Thrillerfest is in just two weeks. Hear that? That’s my scream of glee.
ThrillerFest is an annual conference for writers organized by International Thriller Writers (ITW). The event, now in its tenth year, brings together thousands of writers, agents, publishers and other industry professionals together each year. To borrow from Anchorman, it’s kind of a big deal.
This year’s event runs July 7-11 in New York City. So in just under two weeks, I head to the Big Apple to experience it for the first time.
Obviously, there are endless reasons to be completely psyched for this. But here are the top five on my list:
1) Experience a major publishing event.
I’ve actively engaged the writing community however I could since I started taking my creative writing seriously several years ago. So far, that’s been on a local level in DC (much love to The Writer’s Center) and online. But I haven’t gotten to get to a big national event yet. This is the big leagues—heck, it’s practically a whole new ball game.
2) Charlaine Harris
Because. Dudes. Charlaine Harris. Major True Blood fan here … and major Sookie Stackhouse fan. I saw the top of her head at the National Book Festival on the National Mall three years ago, but that wasn’t enough. That tent was packed. In two weeks, I get my vindication. Also, maybe some writing tips.
3) Meeting other writers
Becoming part of the writing community has been one of the very best things I’ve gained from writing. My fellow writers give me my best feedback, and lend a sympathetic ear when I need to vent about writing’s frustrations and challenges. So, of course, I’m eager to make more connections with people who tick the same way I do. (Are you going? Tweet me!)
4) An Entire Session About “How to Keep Weapons Interesting”
What could be more fascinating than a panel of successful thriller writers discussing weapons? Of course, it’s easy to say that until you look at the rest of the conference’s agenda—additional sessions focus on unusual crimes in thrillers, deciding your body count, and more quirky topics. And that’s not even touching a number of general writing focused sessions that also sound riveting. How will I ever decide what to attend?
5) Sharing What I learn With You
Yep. I’m going to go soak up all I can at Thrillerfest, and then turn around and share what I learn with you here on DIYMFA. Expect a handful of articles sharing my top takeaways following the event. This list could go on for quite a while—there’s just so much to be psyched about. From big-name authors to rubbing elbows with agents to stimulating sessions, Thrillerfest is sure to be a heck of an experience. I can’t wait to get there!
By day, Emily Wenstrom, is the editor of short story website wordhaus, author social media coach, and freelance content marketing specialist. By early-early morning, she is E. J. Wenstrom, an award-winning sci-fi and fantasy author whose debut novel Mud was named 2016 Book of the Year by the Florida Writers Association.
