May 2026 Meeting: Jeffrey James Higgins on the Craft & Business of Writing

The Craft & Business of Writing

NVWC member Jeffrey James Higgins will provide an overview of what a writer needs to know about writing and publishing in 2026. The session will cover learning craft, writing practice and process, digital tools, dictation, common craft mistakes, editing iterations, critiquing, querying agents and publishers, current pathways to publication, marketing, and the business of writing.

Jeffrey James Higgins is a retired supervisory special agent who writes thrillers, short stories, creative nonfiction, and essays. He has wrestled a suicide bomber, fought the Taliban in combat, and chased terrorists across five continents. Jeffrey received the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Heroism and the DEA Award of Valor. He’s been interviewed by CNN, Fox News, and The New York Times, and he’s appeared on CNN Declassified, National Geographic’s Narco Wars, and ABC News. Jeffrey’s a #1 Amazon bestselling author with six published thrillers, including a selection for one of the best medical thrillers of the 21st century. Library Journal selected The Havana Syndrome as one of the best books of 2025. Jeffrey owns Elaine’s Literary Salon in Alexandria, VA, where he counsels writers, interviews authors, and hosts a podcast. He’s an Authors Guild ambassador for the DC area and a frequent panelist at conferences and book festivals.