When Words Collide 2026

How does a widowed single mom with no major platform become an instant national bestseller with a Big-5 publisher? In this candid, insight-driven session, Jessica Waite shares the choices and strategies that helped her manuscript sell in just seven business days—and the lessons any writer can adapt to position their book for commercial success.
We’ll highlight the importance of shaping a compelling, high-stakes narrative that resonates with both editors and readers and stands out in a crowded marketplace. Jessica will demystify what “commercial potential” really means, how to identify and leverage the right comp titles, and why those choices matter long before a book hits submission. Finally, she’ll talk about how to prepare to promote your book, and offer some out-of-the box examples to let readers know your work is coming. (You’ll want to start this part sooner than you think!) 
This session is for fiction and nonfiction writers, and for anyone seeking a practical, inspiring example of how to capture publisher attention without a giant platform.