If you know anything about my writing, then you know that I attribute the fact that I have more than 20 books out with more in the works to ACFW and its conference. I have met all of the editors that I work with at the conference and have gained invaluable instruction on writing, marketing, and so much more.

I truly believe if you want to write Christian fiction, then you need to attend ACFW.

This year, ACFW is going to be in Nashville, Tennessee, August 25-28.

This year, Don Maass is teaching our early bird. I’ve attended his workshop based on Writing the Breakout Novel twice, and it is amazing. This year he’ll be teaching Writing 21st Century Fiction, based on his latest craft book. This intensive hands-on workshop teaches the techniques that give multi-year best selling novels their high impact, resulting in both strong story and beautiful writing regardless of category. A literary agent in New York, Donald Maass’s agency sells more than 150 novels every year to major publishers in the U.S. and overseas.  He is the author of The Career Novelist (1996), Writing the Breakout Novel (2001), Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook (2004) and The Fire in Fiction (2009) and Writing 21st Century Fiction (2012).  He is a past president of the Association of Authors’ Representatives, Inc. You can learn more here.

I’m also really excited that Ted Dekker will be our keynote speaker. He will be sharing during two general sessions about the inner life of a writer.

Ted Dekker is a New York Times best-selling author of over thirty five novels. He is best known for stories which could be broadly described as suspense thrillers with major twists and unforgettable characters, though he has also made a name for himself among fantasy fans. Ted’s latest work, a historical fiction based on the teachings of Jesus, is a radical departure from previous outings and is receiving critical acclaim. Dekker’s novels have sold over 10 million copies worldwide. Two of his novels, Thr3e and House, have been made into movies with more in production. Dekker and his beautiful wife, LeeAnn, reside in Nashville, Tennessee.

Then there are all the editors (currently there are 16), agents (currently there are 14), mentor, and speciality appointments. These appointments can be an amazing part of your experience, but aren’t even the main part.

Then there’s 5 continuing education sessions all on Friday. I’m super-excited to colead one with the amazing Deborah Raney. Each session is designed for a different level and style or writer. We’ve got beginners, multi-published, independent, self-editing, and the spiritual aspects. I wish I could sit in on each…so I’ll get the MP3s instead. Then on Saturday, there are 20 workshops. There truly is something for every fiction writer regardless of your level and needs. Add in the Gala and an amazing post-conference session with Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren, and you have an opportunity for a very full learning experience.

Oh, and don’t forget that if you need a headshot, the amazingly talented Emilie Hendrix will be there and will take your headshot for $40! She takes mine and does a fantastic job.

I am so very excited.

If this will be your first year to attend, be sure to let us know so you can participate in the first time orientation email loop that I run the six weeks prior to conference. Brandilyn Collins and I will make sure all your questions are answered so you can make the most of your conference experience.

Have you been to ACFW or another conference? What one piece of advice would you give a first time attendee?