Writing conferences tend to lift my spirits, but the 2016 American Christian Writers Conference (ACFW) in Nashville inspired me beyond measure.
First I traveled by car from Oklahoma with renowned authors—three sweet, godly women who have successfully published many Christian books, finalists for Carol awards, and on top of that were friendly and fun. Who could have orchestrated that except God? I didn’t know the ladies before the trip and they didn’t know me, so it was by pure miracle they tolerated me. Thank you, thank you Robin Patchen, Sharon Srock, and Linda Goodnight! I am now firmly planted in your super fan club!
The conference, housed in the hotel adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame, was one of the best I have ever attended. Worship service and prayer rooms set the mood, with keynote speaker, the awesome suspense thriller author Ted Dekker, leading us through spiritual awakening as intense as his books. I loved meeting fellow authors like Martha Fouts, my dinner buddy, and Carrie Pagels, the atmosphere of helping one another, the gala, and the classes offered. I also received good feedback on my book, A Promise to Break, from encouraging publicists, Jeanne Wynne and Katie Shroeder.
I toured the Belle Meade Plantation, where Tamara Alexander’s books are set, so it wasn’t just all work! Thanks Linda.
Yes, I dressed in an outfit for genre night. I’m beginning to feel right comfortable in my 1930’s hat and gloves. The conference was overwhelming but I returned home ready to finish my second book! I think every Christian fiction writer should make an effort to attend an ACFW Conference!
3 replies on “Nashville Christian Writing Conference”
I had a blast at the conference, too! I enjoyed meeting you, Kathryn, and I’m reading your book now!
Kathryn, I enjoyed reading your highlights from the conference. And thanks for talking to me after the genre dinner. I loved your outfit!
It was such fun! I’m so glad you joined us on the trip. I think you’re right–only God could have orchestrated that.