One day. Three tracks running side by side: Main Stage, Panels, and Live Readings, plus workshops, Q&As, and a few surprises. All happening live inside the Phictly app.
From craft workshops to industry Q&As to live readings across every genre - there's something on the agenda for every kind of reader and writer. All sessions are live, all happen inside the app, and replays are available for ticket holders.
All times EST. Schedule subject to change.Kick off the festival with a fun, personal session where an author shares the story behind their pen name - the inspiration, the strategy, and the surprises along the way.
An author talks about the moment they fell in love with their genre - what hooked them, what keeps them inspired, and the books that shaped their writing journey.
A candid look at the different routes to publication, and how to figure out which path fits your goals.
A live reading from the literary fiction and memoir space.
Learn how an author creates characters who feel real, layered, and unforgettable - emotional arcs, motivations, and the small details that make characters come alive.
A conversation on building immersive fantasy worlds and writing magic systems and representation with care.
A live reading from the romantasy and fantasy space.
Step inside the process of creating immersive worlds - keeping details consistent, avoiding info-dumps, and weaving worldbuilding naturally into the story.
A panel on writing through and about personal challenge, resilience, and reclaiming narrative.
A live reading from the YA and sci-fi space.
Take a break and get to know our presenting sponsor. Shelf Awareness shares what they do for readers and the book industry, plus a peek at what they have in store for festival attendees.
Curious about querying? This session gives you a clear, honest look at the querying process and what the publishing journey looks like from submission to shelf.
A live reading from the romance space.
Discover what actually works in book marketing today - social media growth, newsletters, reader engagement, ARC teams, paid ads, and how to promote your work without burning out.
Two authors share how critique partnerships can grow into real friendships - finding your people, giving and receiving feedback, and building a writing community that lasts.
Join a breakout room for the genre you love. Each room is led by an author who specializes in that category and will walk you through tropes, pacing, voice, and what readers expect.
A panel on the realities and rewards of going indie - creative control, community, and building a sustainable author career outside traditional publishing.
A live reading from the mystery and thriller space.
A candid, craft-focused conversation about writing intimate scenes that feel authentic, emotional, and fun - tension, consent, character dynamics, and keeping scenes fresh.
A live reading from the horror and sci-fi space.
Get an inside look at what's trending in romance right now - the tropes readers can't get enough of, what's fading, and what's coming next.
Wrap up the day with a guided tour of Phictly. Learn how to create clubs, join communities, build your profile, and connect with other readers and authors.
Sessions are live and limited. Grab a ticket, download the Phictly app, and we'll see you July 25.
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