Master Class 2.0
Your debut year is over. Now you’re no longer a publishing newbie, but you’re not yet a mega-bestseller. You’ve got one or two or even three books under your belt, and you just want the next one to be even better. And the next to be better than that. How do you take your writing to the next level? What are your next steps with your manuscript? And how do you break out into the publishing stratosphere?
In our brand-new Master Class 2.0, ITW is focused on authors eager to meet the challenge of a growing career – to raise the bar, up their game, and grow in technique, imagination, and skill. Maybe even change genre. In these four-hour limited-size intensive sessions, your 10-page manuscript will be analyzed and critiqued by one of the most experienced writing coaches in our community. Master Class 2.0 sessions are in-person at ThrillerFest on Thursday, May 7, 2026. You may choose between a morning session (8:00 am – 12:00 pm) or an afternoon session (1:00 pm – 5:00 pm.)
Don’t be “one and done.” If you are seriously invested in growing your career, Master Class 2.0 can be your secret weapon.
*Applicants for MasterClass 2.0 must have published at least one novel-length work of 80K words or more and be an Active ITW member.”
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Kerry Savage
ITW Communications Director
Questions? Please email Kerry Savage, ITW Communications Director: kerry@thrillerwriters.org
We will also hold our annual Best First Sentence Contest. The winning sentences will be announced and read during the annual CraftFest luncheon on Wednesday, May 6th. Start working on your opening line today!
Master Class space is very limited, so sign up now. Hope to see you in New York in May 2026.
REGISTER FOR THRILLERFEST
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Your Book Is Your Hook!
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Harley Jane Kozak
Jon Land
Dennis Lynds (2004-2005)*
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Michael McMenamin
Francine Mathews*
Nan McCann
Kyle Mills*
Twist Phelan
Christopher Rice*
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James Siegel*
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Taylor Smith*
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Peter Straub*
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