November Harriet E. Wilson Literary Salon with L. Annette Binder
2025-11-15 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Home of Robert Wheeler, New Castle, NH, United States
Join the NH Writers’ Project for an intimate evening with L. Annette Binder, award-winning author and New York Times-reviewed novelist, as she shares insights from her upcoming memoir, Child of Earth and Starry Heaven (April 2025, Wandering Aengus Press).
Born in Germany and immigrating to the United States as a child, Binder has established herself as a masterful storyteller. Her short story collection, Rise, received the Mary McCarthy Prize in Short Fiction, and her work has appeared in The Pushcart Prize Anthology, PEN/O. Henry Prize Stories, One Story, The Southern Review, and American Short Fiction. Her novel, The Vanishing Sky, was a New York Times Book Review Selection for Summer and an Indie Next Pick.
During this special literary salon, Binder will discuss the inspiration behind Child of Earth and Starry Heaven, a memoir that blends mythology, poetry, science, and history to explore memory, motherhood, and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. Lauded for its depth and lyricism, the book has been praised as “an illuminating and moving meditation on dementia” (Kirkus) and “a hauntingly powerful work of the sort only the very best of writers may hope to achieve in a lifetime” (James Brown, Apology to the Young Addict).
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Binder in a thoughtful discussion about writing, memory, and storytelling, ask questions about her literary career, and gain insights into her creative process.
What to Expect:

A compelling conversation on memoir writing, memory, and storytelling
Q&A session with L. Annette Binder
Networking with fellow writers in an intimate, welcoming setting
Beverages and hors d’oeuvres included with admission
Book signing opportunity with Binder’s works

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Location: The home of Robert Wheeler, New Castle, NH
Tickets: $25 NHWP Members | $35 Non-Members
Limited Seating: 20 Attendees

Seating is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Note: Due to NHWP’s transition to “writers without walls,” we must now cover venue costs for in-person events. Your registration fee helps support this initiative.
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/eventReg.jsp?event=1771&
Additional information, including directions, will be email 1 to 2 days prior to the event.

November 2025 Marketing Support Group
2025-12-03 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
**This event has been rescheduled to December 3rd.**
Members, are you looking to enhance your marketing skills and grow your platform as a writer?
Join us the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 3:00 – 4:30pm for the NHWP Marketing Support Group, which takes place in our Zoom Room.
This interactive group is designed exclusively for NHWP members to connect, share strategies, and gain valuable insights to elevate your marketing efforts. Whether you’re a published author, seasoned writer, or just starting to build your brand, this group is here to support you.
In our monthly sessions, we’ll:

Introduce ourselves and build connections.
Discuss a monthly topic or theme of importance to building your professional brand.
Answer questions and set the tone for a collaborative, and productive support group.

Remaining themes and dates for 2025:

December 3rd: How to Pitch Yourself for Speaking Engagements & Podcasts
December 17th: Monetizing Your Writing Beyond Book Sales

Stay committed to your marketing success in 2025 by joining our monthly support group. Each session will help you tackle challenges, refine strategies, and stay motivated in your journey as a writer or author. Keep showing up for yourself and your peers, stay inspired, and watch your marketing efforts grow!
Members, for the monthly Zoom link, visit: https://nhwritersproject.org/monthly-marketing-support-group-sessions/ on the day and time of this session and click JOIN SUPPORT GROUP. Don’t forget to log into the website with your member password.

December 2025 Marketing Support Group
2025-12-17 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Members, are you looking to enhance your marketing skills and grow your platform as a writer?
Join us the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 3:00 – 4:30pm for the NHWP Marketing Support Group, which takes place in our Zoom Room.
This interactive group is designed exclusively for NHWP members to connect, share strategies, and gain valuable insights to elevate your marketing efforts. Whether you’re a published author, seasoned writer, or just starting to build your brand, this group is here to support you.
In our monthly sessions, we’ll:

Introduce ourselves and build connections.
Discuss a monthly topic or theme of importance to building your professional brand.
Answer questions and set the tone for a collaborative, and productive support group.

Remaining themes and dates for 2025:

December 17th: Monetizing Your Writing Beyond Book Sales

Stay committed to your marketing success in 2025 by joining our monthly support group. Each session will help you tackle challenges, refine strategies, and stay motivated in your journey as a writer or author. Keep showing up for yourself and your peers, stay inspired, and watch your marketing efforts grow!
Members, for the monthly Zoom link, visit: https://nhwritersproject.org/monthly-marketing-support-group-sessions/ on the day and time of this session and click JOIN SUPPORT GROUP. Don’t forget to log into the website with your member password.

January 2026 Marketing Support Group Brainstorming Session
2026-01-14 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Members, help shape the future of NHWP’s Marketing Support Group!
Join us on Wednesday, January 14 for our 2026 Marketing Support Group Brainstorming Session, where we’ll reflect on what worked in 2025 and co-create the topics, formats, and focus areas for the year ahead. This is your opportunity to share feedback, ideas, and needs so our 2026 sessions are practical, relevant, and member-driven.
We’ll meet from 3:00–4:30pm in the NHWP Zoom Room for an open, interactive conversation designed to spark ideas and strengthen our community.
This session is exclusively for NHWP members and is welcoming to writers at every stage—from those just beginning to build their platform to seasoned authors refining their outreach.
During this brainstorming session, we’ll:

Share feedback and takeaways from 2025 Marketing Support Group sessions
Brainstorm topics, tools, and challenges you want addressed in 2026
Explore formats and ideas that support real-world marketing needs
Set the tone for a collaborative, supportive, and productive year ahead

Your voice matters. By participating, you’re helping shape a marketing support experience that truly serves our writing community in 2026. Join us, bring your ideas, and help build the roadmap for the year to come.
Members, for the monthly Zoom link, visit: https://nhwritersproject.org/monthly-marketing-support-group-sessions/ on the day and time of this session and click JOIN SUPPORT GROUP. Don’t forget to log into the website with your member password.

New Year, New Stories: NH Writers’ Project 2026 Winter Social
2026-01-31 13:00 - 16:00 | The Pappas Room at Puritan Backroom, 245 Hooksett Rd., Manchester, NH
Join the NH Writers’ Project for our 2026 Winter Social, a signature gathering that brings together writers, readers, and literary supporters from across the state for an afternoon of connection, celebration, and inspiration.
Hosted by the NHWP Board of Directors, this annual favorite is your chance to reconnect with the community, get a first look at what’s ahead for NHWP in 2026, and kick off your creative year feeling energized and supported.
What to Expect:

The NHWP Winter Social is a relaxed, welcoming gathering designed to celebrate our writing community while sharing what’s ahead in the coming year.
During the afternoon, guests will enjoy:
Light appetizers and beverages
Casual networking with fellow writers and NHWP board members
A brief program highlighting NHWP’s 2026 events, programs, and opportunities

Special announcements, including:

The 603 Writers’ Conference theme and keynote reveal
Upcoming write-ins, webinars, and educational offerings
A new self-publishing webinar package
The Annual Meeting date
And our always-popular Golden Ticket giveaway

Whether you’re brand new to NHWP or a longtime member, this event offers an inside look at how NHWP supports writers at every stage—and how you can plug in during the year ahead.
Tickets: $30/member and $40/non-member, space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.

Date: January 31st
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Location: The Pappas Room at the Puritan Backroom, Manchester, NH
Registration deadline: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/event.jsp?event=2324&

The NHWP Winter Social is your opportunity to meet and reconnect with writers from across New Hampshire, get an exclusive first look at NHWP’s 2026 programming, and celebrate the start of a new creative year alongside people who share your passion for storytelling. Come enjoy good food, great conversation, and the kind of literary inspiration that carries you into the months ahead.
NOTE: We are excited to start our 2026 Season with you at our Winter Social! As you may be aware, the CDC status for the flu and respiratory illnesses is posted as “very high.” We need your help to create a warm, welcoming, and healthy gathering where everyone can relax and enjoy the afternoon. We will provide spacious seating, hand sanitizer, and refunds up to the start of the event for anyone feeling unwell or cautious. As an attendee, you are free to wear a mask (but they aren’t required). Thank you in advance for helping to make this a fun, meaningful, and healthy Winter Social. -NHWP Board Trustees

February 14th Write In with Masheri
2026-02-14 10:00 - 16:00 | The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature, 247 North River Road, Epping, NH, United States
**This event has been rescheduled to February 14th due to predicted snow.**
Are you working on a short story, screenplay, stage play, or novel and in need of fresh inspiration? Join us for The Write In, an immersive all-day writing event hosted by the New Hampshire Writers’ Project and led by award-winning author and professional Story Guide Masheri Chappelle. This unique experience is designed to help you generate new pages, refine challenging sections, and map out a clear trajectory for your storyline and character development.
Bring your favorite coffee, a bagged lunch, and a creative mindset as you dive into a day filled with focused writing, connection with fellow writers, and optional one-on-one guidance from Masheri. Whether you’re looking to push past writer’s block, gain fresh insights, or simply dedicate uninterrupted time to your craft, The Write In provides the perfect setting to fuel your creative momentum.
What to Expect

Dedicated Writing Time: Enjoy a distraction-free environment designed to help you focus on your writing goals.
Optional One-on-One Story Guide Session: Each participant will have the opportunity to sign up for a 20-minute session with Masheri Chappelle. Simply provide a brief description of your story and the challenge you’re facing, and Masheri will offer guidance to help you deepen your characters and refine your narrative.
Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow writers, discuss your work, and make new literary connections during the one-hour lunch break.
Supportive Writing Community: Surround yourself with like-minded writers in a space that fosters creativity and growth.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature at Burley Farms in Epping, NH
Cost: $35 for NHWP members | $50 for non-members, includes a healthy snack

Additional information, including directions, will be email 1 to 2 days prior to the event.

Note: Due to NHWP’s transition to “writers without walls,” we must now cover venue costs for in-person events. Your registration fee helps support this initiative.
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/event.jsp?event=2359&

Defining Your Ideal Reader & Target Audience
2026-02-18 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Are you clear on who your writing is for—and does your marketing reflect that? In this Marketing Support Group session for members, we’ll focus on defining your ideal reader and target audience so your messaging, outreach, and opportunities feel more intentional and aligned. This is a practical, discussion-driven session designed to help you sharpen your focus, reduce guesswork, and make smarter marketing decisions that support your writing goals.
What to Expect

Clarity on who your ideal reader actually is—and who you may be unintentionally trying to reach
Insight into how audience definition impacts your website, content, and marketing choices
Real-world examples and shared discussion from fellow writers
Practical takeaways you can apply immediately to your marketing and outreach

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

Access Zoom Room link>>

Join Us for the NHWP 2026 Annual Meeting
2026-02-28 10:30 - 12:00 | Online
Help Shape the Future of Our Writing Community
The New Hampshire Writers’ Project (NHWP) Annual Meeting is an opportunity for members and the broader community to come together, reflect on the past year, and take part in shaping what comes next.
WHEN: Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: Online (Zoom)
COST: Free for Members & Non-Members
(Voting is exclusive to NHWP members)
During this meeting, we’ll review NHWP’s accomplishments from the past year, share financial updates, and preview upcoming programs designed to support and inspire writers across New Hampshire.
Most importantly, members will vote to elect the 2026 Board of Trustees, helping ensure NHWP continues to grow, evolve, and serve the needs of its writing community.
Why Attend?

Stay informed about NHWP’s latest initiatives
Gain insight into financial decisions and future plans
Connect with fellow writers and community members
Exercise your right to vote and help guide NHWP’s leadership

Your participation matters. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to NHWP, this is your chance to engage with our vibrant literary community and have a voice in the organization’s direction.
REGISTER now to secure your spot! https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/nhwp/event.jsp?event=2349&

Sustainable Marketing for Writers (Avoiding Burnout)
2026-03-18 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Marketing can easily become overwhelming—especially when writers are juggling creative work, personal responsibilities, and limited time. This session focuses on building marketing practices that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with your capacity and values. We’ll talk honestly about burnout, overcommitment, and the pressure to “do it all,” and explore ways to simplify your approach while still showing up consistently for your work.
What to Expect

Strategies for simplifying marketing without disappearing
Guidance on setting realistic boundaries around promotion
Ideas for prioritizing what matters most right now
Reassurance that sustainable marketing looks different for every writer

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

Access Zoom Room link>>

March 21st Write In with Masheri
2026-03-21 10:00 - 16:00 | The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature, 247 North River Road, Epping, NH, United States
Are you working on a short story, screenplay, stage play, or novel and in need of fresh inspiration? Join us for The Write In, an immersive all-day writing event hosted by the New Hampshire Writers’ Project and led by award-winning author and professional Story Guide Masheri Chappelle. This unique experience is designed to help you generate new pages, refine challenging sections, and map out a clear trajectory for your storyline and character development.
Bring your favorite coffee, a bagged lunch, and a creative mindset as you dive into a day filled with focused writing, connection with fellow writers, and optional one-on-one guidance from Masheri. Whether you’re looking to push past writer’s block, gain fresh insights, or simply dedicate uninterrupted time to your craft, The Write In provides the perfect setting to fuel your creative momentum.
What to Expect

Dedicated Writing Time: Enjoy a distraction-free environment designed to help you focus on your writing goals.
Optional One-on-One Story Guide Session: Each participant will have the opportunity to sign up for a 20-minute session with Masheri Chappelle. Simply provide a brief description of your story and the challenge you’re facing, and Masheri will offer guidance to help you deepen your characters and refine your narrative.
Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow writers, discuss your work, and make new literary connections during the one-hour lunch break.
Supportive Writing Community: Surround yourself with like-minded writers in a space that fosters creativity and growth.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature at Burley Farms in Epping, NH
Cost: $35 for NHWP members | $50 for non-members, includes a healthy snack

Additional information, including directions, will be email 1 to 2 days prior to the event.

Note: Due to NHWP’s transition to “writers without walls,” we must now cover venue costs for in-person events. Your registration fee helps support this initiative.
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/event.jsp?event=2334&

Elevating Your Elevator Pitch with Peggy Rosen
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Room
A strong elevator pitch can open doors—whether you’re speaking with an agent, pitching at a conference, or simply explaining your book to a potential reader. In this one-hour interactive webinar, Peggy Rosen—an Author Accelerator–certified fiction book coach and Birren Center–certified Guided Autobiography Instructor—will help writers strengthen this essential tool for presenting their work.
Participants will explore and discuss:

The purpose, importance, and placement of an elevator pitch within your broader pitch strategy
The basic components of an effective elevator pitch
The relationship between your elevator pitch and your logline

During the session, we’ll review several example elevator pitches and consider them from both perspectives: the “pitch deliverer” and the “pitch recipient.” Participants are encouraged to bring their own elevator pitches to use as additional examples as we practice refining and strengthening them together.
Event Details

Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 7:00 – 8:00pm
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: $20 for NHWP members | $30 for non-members
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/nhwp/event.jsp?event=2864&

Zoom Room link, will be emailed 1 to 2 days prior to the event.
About Peggy Rosen
Following her retirement from a career in Nursing and Healthcare Administration, Peggy turned her attention to her life-long love of writing. She has been a contributor to regional magazines, a contest finalist in Flash Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction Essay, and been published in an essay anthology. She is an Author Accelerator-certified fiction book coach and a Birren Center-certified Guided Autobiography Instructor, coaching writers in fiction, non-fiction, and personal story. Her own writing projects include essays, short-form fiction, and novels. She lives in central New Hampshire and enjoys pursuing outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and mountain biking. To learn more, visit: PeggyRosenWriting.com.

April 4th Write In with Masheri
2026-04-04 10:00 - 16:00 | The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature, 247 North River Road, Epping, NH, United States
Are you working on a short story, screenplay, stage play, or novel and in need of fresh inspiration? Join us for The Write In, an immersive all-day writing event hosted by the New Hampshire Writers’ Project and led by award-winning author and professional Story Guide Masheri Chappelle. This unique experience is designed to help you generate new pages, refine challenging sections, and map out a clear trajectory for your storyline and character development.
Bring your favorite coffee, a bagged lunch, and a creative mindset as you dive into a day filled with focused writing, connection with fellow writers, and optional one-on-one guidance from Masheri. Whether you’re looking to push past writer’s block, gain fresh insights, or simply dedicate uninterrupted time to your craft, The Write In provides the perfect setting to fuel your creative momentum.
What to Expect

Dedicated Writing Time: Enjoy a distraction-free environment designed to help you focus on your writing goals.
Optional One-on-One Story Guide Session: Each participant will have the opportunity to sign up for a 20-minute session with Masheri Chappelle. Simply provide a brief description of your story and the challenge you’re facing, and Masheri will offer guidance to help you deepen your characters and refine your narrative.
Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow writers, discuss your work, and make new literary connections during the one-hour lunch break.
Supportive Writing Community: Surround yourself with like-minded writers in a space that fosters creativity and growth.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Nan & George Mathey Center for People and Nature at Burley Farms in Epping, NH
Cost: $35 for NHWP members | $50 for non-members, includes a healthy snack

Additional information, including directions, will be email 1 to 2 days prior to the event.

Note: Due to NHWP’s transition to “writers without walls,” we must now cover venue costs for in-person events. Your registration fee helps support this initiative.
Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/event.jsp?event=2339&

Choosing the Right Platforms (and Letting Go of the Rest)
2026-04-15 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
With so many platforms competing for attention, it’s easy to feel scattered or behind. This session helps writers evaluate social media and online platforms—such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Substack, and others—to determine which are truly worth their time. We’ll focus on matching platforms to your goals, audience, and comfort level, and discuss how letting go of the wrong platforms can be just as powerful as adopting the right ones.
What to Expect

A framework for deciding which platforms fit your goals
Clarity on when not to use certain platforms
Examples of platform choices that support different writing careers
Permission to stop doing what isn’t working

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

Access Zoom Room link>>

Member Marketing Open Forum for April
2026-04-21 09:00 - 10:30 | Zoom Room
Marketing Open Forums are 90-minute, lightly facilitated, discussion-driven sessions designed to meet writers where they are right now. Rather than a fixed presentation, these forums center on real questions, real challenges, and real experiences brought by members. The goal is collaborative learning—drawing on peer insight, shared problem-solving, and guided expertise to help participants leave with clarity, perspective, and practical next steps.
These sessions are intentionally flexible and responsive. Topics may range from platform choices and promotion fatigue to event ideas, visibility opportunities, pricing questions, or feedback on works-in-progress from a marketing standpoint. You don’t need to come prepared with a polished question—curiosity and honesty are more than enough.
What to Expect

Live, member-driven discussion focused on current marketing challenges and opportunities
Peer insight and shared experience from writers at different stages and across genres
Light facilitation and guidance to keep conversation productive, inclusive, and on track
Actionable takeaways shaped by real-world examples—not theory or one-size-fits-all advice

These forums are ideal for writers who want space to think out loud, test ideas, learn from others, and feel less alone in the marketing side of the writing life.
Event Details

Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 am
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

Access Zoom Room link>>

Character and Plot, Plot and Character: A One-Day Masterclass with James Patrick Kelly
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Southern NH University
You’ve written the pages. Maybe lots of them. Maybe you’ve even sent your work out into the world.
And yet—something isn’t catching fire the way you hoped.
What separates stories that work from stories that truly ignite?
Published writers don’t rely on talent alone. They use specific techniques—practical, repeatable methods—to build characters who feel alive and plots that move with purpose. On April 25, 2026 (10:00 AM–4:00 PM), award-winning writer and editor James Patrick Kelly will pull back the curtain and share the craft tools he’s refined over decades of professional storytelling.
This intensive masterclass focuses on the two foundations every story stands on: character and plot—and how they drive each other forward.
What You’ll Learn:
Morning Session: Character

How to build characters who feel human, complex, and emotionally compelling
Techniques for creating protagonists and supporting characters who belong organically in the story world
How character desire, fear, and choice generate narrative momentum

Afternoon Session: Plot

How plot emerges naturally from character trouble and complication
Structuring a story from a strong opening hook through a purposeful middle to a satisfying ending
Diagnosing sagging scenes, stalled middles, and endings that don’t land

What You’ll Walk Away With

Clear, usable strategies for strengthening characters and plot immediately
Tools to revise with confidence, not guesswork
A deeper understanding of why stories stall—and how to fix them
Two of Jim’s craft essays on character and plot, emailed in advance so you arrive grounded and ready to work

You and Your Characters first published in WRITING SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY, ed by Gardner Dozois, St. Martins Press, 199, and

The Three Laws of Great Endings first published in POCKET WORKSHOP, ed by Tod McCoy and M. HUW Evens, Hydra Press, 2021

A shared vocabulary and framework you can apply to every future project

Masterclass Details:

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm, includes continental breakfast and lunch from Popovers in Epping.
Location: The Green Center, Room GC-102A, Southern NH University, 2500 N. River Rd., Manchester, NH – specific directions, parking info, and campus map will be emailed to participants 1-2 days prior to the event.
Cost: $225.00 for Members/$275.00 for Non-Members
To Register: https://nhwp.app.neoncrm.com/event.jsp?event=2354&

About the Instructor
James Patrick Kelly has won the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards and published over a hundred stories translated into eighteen languages. His work includes The Promise of Space, Mother Go (Audible Original), and King of the Dogs, Queen of the Cats. He is a longtime columnist for Asimov’s Science Fiction Magazine and recently retired after 15 years on the faculty of the Stonecoast Creative Writing MFA Program at the University of Southern Maine. He is also co-editor of multiple landmark science fiction anthologies.
If you’re serious about leveling up your storytelling—and want insight from someone who has spent a lifetime mastering and teaching the craft—this is a day you won’t want to miss.
What Past Participants Are Saying:
“James Patrick Kelly loves what he does and does it with the skill that comes from years of dedication to his craft. His teaching, like his stories, gets straight to the crux of the story, his or yours: what’s happening, why, and why does it matter. He respects the quest to tell a good story and is generous in his support of those who engaged in it. He knows how to get over, around, and through challenges. He brings out the best in us, always. His enthusiasm is contagious.” — Rebecca Rule, humorist, speaker and author
“James Patrick Kelly is not only an accomplished, award-winning author but also an excellent teacher who offers clear and immediately helpful tips and strategies for your writing. I still use Jim’s advice about the necessary information to communicate in the first paragraphs of your story, as well as his insights on story structure and momentum, that I learned from his NHWP classes and Boskone panels. Jim is also a great one-on-one communicator who can give invaluable feedback on your individual project. Don’t miss out on what he has to say! — Jeff Deck, author of The Shadow Over Portsmouth series and The Great Typo Hunt
“Jim Kelly is an insightful and engaging instructor whose wealth of knowledge can help any student hone their skills in fiction. His attention to detail and ability to unpack the elements of the craft opened up new potential in my work. Highly recommended!” — Elaine Isaak, author of adventure novels
“James Patrick Kelly, self-described as the most famous science-fiction writer you’ve never heard of, is a born teacher and mentor. Even a casual conversation with him is a master class in genre and craft.” — R.W.W. Greene, Science-Fiction Writer, Recovering Journalist and Teacher
“Back in 2022, when my query letters went unanswered, I turned to James Patrick Kelly for the unvarnished truth-telling I needed. “Your query sounds like a history book,” he said, “But you wrote a novel!” Jim pushed me to remember that novels are, above all, stories about people: their passions, their flaws, their relationships, their triumphs. Yes, the time period, the setting, and myriad other details matter – but we read novels because we’re curious about people. Jim’s words came back to me, again and again, as I revised and resubmitted my manuscript dozens of times, over the next three years. Now, I’m a traditionally published author of the historical novel, “The Shopkeeper of Alsace,” which is selling well. Writers sometimes need tough love, and Jim gave it to me. I’m forever grateful.” — Laura Knoy, Author, Speaker, Moderator, Award-Winning Journalist

Finding Legitimate Opportunities (and Avoiding Time-Wasters)
2026-05-20 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Not every submission call, promotion offer, or marketing opportunity is worth your time—or your money. This session focuses on how to evaluate opportunities critically, identify red flags, and focus your energy on credible, well-aligned options. We’ll discuss common pitfalls writers encounter and share strategies for spotting legitimate opportunities that support your long-term goals.
What to Expect

Tools for evaluating submissions, events, and promotions
Common warning signs of low-value or questionable opportunities
Guidance on aligning opportunities with your goals
Greater confidence in saying “no”

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

Access Zoom Room link>>

2026 603 Writers' Conference
2026-06-13 08:00 - 17:00 | NH
The 603 Writers’ Conference, organized by the New Hampshire Writers’ Project, is an annual event that brings together writers, authors, and literary enthusiasts from across the region. This conference offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in a diverse range of workshops, panels, and networking sessions aimed at fostering creativity, honing craft, and navigating the evolving landscape of the publishing industry.
Key Highlights:

Keynote Speaker: The event features a keynote address from a renowned author who shares their experiences, insights, and wisdom, offering inspiration and motivation to all attendees.
Workshops and Panels: Attendees can participate in hands-on workshops and insightful panel discussions led by experienced authors, editors, and industry professionals. Topics cover a broad spectrum of interests, from fiction and non-fiction writing to poetry, screenwriting, marketing/PR, and more.
Networking Opportunities: The conference provides a platform for writers to connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators. These interactions can lead to valuable relationships that support and inspire one’s writing journey.
Industry Insights: Gain insider knowledge from publishing experts on the latest trends, submission strategies, and marketing techniques to enhance your chances of success in the competitive literary market.
Pitch Session: Writers have the chance to pitch their manuscripts to agents and editors, receiving direct feedback and potentially opening doors to future publication opportunities.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer seeking guidance, an established author looking to expand your network, or a literary enthusiast eager to immerse yourself in the world of writing, the 603 Writers’ Conference provides a supportive and dynamic environment to explore and celebrate the art of storytelling.
JOIN THE WAITLIST>>

Community-Driven Promotion & Cross-Pollination
2026-06-17 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Writers don’t have to market alone. This session explores ways authors can support one another through cross-promotion, shared audiences, newsletter swaps, interviews, and collaborative opportunities. We’ll talk about ethical, authentic ways to promote each other’s work while building stronger community connections and expanding visibility together.
What to Expect

Examples of effective cross-promotion among writers
Ideas for sharing audiences without feeling transactional
Insight into ethical, trust-based collaboration
Inspiration for building visibility through community

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Direct-to-Reader Sales & Author Websites
2026-07-15 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Selling books directly to readers can offer greater control, stronger relationships, and better data than third-party platforms alone. This session explores how authors use their websites to sell books directly, capture reader information, and experiment with tools such as WooCommerce, Square, Stripe, or PayPal. We’ll discuss benefits, challenges, and whether direct sales make sense for different types of writers.
What to Expect

An overview of direct-to-reader sales options
Pros and cons of selling through your own website
Examples of tools authors use successfully
Help deciding if this approach fits your goals

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Libraries, Indie Author Project & Institutional Access
2026-08-19 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Libraries remain an important gateway to readers—but navigating access can be confusing. This session focuses on how authors can work with libraries through programs like the Indie Author Project, as well as platforms such as Libby and Hoopla. We’ll also discuss institutional requirements, discoverability, and strategies for approaching libraries at the local and state level.
What to Expect

An overview of how library systems work for authors
Insight into the Indie Author Project and similar programs
Guidance on preparing books for institutional access
Ideas for connecting with local libraries

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Member Marketing Open Forum for September
2026-09-08 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom Room
Marketing Open Forums are 90-minute, lightly facilitated, discussion-driven sessions designed to meet writers where they are right now. Rather than a fixed presentation, these forums center on real questions, real challenges, and real experiences brought by members. The goal is collaborative learning—drawing on peer insight, shared problem-solving, and guided expertise to help participants leave with clarity, perspective, and practical next steps.
These sessions are intentionally flexible and responsive. Topics may range from platform choices and promotion fatigue to event ideas, visibility opportunities, pricing questions, or feedback on works-in-progress from a marketing standpoint. You don’t need to come prepared with a polished question—curiosity and honesty are more than enough.
What to Expect

Live, member-driven discussion focused on current marketing challenges and opportunities
Peer insight and shared experience from writers at different stages and across genres
Light facilitation and guidance to keep conversation productive, inclusive, and on track
Actionable takeaways shaped by real-world examples—not theory or one-size-fits-all advice

These forums are ideal for writers who want space to think out loud, test ideas, learn from others, and feel less alone in the marketing side of the writing life.
Event Details

Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Time: 7:00 – 8:30pm
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Events, Book Fairs & In-Person Selling
2026-09-16 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
In-person events offer unique opportunities to connect directly with readers. This session looks at marketing and selling books at festivals, fairs, signings, and community events. Topics include preparing for events, setting up your table, engaging readers, and understanding what tends to work (and what doesn’t) in face-to-face settings.
What to Expect

Tips for preparing for book fairs and events
Ideas for engaging readers at your table
Insight into what converts interest into sales
Lessons learned from experienced event sellers

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Media, Publicity & Press Opportunities
2026-10-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Media coverage can significantly expand a book’s reach—but it often feels inaccessible. This session explores how authors can approach newspapers, radio, television, podcasts, and other media outlets. We’ll discuss pitching, press releases, identifying legitimate media opportunities, and setting realistic expectations for publicity efforts.
What to Expect

An overview of media and press opportunities
Guidance on pitching and outreach
Tips for identifying credible outlets
A clearer understanding of what publicity can (and can’t) do

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Advertising Without Guesswork
2026-11-18 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Paid advertising can be powerful—or frustrating—depending on how it’s used. This session offers a realistic look at advertising options such as Amazon ads and Meta/Facebook ads, including common mistakes and misconceptions. We’ll focus on when advertising makes sense, what to test, and how to avoid wasting time and money on strategies that aren’t a good fit.
What to Expect

A realistic overview of common ad platforms
Insight into why many ads fail
Guidance on deciding whether ads are right for you
Smarter ways to experiment without overspending

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Member Marketing Open Forum for December
2026-12-10 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom Room
Marketing Open Forums are 90-minute, lightly facilitated, discussion-driven sessions designed to meet writers where they are right now. Rather than a fixed presentation, these forums center on real questions, real challenges, and real experiences brought by members. The goal is collaborative learning—drawing on peer insight, shared problem-solving, and guided expertise to help participants leave with clarity, perspective, and practical next steps.
These sessions are intentionally flexible and responsive. Topics may range from platform choices and promotion fatigue to event ideas, visibility opportunities, pricing questions, or feedback on works-in-progress from a marketing standpoint. You don’t need to come prepared with a polished question—curiosity and honesty are more than enough.
What to Expect

Live, member-driven discussion focused on current marketing challenges and opportunities
Peer insight and shared experience from writers at different stages and across genres
Light facilitation and guidance to keep conversation productive, inclusive, and on track
Actionable takeaways shaped by real-world examples—not theory or one-size-fits-all advice

These forums are ideal for writers who want space to think out loud, test ideas, learn from others, and feel less alone in the marketing side of the writing life.
Event Details

Date: Thursday, December 10, 2026
Time: 1:00 – 2:30pm
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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Book Trailers, Video & Visual Marketing
2026-12-16 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom Room
Visual content plays an increasingly important role in book promotion. This session explores book trailers, video marketing, and other visual strategies authors use to attract attention and build interest. We’ll discuss where and how video content can be used effectively, what makes it discoverable, and how to decide if visual marketing is right for your work.
What to Expect

Examples of how authors use video effectively
Insight into where video content performs best
Guidance on discoverability and visibility
Help deciding if visual marketing fits your style and goals

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Location: Zoom Room
Cost: Free for members, not yet a member, JOIN for immediate access.

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