Beautiful language alone is not enough to carry a story. Moderated by Lisa Preston, Baron R. Birtcher, John Carenen, Justin Greenway, and Vinnie Hansen discuss how character depth, word choice, and emotional resonance work together to elevate prose. This session explores how thoughtful language enhances meaning, sharpens voice, and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Crisis Negotiator: Talking Someone Down When Everything Is About to Go Wrong
When emotions are high and lives are on the line, words matter more than force. Homicide detective and crime novelist Rick Reed draws on real-world experience resolving high-stakes crises through communication and empathy. This session explores how negotiators build...




