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Beyond the Book Deal: Navigating the Obstacles of a Literary Life
Saturday October 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Gatekeeper's Basket Room
You've finished the manuscript. Now the publishing journey begins. From querying agents and surviving rejection to finding alternative paths to publication and building a sustainable writing career, this panel offers an honest look at what it really takes to become a published author. Three accomplished writers share the setbacks, surprises, and hard-won lessons behind their careers, revealing that perseverance, adaptability, and community are just as important as talent. Whether you're pursuing traditional publishing or exploring other avenues, you'll leave with practical strategies, realistic expectations, and renewed confidence to navigate the road ahead.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Dickinson

Jennifer Dickinson

Jennifer Dickinson grew up in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. She attended Hollins University, a women’s college in Virginia, where she developed her passion for storytelling and fell in love with the power of theater. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and dogs, and she spends... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Maggi

Nicole Maggi

Nicole Maggi is the author of the award-winning National Park Mystery Series, beginning with A MURDER IN ZION, winner of the 2025 FOREWORD Reviews Gold Medal and the 2025 IBPA Silver Medal for Best Mystery, and following with LOST IN YELLOWSTONE. Both books garnered effusive praise... Read More →
avatar for Cecilia Rabess

Cecilia Rabess

Cecilia Rabess is a writer and data scientist whose work has appeared in Vogue, The Wall Street Journal, McSweeney’s, and FiveThirtyEight, to name a few. She lives in Olympic Valley, CA with her family. Everything’s Fine is her debut novel... Read More →
Saturday October 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Gatekeeper's Basket Room 130 W Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145
  Craft Talk, All Genres

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