The middle of a novel is where many stories lose energy. Ashley Sargeant Hagan, Diane Sismour, Hank Phillippi Ryan, Jule Selbo, and Rich Zahradnik explore how to maintain momentum through the second act by deepening character arcs, raising stakes, and introducing meaningful complications. This session offers practical techniques for keeping readers fully engaged long after the opening hook.
The Importance of Setting in Storytelling
Setting shapes more than just the backdrop of a story. In this session, authors explore how location influences plot, character, and momentum, and why a well crafted setting can drive the entire narrative forward.




