19th Annual Rochester Writers’ Conference Overview
Fiction, Nonfiction, Craft, and Business Topics presented as Lectures, Workshops, and Panel Discussions. Featuring Michigan Authors, Speakers, Agents, and Educators.
- Saturday | October 17, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Held in the Oakland Center at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan
Whether you’re starting your very first story, polishing your latest manuscript, or exploring new ways to share your words with the world, this is your day to connect, learn, and be inspired. The Rochester Writers’ Conference brings together writers, literary agents, and industry professionals for an energizing day filled with ideas, tools, and connections to fuel your writing journey. Come ready to discover fresh perspectives, strengthen your craft, and join a community that celebrates the power of words. There will be multiple breakout sessions throughout the day for attendees to select from to best fit their writing goals.
Registration to attend the 2026 Fall Rochester Writers’ Conference includes keynote addresses, breakout sessions, coffee, snacks, lunch, and parking. Check-in will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the first talk at 9:30 a.m. The conference will conclude by 5:00 p.m. No refunds after October 1, 2026. Registrations are transferable upon request.
- AT THE DOOR REGISTRATION | Available ON SITE on October 17, 2026 | $225.00
2026 Presentations:
- Morning Keynote Address: Michigan Author Sara Maurer
- First Page Critiques: Hook the Reader on the First Page
- Literary Agent Panel: Meet our Literary Agents with this Engaging Q&A Session
- Making The Most Of Your Book Signing
- The Journey from Book to Audiobook
- The Top Three Revision Techniques I Learned from my Editor
- Afternoon Featured Speakers: Author Illustrator Team Karen Bell-Brege and Darrin Brege
- Obstacles: Partners on the Path to Publication
- Write the Genre You Mean: Word Choice, Pacing, and Voice
- Self-Published Indie Author Panel: Q&A Self-Publishing Session with Three Indie Authors
- Your Book Contract Is a Business Strategy: Understanding the Agreements That Shape Your Career
2026 Speakers:
- Sara Maurer
- Terry Hojnacki
- Linda S. Glaz
- Carrie Howland
- Alice Speilburg
- Brenda Hasse
- Rachael Doolen
- Kristin Bartley Lenz
- Karen Bell-Brege
- Darrin Brege
- Kate Crane
One-on-One Appointments (add-on)
Literary Agent / Author Meetings
Our Literary Agents will host a panel discussion to start the day. And they will meet with attendees (as an add on). 10-minute appointments available for a $30 fee to registered attendees.
Appointments will be made available after conference registration has been received starting in early October.
Attendees may bring a fully charged laptop or tablet. Although not necessary, a computer will enhance the experience with a hands-on feel. Use the hashtag: #RochesterWriters before, during and after the event in your posts, likes, and tweets.
Fresh hot coffee and tea available throughout the day. Light breakfast snacks and a full lunch included with registration. Please contact us if you have special dietary concerns. A charging station will be available for mobile devices in the registration area.
Attendees will be able to choose one presentation per session time at the conference. Schedule could change without notice – Rochester Writers reserves the right to add, subtract, or substitute any of the presentations and speakers. Thank you.
Please Note: All events take place in the Oakland Center of Oakland University (312 Meadow Brook Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326). Use the parking lot (P1) and walk East for the shortest distance into the Oakland Center. Use the Interactive Map to zoom in and view parking and building information. The Oakland Center is positioned between the parking lot and the Clock Tower. Look for Bright Yellow Signs. The Oakland Center on this Campus Map (zoom in for a better view).
