Central America and the Caribbean (including Afro-Latine & Indigenous Latine stories); playing with formatting such as mixed-media & epistolary novels that give the story a “found footage” type of vibe; anything comped to Guillermo del Toro, David Cronenberg, Clive Barker, John Carpenter, or Wes Craven; Catholic horror; gothic romance; grounded fantasy; midwestern gothic; southern gothic; vampires; Jewish stories especially if they are intersectional with BIPOC and/or queer characters; thrillers/mysteries (with non-cop protagonists); commercial fiction; slice-of-life a la One Tree Hill, OG Gossip Girl, The Sandlot, Real Women Have Curves, What We Do in the Shadows; historical fiction set during: Regency, Edwardian, & Victorian eras; post-WWII; 80s – 00s…but featuring BIPOC and/or queer characters; adult erotic fiction, especially featuring BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA characters in kink spaces; set during college and non-college bound post-high school. Learn more about Shelly here.
Jessica Larios-Zarate is a literary agent with Wave Literary. In regards to fiction, Jessica gravitates towards: commercial fiction, contemporary upmarket fiction, literary fiction, mystery/thrillers, and speculative fiction. She is particularly invested in stories that feature LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or disabled protagonists, especially when the books are not issue-driven. As for nonfiction, Jessica is interested in: narrative nonfiction and historical nonfiction. In terms of historical nonfiction, she seeks: Ancient History, Historical Expeditions, Civil Rights Movements, and Indigenous History Books; no War History, please. Learn more about Jessica here.
Geffen Semach is a literary agent with Westwood Creative Artists. Fiction: I am looking for general upmarket fiction; horror, thriller and suspense; sci fi, speculative, fantasy and romantasy; as well as select concept-driven romance and literary novels. I am drawn to genre-blending novels that tackle human complexity, thoughtful world-building, strong emotional resonance, and bold voices and concepts. I love novels with teeth that make me feel viscerally—either grounded or unsettled—and nuanced characters that feel both fresh and challenging. Nonfiction: I am interested in journalism in the vein of social commentary, pop culture, politics, art and media; expert-driven writing relating to medicine and mental health, sex and relationships, and money; as well as exceptional memoir. For me it is the balance of an authoritative voice with accessibility. Particularly books that explore complex, often systemic issues—from politics to psychology to culture—told from a personal or human-centered lens. Please connect with me if you are an expert with a strong voice and an idea to share. I am happy to chat with writers who are at the beginning stages of forming an idea to craft a proposal together. I encourage submissions from underrepresented writers including 2SLGBTQI+, BIPOC, and/or disabled. Learn more about Geffen here.
A.J. Van Belle (they/them) is a literary agent at the Booker Albert Literary Agency. A.J. welcomes queries from marginalized writers. They’re currently seeking MG and YA in all genres, and adult literary, general, historical, thriller, and women’s fiction. (Their list is currently full for adult sci-fi / fantasy / horror but they may reopen to these genres in the future.) In nonfiction, they’re seeking fresh ideas in science, popular science, self-help, and health/wellness from authors with established platforms. As a scientist who has published NSF-funded research in ecology, they welcome queries from authors whose expertise links with evolution, ecology, statistics, microbiology, and biogeoscience. Learn more about AJ here.
Mason Rowlee is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Mason only represents adult books. He is seeking innovative, boundary-pushing literary fiction, engrossing upmarket and commercial fiction, and nonfiction that amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices in publishing. He is particularly interested in working with queer authors. For adult fiction, he loves: literary novels with genre elements (romance, fantasy, horror); explorations of LGBTQIA+ relationships, chosen families, and communities; expansive, big-hearted family sagas; unputdownable thrillers and horror novels with social commentary; coming-of-age adventures with small town antics; and novels that embrace the absurd. For adult nonfiction, he loves: narrative nonfiction about the inequity faced by marginalized communities; savvy pop culture reporting; biographies of obscure or underappreciated historical figures; well-researched, paradigm-shifting journalism; memoirs with strong, voice-driven writing; and disruptive self-help with a social justice component. Learn more about Mason here.
Brittany Torres Rivera is an assistant editor with Graywolf Press, and is taking pitches on behalf of her imprint. Graywolf Press publishes about 30 books annually — mostly poetry, memoirs, essays, novels, translations, and short stories. “Our editors are looking for high quality literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that combine a distinct voice with a distinct vision. Our editors seek out and solicit promising work from authors that they encounter in the pages of magazines, at writing conferences, and in other venues.” Learn more about Brittany here.
Shania Soler is a literary agent with Metamorphosis Literary. She is seeking: novels in the fantasy genre or romance WITH SPICE; for fantasy, I’m interested in more than just the romance that two characters have (intricate political and/or magic systems and complex character backstories); for contemporary romance, I’m looking for things that take me off the beaten path (think Butcher & Blackbird or Haunting Adeline); horror (young adult, new adult, & adult); mythology (young adult, new adult, & adult); magical realism (young adult, new adult, & adult); and historical fiction. Learn more about Shania here.
Lee Melillo is a literary agent with Dunham Literary. Lee represents YA, New Adult, and Adult Fiction written by, for, and about marginalized communities (#OwnVoices) in both commercial and upmarket categories. In Adult Fiction, Lee is searching for book club and upmarket fiction from BIPOC women, neurodiverse, and queer authors. She is also open to contemporary or historical fiction centered around myth (but NOT Greek/Roman/Norse!!), either through retellings of classics or the invention of new mythologies for the modern age; dark magical realism; bubblegum thrillers; and socially-conscious horror. In Young and New Adult Fiction, Lee looks for YA that has crossover potential and NA stories set in college or directly post-grad. Diversity is a must, as are well-developed, loveable (or love-to-hateable) characters. She enjoys meticulously-researched, atmospheric historical fiction with an element of mystery/suspense or other propulsive plot engines. She also loves dystopian fiction, but it must be grounded in real life issues and critique our present-day socio-political systems. For contemporary fiction, she’s open to stories centering queer characters, characters with mental illness and particularly OCD, or rom-com heroines with autism in interesting, off-beat settings. Learn more about Lee here.
Ruth Gila Berger is a literary agent with Red Sofa Literary. She is seeking: adult and young adult fiction that has a hook, nuance and heart; essay collections that show up in the wrong outfit, take a circuitous or unexpected route to writing, and question assumptions; narrative nonfiction with a story – especially if it marries two seemly disparate fields like art and mathematics, physics and cooking, birds and language, etc. I want to read experts who can charm and surprise me, make me laugh and never take a tone of intellectual superiority; memoir is where my heart lives but you have to knock my socks off and be connected to something in the larger world (must have a platform to sell) and graphic Novels, only if they are original, beautiful and funny. Learn more about Ruth here.
Matthew Valdez is a literary agent with Megibow Literary Agency. I am always looking to champion stories from writers of all marginalized backgrounds, especially voices from the LGBTQ+ community. In adult fiction, he seeks fantasy, romantasy, high fantasy, dark fiction, folklore retellings, psychological thrillers, unique dark academia, horror, horrormantasy, horror rooted in folklore, romance, romantic comedy (particularly LGBTQ+, but all welcome); and commercial / upmarket literary fiction. In young adult fiction, he seeks fantasy, unique dark academia, contemporary, paranormal, thriller, dystopian, and rom-com (particularly LGBTQ+, but all welcome). Learn more about Matthew here.
Syrone Harvey is a literary agent at Belcastro Agency and also a children’s book author. In Adult, YA and Middle Grade Fiction, she is eagerly seeking diverse, underrepresented voices and perspectives, stories with strong, distinct and multi-dimensional characters, compelling stories of friendships, coming-of-age, emotional angst, family saga. Throw in a little fun, adventure, humor, edginess and stories that are overall engaging. In Children’s she is seeking books filled with humor, whimsy, are heartfelt, offer make-me-giggle storytelling, and absolutely crazy fun. Areas of interest- BIPOC Literature, Book Club, Children’s, Commercial, Contemporary, Family Saga, General, Humor, Literary, Middle Grade, New Adult, Picture Books, Inspiration, Romance, Romcom, Women’s Fiction, and Young Adult. Learn more about Syrone here.
More 2026 agents to be announced as they are confirmed. You can sign up for pitches at any time, or switch pitches at any time, so long as the agent in question still has appointments open.
These one-on-one meetings are an amazing chance to pitch your book face-to-face with an agent, and get personal, individual feedback on your pitch/concept. If the agent likes your pitch, they’ll request to see part/all of your book — sending you straight past the slush pile. It also gives you an intimate chance to meet with an agent and pick their brain with any questions on your mind.
(Please note that Agent/Editor Pitching is an add-on, separate aspect of the day, for only those who sign up. Spaces are limited for these premium meetings, and pricing/detail is explained below.)
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PRICING:
$189 — EARLY BIRD base price for registration to the 2026 TWW and access to all workshops, all days. (You also get 10+ additional free pre-recorded webinars on writing and publishing.) As of fall 2025, registration is now OPEN.
To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the Texas event.
Add $29 — to secure a 10-minute one-on-one meeting with any of our literary agents or editors in attendance. Use this special meeting as a chance to pitch your work and get professional feedback on your pitch. (Spaces limited.) If they wish, attendees are free to sign up for multiple 10-minute pitch sessions at $29/session — pitching multiple individuals. There is no limit. Here are quick testimonials regarding writers who have signed with literary agents after pitching them at prior Writing Day Workshops events. Our bigger, growing list of success stories can be seen here.
“I met Mai Nguyen at the Toronto Writing Workshop and sold her manuscript to Simon & Schuster for six figures.”
– literary agent Carly Watters of P.S. Literary Agency
“I signed Sarah G. Pierce from the Seattle Writing Workshop, and we recently sold her book to Orbit/Redhook.”
– literary agent Pam Gruber of Highline Literary Collective
“I met Amber Cowie at a Writing Day Workshops conference. We sold her best-selling crime novel to Lake Union / Amazon.”
– literary agent Gordon Warnock of Fuse Literary
“I met my client, Dana Corbit Nussio, at the Michigan Writing Workshop. Dana signed a new three-book contract with Harlequin Romantic Suspense.”
– literary agent Rachel Beck of Liza Dawson Associates
“I signed Nedda Lewers from a Writing Day Workshops event. Her debut novel from Putnam Children’s was an Indie’s Introduce Best Book of 2024.”
– literary agent Kelly Dyksterhouse of Tobias Literary Agency
Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Brian Klems, one of the workshop’s former instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Texas Writing Workshop attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?
Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 15-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:
- All types of middle grade; all types of young adult; and adult fantasy, sci-fi, and historical fiction (no horror or thriller) (virtual critiques): Faculty member Jillian Boehme, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
- Fantasy, historical fiction, horror, literary fiction, magical realism, mystery, romance, sci-fi, thriller, upmarket, women’s fiction, memoir, and young adult (virtual critiques): Faculty member Victoria Griffin, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
- Children’s picture books (virtual critiques): Faculty member Rosie Pova, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime around the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
- Women’s, mainstream, science fiction, fantasy, romance, crime, thriller, mystery (virtual critiques): Faculty member Michelle McGill-Vargas, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
- More critique options possibly forthcoming.
How to pay/register — Registration is now open.
To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Brian Klems via email: WDWconference@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The TWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Brian plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Texas workshop specifically.
REGISTRATION:
(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. The 2026 TWW is an Online Conference, on March 6-7. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)
Are spaces still available? Yes, we still have spaces available. We will announce RIGHT HERE, at this point on this web page, when all spaces are taken. If you do not see a note right here saying how all spaces are booked, then yes, we still have room, and you are encouraged to register.
How to Register:
To register, click the button above. Or reach out to workshop organizer Brian Klems via email: WDWconference@gmail.com. He will pass along registration information to you, and give instructions on how to pay by credit card, PayPal, or check. Once payment is complete, you will have a reserved seat at the event. The TWW will send out periodic e-mail updates to all registered attendees with any & all news about the event. Because Brian plans different workshops, make sure you note that you’re inquiring about the Texas workshop specifically.
Refunds: If you sign up for the event and have to cancel for any reason at any time, you will receive 50% of your total payment back [sent by check or PayPal or CC refund]. The other 50% is nonrefundable and will not be returned, and helps the workshop ensure that only those truly interested in the limited spacing sign up for the event. (Please note that query editing payments and manuscript editing payments are completely non-refundable if the instructor has already started edited your work.)
Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Online Texas Writing Workshop.
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