Pikes Peak Writers Conference 2026: Full Schedule

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3:15pm MDT

Scrivener 101

Friday April 17, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT

Academy

Get up and running with Scrivener--today (for those just starting out, or who feel they aren't using Scrivener's full features)

Scrivener writing software: everyone says they love it, but what writer has time to learn something new? And most writers already using Scrivener miss out on some of the program’s best elements.

This workshop will help you get up and running right away. You'll learn Scrivener's 5 main features, how to get your writing in, organize it, and get it out (when it's time to publish).

Even long-time users will learn to take advantage of features they didn’t know were there. Learn to navigate stunning elements to make writing--and research--faster and more efficient, no matter what genre. This workshop is for both fiction and non-fiction writers.

Faculty

Debbie Maxwell Allen

Editor, Author, Scrivener Coach

Debbie Maxwell Allen writes historical fiction–with a touch of the unexplainable–set in quirky Mediterranean locations in the 18th century. She has placed in the Zebulon Contest three times and contributed to the Fresh Starts anthology. Her debut series launches in 2024. Debbie teaches workshops on the craft of writing, productivity, and how to use Scrivener and Vellum software at local writing groups and writing conferences... Read More →

Friday April 17, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT
Academy

Writing Tools

Moderator Debby Brewer

3:15pm MDT

From Cardboard Cutouts to Compelling Characters: Using Authentic Action to Bring Life to Your Story

Saturday April 18, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT

Douglas

What can movement reveal to the reader about a character's personality, emotional turmoil, or deep feelings? How do body language and action beats round out a character? How do you transform your characters from action figures and puppets to engaging, believable beings? In this workshop, we’ll actually walk through scenes to show how actions and reactions can enrich your characterization. You'll learn to ensure every movement—from the way a character holds a coffee cup to how they throw a punch—is intentional and authentic.

Faculty

Dawn Alexander

Dawn Alexander Books

Dawn Alexander is a developmental editor and story coach who collaborates with both emerging writers and accomplished authors to strengthen their stories and refine their voices. Her clients have appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists, as well as the Amazon... Read More →

Saturday April 18, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT
Douglas

Craft of Writing

Moderator Debby Brewer

Pikes Peak Writers Conference 2026

3:15pm MDT

Debbie Maxwell Allen

3:15pm MDT

Dawn Alexander

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