Looking ahead to 2026, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be presenting a workshop called True Crime Uncovered at the 39th Annual Pennwriters Conference in Lancaster, PA, May 15-17, 2026!

This is a particularly meaningful opportunity for me, as I first attended the conference this past spring as a debut author still finding my way in the publishing world. The organization’s support and resources helped shape my first book, Chained Birds: A Crimemoir, into the award-winning (and Amazon Best Selling!) publication it is today. Now I get to give back by sharing what I’ve learned about the true crime genre with fellow writers.

AND I’m also excited to share my journey of going from traditional publishing to becoming an indie author! Two months after this year’s Pennwriters Conference in Pittsburgh, I reclaimed the rights to Chained Birds from my original publisher WildBlue Press. I relaunched the book with a new cover and subtitle under my own imprint, while learning so much along the way. I really look forward to sharing and connecting with other indie and aspiring authors next year.

Conference-goers will attend from all six Pennsylvania areas and beyond. (I’ll be traveling to Lancaster from Philly’s Area Six.) This page provides details of all the Pennwriters’ Areas, including area representatives, meeting locations, and meeting times.What to Expect at the Conference

The three-day conference at the DoubleTree Inn and Resort promises to be packed with opportunities for writers at every stage of their journey. My “True Crime Uncovered” workshop will be one of many sessions designed to help attendees hone their craft and navigate the publishing landscape.

The conference features an impressive lineup, including:

Keynote Speakers:

Chuck Wendig (Friday Evening) – The New York Times bestselling author of Wanderers, The Book of Accidents, and more than two dozen other books, known for his popular blog Terribleminds and writing craft books like Damn Fine StoryMaria V. Snyder (Saturday Lunch) – Long-time Pennwriters member, New York Times bestselling author of 24 published novels, and MFA faculty member at Seton Hill UniversityBeyond workshops and keynotes, attendees will have access to:Pitch appointments with agents and editors (first registered, first assigned)Friday Networking LuncheonKeynote dinners and lunchesFriday Night Read & Critique sessionsA new writing retreat roomSaturday Night Social (dress like a Lord of the Rings character!)The returning Tea ExchangeBook sales and author signingsBasket raffle“In Other Words” contest (often called “On The Wall” contest)My “True Crime Uncovered” Workshop

In my session, I’ll be diving deep into what makes true crime work—and what doesn’t. Drawing on my experience as a journalist and in writing Chained Birds, I’ll cover the unique challenges and opportunities of documenting real crimes and the people affected by them. We’ll explore navigating the ethical complexities of telling real people’s stories, e.g. how to portray victims and perpetrators with nuance, dignity, and—when necessary—accountability.

Attendees of my workshop will gain practical insights into this competitive genre and a roadmap for breaking into true crime or strengthening their current projects.

Join Me in Lancaster!

Conference registration offers flexible pricing with three-day, two-day, and single-day options to fit your schedule and budget. And for those in the area, some events—like the bookstore signings—are open to the public.

I can’t wait to connect with the Pennwriters community again, meet aspiring true crime writers, and learn from the incredible lineup of speakers and fellow authors. If you’re planning to attend, please come say hello at my workshop!

For more information and registration updates, visit Pennwriters.org.

See you in Lancaster!

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