Here’s part two of the writers’ updates for September. This one includes a couple of book festivals (we have a lot of them here in Connecticut), where to buy tickets for BookCon (New York) and a lot of places to submit.

BookCon is officially returning to the Javits Center in New York City on April 18-19, 2026, but tickets go on sale on September 23. It’s a full-on celebration of storytelling, built for readers, by readers. Activities include intimate author chats, lively book swaps that feel like treasure hunts, book signings, book clubs, workshops, and crafting zones. Book tickets here. One day, $60. Weekend $100

On October 18 at 2pm-I’ll be one of the panelists at StoryFest at the Westport Library. This multi-day event includes dozens of writers, panels, musical events, and more. The panel I’m on is titled Fiction without Borders – Storytelling without limits, and will be moderated by my friend, author Heather Frimmer.

The Book Blast Festival takes place at the University of Bridgeport Wheeler Recreational Center on November 15, from 10-4pm on the main campus of the University. They are planning to host one hundred authors for this event, which I believe will make it the largest book festival in Connecticut. If you’re an author and want to participate, please contact Andrea at andrea@connecticutbookfestivals.com on or before October 1.

The Northeast Coast is an online literary journal dedicated to the poetry and spirit of the northeastern coastal United States. Founded and edited by poet Katherine E. Schneider, this journal seeks to publish poetry of writers residing in or inspired by this region. The submission deadline for the next edition is October 30. Submission guidelines here.

As I’ve mentioned more than once (they don’t pay me, they’re just so useful!) Authors Publish keeps tabs on publishing opportunities, so you don’t have to. Here are three of them:

This month, they’re focusing on 10 publishers open to direct submissions. Some are only open for a short period of time, while others will be open the whole month and beyond. At least four of these are presses they have not covered previously.

Writing book reviews can be a wonderful way to get involved in the literary community, publish your writing, make connections, and establish your reputation. They can also, of course, be a good avenue for publicity…These magazines accept reviews of books.

And their list of 50 Romance Publishers Open to Direct Submissions includes traditional print publishers, established romance stalwarts, up-and-coming eBook publishers, and everything in between. They do not review publishers who have been around for less than a year. Harlequin has a lot of imprints, although not all of them are listed here. These publishers offer traditional book contracts, and a number of them offer advances.

If you’re looking to publish your book, you’ll need a good cover. Damonza designs custom covers and interior formatting for your book. They’re based in New Zealand (home of the special effects Oscar for Lord of the Rings…) and guarantee to get you the first pass of your cover within ten days. Take a look at their work on their website.

Kindle book promotions are used by authors and publishers to increase the visibility and sales of their books on Amazon. The idea is to increase your sales, boost your visibility, and generate honest reviews. If you think you might need help with this, K-book promotions offers to handle things for you.

Prolific Writers is an online community of writers that offers members a variety of free online work sessions and discounts on coaching sessions with industry experts. They offer opportunities to hone your writing skills, develop your author brand, and connect with a supportive community in live events. You can participate in group chats or send private messages to members through Prolific Writers Chat. Check their site for all the programs they offer, and if you’re interested, try the 14-day free trial. All member discounts or freebies are available during the two-week free trial.

And member Alison McBain connected me with this collection of writers groups in Connecticut, many available on Zoom as well as IRL. It’s a little out of date, but it includes my two groups (including this one) and Alison’s two ventures, Fairfield Scribes and their micro-fiction magazine, and her Poets Salon. Click on the entries to find updated information, including a screenwriters group at the West Hartford Library.

In the meantime – keep writing!