The Self-Publishing Class
2024-01-08 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver)
Ten years of publishing experience have led to this class! Hope you’ll join me!

Donna, Kendra , and Jonathan have bought their tickets! That leaves 7 seats left.

We’ll meet Monday nights starting 1/8 for 3 weeks.1/8, 1/15, and 1/22 – 6:00 PM mountain to 9:00 PM mountain.

How to self publish with the Self-Publishing Class!
Get all your answers about self-publishing! And save time and money by knowing what not to do.
-You’ll know what step you should do next and walk away with a checklist.
-You’ll have access to me in a FB group to ask questions if you get stuck.
-You’ll get your book out to the world.
-and be the cool kid at the party. “What? You’re an author?”

3 weeks. 10 students only. $333 is the special presale price.
I help people self-publish for $900+ so this is a way to get help in a group setting without having to pay for all of my time. I hope this helps!

I’ll cover – what to do before you publish, how to format your book, the importance of setting up your book for success (keywords and categories), and more.

These seats will fill up fast, and I won’t be doing this class again until next year.
Join me if you need help and let’s get publishing.

I’m an award-winning and best-selling author. Plus, I’ve helped Cliff Han of ‘Nothing to Sneeze at’ hit best seller on Amazon. I assisted Candelaria Versace who needed to republish her noveletta, ‘Traveling Light’, and I’ve helped 100s of writers publish to Amazon and other platforms.

I hope you join me so I can put my skills to work for you.

Get your ticket here: https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/self-publish-class-333/

Amazon Ads Class
2024-01-09 18:00 - 21:00
Four years of Amazon Ad experience have led to this!

Welcome to Making Dollars and Sense of Amazon Ads! The only course built to get you from zero to Amazon Ads running for your book, as simply and quickly as possible without spending an arm and a leg!

3 weeks and you’re running ads like a whiz!

Runs Tuesday nights – 6 PM to 9PM. Starting January 9. Live and recorded.

12 seats only!

Keep in mind – your book must have 10 reviews before starting your ads; otherwise your ads are not likely to get sales.

What people are saying:

Fil Chavez took my class through Southwest Writers, and this is what he had to say: “Thank you, Sonja, for generously sharing your expertise. As novice writer, I am especially grateful for your patient connection with each of us in the class. Notwithstanding the fact that there were many authors with several published books in the class, your personal attention to me as an amateur writer with many basic questions was genuinely appreciated. Without a doubt, what I have learned from you is worth much more than the fee I paid for the sessions.” –Fil Chavez

Sign up today and we’ll get started soon! You’ll receive a link to the Zoom 24 hours before the event starts.

Get your tickets here:

https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/amazonads-class-333-copy-2/

Market Your Book Class
2024-01-10 18:00 - 21:00
Market Your Book Class
Our ultimate focus will be to get your email newsletter ready, to set up your freebie (something to attract your ideal readers), and everything else we can fit in in three nights of book marketing.
Ten years of selling books have led to this class! Hope you’ll join me!
Only 10 seats available.
We’ll meet Monday nights starting 1/10 for 3 weeks.1/10, 1/17, and 1/24 – 6:00 PM mountain to 9:00 PM mountain.

How to market your book with the book marketing class!
Get all your answers about marketing! And save time and money by knowing what not to do.
-You’ll know what step you should do next and walk away with a checklist.
-You’ll have access to me in a FB group to ask questions if you get stuck.
-You’ll have a newsletter ready to go for fans who sign up – as well as that freebie to real them in.
-and we’ll talk about other marketing techniques and what works as well as what doesn’t!

3 weeks. 10 students only. $333 is the special presale price.

These seats will fill up fast, and I won’t be doing this class again until next year.
Join me if you need help and let’s get publishing.

I’m an award-winning and best-selling author. Plus, I’ve helped Cliff Han of ‘Nothing to Sneeze at’ hit best seller on Amazon, and I’ve helped 100s of writers market their books.

I hope you join me so I can put my skills to work for you.

Get your ticket here: https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/marketyourbook-333/

See You at Albuquerque Comic Con!
2024-01-19 16:00 - 2024-01-21 17:00
I’ll be there sharing a table with author Tamsin Silver – selling and signing books.

Virtual Short Storyathon Feb 16-18
2024-02-16 08:00 - 2024-02-18 17:00
Become a published author in a weekend!
This virtual short story event will take you from idea creation (on Friday night) all the way to your published short story on Amazon by Sunday! This is a fast-paced, hard-working weekend, but so rewarding.
Many attendees, even first time authors, hit the top rankings in their genre and a few have even become best sellers!
Why a short story?
Because it’s a quick way to get writing and see the process of publishing a quality product (because you can produce something good in a weekend and we’ve seen it happen every time).
If you’re building an author platform, this is a good way to create an introduction to your other novels. If you’ve never written, it’s a good way to start getting readers.
Other Benefits?
Writing a short story and publishing it on platforms like Amazon can offer several benefits:
Creative Expression: Writing a short story allows you to express your creativity and explore your imagination. It’s a medium to share your unique ideas, perspectives, and storytelling skills.
Skill Development: Writing, editing, and publishing a short story can enhance your writing skills. It provides an opportunity to refine your storytelling techniques, character development, and overall narrative structure.
Portfolio Building: If you aspire to be a writer, having a published short story on platforms like Amazon can serve as a valuable addition to your portfolio. It showcases your ability to create engaging content.
Visibility and Recognition: Amazon is a widely used platform, and publishing your short story there increases its visibility. Positive reviews and downloads can contribute to recognition among readers and fellow writers.
Monetary Potential: While not guaranteed, there is potential to earn money through royalties on Amazon. If readers find your short story interesting and decide to purchase it, you may receive a portion of the sales.
Building an Audience: Publishing on Amazon allows you to reach a global audience. If readers enjoy your short story, they might be interested in your future works, helping you build a fan base.
Networking Opportunities: Being part of a writing publishing community opens up opportunities to connect with other authors, publishers, and readers. Networking can lead to collaborations, feedback, and mutual support.
Experimentation and Feedback: A short story is a manageable format that allows you to experiment with different genres, styles, and themes. Additionally, reader reviews and feedback on platforms like Amazon can provide insights for improvement.

Don’t wait! The time is never going to be ‘perfect’ to stop and write, so use this event to get started!

Your Facilitator

Hello! I’m Sonja Dewing, best-selling author and award-winning creative writer. I’ve helped hundreds of authors write novels and short stories, it’s time you joined my event and get writing!

Ready? Buy your tickets and let’s get writing! https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/ssa-presale/

Get Your Ticket Here: I’m ready to write and publish a short story in a weekend

Not only will you publish, you’ll get a chance at one of the awesome banners from Amazon! Here are just a few of the short stories that were published during a Short Storyathon:

Reviews
“I enjoyed the challenge of creating with a deadline in mind and I deeply appreciated the generous and supportive environment created by the instructor and participants alike.” -Elisabeth Loya
“I participated in the Oct 2018 short story-a-thon! It was an awesome supportive experience that got me through the story and the publishing process in a weekend!! I will be doing this again. Thank you!!” -Winter Flack
“I had a terrific time at this workshop. We began Friday with a brief lesson on creative writing, then a walking tour of downtown Albuquerque where we sought inspiration for our writing. Saturday was devoted to creating pieces with the assistance of professional editors. Today was about publishing our stories on Kindle Direct, complete with story cover. It was a marathon session, inspiration to publishing in three days. It certainly spurred me to complete my tales and taught me it is possible to get them out there for others to enjoy.” – Chris Allen

About Pricing
This events includes facilitation, instructions on how to publish to Amazon, and includes a professional editor.
Keep in mind, if you’re a Women’s Thriller Writers Association member, you get 50% off the standard ticket. Not a member yet? You can join here: https://womensthrillerwriters.com/be-creative-with-the-womens-thriller-writers-association/

Our Schedule
Friday night 6pm Mountain – meet on Zoom
We’ll discuss how to write a short story and how to find ideas for your story (if you don’t have one already).
Saturday 8am Mountain – meet on Zoom (we’ll be working all day on our story)
We’ll start with some writing sprints to get us going.
We’ll check in every hour and have a Facebook group to connect in between check ins.
Then take a quick break while we talk about book covers and consider hiring a book cover artist (they run $60 to $250) Or if you don’t want to hire an artist, I’ll show you how to use Canva.
Then keep writing all morning.
After lunch we’ll sit down and review each other’s work, so we can get ideas on what needs to be improved. Then, it’s editing time.
In the evening, your stories will be sent to our professional editor(s). They will edit the first three pages of stories you started that weekend (this is so everyone gets some professional editing on their story). Also, this is paid as part of your purchase.
Sunday 11am Mountain – meet on Zoom
(We’ll work up until around 5 or 6pm)
We’ll sleep in a little after all that work. Then it’s back to work. We’ll polish our stories in the morning.
Then, I’ll go over how to set up your story on Amazon by covering details like title, categories, blurb, etc.
Then, we’ll celebrate when we hit the publish button!
Limited spaces:
I’m limiting this event to only 25 attendees, so you probably want to buy your ticket now.

Check out some of our other author’s stories that have been published:
The Glass Stiletto: A Fractured Fairy Tale – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08W4TYNJ1
Jane – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KQF4JD9
Getting Out – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KPRLSYG
Walk Right (award-winning) – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KPLDP65
Alma de Santa Fe – https://www.amazon.com/Alma-Santa-Fe-Elisabeth-Loya-ebook/dp/B07DZTC9H6

The Short Storyathon is held once a quarter – Upcoming schedule:
2024
Feb 16-18
April 5-7
June 7-9
Oct 11-13

Looking forward to working with you! Don’t forget to buy your ticket.

Get Your Ticket: I want to write and publish in a weekend!

WIP School Workshop; Writing Strong Women in Thrillers
2024-03-12 11:00 - 12:30
More information coming soon on how to register/get involved. I’ll be presenting this subject for the Women in Publishing Program!
According to Publisher Rocket, there are over 2,000 searches a month for Female Lead books and there are over 800 searching for strong women in thrillers. In “Writing Strong Female Characters in Your Thrillers” beginner level authors will learn what makes a strong character and incorporating that into thriller plots. Sonja

Dewing will share her workbook – Writing Thriller Characters, and . At the end of this presentation you will know: 1 – How to create characters quickly 2 – How to develop main female characters that are seen as strong 3 – How to incorporate your characters into your thriller plot

Amazon Ads Class
2024-03-18 18:00 - 20:00
Four years of Amazon Ad experience have led to this!
Welcome to Making Dollars and Sense of Amazon Ads! The only course built to get you from zero to Amazon Ads running for your book, as simply and quickly as possible without spending an arm and a leg!
3 weeks and you’re running ads like a whiz! Price goes up to $400 on March 1 so get your ticket early!

Runs Monday nights – 6 PM to 8PM (It might run slightly longer). Live and recorded.
10 seats only!
Keep in mind – your book must have 10 reviews before starting your ads; otherwise your ads are not likely to get sales.
What people are saying:

Fil Chavez took my class through Southwest Writers, and this is what he had to say: “Thank you, Sonja, for generously sharing your expertise. As novice writer, I am especially grateful for your patient connection with each of us in the class. Notwithstanding the fact that there were many authors with several published books in the class, your personal attention to me as an amateur writer with many basic questions was genuinely appreciated. Without a doubt, what I have learned from you is worth much more than the fee I paid for the sessions.” –Fil Chavez
Sign up today and we’ll get started soon! You’ll receive a link to the Zoom 24 hours before the event starts.
Get your tickets here:
https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/amazonads-class-333-copy-2/

Self Publishing Class
2024-03-19 18:00 - 20:00
Ten years of publishing experience have led to this self publishing class! Hope you’ll join me!
This will be my last class of 2024, only 25 seats available, and price goes up to $400 on March 1!
We’ll meet Tuesday nights starting 3/19 for 3 weeks.- 6:00 PM mountain to 9:00 PM mountain.
How to self publish with the Self-Publishing Class!
Get all your answers about self-publishing! And save time and money by knowing what not to do.

You’ll know what step you should do next and walk away with a checklist.

You’ll have access to me in a FB group to ask questions if you get stuck.

You’ll get your book out to the world.

and be the cool kid at the party. “What? You’re an author?”

3 weeks. 25 students only. $333 is the special presale price.
I help people self-publish for $2,000+ so this is a way to get help in a group setting without having to pay for all of my time. I hope this helps!

I’ll cover – what to do before you publish, how to format your book, the importance of setting up your book for success (keywords and categories), and more.

These seats will fill up fast, and I won’t be doing this class again until next year.
Join me if you need help and let’s get publishing.

I’m an award-winning and best-selling author. Plus, I’ve helped Cliff Han of ‘Nothing to Sneeze at’ hit best seller on Amazon. I assisted Candelaria Versace who needed to republish her noveletta, ‘Traveling Light’, and I’ve helped 100s of writers publish to Amazon and other platforms.

I hope you join me so I can put my skills to work for you.

Get your ticket here: https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/self-publish-class-333/

Have questions? Feel free to contact me! Contact

Pikes Peak Writers Conference
2024-04-26 08:00 - 2024-04-28 17:00
I’ll be there teaching:
1. Use Amazon Ads to Sell More Books WIthout Breaking the Bank
2. Use ChatGPT to Outline Your Next Story and Get Writing Faster
3. Using ChatGPT for a Year of Social Media
Sign up and I’ll see you there!

https://conference.pikespeakwriters.org/

Design a Planner!
2024-06-17 18:00 - 21:00
Unlock Your Planner Potential: Craft, Publish, Sell!
Sponsored by:

Welcome to the ultimate event for planner enthusiasts and budding entrepreneurs alike! Join me for a transformative experience where you’ll learn how to unleash your creativity, design your perfect planner, and turn it into a profitable venture.

About the Event:

Date: Monday, June 17

Time: 6 PM Mountain/8 PM Eastern

Duration: 3 Hours

Location: Online/Zoom
The event will be live as well as recorded, so you can rewatch at any time.

At this event, you’ll dive deep into the world of planner creation, from concept to publication. I’ll guide you through every step of the process, empowering you to craft a planner that not only reflects your unique style and vision but also resonates with your target audience.

What You’ll Learn:

Design Your Dream Planner: Explore different planner formats, layouts, and designs to create a product that stands out in the market.
Publishing Strategies: Gain insights into the publishing industry, including printing options, distribution channels, and marketing tactics to reach your audience effectively.
Knowledgable Publishing Resources: Hear from the founder and CEO of Vervante, my go to place to get spiral bound planners.
Sales and Marketing: Learn proven strategies to promote and sell your planner, whether through e-commerce platforms, social media, or other channels.
Template Included: As a bonus, attendees will receive a customizable planner template to jumpstart their creative process and streamline their planning journey.

Only $20 due to sponsorship from Vervante.
Get Your Ticket Here!

Who Should Attend:

Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to create a planner for their targeted audience.

Creatives seeking to design personalized planners for themselves or others.

Anyone interested in learning about the planner industry and its potential for revenue generation.

Why Attend:

Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced professionals who have successfully navigated the planner industry.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, and industry insiders.

Actionable Insights: Gain practical skills and actionable strategies that you can implement immediately.

Exclusive Resources: Access to a downloadable planner template and other valuable resources to kickstart your planner journey.

You’re Facilitator
Sonja Dewing is an award-winning author and publisher. She’s developed her own planners, made a profit from selling them, and is excited to show you how!

Don’t Miss Out! Reserve Your Spot Today.

Seize this opportunity to unleash your planner potential and embark on a fulfilling journey of creativity, entrepreneurship, and success. Limited spots available, so secure your place now and take the first step towards creating and selling your perfect planner!

I’m excited to do this (Get your ticket here)!

I can’t wait to see you there!

Sponsored by:

Writing Heights Writers Conference - Beyond Craft
2024-07-19 08:00 - 2024-07-20 17:00
Come see me present at the Writing Heights Writers Conference!
What sets our conference apart? Starting in 2024, the Writing Heights conference is taking on a new tone and focusing on the business and professional aspects of being an author. Our hybrid format will ensure that attendees have an engaging and interactive experience, whether they attend in-person or from the comfort of their own home.
See more here: https://www.writingheights.com/page/conference

Short Storyathon
2024-10-11 17:00 - 2024-10-13 17:00
This virtual short story event will take you from idea creation (on Friday night) all the way to your published short story on Amazon by Sunday! This is a fast-paced, hard-working writing workshop but so rewarding.
Become a Published Author in a Weekend!Many attendees, even first time authors, hit the top rankings in their genre and a few have even become best sellers!
Why a short story?
Because it’s a quick way to get writing and see the process of publishing a quality product (because you can produce something good in a weekend and we’ve seen it happen every time).
If you’re building an author platform, this is a good way to create an introduction to your other novels. If you’ve never written, it’s a good way to start getting readers.
Other Benefits?
Writing a short story and publishing it on platforms like Amazon can offer several benefits:
Creative Expression: Writing a short story allows you to express your creativity and explore your imagination. It’s a medium to share your unique ideas, perspectives, and storytelling skills.
Skill Development: Writing, editing, and publishing a short story can enhance your writing skills. It provides an opportunity to refine your storytelling techniques, character development, and overall narrative structure.
Portfolio Building: If you aspire to be a writer, having a published short story on platforms like Amazon can serve as a valuable addition to your portfolio. It showcases your ability to create engaging content.
Visibility and Recognition: Amazon is a widely used platform, and publishing your short story there increases its visibility. Positive reviews and downloads can contribute to recognition among readers and fellow writers.
Monetary Potential: While not guaranteed, there is potential to earn money through royalties on Amazon. If readers find your short story interesting and decide to purchase it, you may receive a portion of the sales.
Building an Audience: Publishing on Amazon allows you to reach a global audience. If readers enjoy your short story, they might be interested in your future works, helping you build a fan base.
Networking Opportunities: Being part of a writing publishing community opens up opportunities to connect with other authors, publishers, and readers. Networking can lead to collaborations, feedback, and mutual support.
Experimentation and Feedback: A short story is a manageable format that allows you to experiment with different genres, styles, and themes. Additionally, reader reviews and feedback on platforms like Amazon can provide insights for improvement.
Don’t wait! The time is never going to be ‘perfect’ to stop and write, so use this event to get started!
Your Facilitator
Hello! I’m Sonja Dewing, best-selling author and award-winning creative writer. I’ve helped hundreds of authors write novels and short stories, it’s time you joined my event and get writing!

Ready? Buy your tickets and let’s get writing! https://womensthrillerwriters.thrivecart.com/short-storyathon-oct-11-early-bird-150/
Not only will you publish, you’ll get a chance at one of the awesome banners from Amazon!

How to Use Amazon Ads to Sell Books
2024-10-24 12:00 - 13:00
Unlock the potential of Amazon Ads in our dynamic class designed for authors looking to boost their book sales! Whether you’re traditional or self-published, you’ll learn how to reach your ideal readers effectively. Topics include optimal timing for ads, setting up for success, scaling strategies, cost management, and promoting backlist titles. Plus, receive a PDF guide titled “Making Dollars and Sense out of Amazon Ads.” Join us today and elevate your book marketing game!
Get your tickets here: https://wpnwebinars.com/product/how-to-use-amazon-ads-to-sell-books/

Write a Book in November!
2024-10-29 08:00 - 17:00
Writing is lonely, but not if you’ve got a community! Find all the details here: https://womensthrillerwriters.com/write-a-book-in-november/

Reading at Beastly Books in Santa Fe!
2025-01-11 13:00 - 14:30
Reading at Beastly Books in Santa Fe.
Meet the Authors of Weapons of Choice!Join us for an exciting event featuring the brilliant minds behind the newest anthology from the Women’s Thriller Writers Association. Inspired by an unexpected real-life discovery involving guns (come hear the full story!), this collection explores the theme Weapons of Choice. Each author selected a unique weapon to craft their gripping, murderous tales.
Enjoy live readings from the stories, engage with the authors, and get your copy signed. Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to dive into the darker side of creativity!
See you at Beastly Books in Santa Fe!

Reading at Books on the Bosque
2025-01-18 15:00
Reading at Books on the Bosque.

Meet the Authors of Weapons of Choice!Join us for an exciting event featuring the brilliant minds behind the newest anthology from the Women’s Thriller Writers Association. Inspired by an unexpected real-life discovery involving guns (come hear the full story!), this collection explores the theme Weapons of Choice. Each author selected a unique weapon to craft their gripping, murderous tales.

Enjoy live readings from the stories, engage with the authors, and get your copy signed. Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to dive into the darker side of creativity!

How to Write an Epic Sci Fi
2025-02-04 18:00 - 20:00
How to write an epic sci fi.
This 8 week online class I’m teaching is through UNM Continuing Education. Find the details here: https://continuinged.unm.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do;jsessionid=1CCBA654FE41668373C3B88A8B85C9AF?method=load&courseId=25156398
What my former students have said:“This was a great class! I felt like I got a lot out of it, and the instructor was great.” – Ty Wysner

“This was an enjoyable and valuable class. Sonja has so much good information not only about writing thrillers and the elements that make them successful but also about how to market and promote work and the nuts and bolts of publishing. I took so much from this class.” – Anonymous

“The instructor, Sonja Dewing, was well-prepared, knowledgeable, and added many personal anecdotes and examples into the course.” – Richard Moody

Short Storyathon February
2025-02-21 08:00 - 2025-02-23 17:00
The Short Storyathon February
Join me for 3 days of writing, editing, and publishing! Get all the details on my biz website here: https://womensthrillerwriters.com/event/the-short-storyathon/

Short Storyathon April
2025-04-04 18:00 - 2025-04-06 18:00
Become a Published Author in Just One Weekend!

Are you ready to bring your story to life and see it published on Amazon? This fast-paced, hands-on virtual event will guide you from idea creation on Friday night to hitting the “publish” button on Sunday! Whether you’re a first-time writer or a seasoned storyteller, this workshop is designed to get you results.

📚 Why a Short Story?

It’s quick: You can complete a high-quality short story in a single weekend—I’ve seen it happen time and again!

It’s effective: Build your author platform with an engaging introduction to your writing.

It’s empowering: Perfect for first-time authors or anyone looking to publish quickly and gain confidence.

Many past attendees, including first-time authors, have achieved top rankings in their genre—and some have even become bestsellers!

🎉 What You’ll Get:

A completed, polished short story ready for publication

Professional editing for the first three pages (included in your ticket price)

Hands-on guidance for publishing your story on Amazon

Tools to create a professional book cover (DIY or with an artist)

A supportive community of fellow writers

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends March 31

💻 Schedule:

Friday: Getting Started

6 PM Mountain Time: Zoom Kickoff

Learn the essentials of short story structure.

Discover how to generate compelling story ideas.

Saturday: Writing & Editing

8 AM Mountain Time: Writing Day

Morning: Kick off with writing sprints and hourly check-ins.

Midday: Learn about book cover design (using Canva or hiring a professional).

Afternoon: Peer reviews and revision sessions.

Evening: Send your story’s first three pages to our professional editors for feedback (included in your ticket price).

Sunday: Publishing Day

11 AM Mountain Time: Publishing Prep

Morning: Final polish and edits.

Afternoon: Learn how to publish on Amazon, from crafting an irresistible blurb to choosing the right categories.

Evening: Hit “publish” and celebrate your achievement!

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends March 31

🎁 Benefits of Writing a Short Story:

Creative Expression: Share your unique voice with the world.

Skill Building: Hone your storytelling and self-publishing skills.

Audience Growth: Reach readers globally and start building a fan base.

Portfolio Boost: Add a published work to your writing portfolio.

Networking: Connect with fellow writers and expand your support network.

💵 Tickets: $200 (Save $50 – Early bird tickets are available up until Jan 30!)Your ticket includes:

Access to all sessions and resources

Professional editing for your first three pages

Lifetime access to our private Facebook group

📢 Don’t wait! The perfect time to write and publish is now.

Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward becoming a published author.

This version is streamlined, engaging, and highlights the value of the workshop. Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments!

Your Facilitator

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Her journey as a writer has been shaped by challenges and bold leaps. After being told by an agent that “no one would read an adventure book with a female lead,” she turned adversity into motivation. In 2014, Sonja left her corporate job to pursue writing full-time, embarking on a transformative 9-week expedition through the Amazon river basin. This journey into the heart of Inca history, myths, and culture sparked the creation of her award-winning Idol Makers thriller series.

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Sonja is also an award-winning publisher and founder of the Women’s Thriller Writers Association, committed to empowering writers through education and community. Her accolades include multiple honors from New Mexico Press Women for short stories and memoirs, as well as finalist and winning recognition for her novels, including Castoffs of the Gods. In 2024, she was named Best Author in New Mexico by the New Mexico Entertainment Awards.

As a workshop facilitator, Sonja brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to help writers unlock their potential. Whether guiding participants through crafting compelling characters or navigating the publishing world, Sonja’s passion for storytelling and dedication to mentorship make her an inspiring leader for aspiring and experienced writers alike.

What Participants say about the Short Storyathon?

And see what participants have done!

And how about a refund option?

If for some reason you can’t make the event, you can either choose to attend a Short Storyathon on another date in 2025, or receive a refund up to 5 days before the Short Storyathon.

2025 dates:

February 21-23

April 4-6

June 6-8

October 10-12

How to Write a Thriller
2025-04-08 18:00 - 20:00
How to Write a Thriller.
I’m teaching this 6 week online class through UNM Continuing Ed. Find all the details here: https://continuinged.unm.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do;jsessionid=1CCBA654FE41668373C3B88A8B85C9AF?method=load&courseId=18293113

Short Storyathon June
2025-06-06 18:00 - 2025-06-08 18:00
The Short Storyathon June

Become a Published Author in Just One Weekend!

Are you ready to bring your story to life and see it published on Amazon? This fast-paced, hands-on virtual event will guide you from idea creation on Friday night to hitting the “publish” button on Sunday! Whether you’re a first-time writer or a seasoned storyteller, this workshop is designed to get you results.

📚 Why a Short Story?

It’s quick: You can complete a high-quality short story in a single weekend—I’ve seen it happen time and again!

It’s effective: Build your author platform with an engaging introduction to your writing.

It’s empowering: Perfect for first-time authors or anyone looking to publish quickly and gain confidence.

Many past attendees, including first-time authors, have achieved top rankings in their genre—and some have even become bestsellers!

🎉 What You’ll Get:

A completed, polished short story ready for publication

Professional editing for the first three pages (included in your ticket price)

Hands-on guidance for publishing your story on Amazon

Tools to create a professional book cover (DIY or with an artist)

A supportive community of fellow writers

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends May 31

💻 Schedule:

Friday: Getting Started

6 PM Mountain Time: Zoom Kickoff

Learn the essentials of short story structure.

Discover how to generate compelling story ideas.

Saturday: Writing & Editing

8 AM Mountain Time: Writing Day

Morning: Kick off with writing sprints and hourly check-ins.

Midday: Learn about book cover design (using Canva or hiring a professional).

Afternoon: Peer reviews and revision sessions.

Evening: Send your story’s first three pages to our professional editors for feedback (included in your ticket price).

Sunday: Publishing Day

11 AM Mountain Time: Publishing Prep

Morning: Final polish and edits.

Afternoon: Learn how to publish on Amazon, from crafting an irresistible blurb to choosing the right categories.

Evening: Hit “publish” and celebrate your achievement!

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends May 31

🎁 Benefits of Writing a Short Story:

Creative Expression: Share your unique voice with the world.

Skill Building: Hone your storytelling and self-publishing skills.

Audience Growth: Reach readers globally and start building a fan base.

Portfolio Boost: Add a published work to your writing portfolio.

Networking: Connect with fellow writers and expand your support network.

💵 Tickets: $200 (Save $50 – Early bird tickets are available up until Jan 30!)Your ticket includes:

Access to all sessions and resources

Professional editing for your first three pages

Lifetime access to our private Facebook group

📢 Don’t wait! The perfect time to write and publish is now.

Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward becoming a published author.

This version is streamlined, engaging, and highlights the value of the workshop. Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments!

Your Facilitator

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Her journey as a writer has been shaped by challenges and bold leaps. After being told by an agent that “no one would read an adventure book with a female lead,” she turned adversity into motivation. In 2014, Sonja left her corporate job to pursue writing full-time, embarking on a transformative 9-week expedition through the Amazon river basin. This journey into the heart of Inca history, myths, and culture sparked the creation of her award-winning Idol Makers thriller series.

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Sonja is also an award-winning publisher and founder of the Women’s Thriller Writers Association, committed to empowering writers through education and community. Her accolades include multiple honors from New Mexico Press Women for short stories and memoirs, as well as finalist and winning recognition for her novels, including Castoffs of the Gods. In 2024, she was named Best Author in New Mexico by the New Mexico Entertainment Awards.

As a workshop facilitator, Sonja brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to help writers unlock their potential. Whether guiding participants through crafting compelling characters or navigating the publishing world, Sonja’s passion for storytelling and dedication to mentorship make her an inspiring leader for aspiring and experienced writers alike.

What Participants say about the Short Storyathon?

And see what participants have done!

And how about a refund option?

If for some reason you can’t make the event, you can either choose to attend a Short Storyathon on another date in 2025, or receive a refund up to 5 days before the Short Storyathon.

2025 dates:

February 21-23

April 4-6

June 6-8

October 10-12

Short Storyathon October
2025-10-10 18:00 - 2025-10-12 17:00
The Short Storyathon October

Become a Published Author in Just One Weekend!

Are you ready to bring your story to life and see it published on Amazon? This fast-paced, hands-on virtual event will guide you from idea creation on Friday night to hitting the “publish” button on Sunday! Whether you’re a first-time writer or a seasoned storyteller, this workshop is designed to get you results.

📚 Why a Short Story?

It’s quick: You can complete a high-quality short story in a single weekend—I’ve seen it happen time and again!

It’s effective: Build your author platform with an engaging introduction to your writing.

It’s empowering: Perfect for first-time authors or anyone looking to publish quickly and gain confidence.

Many past attendees, including first-time authors, have achieved top rankings in their genre—and some have even become bestsellers!

🎉 What You’ll Get:

A completed, polished short story ready for publication

Professional editing for the first three pages (included in your ticket price)

Hands-on guidance for publishing your story on Amazon

Tools to create a professional book cover (DIY or with an artist)

A supportive community of fellow writers

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends May 31

💻 Schedule:

Friday: Getting Started

6 PM Mountain Time: Zoom Kickoff

Learn the essentials of short story structure.

Discover how to generate compelling story ideas.

Saturday: Writing & Editing

8 AM Mountain Time: Writing Day

Morning: Kick off with writing sprints and hourly check-ins.

Midday: Learn about book cover design (using Canva or hiring a professional).

Afternoon: Peer reviews and revision sessions.

Evening: Send your story’s first three pages to our professional editors for feedback (included in your ticket price).

Sunday: Publishing Day

11 AM Mountain Time: Publishing Prep

Morning: Final polish and edits.

Afternoon: Learn how to publish on Amazon, from crafting an irresistible blurb to choosing the right categories.

Evening: Hit “publish” and celebrate your achievement!

Sign up today – only 25 seats and the early bird price ($150) ends May 31

🎁 Benefits of Writing a Short Story:

Creative Expression: Share your unique voice with the world.

Skill Building: Hone your storytelling and self-publishing skills.

Audience Growth: Reach readers globally and start building a fan base.

Portfolio Boost: Add a published work to your writing portfolio.

Networking: Connect with fellow writers and expand your support network.

💵 Tickets: $200 (Save $50 – Early bird tickets are available up until Jan 30!)Your ticket includes:

Access to all sessions and resources

Professional editing for your first three pages

Lifetime access to our private Facebook group

📢 Don’t wait! The perfect time to write and publish is now.

Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward becoming a published author.

This version is streamlined, engaging, and highlights the value of the workshop. Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments!

Your Facilitator

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Her journey as a writer has been shaped by challenges and bold leaps. After being told by an agent that “no one would read an adventure book with a female lead,” she turned adversity into motivation. In 2014, Sonja left her corporate job to pursue writing full-time, embarking on a transformative 9-week expedition through the Amazon river basin. This journey into the heart of Inca history, myths, and culture sparked the creation of her award-winning Idol Makers thriller series.

Sonja Dewing is an accomplished thriller author and seasoned writing mentor who specializes in creating stories with strong female protagonists, aiming to amplify women’s voices in the adventure and thriller genres. With a degree in journalism and professional writing from the University of New Mexico, Sonja has a rich background in storytelling, including publishing articles in notable outlets like Aviation Magazine.

Sonja is also an award-winning publisher and founder of the Women’s Thriller Writers Association, committed to empowering writers through education and community. Her accolades include multiple honors from New Mexico Press Women for short stories and memoirs, as well as finalist and winning recognition for her novels, including Castoffs of the Gods. In 2024, she was named Best Author in New Mexico by the New Mexico Entertainment Awards.

As a workshop facilitator, Sonja brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to help writers unlock their potential. Whether guiding participants through crafting compelling characters or navigating the publishing world, Sonja’s passion for storytelling and dedication to mentorship make her an inspiring leader for aspiring and experienced writers alike.

What Participants say about the Short Storyathon?

And see what participants have done!

And how about a refund option?

If for some reason you can’t make the event, you can either choose to attend a Short Storyathon on another date in 2025, or receive a refund up to 5 days before the Short Storyathon.

2025 dates:

February 21-23

April 4-6

June 6-8

October 10-12
