2024 Faculty 03.21.24
- Kate Angelo
- Twila Belk
- Cherrilyn Bisbano
- Marcie Bridges
- Amy Bright
- Cynthia Cavanaugh
- Rachael M. Colby
- Cheri Cowell
- Michelle Cox
- Lisa Crayton
- Blythe Daniel
- Vincent B. Davis II
- Andrea Doering
- Lynette Eason
- Eva Marie Everson
- Jesse Florea
- Alton Gansky
- Linda Gilden
- Karynthia Glasper-Phillips
- Katrina Glover
- Linda Goldfarb
- Heather Greer
- Becky Harling
- Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes
- Andrew Jackson
- Bethany Jett
- Tammy Karasak
- Heather Kreke
- Rowena Kuo
- Steve Laube
- Larry Leech II
- Zena Dell Lowe
- Edie Melson
- DiAnn Mills
- Alycia Morales
- Susan Neal
- Edwina Perkins
- Dani Pettrey
- Karen Porter
- Deborah Raney
- Ken Raney
- Molly Jo Realy
- Linda Evans Shepherd
- Tim Shoemaker
- Cindy Sproles
- Margot Starbuck
- Kia Stephens
- Carol Tetzlaff
- Rob Tiegen
- Darlene Turner
- Erica Wiggenhorn
- Amy Williams
- Dr. Kennita Williams
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Kate Angelo
Author/ChatGPT
Kate Angelo once sold a lion to a circus in Shreveport after her mom realized lions weren’t great house pets. Growing up, Kate was a bookworm, dog groomer, exotic pet wrangler, horse trainer, cowgirl, and teenage pool shark. After aging out of foster care, Kate cultivated her inner computer nerd and worked as a web programmer. It was during a visit to Australia that Kate encountered Jesus and left the corporate world to pursue a life in ministry.
From her home in Southwest Missouri, Kate serves alongside her husband, strengthening and encouraging marriages and families through their nonprofit ministry. After raising their 5 children, Kate and her husband are now fluent in sarcasm and eye rolls—a language they plan to teach their grandkids.
Kate is a Romantic Suspense author, coffee addict, tech guru, productivity enthusiast, expert knitter, avid boater, dog lover, prayer warrior, and known klutz. With Willow the long-haired chihuahua taking up half her desk space, Kate writes thrilling stories with flawed characters who encounter hope and healing while ducking danger along the way. Learn more about Kate at kateangelo.com.
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Twila Belk
Author
Also known as The Gotta Tell Somebody Gal, Twila Belk is a writer, speaker, encourager, editor, and champion for writers. She has authored eight books (including the bestselling Raindrops from Heaven and The Power to Be) and contributed to many others, as well as written numerous articles and promotional materials.
Since 2007, she has worked closely with veteran author Cecil Murphey as his executive assistant, which has provided her with a wide range of industry knowledge, connections, and experience. Twila is also a former bookstore owner and writers conference director. She has had the pleasure of teaching and speaking at dozens of conferences across the nation and enjoys brainstorming and working with aspiring writers. (www.gottatellsomebody.com) -
Cherrilyn Bisbano
Author
Cherrilynn is an award-winning writer in fiction and nonfiction. As a speaker, chaplain, and coach, she loves to encourage her brothers and sister to stand firm and shine for Jesus. She is an expert in Book Proposals and memoirs. As managing editor of Almost an Author she helped the website earn top honors.
She considers it an honor to be published two Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Shine Don’t Whine won the Writer to Writer publishing contract and was published in October 2020.
Her newest release is Experience Immanuel Daily. Cherrilynn proudly served in the military for twenty years, earning the John Levitow Military leadership award. She lives with her 21-year-old son, Michael, Jr., and husband of 25 years, Michael, Sr. She loves Christ, chocolate, coffee, and cats.
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Marcie Bridges
Editor, Poet
Marcie Bridges is a freelance editor through Bridges Editorial Services. Marcie seeks to bridge the gap between the writer and publisher through helping authors make their writing the best it can be. Whether simply proofreading their work, or doing an in-depth edit, Marcie guides each author gently through the editorial process. She also works with Elk Lake Publishing. When not editing, Marcie immerses herself in poetry and suspense novels. She lives with her husband, Mark, in Western NC along with three cats she’s allergic to. You can find Marcie at www.marciewbridges.com or contact her through lmwbridges@gmail.com
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Amy Bright
Author
I'm Amy Bright, artist, mother, lover of all things fantastical, and slightly TOO obsessed with my reading. Harp because Thorin brought one to the meeting? Check. Sword fighting so I can experience Beowulf more deeply? Yep. Metal working because that's what elves and dwarves and other magical beings do? Absolutely I
I currently live in Upstate SC where I’m honing my blogging skills and creating experiential writing workshops that include sword fighting, leather working, and scene creation.
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Cynthia Cavanaugh
Author
Cynthia Cavanaugh is an author, Bible teacher, and podcast host and knows what it’s like to walk through painful seasons, church hurt, and relationship struggles. Her story of brokenness has propelled her to write, speak, and help others heal through the pages of God’s Word. When the storms hit, God’s truth anchors her in adversity. She is the award-winning author of several books, including her most recent from Moody Publishers, The Godly Kings of Judah: Faithful Living for Lasting Influence. She holds her MA in Leadership from Trinity Western University and is the Small Group Director at her church. In addition to writing, coaching, and teaching, she is a freelance editor passionate about helping new authors with content coaching and editing. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and loves scavenging the beach for sea glass with the grands. She is a connoisseur of fine black tea and good dark chocolate.
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Rachael M. Colby
Author, Social Media
Rachael M. Colby has a heart for reconciliation and a passion to uplift those who serve in tough places. She writes to connect cultures’ questions with Christianity’s answers, inspire faith, and
motivate.Rachael is an award-winning writer in the categories of articles, poetry, devotions, essays, flash fiction, and children’s picture books. She is a longtime member of The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild and a protégé in the Cecil Murphey Mentoring program.
Her work has appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul, the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Blog, online publications, anthologies, and the Oak Ridger newspaper.This Jamaican-born wife, mom, beach bum, artist, work in progress, makes her home in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. She runs on copious amounts of coffee, chocolate, and a whole lot of “Help
me, Jesus.” -
Cheri Cowell
Publisher - EA Books
Cheri Cowell is the owner/publisher. She is both a traditionally and independently published author and award-winning author of 365 Devotions for Peace (Zondervan) and Parables and Word Pictures Bible study (AMG Publishers). Her other books include Direction: Discernment for the Decisions of Your Life (Beacon Hill) and the One Story, One Mission, One God Bible study. She’s published over 500 articles and countless devotions. With her experience as an author and publisher, Cheri has a unique approach and grace when working with authors to bring their dreams to reality.
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Michelle Cox
Author
Michelle Cox is a speaker, bestselling author, and cupcake connoisseur. She has written or contributed to thirty books, including the When God Calls the Heart devotional series (co-authored with Executive Producer Brian Bird) based on Hallmark’s #1 television show, When Calls the Heart. Some of her other books include Just 18 Summers, Divine Beauty: Becoming Beautiful Based on God’s Truth (which is tied to the Farmer and the Belle: Saving Santaland movie), and Send Me: Devotions to Inspire Your Heart for Service (which is connected to an upcoming movie and documentary). Her newest book (co-authored with Nationally Syndicated Radio Host Todd Starnes) is Our Daily Biscuit: Devotions with a Drawl.
Michelle has written for Guideposts, FoxNews.com, Focus on the Family, Christian Cinema, several national magazines, and her syndicated parenting blog, Just 18 Summers®. She has been a guest on Home & Family, Hannity, The Harvest Show, Focus on the Family, and numerous other radio and television stations. But her favorite title is as “Grandmama” to her eight perfect grandchildren.
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Lisa Crayton
Author, Sensitivity/Authenticity Consultant
Lisa A. Crayton is an author and award-winning freelance writer with more than 30 years’ experience, and a call to write for general and Christian markets. She is the author of 19 nonfiction books, 18 for children, and a co-author of other including "Only Light Can Do That. 60 Days of MLK - Devotions for Kids" (Tommy Nelson, December 2023). Among other things, she writes or has written articles, columns, essays, devotionals, fillers, Bible Study Guides, and book chapters.
Her background also includes serving as a writing coach and mentor, literary judge, workshop leader for numerous writer’s conferences, and more. And she serves as a sensitivity/authenticity consultant for Christan and general market publishers of books for kids, and adults. (One recent client was a prominent local university for an academic title.) She earned two writing degrees, including an MFA in Creative Writing from National University
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Blythe Daniel
Agent - Blythe Daniel Agency
Blythe Daniel is a literary agent, author, and marketer. Her agency markets books through podcasts, blogs, and launch teams and represents books to publishers including adult nonfiction, select adult fiction and children’s fiction and non-fiction titles. Blythe has been the publicity director for Thomas Nelson Publishers and has spent the last 16 years as a literary agent. The agency represents new and bestselling authors primarily in the Christian market. Blythe and her mother have co-authored two books:
Mended: Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughters (Harvest House) and I Love You Mom: Cherished Word Gifts from My Heart to Yours (Tyndale). She is married and lives in Colorado with her family.
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Vincent B. Davis II
Author
Vincent B. Davis II is an author, entrepreneur, speaker, and soldier. His first novel “The Man with Two Names” was published in July 2017, and has since become an Amazon International Best Seller.
He is passionate about helping authors improve their brand and platform. He created Warrior Book Marketing Group in 2018 and now works with publishing companies and individual clients to help them sell more books in the modern publishing environment.
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Andrea Doering
Publisher - Baker Publishing Group
Andrea Doering serves as the Editorial Director of Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group. With more than 30 years of publishing experience, she has held positions in academic, childrens and trade publishing, and has had the pleasure of working with authors such as Annie F. Downs, Lisa Bevere, Emily P. Freeman, Ted Dekker, Lynette Eason, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Susan May Warren, Jane Kirkpatrick, Laura Frantz, and Shelley Shepard Gray. Twice awarded ACFW’s Editor of the Year, Andrea holds a Master’s in English/Creative Writing from the University of Maine, and lives in New York.
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Lynette Eason
Author, Agent - Steve Laube Agency
Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty-five books. Many have appeared on the USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country, but when she's not plotting and writing her next story, she’s hard at work as an agent for the Steve Laube Agency.
Lynette is looking to represent a wide variety of fiction including, but not limited to, romantic suspense, thrillers, mysteries, speculative fiction, historical, women’s contemporary, YA, and writers targeting the Love Inspired suspense lines. I’m also interested in YA non-fiction and may be interested in some adult non-fiction, depending on the topic. For fun, Lynette enjoys hanging out with her family and putting her photography skills to good use. You can find more about Lynette at www.lynetteeason.com and www.stevelaubeagency.com
Looking for:
Lynette is looking to represent a wide variety of fiction including, but not limited to, romantic suspense, thrillers, mysteries, speculative fiction, historical, women’s contemporary, YA, and writers targeting the Love Inspired suspense lines. I’m also interested in YA non-fiction and may be interested in some adult non-fiction, depending on the topic. -
Eva Marie Everson
Author
Eva Marie Everson is the bestselling and multiple award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction work. In 2022 she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from AWSA and the Yvonne Lehman Legacy Award from BRMCWC.
Eva Marie is the CEO of Word Weavers International (word-weavers.com) and the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference. Eva Marie is a popular speaker at writers conferences across the United States and the Contest Director for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is a seminary graduate who has taught a Bible study for over 30 years. Either she’s really good and the folks can’t get enough … or she’s really bad and they’re still trying to learn something (the jury is out).
Eva Marie and her husband enjoy their three grown children and their most excellent better halves, and they are especially proud of their grandchildren. They are owned by a cat named Vanessa.
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Jesse Florea
Publisher - Focus on the Family
Jesse Florea has written and edited for Focus on the Family for more than 30 years. Currently, he oversees Clubhouse (for kids 8-12) and Clubhouse Jr. (for kids 3-7) magazines and cohosts the “Official Adventures in Odyssey” and “Official Average Boy” podcasts. Jesse has written or co-written more than 40 books, including the Defend Your Faith apologetics Bible for kids, The Case for Christ Young Readers Edition, The Case for Miracles for Kids and The One-Year Devos for Sports Fans. Jesse often speaks at Christian writers conferences around the country, teaching up-and-coming authors how to write for children. He lives with his wife, Stephanie, in Colorado Springs and enjoys hanging out with his married children and his two grandkids.
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Alton Gansky
Author
Alton L. Gansky is the author of 24 novels, 6 novellas, 1 screenplay, and 11 nonfiction works, as well as principal writer of 9 novels and 2 nonfiction books. He has been a Christy Award finalist (A Ship Possessed) and an Angel Award winner (Terminal Justice) and received the ACFW award for best suspense/thriller for his work on Fallen Angel. He holds a BA and MA in biblical studies and was granted a Litt.D.
He is also adjunct professor in the Business Master’s Degree (Leadership) program at Fresno Pacific University. He lives in central California with his wife.
In addition to his own writing, Alton Gansky has consulted and provided editing/ writing services to several CBA publishers and written copy, video scripts, and other works for the general business market. He has consulted with publishers and agents, as well as provided editing services. He is “the go to guy” for co-writing having been selected by Penguin, Waterbrook, Broadman Holman, and other publishers to work with their top tier authors.
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Linda Gilden
Author
Linda Gilden is an award-winning writer, speaker, editor, writing coach, and personality consultant.
She is the author of several dozen books including the Love Notes series, Mommy Pick-Me-Ups, Mama Was the Queen of Christmas, Personality Perspectives, Called to Write, Why You Do What You Do, Words to Live By, Called to Speak, Articles, Articles, Articles!, Linked Quick Guide to Personalities, and many ghostwritten books.
With over a thousand magazine articles to her credit, Linda Gilden is a regular columnist for thewriteconversation.com, almostanauthor.com, Just18summers.com, presidentialprayerteam.com, and Fox News’ Todd Starnes. She loves to share a great story.
As a freelance editor and writing coach working with publishers and individuals, she encourages others to make their writing the best it can be. Linda enjoys helping others polish their speaking and writing skills on their journeys to clear, concise communication.
As Director of the Carolina Christian Writers Conference, Linda helps many writers take the next step in reaching their writing goals.
Her favorite moments are those spent with her family and six cutest grandchildren ever where she finds lots of good writing material and speaking illustrations. Linda and her husband live on a farm where sometimes even the chickens are the stars of her writing.
You can find Linda at www.lindagilden.com.
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Karynthia Glasper-Phillips
Author
Karynthia Glasper-Phillips a speaker and author whose workshops, coaching, and blogs,
integrate the importance of selfcare of spirit, mind, and body as the foundation for effectiveness in fulfilling any life call.She is bi-vocational as a minister, internal medicine practitioner, and conference speaker.
She is an adjunct professor at American Baptist College. Karynthia is an advocate for decreasing disparity of cancer among women as demonstrated in her work with nonprofit organization Echoes of Hope, Inc.
Karynthia’s coaching style is visible in her passion to see clients connect the dots and step
beyond their personal boundaries into fulfillment of goals and dreams as speakers, business
owners, leaders and authors. Her unique ability to combine well-being in her coaching style
hones client’s skills, which make their strong characteristics shine brighter as they journey
forward achieving their vision as God designed.To name a few achievements Karynthia is a contributing author in Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie’s book, Not Without a Struggle: Leadership for African American Women in Ministry. Karynthia is also a contributing writer for Our Daily Bread. Most recently collaborative project Blessed Is She released 2019 with Discovery House.
As a wife and mother in her spare time she enjoys crocheting, horseback riding, color painting, and playing the flute. Her desire to see a revival of Scripture reading is her prayer. She and her husband and adult children live in Nashville, Tennessee.
Her mantra: “ Self-care is not by Chance it’s a Choice.”
BeyondBoundaryConsulting.com
Echoesofhopeinc.org
Twitter: KarynthiaPhillips@QT_HisTime
Facebook: Karynthia Phillips -
Katrina Glover
Web Designer
In 2011, Katrina founded kikaDESIGN and began offering web design services to small businesses. It wasn't long before writing friends began reaching out for help. With experience in both web design and marketing as well as knowledge of the book industry, Katrina found herself in a unique position to understand what authors needed and what readers, agents, and publishers wanted. Using this background, Katrina has helped over authors all over the world establish their brands. She is also the proud developer a custom author system that allows authors to easily update their entire website within minutes.
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Linda Goldfarb
Conference Emcee/Author/Podcaster
Linda Goldfarb is a multi-award-winning author, renowned speaker, board-certified life coach, and host of the popular podcasts “Your Best Writing Life” and “Staying Real About Faith & Family.” As an audiobook narrator, Linda also enjoys bringing author’s books to life. She has a voice that instantly makes you feel welcome, safe, and understood. Linda is the kind of person you can’t help but be drawn to.
Alongside her husband, Sam, Linda is the proud parent of four amazing children, numerous grandchildren, and one adorable great-grandson. They reside on the outskirts of the picturesque Texas Hill Country with their two loving rescue pups, MeMe and DJ. With over 38 years of adventure-filled marriage, Linda attributes their thriving relationship to a combination of faith, humor, and a deep understanding of personality.
Are you eager to discover your next best step with God?
Linda is here to provide professional teaching, helping you overcome barriers, amplify your strengths, and achieve the fulfilling life you were destined to live as a writer and speaker.
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Heather Greer
Author
Heather Greer loves God and good books, especially those that point readers to Him. She is blessed to use her God-given passion for stories to encourage and challenge readers in their faith. From her books to her blog to the Staying Real About Faith and Family podcast she co-hosts, Heather encourages readers to live real, active, heart-changing faith in the everyday mess we call life.
Heather is a pastor’s wife who lives in southern Illinois. When she isn’t reading or writing, Heather enjoys all kinds of crafting, baking, and spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
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Becky Harling
Author/International Speaker
Authentic. Passionate. Funny. Biblical. All describe Becky Harling. A best-selling author, Becky has written 15 books. She is a popular speaker at conferences, retreats and other events. She has been a guest on many radio, podcast and T.V. shows including Focus on
the Family, Family Life Today and Moody Radio. Becky holds a degree in Biblical Literature and is a Certified Leadership and Communications Coach with the John Maxwell Team. She is the host of The Connected Mom Podcast. Her life experience as a
Pastor’s wife, Missionary, Women’s Ministries Director, survivor of breast cancer and childhood sexual abuse, all bring depth and realism to her message.Becky loves, hiking with her husband, drinking strong coffee, hanging out with friends and family and playing with her 14 grandkids!
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Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes
Author
Dr. Katherine received her BA in English and a MA in Elementary Education at Adelphi University. She received her Doctorate of Education and Supervision at Arizona State University. Katherine taught several years before becoming a principal of K-8 and K-6 schools for approximately 10 years.
She has served as a freelance writer for various magazines including, Inkspirations and Guideposts.Katherine writes curriculum and loves to teach art. She works closely with two nonprofits she's involved in. Some of her work in art, poetry and short stories has been distinguished by awards including the New York Mayor’s contribution to the arts Award, Outstanding Resident Artist of Arizona and the Foundations Awards at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She also runs recreationally, coordinates fitness boot-camps for women and has a black belt in Taekwondo. Katherine loves speaking to groups delivering her messages with quick wit and real-life stories. She has been involved in church ministry for 18 years leading women’s ministry, teaching, playing piano, singing, and teaching liturgical dance.
She has experience attending and networking conferences both secular and Christian. Professional experience as a school principal in recruitment and retention. Katherine has over twenty years of experience teaching professionalism and leadership in the workplace and on the graduate and post-graduate collegiate level. The instructor has experience guiding, teaching and mentoring others in the area of networking.
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Andrew Jackson
Author
A.E. Jackson writes uncanny speculative fiction for your enjoyment.
He believes there are malevolent forces, just below the surface, tugging us all down. He knows another force, more benevolent than we deserve, works to keep us buoyant.He reads Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson, Roald Dahl, Stephen King, Paulo Coelho, Richard Matheson, H.P. Lovecraft, and Richard Bach.
He lives in Delaware and is married with two children. -
Bethany Jett
Agent - C.Y.L.E. Agency
Bethany Jett is an associate literary agent with the C.Y.L.E. agency, as well as a multi-award-winning author, and a marketing strategist who earned top honors in her master’s program, where she earned her MFA in Communications focusing on Marketing and PR. Her motto is “Teach as you go,” which she lives out as the co-owner of Serious Writer, a company that teaches and empowers writers and authors.
Bethany is married to her college sweetheart, and together they’re raising 3 teen/tween sons and their Pomeranian Sadie. Connect with her at BethanyJett.com.
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Tammy Karasak
Author
Tammy Karasek uses humor and wit to bring joy and hope to every aspect in life. Her past, filled with bullying and criticism from family, drives her passion to encourage and inspire others and show them The Reason to smile. She’s gone from down and defeated to living a “Tickled Pink” life as she believes there’s always a giggle wanting to come out!
She’s a writer of Romance—with a splash of sass. Her debut book, Launch That Book, released in November 2023. She’s published in a Divine Moments Compilation Book—Cool-inary Moments. Also, she’s a writing team member for The Write Conversation, The Write Editing, Blue Ridge Conference Blog, and more.
Known as The Launch Team Geek, she helps authors launch their books. You’ll also find her as a Virtual Assistant for authors, the Social Media Manager for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, Founding President of ACFW Upstate SC, Founding President of Word Weavers Upstate SC, and member of AWSA. Connect with Tammy at https://www.tammykarasek.com.
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Heather Kreke
Author
Heather is a novelist whose passion lies in showing teens and young adults they can trust in God's plan for their lives even through their darkest times.
She is the Blog Manager and a Conference Assistant for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (BRMCWC). She is also one of the Reader Connection Co-coordinators for the Blue Ridge Reader Connections (BRRC).
Heather is a mother of 3 red-headed girls and has been married to a red-headed husband for 13 years. She lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Rowena Kuo
Editor - Brimstone Fiction
Rowena Kuo is the CEO and Executive Editor for Brimstone Fiction, Brimstone Books and Media, and Brimstone Fire. With over 15 years of ministering to children, youth groups, young adults, women, and family groups, Rowena advocates for writers to build God-centered support systems consisting of people, perseverance, practice, and most of all, prayer. She has written for Christian Devotions, Written World Communications, Splickety, and the 168 Write of Passage. When not working on words or films, she is a full-time mom with secret aspirations for spaceflight.
When not working on words or films, she is a full-time mom with secret aspirations for spaceflight.
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Steve Laube
Agent - The Steve Laube Agency
Steve Laube, a literary agent and president of The Steve Laube Agency, has been in the book industry over four decades, first as a bookstore manager where he was awarded the National Store of the Year by CBA. He then spent many years with Bethany House Publishers where he was named Editor of the Year by AWSA. In 2003 he became an agent where he and his agency have represented nearly 2,500 new books and Steve was named Agent of the Year by ACFW.
He was also inducted into the Grand Canyon University Hall-of-Fame by their College of Theology.
In addition, he is the Publisher for Enclave Publishing and serves as president and owner of The Christian Writers Institute. He is the author of the annual Christian Writers Market Guide, The Chosen Presents: A Blended Harmony of the Gospels, and Write Your First Novel.
His office is in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Larry Leech II
Author, Editor-in-Chief - Bold Vision Books
Writing coach of award-winning authors and recently named Editor-in-Chief at Bold Vision Books, Larry J. Leech II has spent more than forty years writing and editing. He started his career as a sportswriter in southwestern Pennsylvania where he covered prep sports, as well as the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. In 2004, after 2,300 published articles and 13,000 interviews, Larry shifted to writing and editing. Since that time, he has ghostwritten 30 books, edited more than 400 manuscripts, and coached hundreds of authors through the writing and publication process. For more than a decade Larry has taught at numerous general market and inspirational conferences nationwide. You can find him online on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
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Zena Dell Lowe
Film
Zena has worked professionally in the entertainment industry for over 20 years as a writer, producer, director, actress, and story consultant. Zena also teaches advanced classes on writing all over the country. As a writer, Zena has won numerous awards for her work. She also has several feature film projects in development through her independent production company, Mission Ranch Films. In addition to her work as a filmmaker, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, a podcast designed to serve the whole artist, not just focus on craft. In 2021, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission Online Platform, where she offers advanced classes and other key services to writers. Zena loves story and loves to support storytellers. Her passion is to equip artists of all levels to achieve excellence at their craft, so that they will truly have everything they need to change the world for the better through story.
To find out more about Zena or her current courses and projects, check out her websites at WWW.MISSIONRANCHFILMS.COM and WWW.THESTORYTELLERSMISSION.COM
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Edie Melson
Conference Director/Author
Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through her camera lens. She’s a writer who feels lost without that device & is an unexpected speaker who loves to encourage an audience. She also embraces the ultimate contradiction of being an organized creative. She knows the necessity of Soul Care and leads retreats, conferences & workshops around the world on staying connected to God. Her numerous books, including the award-winning Soul Care series reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts. Her blog, The Write Conversation is recognized as one of the top 101 industry resources. Find her on EdieMelson.com
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DiAnn Mills
Author
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She is the director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and Mountainside Retreats: Marketing, Nonfiction, Novelists, and Speakers with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, or any of the social media platforms listed at dianmills.com. -
Alycia Morales
Author
Alycia Morales is a freelance editor and writer. Her work has been featured in numerous magazines and several compilation books. Thanks to her mad editing skills, her clients have found publication and won multiple awards in several national contests. She’s also a sought-after ghostwriter, with years of experience working with clients across many different categories. In addition, she’s the prior Conference Assistant for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
Alycia is currently working on a nonfiction project while characters are running around in her mind waiting to be released into children’s books and YA fantasy novel.
When she isn’t busy writing, editing, and reading, Alycia enjoys spending time with her husband taking hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas or running off to the beach with friends. She loves coffee, sweet tea, crafting, and watching crime shows.
Alycia can be found at www.alyciawmorales.com. She hangs out on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest -
Susan Neal
Author
As a Certified AWSA Writer Coach, Susan Neal RN, MBA, MHS, desires to help others publish and sell their God-given message. She is the author of eight healthy living books. Her self-published, award-winning, best-seller, 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates, won the Selah award and sold over 25,000 copies in five years.
Susan won the 2020 Christian Author Network Excellence in Marketing Award for Outstanding Broadcast Media for her book marketing campaign. She is a trusted advisor for authors and helps many sell more books. Susan is the CEO of Christian Indie Publishing Association (CIPA), Christian Authors Network (CAN), and Christian Indie Awards. You can find Susan at SusanUNeal.com.
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Edwina Perkins
Codirector/Managing Editor for Harambee Press/Sensitivity/Authenticity Consultant
Edwina Perkins is the assistant director of Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is also the coordinator for Mentoring Moments and the manager for Sensitivity Between the Lines, both with Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. Edwina is the managing editor for Harambee Press, an imprint of End Game Press. As a longtime member of Word Weavers International, she now serves as a member of the advisory board.
Edwina is an award-winning writer, experienced teacher, speaker, freelance editor, and a sensitivity/authenticity consultant and has been published in numerous publications. One of her passions is to address the need for sensitivity and diversity in the publishing industry. She is also known as Nona to two precious grandchildren.
Looking for:
For Harambee Press, I'm looking as submissions from people of color I meet at conferences, agents, and referrals. For End Game Press, I'm looking at submissions for Fusion: https://www.endgamepress.com/fusion -
Dani Pettrey
Author
Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author, Dani Pettrey has sold nearly one million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance.
Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).
Her Alaskan Courage, Chesapeake Valor, and Coastal Guardian series have received praise from readers and critics alike. She's been honored with multiple awards, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two HOLT Medallions, a two-time Christy Award finalist, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award.
Dani researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband and a two-hundred pound Newfoundland who thinks he's a lap dog.
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Karen Porter
Publisher - Owner Bold Vision Books
Karen Porter is an international speaker, a successful business
woman, an acquisitions editor, and the award-winning author
of six books including If You Give A Girl A Giant. Her new
book which will be releasing just before the BRMCWC
conference is Amplify!—which is a comprehensive speaking
course.She is president of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association,
serves on several boards, and coaches aspiring writers and
speakers. She and her husband, George, own Bold Vision
Books, a traditional Christian publishing company, and Stone
Oak Publishing and kae Creative Solutions.Karen says her greatest achievement is her marriage to George.
In her spare time, she follows her lifelong quest to find the perfect purse. -
Deborah Raney
Author
DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title and launched Deb’s writing career. Forty books later, she's still creating stories that touch hearts and lives. A three-time Christy Award finalist, Deb’s books have also won the RITA Award, Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, and National Readers Choice Award. Deb served on the executive board of American Christian Fiction Writers for 18 years and is a recent transplant to Missouri, having moved with her husband, Ken Raney, from their native Kansas. They love road trips, Friday garage sale dates, time with their kids and grandkids, and breakfast on the screened porch overlooking their wooded backyard. Learn more at www.deborahraney.com.
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Ken Raney
President of Raney Day Press
KEN RANEY is president of Raney Day Press and Raney Day Creative LLC, a producer of illustration and graphic design. Raney is the author/illustrator of two children's picture books and has over 40 years of experience in graphic design, illustration, advertising, and marketing. He and his wife, novelist Deborah Raney, make their home in Missouri. Find out more at www.kenraney.com.
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Molly Jo Realy
Author
COME ALIVE, STAY WILD, and always, SAVOR THE JOURNEY!
“Writing is about grabbing the reader’s attention through telling the story only you can tell. Let your personality and experiences flow into the characters you write, read, and live.It’s not what I write that’s unique.
It’s how I write it.”A Southern hippiechick at heart, Molly Jo Realy is author of the romantic location mystery novel, NOLA, and creator of the Book Builder Binder. Also an editor and coach, she encourages people to embrace their unique talents to share their stories. Addicted to God, cats, tea, planners, and pens, in no particular order.
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Linda Evans Shepherd
Author/ Founder Advanced Writers & Speakers Association
Linda Evans Shepherd is an award-winning author of 38 books, including her latest, "Praying Through Hard Times" from Baker Revell. A former TV host, her profound insights and compelling stories make her a sought-after speaker, engaging audiences worldwide. She also hosts "The Prayer Investigator" on YouTube, exploring prayer stories. As publisher of Leading Hearts magazine, Linda earned top 2023 Evangelical Press Awards for her prayer column and feature article, The Flashlight Revival and the L. H. magazine won the Award of Excellence for Christian Digital Ministry Magazine. Founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Linda mentors 1000 Christian authors and speakers, fostering a vibrant community with top training, conferences, including events at both NRB and CPE.
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Tim Shoemaker
Author
Tim Shoemaker is the author of over twenty books and is a popular speaker at conferences and schools around the country. Over twenty-five years working with youth has helped him relate to his reading and listening audience in a unique way.
His contemporary suspense, Code of Silence, was named in the “Top Ten Crime Novels for Youth” by Booklist.
Currently he is finishing a book project for Baker Publishing intended for parents. He is also finishing a five-book series for Focus on the Family targeted primarily at 12-14-year-olds.
Tim loves writing mystery, adventure, and suspense that is clean, powerful, and definitely not “hokey” Christian fiction.
Tim’s energetic style of teaching helps make even difficult topics clear. He is all about encouraging and equipping writers to do what they do—better. -
Cindy Sproles
Editor - Cofounder Christian Devotions Ministries/Author
Cindy K. Sproles is an author, teacher, and conference speaker. She is the executive editor for ChristianDevotions.us and InspireaFire.com and she is the cofounder of WritingWrite, a mentoring service for authors.
Cindy was born in the mountains of East Tennessee and she loves her Appalachian heritage. She is a best-selling, award-winning author.
Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.
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Margot Starbuck
Author
Margot (rhymes with "Gogo"), a graduate of Westmont College and Princeton Seminary, is the award-winning writer of more than thirty books. She's touched over 200 major publishing projects as author, writer, coach, and editor. She especially treasures the privilege of writing alongside athletes, entertainers, and overcomers.
Margot also loves equipping writers who want to be published. She speaks at writing conferences around the country about what it takes to get published. She reviews book proposals and manuscripts, showing writers what's working well and what can be improved--as well as practical strategies to do it. And she’s just released a course—Book Proposal Blueprint—to help writers craft a nonfiction book proposal that will delight publishers.
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Kia Stephens
Author, Founder - Entrusted Women
Kia Stephens is the founder of Entrusted Women, which she created to equip Christian women communicators of color. A contributing writer for iBelieve.com, Proverbs 31 Ministries, and Crosswalk, she is a recurring speaker at She Speaks, the Beloved Women’s Conference, and the Entrusted Women’s Conference.
Kia’s writing has been featured on (in)courage and Ann Voskamp’s blog. She has also been a featured guest on the Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast, Chrystal’s Chronicles with Chrystal Evans Hurst, Better Together with Barb Roose and The Dream of You Podcast with Jo Saxton.
Kia is also the host of the Hope for Women With Father Wounds Podcast and she recently released her first book Overcoming Father Wounds. Kia would love to connect with you on her website, Instagram or Facebook.
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Carol Tetzlaff
Author, Team member - Redemption Press
Carol Tetzlaff is an author and speaker. She is part of the ownership
team of Redemption Press and loves helping authors make their
publishing dreams come true. Her passion is discipleship of all ages as she has served many years on staff at the local church in every capacity from kids’ ministry to worship ministries. She is married to Kelley, and they have eleven fun and super cute grands. They have the best life ever together in Gilbert, Arizona. She also loves super-sweet iced coffee, spending time with friends, and the color yellow. Her Bible study EZRA: Unleashing the Power of Praise released in June 2021 and has won the Selah and Golden Scroll awards for Bible study of the year.carol@redemption-press.com | FB: Carol Mertz Tetzlaff or Carol Tetzlaff - Author | IG: Carol Mertz Tetzlaff
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Rob Tiegen
Publisher - Christian Art Gifts
Rob Teigen has been a publishing professional for over 25 years, currently serving Christian Art Gifts as the VP of Publishing. In addition to his role at CAG, Rob is the author of the best-selling Laugh-Out-Loud Jokes for Kids series. He and his wife, Joanna, are the founders of Growing Home Together where they host their podcast, blog, and create resources for families. Together Rob and Joanna have authored Mr. & Mrs. 366 Devotions for Couples, Powerful Prayers for Your Son, Powerful Prayers for Your Daughter, 88 Conversation Starters for Husbands & Wives plus a wide array of resources to draw families closer to God and each other. Rob and Joanna have been married for 30 years and are the parents of five children.
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Darlene Turner
Author
Darlene L. Turner’s love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message.
Darlene won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense twice and an ACFW Genesis award. Her debut book, Border Breach, won the Canadian 2021 Word Award and placed third in the 2021 Selahs in the Romantic Suspense and First Novel categories. Lethal Cover-Up placed third in the 2022 Selahs in the Romantic Suspense category and second place in the 2022 Directors’ Choice. Abducted in Alaska received an Honorable Mention in the 2022 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense Awards. Fatal Forensic Investigation won third place in the 2023 Directors’ Choice award. Safe House Exposed won the 2023 HOLT Medallion Award – short inspirational category. She’s represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.
Darlene met her husband Jeff at the turtle races in Ontario, Canada. She loves flavored coffee and plaid shirts. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders.
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Erica Wiggenhorn
Author, Speaker
A frequent speaker at women’s retreats, large conferences or her own kitchen table, Erica longs to bring Scriptural Truth and see lives transformed. Erica also serves on the Proverbs 31 Ministries writing team. An award-winning author with Moody Publishers, her release Letting God Be Enough reminds women that self-reliance leads to self-doubt, but when we place our lives in the hands of God, there is nothing He can’t do. Erica has appeared on Crosswalk, RightNow Media, Revive Our Hearts, and Christian Television Network. For more about her speaking and writing ministry visit ericawiggenhorn.com. You can find her almost every day on Instagram where she shares Phoenix life with her best friend Jonathan, and their four children– two of which are human and the others furry and adorable.
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Amy Williams
Author
Author A.C. Williams is a coffee-drinking, sushi-eating, story-telling nerd who loves cats, country living, and all things Japanese. She'd rather be barefoot, and if she isn't, her socks won't match. With sixteen published books in both fiction and non-fiction, she is a Realm Award winner and a Selah Award finalist. She is also the Program Administrator for the Author Conservatory, a unique college-alternative for aspiring authors, as well as a popular monthly contributor to two blogs ranked in Writer's Digest's Top 101 sites for authors. Join the fun in one of her communities at www.amycwilliams.com.
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Dr. Kennita Williams
Author
Dr. Kennita Williams is a sought-after consultant, speaker, author, and leadership wellness expert. Dr. Williams is affectionately known as Coach Kay. She helps leaders and organizations define their vision develop clear strategies to advance their culture and leadership goals, while providing practical tools to encourage leaders to "Be Well to Lead Well." She believes that Whole Leaders produce healthy organizations.
Kennita is a proven leader who draws from over 25 years or leadership experience serving as a legal assistant for the United States Air Force JAG Corp, a Regional Staff assistant to a US Senator, advisor to mayors and other elected officials while serving on the Diversity council for the state of Alaska. Kennita also takes pride in advising some of the military's highest-ranking officials providing real-world perspective on the power or embracing authentic leadership as a whole leader, inspiring leaders to show up with transparency, authenticity, and the vulnerability needed in leadership to advance their organizational wellness, financial wellness personal wellness, and physical wellness. Proving each pillar of wellness is needed to establish whole leaders and healthy organizations. Kennita helps leaders lean into the hard work of embracing uncertainty, and burnout to find the opportunities in these spaces rather than being paralyzed by them. Her experience with leaders allows her to share practical strategies to authentically connect, build trust, and empower others in meaningful ways.
Kennita is also the visionary behind Clear Vision L.L.C. where cultivating authentic leadership is the number one priority. The Clear Vision mission is to serve our community as leaders by encouraging innovation and forward thinking to develop wellness solutions that will make systematic improvements organizationally, financially, personally, and physically. Kennita is a military spouse, mother of two. She lives in Niceville Florida with her husband Nicholas (USAF, MSgt Retired), son Nick David (14) while her daughter Keiara (22) recently commissioned to US Air Force and attends
