Malice Domestic Pre-Conference Workshop: “How to Pitch: Crafting the Logline, Query, and Synopsis that Will Sell Your Book”
You’re going to be pitching your book for the rest of your career—to agents and editors, to booksellers and reviewers, and to readers who ask, “What’s it about?” In this hands-on, half-day workshop, Jane shows you how to build a logline, synopsis, query, and in-person pitch that hook your listener fast and position you for success.
members save 10%!
$220.00
Jumpstart your Malice Domestic 2027 experience with a half-day, hands-on workshop devoted entirely to the art of the pitch.
You're going to be talking about your book for the rest of your career—on the page, via email, on the phone, and across the table. To agents and editors. To booksellers, reviewers, and podcasters. To readers who ask, "What's it about?" and expect an answer that hooks them fast. In this half-day, highly interactive workshop, you'll learn how to deliver that answer with clarity, confidence, and impact.
Join Jane in person on Thursday, April 8, 2027, from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Bethesda, Maryland, the day before Malice Domestic 2027. Members of save 10% on registration, one of the many perks of belonging to her community of writers!
Through targeted, research-based lecturettes from Jane and hands-on practice, you'll gain both the insights and the tools to pitch effectively. Working alongside a supportive cohort of writers, you'll exchange ideas and refine your work in a collaborative, encouraging environment. Feedback is forward-thinking, constructive, and actionable—designed to help you position yourself for success. Together, we'll break down the four essential components of a compelling pitch:
- Logline: Your story's irresistible one-liner
- Synopsis: The clear, engaging narrative arc
- Query: The professional introduction that gets attention
- In-Person pitch: How to present your work when it matters most
Whether your book is finished and you're ready to pitch or you've just begun your first draft, it's never too early to master this essential skill. Understanding what agents and editors look for builds momentum and sharpens focus. Through before-and-after examples, challenging, guided exercises, and group debriefings, you'll see what works, what doesn't, and why, then put those strategies into practice with your own work. You'll leave with a solid draft of a polished, compelling pitch.
Your registration fee includes:
- Jane's in-person facilitation of the half-day workshop
- A handout including the step-by-step processes explored during the workshop, along with worksheets we’ll use during the workshop, and that you’ll refer to over and over again
- Drinks with Jane at the hotel bar for a no-host social hour
Malice Domestic Pre-Conference Workshop: “How to Pitch: Crafting the Logline, Query, and Synopsis that Will Sell Your Book”
$220.00
You’re going to be pitching your book for the rest of your career—to agents and editors, to booksellers and reviewers, and to readers who ask, “What’s it about?” In this hands-on, half-day workshop, Jane shows you how to build a logline, synopsis, query, and in-person pitch that hook your listener fast and position you for success.
members save 10%!
Registrants are advised to purchase travel insurance or event coverage in case of unforeseen circumstances that prevent attendance. Jane and the event venue cannot be held responsible for travel delays, illness, or other conditions that impair your ability to attend after registration. Refunds for the workshop are not available unless Jane or the event venue cancels the workshop. The facility is handicap accessible. The workshop will proceed rain or shine at the discretion of the event venue. There are no make-up dates available. By registering for this workshop, you agree to keep all information provided by your fellow writers confidential, understanding that the copyrights and intellectual property rights remain with the creator. That said, Jane K. Cleland may use some questions or elements of the workshop in other videos she prepares for a general audience or for advertising purposes. Any and all questions related to this disclaimer should be asked in advance of reserving your place by reaching out to Jane directly using the contact form on her website.
