“P(l)ot Holes: $uccessful Story Development”

Ever written your way into a corner from which there is no elegant escape? Ever have to make your sane and savvy heroine do something silly for the sake of your plot? Fiction may be fantasy, but the rules of logic still apply. Learn how to apply them to make your fictional world real to the reader.

During their workshop, freelance editor and award-winning author Mary Kilchenstein (Mary Kirk) and literary agent Elaine English will evaluate—publicly but anonymously—four selected synopses, pointing out what must be done in order to make the stories both executable and marketable.

This is your chance!
A few lucky writers among those who submit their synopses will get experienced and expert editorial advice about their work. Everyone who attends the workshop will hear invaluable information about plotting, characterization, motivation, conflict, and all other elements essential to good storytelling.

Any type of book is fair game!
Synopses for books from any genre or subgenre, or for mainstream pop-fic of any variety, will be considered.

Submission Requirements:
· E-format, saved as .rtf (any word processing program may be used to create the file)
· Absolute limit of 2500 words.
· Header should contain only a page number (do NOT put your name or pseudonym on the synopsis itself).
· Send as email attachment to Mary Kilchenstein at ActiveVoiceEdit@aol.com.
· DO include your name in the email.
· Subject line of email should read: Shepard College Workshop
· Deadline – April 15.

Do Your Homework!
Those who plan to attend the workshop are strongly encouraged to read ahead of time the four synopses that will be evaluated. The selected synopses will be made available to conference attendees via the conference website after May 1, so check the main conference page for a link to them. Printed copies will also be available at the registration table at the conference.

Don't miss this opportunity! Start working on your synopsis today!