PROFESSIONAL SERIES
You've poured your heart and soul and blood into your manuscript. In this course, you'll learn how to pitch it to agents, publishers, and readers. How to stay sane during the submission process. How to gain an audience, make money, and turn writing into a business, with tax write-offs and all.​​
December 8-11, 2026
How to Query
Everything prior to this course is about depth. This course is about clarity. Learn how to refine your elevator pitch, what to say in a query letter (that agents actually care about).
Submission Trenches
The trenches are real and they can be dark. What to know about this phase and how to navigate it.
The Business of Publishing
Real-life tips & tricks on how to make money, avoid common mistakes, and build your fandom.
Jessica Berg
Literary Agent & Professional Series Instructor
Jessica Berg is the founder and agency director of Rosecliff Literary, a boutique agency built on the belief that ambitious writers deserve transparency, strategy, and a seat at the table. She earned her MFA from Spalding University and brings more than a decade of experience to her work with clients.
In addition to her agency role, Jessica serves as a contributing editor for Writer's Digest, where she writes and consults on topics related to querying, craft, comp titles, and the business of authorship. She teaches globally on query letters, positioning, and sustainable author careers. Jessica serves on the board of the Historical Novel Society and is a chair for the National Women's Book Association.
She lives online at @jessica__berg, where she talks about querying, writing life, and the realities of publishing with transparency, humor, and a touch of glam. Connect with Rosecliff at @roseclifflit.
Free download: How to Pitch Your Book in 30 Seconds at https://www.jessicaberg.me/the-30-second-book-pitch
What you will receive:
A leather-bound writing journal.
A credit for the Book of the Year submission.
Professional review of select pieces of your manuscript.
Residency Overview
Each residency will follow this general outline:
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Tuesday (optional add-on)
5pm Check-in
5:30-7pm welcome drinks & ice-breakers
7pm Dinner at the Grand Haven / Spring Lake Holiday Inn
8:30-9pm Opening Lesson
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Wednesday
8-10am Breakfast
10:30am - Noon - First Session
Noon - 3pm Lunch & free write
3:30-5pm - Second Session
5:30-7pm - Free write
7pm Dinner at Mud Penny (or your preference)
8:30-9pm Special Reading
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Thursday
8-10am Breakfast
10:30am - Noon - First Session
Noon - 3pm Lunch & free write
3:30-5pm - Second Session
5:30-7pm - Free write
7pm Dinner at Mud Penny (or your preference)
8:30-9pm Open Mic Readings
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Friday
8-10am Breakfast
10:30-11am - Final Lesson
11am Check-out