Killer Nashville, to me, sounds ominous and mysterious, as though a slew of escapees broke loose and are out for blood. Maybe they are…in the pages of the novels by the authors who attend the Mystery/thriller conference ‘Killer Nashville.’
The local conference was started by native Franklin novelist, author enthusiast and entrepreneur extraordinaire Clay Stafford. Stafford has a litany of credits beyond this to add to his name. But in short, he is the creator of the local mystery/thriller conference here in Nashville that brings a stage to the struggling writer.
Killer Nashville is great for all writers. This year brings the Claymore Dagger Award, which is Killer Nashville’s award for the best unpublished manuscript submitted to the Killer Nashville judging committee. Avalon Books reviews the winner’s manuscript for possible publication. There are also agent, Lucienne Diver, and editor, Maryglenn McCombs, who will be at the conference for authors to pitch their novels and discuss their ideas with. Did I mention the panels of published, and renowned authors who will answer questions and share insight with the visiting authors? Authors of the past have included: Mary Higgins Clark, Bill Bass and Michael Connelly. This year’s keynote speaker is acclaimed novelist J.A. Jance, who has spent over 20 years bringing delight to fans everywhere.
The icing on this already delectable cake is that there will be an entire track at the conference devoted to crime scene exploration. Experts from ‘the alphabet,’ as Stafford puts it – referring to the FBI, DEA, CIA or whomever is on the roster, will walk fans and writers alike through what really happens on a crime scene.
As if the renowned authors and expert opinions aren’t enough, this year Killer Nashville will also be distributing free software to authors to teach them how to create their own web pages.
So if you are a local writer, searching for a way to network and sharpen your skills, or are simply a fan wanting to meet some amazing talent, register today to for spot at Killer Nashville.
Look for my next article which spotlight’s Killer Nashville’s creator, Clay Stafford.
Comments