Acclaim
Gina Panettieri of Talcott Notch Literary discovered the author, Elle Daniels, at her very first Unicorn Conference, and signed her to work with the agency's rising women's fiction associate agent Rachael Dugas.
Elle Daniels's He's no Price Charming is the first of three fairy tale-inspired Regency romances in which a spirited bookstore owner delights in helping star-crossed couples reach happily ever after but must compromise her principles when the beastly Marquis demands she produce a replacement for the fiance she helped escape. The next two installments, Once Upon a Duke, and A Rogue Ever After, were passed on to Megha Parekh at Grand Central publishing. Forever is for publication in Spring 2014 by Rachael Dugas at Talcott Notch Literary Services.
Elle Daniels's He's no Price Charming is the first of three fairy tale-inspired Regency romances in which a spirited bookstore owner delights in helping star-crossed couples reach happily ever after but must compromise her principles when the beastly Marquis demands she produce a replacement for the fiance she helped escape. The next two installments, Once Upon a Duke, and A Rogue Ever After, were passed on to Megha Parekh at Grand Central publishing. Forever is for publication in Spring 2014 by Rachael Dugas at Talcott Notch Literary Services.
"I just wanted to add another Unicorn Conference success story to our list. I also discovered the wonderful writing team of Jessica Haight and Stephanie Robinson, authors of the middle-grade mystery series, THE SECRET FILES OF FAIRDAY MORROW, at the Unicorn Conference, and assigned them to associate Rachael Dugas, who successfully placed that series with Delacorte (Random House). We've found a lot of great talent there!" December 2013: "I just wanted to add another Unicorn Conference success story to our list. I also discovered the wonderful writing team of Jessica Haight and Stephanie Robinson, authors of the middle-grade mystery series, THE SECRET FILES OF FAIRDAY MORROW, at the Unicorn Conference, and assigned them to associate Rachael Dugas, who successfully placed that series with Delacorte (Random House). We've found a lot of great talent there!"
-- Gina Panettieri - December 2013
Grace Makley’s blog.
‘Unicorn’ Blazes a Trail for Writers
by Catherine Grant.
Why go to New York City for a conference when some of the best are right in New England? This past Saturday, April 28, dozens of agents, editors and other industry professionals gathered at Saint Clements Castle in Portland, Connecticut, for a full day of workshops, seminars, networking and delicious food. Unicorn Writers’ Conference is in its third year, yet it is already one of the most recognized on the east coast with a glowing review in Writers Digest Magazine – and the good news for New Englanders is that it can only get better.
One instantly noticeable element was the level of organization and efficiency. Writers were met at the door with a handshake and a smile and were given nametags, a tote bag with notebooks, a pen, programs and a map of the castle. Continental breakfast was followed by keynote speaker Sandra Brown, author of sixty New York Times bestselling novels. Brown cracked jokes as she told the story of her publishing debut and prolific career. After lunch, speaker Patricia Schultz shared her journey as the unlikely writer who found love in languages and travel, which eventually turned into a career as a non-fiction writer and author of the bestselling book 1001 Places To See Before You Die.
Throughout the day, seminars were offered on such subjects as “Before You Send It Out,” led by former Simon & Schuster editor Marcella Landres. She outlined the requirements for querying an agent and stressed the need for author self-promotion and marketing. Other seminars included “Media Training,” led by former KC 101.3 personality Jack Camarda, who gave tips on media relations and public speaking. The conference offered a wide variety of subjects, including self-publishing, contract negotiation and platform. The common thread throughout was the empowerment of writers in their careers, despite ever-changing markets. The conference mission statement on the Unicorn web site says it all, “ … We will serve as a beacon to trial blaze, enlighten, accelerate learning, and remove obstacles in the attainment of the publishing goals of authors internationally … ”
Secondary to organization was the level of expertise, approachability and professionalism shown by the speakers and industry professionals brought in by conference founder Jan Kardys. Among the opportunities offered were agent and editor panels and “a la carte” workshops. Previous to the conference, each attendee had the option, for a nominal additional fee, to sign up for a one-on-one session with an agent or editor of their choice. The author would send the first forty pages of a manuscript and in return would receive thirty minutes of feedback during a scheduled time at the conference. There was also a query letter workshop and a synopsis workshop offered by the same agents and editors, which provided opportunity for invaluable advice and insight into two of the most challenging tasks for any writer.
This year the registration fee was $275, which included all meals. Compared to many other conferences in the Northeast, Unicorn offers an amazing value for a top-notch event that will not leave any writer feeling like they wasted a dime. Keep an eye on the event for next year, and prepare to bring plenty of business cards for networking.
by Catherine Grant.
Why go to New York City for a conference when some of the best are right in New England? This past Saturday, April 28, dozens of agents, editors and other industry professionals gathered at Saint Clements Castle in Portland, Connecticut, for a full day of workshops, seminars, networking and delicious food. Unicorn Writers’ Conference is in its third year, yet it is already one of the most recognized on the east coast with a glowing review in Writers Digest Magazine – and the good news for New Englanders is that it can only get better.
One instantly noticeable element was the level of organization and efficiency. Writers were met at the door with a handshake and a smile and were given nametags, a tote bag with notebooks, a pen, programs and a map of the castle. Continental breakfast was followed by keynote speaker Sandra Brown, author of sixty New York Times bestselling novels. Brown cracked jokes as she told the story of her publishing debut and prolific career. After lunch, speaker Patricia Schultz shared her journey as the unlikely writer who found love in languages and travel, which eventually turned into a career as a non-fiction writer and author of the bestselling book 1001 Places To See Before You Die.
Throughout the day, seminars were offered on such subjects as “Before You Send It Out,” led by former Simon & Schuster editor Marcella Landres. She outlined the requirements for querying an agent and stressed the need for author self-promotion and marketing. Other seminars included “Media Training,” led by former KC 101.3 personality Jack Camarda, who gave tips on media relations and public speaking. The conference offered a wide variety of subjects, including self-publishing, contract negotiation and platform. The common thread throughout was the empowerment of writers in their careers, despite ever-changing markets. The conference mission statement on the Unicorn web site says it all, “ … We will serve as a beacon to trial blaze, enlighten, accelerate learning, and remove obstacles in the attainment of the publishing goals of authors internationally … ”
Secondary to organization was the level of expertise, approachability and professionalism shown by the speakers and industry professionals brought in by conference founder Jan Kardys. Among the opportunities offered were agent and editor panels and “a la carte” workshops. Previous to the conference, each attendee had the option, for a nominal additional fee, to sign up for a one-on-one session with an agent or editor of their choice. The author would send the first forty pages of a manuscript and in return would receive thirty minutes of feedback during a scheduled time at the conference. There was also a query letter workshop and a synopsis workshop offered by the same agents and editors, which provided opportunity for invaluable advice and insight into two of the most challenging tasks for any writer.
This year the registration fee was $275, which included all meals. Compared to many other conferences in the Northeast, Unicorn offers an amazing value for a top-notch event that will not leave any writer feeling like they wasted a dime. Keep an eye on the event for next year, and prepare to bring plenty of business cards for networking.
Excerpt from Laurie Treacy's website.
"This past Saturday I drove my two critique group members and friends, Sandy and Andrea, to Portland, Connecticut to attend the Unicorn Writers' Conference.
Each time I attend this conference, it is a unique experience. This year the workshops were outstanding. I will repeat: the workshops were outstanding.
The drive was uneventful considering the snow storm which had blanketed the metropolitan area the day before. I noticed as soon as I drove into the town of Portland that the roads were slushy and some of the side roads were a mushy mess. My car slid on the bridge and was pelted by flying snow from a plow. That will certainly wake up a person. This was the first year I entered the grounds of St. Clements Castle and saw it covered in white (the picture above is what I'm used to seeing).
What makes the Unicorn Writers' Conference the best event I've attended is how complete it is. From the meals to workshops, panels to critiques, Unicorn is the complete package. Now matter your level as a writer, be it beginner or published professional, there is something for everyone. Breakfast was enjoyable with a nice assortment of bagels, pastries and fresh fruit. Author Matthew Pearl gave the Keynote Speech from nine to ten o'clock. He is a successful novelist and he shared his journey to publication with wit, grace and a sly sense of humor." Visit Treacy's website to read more.
"This past Saturday I drove my two critique group members and friends, Sandy and Andrea, to Portland, Connecticut to attend the Unicorn Writers' Conference.
Each time I attend this conference, it is a unique experience. This year the workshops were outstanding. I will repeat: the workshops were outstanding.
The drive was uneventful considering the snow storm which had blanketed the metropolitan area the day before. I noticed as soon as I drove into the town of Portland that the roads were slushy and some of the side roads were a mushy mess. My car slid on the bridge and was pelted by flying snow from a plow. That will certainly wake up a person. This was the first year I entered the grounds of St. Clements Castle and saw it covered in white (the picture above is what I'm used to seeing).
What makes the Unicorn Writers' Conference the best event I've attended is how complete it is. From the meals to workshops, panels to critiques, Unicorn is the complete package. Now matter your level as a writer, be it beginner or published professional, there is something for everyone. Breakfast was enjoyable with a nice assortment of bagels, pastries and fresh fruit. Author Matthew Pearl gave the Keynote Speech from nine to ten o'clock. He is a successful novelist and he shared his journey to publication with wit, grace and a sly sense of humor." Visit Treacy's website to read more.
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“I was a Director of Contracts for major NYC publishers for over 30 years. After teaching various book publishing classes (You Wrote A Book, Now What?) and attending writers conferences as a guest speaker, I decided to create Unicorn Writers’ Conference and share my knowledge and experience with others. " |
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“With my head still buzzing with everything I learned both in terms of the craft of writing and the business aspects of it, I am profoundly grateful to have been able to attend this conference. |
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"The UWC offers it all—feedback sessions with high-powered New York agents and editors, seminars relevant to both novice and seasoned writers, best-selling keynote speakers, and an advanced networking option. But what places this conference a notch above the rest is its intimate setting and the accessibility to the industry’s top notch professionals. I’m thrilled to attend my third Unicorn Conference this spring; to return prepared to meet with agents for my completed historical novel BECOMING JOSEPHINE: THE FIRST EMPRESS. I expect nothing less than a tremendous learning experience and a great time!" |
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"I just wanted to thank you for Saturday. What a FABULOUS event it was! I don't think I've ever been to a nicer conference. Well done!" |
Don and I thoroughly enjoyed the conference. It gave him a positive introduction to the literary world, and I learned several key things that have already helped me with my research & writing efforts--for instance, I've already made major improvements to the first 40 pages of Don's manuscript. We appreciate your assistance with getting us into the conference. Also, thanks for the opportunity to be linked. Our websites are as follows: www.annrichduncan.com and www.christshouseofangels.com . . . . Thanks again! |
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“As a speaker at the Unicorn Conference I had a unique perspective of seeing writers learn, pitch and succeed. But, as a participant, I was in awe at the quality of the event. The speakers, the organization and, dare I say it, a really great time too! The conference offers a writer tools to improve their craft while networking and ultimately, enjoying a first-rate keynote speaker. I look forward to returning next year and enjoy seeing the conference grow and expand in size and quality with each passing year.” |
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"As someone who has aspired to break out as a writer for several years, it is no exaggeration for me to say that the the various workshops, and the one-on-one advice that was shared by seasoned publishing professionals, I received at the practical Unicorn Writers Conference changed my life. From the keynote speach to the various workshops, and the one on one advice that was shared by seasoned publishing professionals I recieved the practical knowledge, inspiration, and most of all, the validation that I needed to finally move this crazy dream of mine into the realm of reality. I can’t wait to go back for more!" |
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“I have been working on my story for over two years. Though the journey has been a long one, the most valuable resource I have encountered has been attending the Unicorn Writers’ Conference. Not only were the speakers well known within the publishing industry, the information they provided was raw and real. I will be sure to attend the next one!” |
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"I found the Unicorn Writer's Conference to be a wonderful experience. All the group and private sessions are extremely professional, informative, and cover all the key elements involved in getting a polished work to market. As a new writer with a manuscript recently completed, I particularly found the comments I received during my one-on-one sessions invaluable. The agents and editors I met offered great feedback to help me tune my book. I believe this kind of support and productive criticism is essential in developing a complete work that will hit the mark. Hats Off!" |
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"Thanks for making this weekend so special, which it was in all ways possible. You did a magnificent job. I met tons of people, and being that my Humor Writing session wasn't until the end of the day, I had the chance to enjoy many other workshops. What a spectacular event with top-notch authors and agents. |
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“I always find the Unicorn Writers’ Conference to be an invigorating and affirming experience. The people who have signed up for my presentation have always been highly motivated, thoroughly engaged, and consistently appreciative of the things I endeavor to share with them about the process of writing. The food and drink ain't half bad either! I encourage both seasoned and aspiring writers to attend the very next UCW they can sign up for. If you want an inside perspective on the process from fellow successful writers, if you want to learn the ins and outs of helping your manuscript flourish throughout the gauntlet of finding an agent and the publishing process, this is the place you want to be!” |
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"I've been to numerous and varied writers' conferences; RWA National, Writers' Retreat Workshop, World Fantasy Con, MWA National, Camp NeCon, Highlights for Children Conference and Cape Cod Writers Conference to name a select few. Unicorn Writers’ Conference provides several unique opportunities--meeting so many New York agents and editors in an intimate setting, learning about the business end of publishing from insiders in the know, and advanced networking. I've been to a lot, but this is the best and the one day event makes it the best for a tight economy dollar as well.” |
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“A perfect mix of the inspiring and the practical, the Unicorn Writers’ Conference left me eager to write and excited to publish. I met great people, participated in meaningful discussions, learned a lot about the publishing world, and wrote a new poem. What a great day for writers!” |
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“The Unicorn Writers’ Conference is the first and only writing conference I’ve attended so far. The quality of the workshops and the knowledge I acquired has become pertinent in my life. As a child, I’ve dreamed of writing a novel. Now that I’m older I feel I am acquiring the detailed education to make that dream a reality and the conference was an important step. With best-selling speakers, invigorating workshops, and overall value, Unicorn Writers’ Conference provided me with the necessary confidence and intellect I need to become an author someday. All college students should look into attending, because the publishing information presented here is not taught in school. ” |
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“Unicorn Writers’ Conference offers a vast range of workshops covering traditional and self-publishing territory. The speakers are top notch, enthusiastic and interested in helping writers gain the tools to get published. I have an agent, and I will attend this year to brush up on contracts, marketing, and publicity for my book. Jan Kardys could call her conference ‘What you really need to know to get published!’" |
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"I wanted to share my impressions and experiences from attending the Unicorn Writers Conference on March 9th at St. Clements Castle. First congratulations to you on putting together an extremely well planned, content rich and inspiring event. The faculty assembled from the writing industry shared their business knowledge, stories and creative insights that fed the collective soul of the attendees. I experienced both practical and breakthrough ideas that are helping me refine my novel, One Last Sunset. I also had the opportunity to expand my network of contacts and business resources. I have two very simple words to say, “thank you.” |
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Kudos on a highly successful Unicorn Writers Conference! It was fantastic--so stimulating, informative, and helpful! Clearly, it was a huge organizational feat. Plus, it was a total class act. I'm deeply impressed with the many agents, editors, and writers you gathered there. I appreciate all the thoughtful and hard work you did to make it so superb. The opportunities to meet agents and editors that you provided were invaluable. I feel there is much to learn to publish a book successfully. Your Unicorn Conference has helped me along the path of this complex journey. Many heart-felt thanks! |