17 Multi-Published Authors & 12 Publishing Leaders Headline 2026 Virtual Writer's Retreat

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - EntSun -- ONLINE — The 4th Annual, Virtual Writer's Retreat, hosted April 14–16, featured 17 bestselling authors and 12 publishing agents and editors for three days of master-class instruction and one-on-one pitch meetings, delivered virtually to writers around the world.

Presenting authors delivered rapid-fire training sessions on craft, marketing, publishing strategy, and the business of writing, including:

• Amanda Hayhurst, whose first book sold over 100,000 copies, on the topic "Creative Marketing."
• Susan Neal, director of CEPA, taught "How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month."
• Michelle Medlock Adams, author of more than 100 books with over four million copies in print, shared her insights for new authors.
• Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, physician, bestselling author, and podcast host, shared her "Bulk Book Sales Simplified."
• And, there were 13 more sessions.

Writers pitched their projects in private 15-minute one-on-one meetings with Erin Davis with Moody Publishers, Tamela Hancock Murray with The Steve Laube Agency, Athena Dean Holtz with Redemption Press, Tamara Clymer with CrossRiver Media Group, Jenn Dafoe-Turner with Abundance Books, and more.

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Prizes went out to Wisconsin author, Stephenie Hovland, who won the Grand Prize valued at $12,500, a full scholarship to the Abundance Books Publishing Academy; Maija Besky of Belgium, who got second place, winning a ticket to The Well Conference for Creatives 2027 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, valued at $525; and Bobbie Schaeperkoetter of Missouri who took third place, winning a book bundle valued at $100, courtesy of Redemption Press.

"I've now hosted 23 virtual training summits for women, and this is my favorite. Amazing trainers, partners, attendees, and career-changing content," said Marnie Swedberg, the summit host.

Attendee, Jaclyn D. said, "This was all so eye-opening and fascinating!" Dawn W. said, "Such practical advice." Cindy N. said, "So much meaty information!" and Katie D. said, "Excellent!"

Looking Ahead

The Virtual Writer's Retreat is a growing event hosted each year in April. This year's retreat influenced 2994 writers from around the world, receiving over 700 positive comments. The 2026 Training Set (including all the sessions) and all the prizes are now available at https://www.WritersRetreat.info, and the 5th Annual Retreat is scheduled for April 13-15, 2027.

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About the Host, Marnie Swedberg

Marnie Swedberg is a leadership mentor, summit host, and bestselling author who has now produced 23 virtual training events for women. Through annual online summits, live events, coaching, and published resources, she equips women leaders and communicators worldwide to maximize their God-given influence. Learn more at https://www.marnie.com.